Traditions & Customs in Qatar
Qataris are Bedouin descendants who have retained a culture of gracious hospitality. Qatari society, on the other hand, is generally conservative and largely influenced by Islamic norms. Alcohol usage, for example, is frowned upon, while it is permitted at a small number of hotels catering mostly to foreigners. Similarly, attire is often modest and traditional. Qatari Arab males often wear a flowing white shirt (thawb) with a head scarf (kaffiyeh) tied with a rope (iql). Qatari women’s dress, while still modest, is far less formal than in neighboring Saudi Arabia. Many women still wear the full-length black cloak (abyah) over Western attire, while others merely wear the veil (ijb). Their traditional attire is frequently embellished with gold or silver embroidery. The sexes are traditionally segregated in public.
Fresh fish and rice prepared with Indian spices are staples of Qatari cuisine. Broiled fish served over a bed of spicy rice with curry and potatoes is a popular dinner. Coffee is the preferred beverage, and it is often served strong, boiling hot, and without sugar. Doha’s capital also has a plethora of eateries serving cuisines from all over the world.
Qataris observe the traditional Islamic holidays, such as Ramadan and the two ds, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. They also observe various secular festivals, like as Independence Day and the emir’s ascent to power.
Respect the Islamic beliefs of Qataris and Bedouins: Although there is no legal obligation to wear the hijab, women should not wear tube tops or tight-fitting clothes, although there is no strict rule and women are free to dress as they wish. It is perfectly acceptable for any nationality to wear the traditional Qatari dress, the thobe.
When you have dinner with a Qatari, do not expose the soles of your feet to him. Also, do not eat with your left hand, because the left hand is considered the “dirty hand”. Also, do not try to shake hands or hand over a package with your left hand.
If your Qatari friend insists on buying you something – a meal or a gift – don’t! Qataris are extremely hospitable and there are usually no strings attached. As a rule, it is customary to plead for the change.
Dress Code
Dress Code for Women in Qatar
Unlike in other Middle Eastern nations with various traditions and customs, some clothing restrictions for women in Qatar are undesirable. The following are the clothing codes in Qatar for Muslim and non-Muslim women:
Cover the Shoulders and Knees
In every Islamic nation, women are expected to cover their knees and shoulders with garments. Qatar is no exception. Women are required by the authorities to cover their shoulders and knees.
While Qatari women cover their bodies with the abaya, non-permanent female residents should wear modest clothing that covers their knees and shoulders. Although there is no dress rule for tourists visiting Qatar, the country’s long-standing dressing history deserves respect.
Shorts, Leggings, and Skirts are Acceptable
In the country, women can wear skirts, leggings, and shorts, but they should avoid revealing clothing. Furthermore, avoid wearing shorts or skirts that are excessively short in public. If you believe your clothes are too short, consider putting leggings beneath to comply with the legislation. Short skirts and leggings that do not cover the knees are not permitted in this city.
Avoid Revealing, Clingy or Tight Clothing
In Qatar and its cities, wearing exposing attire is strictly forbidden. Women are not permitted to wear see-through or tight attire. So, if you’re going to Qatar, a country steeped in Islamic culture, for vacation, sports, or business, avoid wearing breast tube-style shirts.
Wear Linen, Cotton, and Silks
Linen, cotton, and silk are the ideal clothing fabrics to wear in Qatar’s most populous and dynamic cities. While traditional clothing represent legacy and culture to Qatari women, visiting females might wear flowing and long cotton or linen skirts.
To avoid making your hosts uncomfortable, respect the city’s traditions and values. Now that you’ve learned about the dress code for ladies, let’s move on to the dress code for males in Qatar.
Dress Code for Men in Qatar
While clothing requirements for male residents and tourists in Qatar vary depending on area, the city establishes guidelines for males. Some dress styles are prohibited for males in Qatar, particularly while visiting historical sites. The following are the Qatari clothing regulations for Muslim and non-Muslim men:
Wear Long Trousers
Long trousers demonstrate respect for tradition and are an unspoken golden rule for practically all males in Qatar. Even in the heat, males in this Islamic country are required to wear long trousers in public.
While the clothing regulations may appear undemocratic or totalitarian to male outsiders, everyone in Qatar is required to follow them. Men are not permitted to wear shorts in public. Consider following the guidelines to avoid penalty for breaking the dress code.
Cargo Trousers and Light Chinos are Acceptable
Qatar allows both local and visiting males to wear long cargo pants and light chinos. Visitors can dress in long jeans or chinos, although light, loose attire is preferable, especially in the summer.
Furthermore, males in Qatar are not permitted to wear jeans, sports or chino shorts that do not cover the knee. If you wish to wear these shorts as a tourist to Qatar’s most fascinating city, make sure they are longer than your knee.
Offensive Slogan T-shirts are unacceptable
Men can wear regular T-shirts and round necks, but not ones with unpleasant messages. Because Qatar has diplomatic concerns with its neighbor, the government forbids citizens from wearing shirts with the UAE insignia.
Avoid Sleeveless Tank Tops
The traditional white or red shirt with black rope known as Agal is preferred by the majority of Qatari males. As a result, visiting males should refrain from wearing sleeveless shirts or apparel that exposes the chest in public locations. While visitors are not required to adopt Arab costumes, they should avoid wearing sleeveless tank tops or blouses that expose their arms in the multi-cultural country.
Beaches and Pools Dress Codes in Qatar
Cities in Qatar allowed males to wear swim shorts that cover their knees, chests, and shoulders in pools and beaches. While most men and women in Qatar cover themselves on the beach with long t-shirts or garment material, the laws are less stringent for tourists.
At the beach or pool, women may wear bikinis, swimsuits, and skimpy bathing suits. However, Qatar forbids men and women from wearing topless attire, even on the beach. Moreover, most pools and beaches in the city have posted signs indicating the appropriate attire. If any member of the public or security personnel questions your attire, please apologize without argument and cooperate.
Dress codes for nightlife in Qatar
There are less restrictions for inhabitants and visitors who wish to spend the night in the country. Nightclubs and bars allow guests to choose their attire without breaching the law. When leaving a pub or club, try covering your chest and shoulders with a pashmina or scarf. Although alcohol is not readily available in Qatar, licensed pubs, restaurants, and hotels do sell it.
Meeting Etiquette In Qatar
Qatar has a very unique meeting etiquette, and if it is followed correctly, the Qatari people will be highly welcoming in both business and social settings. Due to religious sensitivity, greetings are exchanged amongst individuals of the same gender. Greetings are always delivered with excitement and overall happiness. Qataris are noted for taking their time and inquiring about family, mutual acquaintances, general health, and any other relevant topics. Life in the Gulf is laid-back and leisurely, so be patient and take the time to exchange pleasantries prior to discussing business things. Always show real interest in the individuals with whom you are conversing; they will notice and appreciate it.
When booking meetings in the region, keep in mind the working hours and aim to organize meetings in the morning. Alternatively, many commercial transactions occur in the early evening. Be mindful of the prayer times and try to avoid scheduling meetings during them. The meeting will be halted if this occurs. Be patient with anyone who is going to pray and show no sense of irritation or impatience, since this is regarded impolite and improper behavior. In addition, Qataris do not view tardiness as a serious offense, so do not be surprised if your business meeting begins a bit late. In the Gulf States, the value of time is considerably less rigid than in Europe.
If you are having a business meeting with a lady, allow her to extend her hand first. If she does not, her behavior is not culturally acceptable. Always use your right hand while shaking hands, particularly if you are shaking hands with a Muslim.
Dress Etiquette
Business dress is conservative. Conservative business suits should be worn by men. Women should avoid wearing restrictive attire. Their professional attire must cover their knees and elbows, and no cleavage should be exposed. Men and women should be immaculately groomed. Qataris are aware of grooming. Make sure your hair is groomed and shiny, your makeup is on point, and your clothing are well-pressed.
Dining etiquette in Qatar
Accepting invitations
Being invited to a Qatari’s home is a wonderful opportunity to discover a different culture and make new friends. And if proper protocol is observed, Qataris tend to be quite hospitable and kind.
However, if you accept an invitation to someone’s house, do not assume you may bring your spouse or family; it is uncommon for Qataris to host couples or families. If they want your partner or family to attend, they will make it apparent when they extend the invitation, and if that occurs, you will not always sit together. Also, bringing a modest present (sweets, flowers, or housewarming mementos) or a small meal to offer is appropriate but not required.
Being a guest in someone’s home
When entering the majlis, the welcome area for guests, always remove your shoes and take (with your right hand) anything your hosts offer you to eat or drink. In Arabic culture, sharing a meal is a means to express affection and form ties; hence, it is impolite to refuse hospitality.
Your host will understand if you leave a very modest amount of food on your plate when you are full. And do not be surprised if you are encouraged to sit on the floor (cross-legged) and eat with your hands. Your host may offer silverware to those who cannot eat with their hands, and the elderly are always served first. Before eating or drinking, say “Bismillah,” and after the meal, say “Alhamdulillah” to express gratitude to the host.
Arabs have a strong feeling of family privacy, thus you should never show up unannounced at their home.
In restaurants
You may summon the waiter using the palm of your hand at restaurants, but you should not raise your index finger. Pay close attention to the seating arrangement in formal occasions. And lastly, disputing the dinner bill is routine, and Qataris typically prevail. If the venue does not add a service fee to your bill, a 10% gratuity is reasonable.
Relationships in Qatar
Local dating scene
Dating a Qatari is governed by a variety of strict guidelines. Couples can communicate by phone, text, and email, but they cannot meet without a family member present. In this instance, the young male may view the young woman without clothing. However, you are only permitted to date if you want to marry. During this time, the couple will discuss marital requirements, which may include the bride’s wish to work after marriage or to be the sole wife. After reaching a final agreement, the couple will schedule premarital counseling.
Expat dating scene
A relationship between an expat and a Qatari man or woman is uncommon. The primary reason for this is that the majority of them are already in committed relationships with other Qatari men or women. In addition, Western women tend to be more lenient when it comes to societal norms, which conflicts with the principles of Qatari (or Muslim) males in general. Importantly, marriages between Muslim men and Christian women are prohibited in Qatar, which is a factor to consider while forming connections with locals (except with the permission of the Sharia Courts).
You will thus be permitted to marry a Qatari, but only if you convert to Islam, which makes dating a Qatari less likely. Even if you are a Muslim from a different nation, things might be difficult.
According to Hukoomi, Qatari males who seek to marry non-Qatari women are required to get approval from the Marriages Committee, which may be rejected. Given these limitations, it is most customary for foreigners in Qatar to date other foreigners. However, expats must be aware that public displays of love, including as kissing and embracing, are prohibited in Qatar, particularly in family-friendly areas. These activities are punishable by a fine or expulsion from the area.
Family
Family is the cornerstone of Qatari culture and refers to a larger group than the household. Women remain members of their father’s lineage after marriage, but are somewhat merged into their husband’s as well. The desire is to live with or near the members of their husband’s family, either in a single extended home, a walled family complex with separate residences, or the same neighborhood.
Even when amended to match the requirements of the modern world, the majority of Qatari weddings are planned. Young men and women are increasingly meeting at work and school, for instance, and selecting their own potential companions. However, the arrangement procedure remains unchanged, and both parties have the option to reject it. Before the wedding, Qataris are required to participate in a variety of counseling and education sessions. In order to prevent hereditary risk, everyone must get a premarital medical exam.
Marriage
In Qatar, the Sharia Court oversees all Muslim wedding rituals. Non-Muslims do not have access to a civil marriage option; nevertheless, some embassies and churches can perform marriages for non-Qataris, as cohabitation is prohibited.
Although polygyny is religiously and legally sanctioned in Qatar, this practice is no longer followed. A wife can even file for divorce if her spouse marries another woman. Since 1980, divorce rates have been increasing in Qatar.
Weddings feature several celebrations and might last several days. In general, ladies celebrate in one area of the home while males do so in another. On the last evening of the festivities, the couple meets and is joined by family and close friends of the groom.
Women often wear gowns and men typically wear thobes and swords, although they can also wear suits or other appropriate wedding clothes. The husband wears a black robe over a white thobe and the bride wears a traditional white gown for the auspicious occasion.
Same-sex relationships
According to Islamic Sharia Law, same-sex partnerships are prohibited and punishable in Qatar. The penalty for participating in same-sex sexual intercourse with persons above the age of 16 is seven years of incarceration. The legislation also states that believers should neither engage in homosexual activity nor promote it.
Despite the existence of these laws, gay offenses are rarely prosecuted and jailed. This is because Islam places a significant emphasis on the right to privacy of an individual. Consequently, if a crime does not occur in the public domain, it is mainly disregarded as a matter between the individual and God.
The majlis
The majlis is an important area in Qatari society. It is often a male-only environment, with women gathering inside the home. The majlis is a separate chamber at the entryway that permits visitors to avoid the more private areas of the house. Guests in the majlis are served dates and Arabic coffee in small cups with no handles from a distinctively shaped pot (called dallah).
The majlis, the most ornately adorned room in the home, was historically the only one with windows that opened into the street. Simpler decorating with recessed niches (roshaneh) was used in less elaborate dwellings, while wealthy homeowners filled the windows of the majlis with coloured glass, with some integrating window screens or carved gypsum panels with symmetrical geometric motifs.
Ramadan traditions in Qatar
Ramadan is the ninth and most significant month in the Islamic lunar calendar. From sunrise until sunset, Muslims throughout the world abstain from eating and drink. Ramadan, a time of introspection and spirituality, draws together otherwise diverse people in the shared act of fasting. It is a season of generous giving and abstinence. The start date of the month is determined by the appearance of the moon and advances back by around ten days each year. The Moon Sighting Committee of the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) in Qatar determines the beginning and conclusion of the holy month. Lunar months often run 29 to 30 days, depending on when the crescent moon is seen, which marks the conclusion of Ramadan and the start of Eid. It is projected to occur this year, in 2021, from mid-April to mid-May.
Each Muslim nation has its own Ramadan customs, with each group adopting its own traditions and festivities, making each Ramadan experience unique. Ramadan is a magnificent time in Qatar, with spectacular decorations all across the nation and festivities that begin before the fasting even begins. Qataris celebrate Sha’ban (the 14th day of the Hijri calendar) with Al Naflah two weeks before it begins. Families construct traditional meal platters to distribute with neighbors and the impoverished.
The fast begins at sunrise, after finishing suhoor, the pre-dawn meal that must be consumed to keep one going throughout the day. Iftar, which occurs at dusk, signals the conclusion of the fast with the fire of a Ramadan canon. While the origins of this custom are questioned, with some claiming it started in Egypt and others claiming it originated in the Ottoman Empire, the canon was fired to ensure everyone knew it was time to eat. This ritual is still practiced in Qatar and is shown live on Qatar TV; to witness the genuine thing, visit Souq Waqif, Katara, the Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab Grand Mosque, or Souq Al Wakra.
Fasting is followed by feasting: from iftar to the larger, more joyous ghabga (another nighttime meal), the finest of Ramadan happens after dark. For a month known for fasting, there are a surprising amount of meals prepared specifically for Ramadan. While each family has their own favorite meals, some are a must-have on every Qatari Ramadan table, having graced iftar tables for decades.
These are some examples:
– Harees: Made from pounded meat with wheat, olive oil, and cinnamon.
– Al Thareed: Crispy flatbread layered with soup made with either lamb, chicken, or just vegetables.
– Al Luqaima: Fried dough covered in sugar syrup, usually flavoured with rose or orange blossom water.
After iftar, the city comes alive, with most public areas – stores, restaurants, cultural events – reopening after being primarily shuttered during the day. After the last daily prayer (Isha), special Taraweeh prayers are held in mosques with the goal of reading the complete Qur’an by the end of the month.
The youngsters celebrate Garangao on the 14th of Ramadan, a distinctively Gulf ritual that is particularly prevalent in Qatar. It began as a means to congratulate youngsters who were attempting to fast in the middle of Ramadan. Families assemble at a Ghabga and distribute Garangao-mixed bundles of nuts, sweets, sugared kernels, and other delicacies to neighborhood youngsters who sing the “Gara,” a traditional song, all night. Gara is the Khaliji (Gulf) term meaning the sound of two items colliding, which can refer to the sound of nuts and sweets in bags or the sound of banging on doors.
Ramadan in Qatar is an unforgettable experience. During this month, there are many events and celebrations to participate in; nevertheless, there are some things you should avoid doing.
Working Hours
During Ramadan, most stores close early and open late; verify the hours before going anyplace.
Dress Code
Wearing short or exposing attire during Ramadan is considered disrespectful. As a result, you should avoid wearing these items in public during this month.
Traditional greeting during the holy month.
Greet people with “Ramadan Kareem” or “Mubarak Alaikum Al Shahar
Eid traditions in Qatar
In the Islamic calendar, the two Eid celebrations are extremely significant.
To fully grasp the Eid experience, we will walk you through the non-pandemic festivals that are so significant in the Islamic calendar.
The Islamic lunar calendar features various important dates, but the two Eid festivals are the most celebratory. Following Ramadan, the month-long fast, comes the feasting that greets Eid Al Fitr. Eid Al Adha occurs around two months after Hajj concludes. Each Eid, which lasts four days, has its own historical importance and accompanying rituals. In general, it is a time to gather with family and friends, exchange food, and give little children Eid money.
Eid prayers, which are normally done extremely early in the morning, kick off the gathering and welcoming. Traditionally, they are held in mosques, when men meet without the customary call to prayer. An Imam then delivers a brief sermon. Mosques are often male-only or segregated venues, with women normally praying at home. Everyone dresses to the nines, with men frequently tailoring new thobes and ladies wearing exquisite outfits and kaftans. Families leave the house after a little breakfast, greeting everyone with “Eid Mubarak,” which means “Blessed Eid,” or “Kul ‘am wa enta bi-khair,” which means “May every year find you in good health.”
Children, who are most likely the most thrilled about the festival, walk the neighborhood visiting everyone and collecting their “Eidiyah,” reciting traditional songs and phrases as they knock on doors.
Eid Al Fitr, which translates as “festival of breaking the fast,” is observed on the first day of the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, immediately after Ramadan. During this holiday, charity is of the highest significance, with families all throughout Qatar giving gifts to worthy charities.
Eid Al Fitr is a national holiday, with schools, companies, and businesses closing early to allow families and neighbors to celebrate together. The holiday spirit pervades Qatar, with unique activities in shops and public locations. This is the season for family-friendly events and interactive exhibitions.
Eid Al Adha, which translates to “feast of the sacrifice,” occurs at the conclusion of Hajj, a yearly trip to Mecca required of all Muslims who have the means to do so at least once in their lives. The festival falls on the tenth day of the Islamic lunar calendar’s final month. Eid Al Adha is based on Prophet Ibrahim’s tale, in which he was requested to sacrifice his son as a test of faith. According to the Quran, just as Ibrahim was about to kill his son, Ismail, God intervened and a ram was sacrificed in his stead. Muslims recreate the sacrifice by slaughtering an animal and giving the meat to family, friends, and the impoverished.
Morning prayers, like with Eid Al Fitr, kick off the festivities, with relatives and friends gathering to celebrate over a huge feast and giving presents, with youngsters getting “Eidiyah,” a modest sum of money. Many people also visit the many celebrations that take place around Qatar at this time, including interactive performances, events, and activities in malls and outdoor locations like Katara and Aspire Park.
Bukhoor
In Qatar and around the area, incense is immensely popular. It is made of fragrant wood and is burned in a particular incense burner known as a mabkhara to generate a rich smoke that is used to perfume the home and garments. Visitors are frequently allowed to blow smoke around themselves as a form of welcome.
Dhow boats
Qatar is intrinsically linked to the sea. For many decades, fishing, pearl diving, and trading supplied an income for a large portion of the people. Traditional wooden dhows, which have remained essentially intact in design throughout the years, are a relic of this maritime history and may still be found navigating Qatar’s waterways today.
Boats were made by qalalif, and the art of traditional boat construction is preserved at a number of specialized dhow workshops around the Arabian Gulf, including the Emiri Shipbuilding Workshop in Qatar.
There are several different varieties of wooden dhows, each with its own name based on its design, function, and size, such as Sanabeck, Tieeh, Jalbout, and Al Baggara.
Oud
Oud, often known as ‘liquid gold,’ is manufactured from a rare dark resin found in the agar (aquilaria) tree, a Southeast Asian plant. Oud has been used for thousands of years in the Middle East and Asia, and it is now recognized as the component that gives many famous ‘oriental’ fragrances their unique rich and woody aroma. Oud is widely accessible in the Middle East in the form of hardwood incense chips, body oils, and scent, and is a staple in both Arab households and major events.
Pearls
Pearls have been a significant export for Qatar for generations. Despite the fact that the country’s economy has long ago transformed, Qatar retains a fondness for these distinct natural beauties. Visitors may now find an amazing range of real pearl jewelry at premium merchants around the nation; for the best discounts, visit Souq Waqif and the Gold Souq in Doha.
Useful Tips on culture and etiquette in Qatar
Although Qatar is a very traditional nation, the country’s contemporary and western appearance could deceive visitors into overlooking its traditional past. As a result, it’s crucial to respect Qatar’s culture and manners. Following social norms will help you stay clear of misunderstandings and legal complications.
- You shouldn’t openly express certain of your feelings since doing so might result in your arrest and detention, according to the law.
- Avoid taking photographs of military installations or other people without their consent, especially Arab ladies;
- You must stand up to welcome or meet visitors, especially senior citizens or high-ranking individuals. When addressing elderly individuals, use the Islamic greeting salamu alaykum.
- To receive refreshments that are handed to you, use your right hand.
- If you don’t want any more Arabian coffee, shake the cup.
- If a man meets a Qatari lady, he shouldn’t shake her hand until she extends her hand first.
- You shouldn’t provide alcoholic beverages or dishes containing pig meat to your Muslim visitors.
- Non-Muslims are permitted to consume alcohol in hotels and in private residences with the proper permits. However, they cannot appear in public while drunk;
- It is not required for non-Muslims to fast during the holy month of Ramadan. However, from dawn to dusk, they should refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking in public.
- Don’t forget to remove your shoes before entering a Majlis (the place of receiving guests in a private house). If a lady is with you, you should lead her to a different female-only venue. Before you start talking, eat or drink anything. Your host will be pleased if you share a dinner with him.
- Additionally, the country has a zero-tolerance policy for the use and possession of illegal narcotics. Pork cannot be imported either.
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