Relocating overseas and adjusting to a completely different way of life, culture and environment can be an enlightening experience, and sometimes challenging. Living in Qatar can take some getting used to at first, as there are many procedures to follow and mounds of paperwork to be completed on entry, from obtaining your residence permit to acquiring a health card. Once all the requirements have been met and documents completed, things do become a little easier.
As the saying goes “Life is what you make it” and life in Qatar can be great fun, especially for those with families. Upon arriving to Qatar you will find that a strong expatriate community exists including several clubs and organizations of varying nationalities. Friends are made easily, and you will soon find that there is always someone to lend a helping hand or wise words of advice.
However, please always remember that you are a guest and should follow the generally accepted customs with respect to culture and social behaviour. Most expatriates will note significant differences between the Qatari culture and that of their home country. But it is these differences that make the country and its people unique. Qatar is presently going through an exciting period of growth and development, and is undoubtedly an excellent place to be right now.
Things to Remember
- It is not appropriate to touch anyone of the opposite sex, especially anyone dressed in the national dress.
- Business meetings are typically slower than North American or European cultures. It is customary to have coffee, tea or juice before moving into any business conversations.
- Moments of silence are not considered awkward, rather, a sign of reflection.
- You should always accept an offer of a beverage or food, as it is considered impolite to refuse. You will not be expected to eat all that is served. Always use your right hand for eating.
- You may be welcomed by an invitation to dinner or any other social function by a Qatari friend. This invitation, unless specifically stated, does not include your spouse.
- Intimacy in public between members of the opposite sex is considered highly inappropriate, but good friends, including men, greet each other with a series of kisses on the cheek.
- There are no restrictions on clothing, although it is recommended that you dress modestly. A simple rule to remember is to cover the knees and shoulders. Of course, at the beach and swimming pools, feel free to wear your swimming gear, including bikinis.
- It is considered impolite for expatriate men to wear traditional Qatari clothing.
- Be aware that you should not take images of Qatari women without explicit permission. Some older Qatari men do not like having their pictures taken either. Photography of military, government buildings and associated institutions is not permitted. Be sure to seek permission before taking photographs of anyone and respect the privacy of others.
- Don’t sit in such a way that the soles of your feet face another person as it is considered impolite.
