Oh, dear, this was not how I was going to introduce myself to QL, but your plight, Kattrapped, has moved me to respond as best I can. I think we can perhaps sort out a couple of issues here that have gotten tangled. I know it's overwhelming to arrive in a new country and feel absolutely alone and confused - we've all been there! Qatar is not an easy place to negotiate, especially at first. So, take a deep breath, dear, and let's get started. For the short term let's not use the word custody. You are married, it's not applicable. Custody is what happens during the legal process of separation and divorce and you are not there yet. You have three minor children and two are physically with you and one is with your husband. You hold your passport and the passports of the two children with you. I believe that you can leave anytime with the two children. You and the children are not employees, the only persons who need exit visas from Qatar are employees! Please understand that this would NOT be true in the US. The airlines in the US require that if only one parent is flying with a child the other parent has to sign a notarized letter before the airline will carry them to a foreign destination. The issue therefore becomes your daughter. Your husband will not allow you to take her and her passport. Since you are married there is no issue of custody, here or in the US. He is within his rights as a married parent to have her staying with him as you are able to have your sons in the hotel with you. If it were to come to a legal separation, temporary restraining order or divorce, there would be a court determination of custody. What we have here is a marital squabble, not an abrogation of any civil rights. None of the rights that you would have in the US have been taken from you here. I do understand that might change if your husband were to pursue a divorce here in Qatar. That is why you need to seek legal advice. You were married in the US, you and your husband and children are US citizens, you therefore call a US attorney for counsel. Please don't believe all your husband's threats about his being a Muslim giving him the right to beat you, etc. You do need to know the real facts. I am truly sorry this is happening to you. I know you are frightened and angry and feeling lost and alone. I believe that the embassy can help you contact an attorney, but you must be clear about what your needs and priorities are. Ask your family at home to help. Try to speak kindly to your husband (I know, I know.)This isn't forever, your husband may have grandiose ideas about staying in Qatar permanently but we all must go home when the job is up! Far be it from me to suggest anything, but if he is let go by the company they will send him (and all of you) home promptly. Good luck, pobrecita. Mandi