QFC 0016/2022, [2022] QIC (F) 25

Aarnout Henri Nicolaes v Qatar Free Zone Authority

This case involved dismissal claims brought against a government agency QFZA by an individual who had been providing services to that agency. Issues included whether this court or the mainland courts had jurisdiction. The individual had not signed an employment contract which opted out of these court' jurisdiction. Whether this case was governed by the Qatari civil service law was also considered.

Background

This was an application by the Defendant, Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZA or the “Authority”), to set aside proceedings brought by the Claimant Mr Wennekers). The QFZA stated that the Court lacked jurisdiction and that any claim brought by Mr Wennekers against QFZA could only be brought in the (mainland) Qatari courts. A virtual hearing took place on 12 October 2022. Oral submissions were made by Mr Wennekers and by Mr Thomas Williams of Sultan Al-Abdulla & Partners on behalf of the QFZA. At the end of the hearing, the Court reserved judgment.