If this is true it is such a shame - Qatar has a real opportunity now to profile itself as a destination of choice in the region for expat workers.

As soon as I mention this (5 year ban)to recruitment agencies they laugh and say Qatar will have to pay very high salaries to attract people under these conditions. Most expats will choose to work in the Emirates instead.

I have an employment ban of 6 months after having worked for Ashghal Public Works Authority, even though I was given an NOC, . The rules and regulations seem to change all the time. Currently I understand there is a two year ban for expats who do not complete their employment contracts. But, many private companies are able to work around this. But, not so for government.

It seems very short-sighted to implement such a ban - especially as there is such a shortgae of skilled labour in Qatar.