Qatari Culture and Etiquette: What you need to know

If you are travelling to Qatar for sightseeing or business, you need to be aware of how different the culture is in this country. Being a Muslim country, Qatar is generally more conservative than most western countries.

It pays to be aware of its culture and the etiquettes you need to observe. This way, you get on the good side of the people here and avoid offending anyone.

Although Qatar is a Muslim country, many of its residents are expats, so you can say that they are somewhat accepting of how Westerners live.

Nevertheless, you should be sensitive to their customs and beliefs and be careful not to rub people the wrong way just because you didn't do your research. Since you will be staying here for a while, it's important to be mindful of your manners.

Here are some basic tidbits to help you stay out of trouble and get along well with the locals of Qatar.

How to dress right

You can expect Qatar to be quite conservative as it is a Muslim country. However, it is not as strict as in other countries like Saudi Arabia. If you are a woman, you are not expected to wear an abaya, which is a long black over garment that goes down to the ankles.

But make sure that your shoulders, upper arms and knees are all covered up when you go out. You will also feel safer as you do not solicit negative attention when you're in public places.

For men, it is acceptable to wear pants and shirt. You can wear anything you want when you are in the privacy of your hotel or apartment. If you are going for a swim, it is fine to wear Western-style swimwear in hotels or private club swimming pools.

Greetings and shaking hands

It is not customary for men to shake hands with women, although it can happen during business dealings. There are many foreign companies in Qatar, so the locals get to adopt the Western salutation of shaking hands. To be safe, shake the hand of a woman only if she extends her hand first.

There will be cases where Arab men and women will not be comfortable with handshake as a form of greeting. You may see some put a hand on their chest. This should signal to you that they prefer this form of greeting over shaking hands.

Ramadan etiquette

Ramadan is an important part of the Islamic religious belief, so you should be sensitive if your visit or stay coincides with Ramadan observance. During this time, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. You should be sensitive enough not to eat or drink in public.

This can appear as offensive to people who are fasting. Nothing should stop you, however, if you are in the privacy of your home. Some hotels also cater to foreigners who wish to eat during the day.

What is illegal?

You could get jailed or pay a fine if you do not know the laws of the land. Be careful not bring alcohol, pork, pornographic materials and drugs with you at the airport. Your luggage will be searched, so be mindful of what you cannot bring into the country.

Alcohol is not regarded as illegal in Qatar, but there are strong restrictions. For instance, do not make the mistake of offering alcohol to a Muslim or a minor. As a non-Muslim, you can buy and consume liquor in hotels and restaurants that are licensed to sell them. They are served in restricted and licensed areas only.

If you are an expat, you can apply for a liquor license that will allow you to purchase alcohol from a licensed store. Once purchased, make sure to take it home right away and keep it hidden from public view.

Topics of Discussion

If you want to stay out of trouble, be mindful of topics you discuss. Sure, the locals may start to passionately discuss religion and politics, and you may be tempted to air your opinion.

It's just an opinion, you may think and a person's opinion is supposed to be respected even if you don't agree with it. But it will be better not to get involved in heated discussions, especially those involving religion and politics.

The rule is to be sensitive about people's beliefs, customs and tradition. Even better, appreciate and respect their passion and faith.

This is a rule that applies to everyone in general, even outside Islamic countries. You could lose friends, seriously offend and even break hearts if you are not careful about having your mind heard and considered.

It will be best to talk about the other person's family or children. Stay safe with general discussion topics that will foster good working relationship and friendship.

Mind the Minor Details

Along the way, you will learn more detailed social taboos such as showing the sole of your foot, which is considered rude. It's also good to note that passing food with your left hand is seen as unclean, so keep that in mind when dining with a group.

As you begin to experience and learn more about the customs and culture of Qatar, you will soon appreciate the beauty of their way of living.

Are you planning to visit Qatar soon? If yes, then bookmark this post for future reference. Share it with your friends.

Photo Credit: Avi Viljoen