Moving to Doha....

Qatar appeals to people of all ages because of its diverse and dynamic community. The atmosphere of affluence, ambition, and worldly class is attractive to many. However, Qatar is not without its customs and traditions, which

Expats are Welcome


New residents of Doha can always find advice from forums and blogs hosted by local residents and communities. Questions about home, work, and outdoor activities in doha can always be addressed online.


Qatari Local Culture

When in public, modest clothing is observed by both Qatari men and women, even when driving. For women, the shoulders are covered and shorts skirts are avoided. Intimacy in public may lead to arrest.

Muslim residents practice prayer five times daily, and speakers gather the people to mosques to pray at the appointed times. Drivers who are on the road may stop their vehicles to pray privately.

The Entertainment Scene

Numerous hotels and restaurants abound in Qatar, which cater to all kinds of preferences. Members only clubs, such as golf and rugby clubs, are also present.

Ideal for weekends are shopping malls , which are popular among the Qataris, and which house well-known international brands.


Customs and Traditions

Qataris dance in the privacy of their homes, or at licensed venues. Dancing in public is viewed as indecent and considered provocative by the community.




Alcohol consumption is considered to be an offence, especially being drunk in public. Alcoholic beverages can be obtained at licensed hotels, restaurants, and bars. Expatriates are allowed a permit system in which they can buy alcohol and consume it at home.

Drinking and driving is a serious offense to the Qataris, who view it with zero tolerance.
Ramadan is the holy month of fasting from dawn to dusk. During this period, a number of activities are moderated in public places. Eating, drinking, smoking, loud music or noise, and dancing are forbidden and punishable by law, even for non-Muslims.

Must Visits

Qatar offers a variety of historical and cultural heritage sites across all interests.


Castles: Doha Castle (Alkoot), Alzubara Casle Alwajba Castle, Um Sala Mohamed Castle, Alyousofia and Alshaqab Castle.

Museums: Islamic Art Museum, Qatar National Museum, Arms Museum (regional), Alkhor Museum (regional), Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al-Thani Group Museum, Arabic Art Museum.




Cultural Complexes: Waqif Art Centre, University of Virginia Common Wealth in Qatar Art Gallery.

Cultural Groups: The Valley of Culture (Katara), Souq Waqif, Cultural Village, Alfannar Cultural Mosque and Centre.

Festivals: Doha Festival, Qatar Marine Festival, Aljazera registered Film International Festival, Tripika Cinema Festival and Doha Creativity Festival and Freedom.