Culture Of Qatar: A Glimpse Into The Life Of The Natives

Qatar, a country nestled in the Middle East and boasting of its iconic locations is a paradise for travelers coming from all around the world. With opulent beaches, serene desert landscapes, and a mind-boggling culinary experience, this is a country that offers a whole package, and more. But here's a thing, like any other country in the world, Qatar has a unique culture of its own. From social norms to religious faith and so on, there's a lot about the culture of Qatar that travelers can find fascinating.

So, here's what you need to know about the culture in Qatar that drives the country forward.

Society & Culture In Qatar

Here's an interesting fact, Qatar is officially home to the second-largest expat community in the world. The reason? Over the years, Qatar has seen a massive surge in job opportunities. This is a country that has been able to combine the old traditions and architecture with modern and spectacular skyscrapers. One can have a high quality of life and along with a number of culinary spots here. Besides, since there are so many job opportunities, the country has turned into a cultural mosaic with expats from all around the world coming to reside here.

Religion Of Qatar

Although being a country booming with development, Qatar hasn't forgotten its roots and the natives carry immense faith in Islam which is the official religion of the country. While most of the natives here are Muslims, the regime and the government in Qatar are linked to Islamic Sharia which very much explains the importance Islam carries in the lives of Qataris.

However, even though Islam is the official religion of Qatar, the country doesn't impose any restrictions on any other religious identity. In fact, according to the Qatari law, religious freedom is a must, and society practices a high level of tolerance towards different religious beliefs. Having said that, though, expats coming to Qatar are expected to respect the Qatar religion and the faith people have in it.

Suggested Read: Budget Places To Visit In The World From Doha, Qatar

The Qatar Customs & Traditions: What You Need To Know About The Dressing

Wondering how to dress in Qatar? Well, since the customs and traditions of Qatar are heavily influenced by Islam, there is a certain dress that visitors and natives are expected to follow. That being said, the dress code is usually conservative and traditional in Qatar. Whether you're headed to some tourist attractions in Doha or having a formal meeting in the country, immense emphasis should be laid on the way you dress in Qatar. Hence, here's what you need to know about the ways in which men and women dress in Qatar.

How Do Men Dress In Qatar?

As put down by the Islamic customs, men in Qatar wear a white full-length robe which is called Thawb over trousers and an undershirt. Besides this, men wear sandals and keffiyeh, a white headscarf.

How Do Women Dress In Qatar?

When it comes to Qatari Arab women, one is expected to wear a full-length black dress called Abaya over their western clothing.  

Suggested Read: Top Festivals You Can't Afford To Miss In Qatar

Qatar Culture And Traditions: All About The Dining Etiquettes

Like every country has a way of eating and dining, there are certain etiquettes that travelers and natives are required to follow when savoring a meal at any restaurant in Qatar. Here's what you need to know about it.

Accepting Invitations At Qatar

Now here's a thing, if you're invited to a Qatari house, it is generally considered as a good opportunity to get a first-hand experience of the Qatari culture. In fact, Qatar people are generally renowned for their hospitality and friendliness. Hence, never reject an invitation from a local in Qatar as a nice dinner at a Qatari house might be a good opportunity to dig deep into the culture of the country.  

Things You Need To While Being A Guest

Enjoying the food in Doha or at a host's home? Well, there are certain things that one is required to follow as a guest in the country. Here's what you need to know.

• Once at the host's home, guests are required to remove their shoes upon entering the majlis which is a reception area for the visitors.
• Guests are generally expected to accept anything that is offered with the right hand. Hence, make sure to use your right hand the next time you are invited.
• Never feel strange about being invited to sit on the floor as that is the traditional Arab way of sitting.
• Notably, guests are expected to say "Bismillah" upon eating the meal for the first time while one has to say "Alhamdulillah" after finishing. This the way of thanking the host.

Suggested Read: Katara Cultural Village- A Handy Guide For Your Cultural Tour In Qatar

Eating In Restaurants

When eating in a restaurant, there are certain things that travelers are expected to do or not to do. As per the Qatar culture and lifestyle, travelers are advised not to raise their index finger when calling the waiter. Instead, using the palm is the right practice. Likewise, leaving a generous tip is ideally every traveler should follow. Although many restaurants add a service charge to the bill, leaving about 10% of the tip is something one should look to do.  

Suggested Read: Top Restaurants in Qatar - Discover The Taste From The Best Picked Eateries

Public Behavior In Qatar

Another significant thing about behaving in Qatar is to avoid any use of remarks. Whether you're going to any particular landmark to see the rich heritage of Qatar or about to have a meal in a fancy restaurant, passing on vulgar remarks to anyone is considered to be a serious offense. Why? Well, Qatar is a country that not only offers fascinating adventures but also demands humble conduct from natives and travelers alike.

In fact, one cannot just go and talk to any one of the opposite genders here as that is considered to be against the culture of the country. Hence, public behavior is an important factor in Qatar.

Suggested Read: A Take On The Top Museums In Qatar

Opportunities & Lifestyle In Qatar

Now here's a thing, Qatar is a country where people generally lead a luxurious life and like to get things done on time. This is a country that is rated amongst the very best when it comes to offering a quality lifestyle to expats. Over the years, multiple job opportunities have come up in Qatar that have compelled working professionals to come here and spend their rest of the life. So, if you're wondering about the lifestyle in Qatar, well, it's luxury that awaits you.

Celebrations In Qatar: A Take On The Holy Month Of Ramadan

Now here's another thing about the culture in Qatar, the holy month of Ramadan carries paramount importance for natives and it's no surprise why. Being the holy month of Muslims around the world, the month brings joyous festivities to the country. This is a period when Muslims fast between sunrise and sunset.

Interestingly, this is the time when the country is relatively quiet during the daytime. Travelers would find most of the shops, malls and other attractions to be closed during this time.

As travelers put it, finding even a bottle of water becomes a tough task in the country during the daytime when the month of Ramadan is on. However, having said that, evenings bring a different story during Ramadan as all locals come together to enjoy festivities. Shops, and malls open as people enjoy their time. In fact, there are many attractions in Qatar that are beautifully decorated during Ramadan, and the best time to see them is during the evening. Hence, if you're a traveler wanting to discover the true essence of Qatar and the country's festivities, come during the holy month of Ramadan and enjoy your time here.

Suggested Read: Events In Qatar 2022: Top Spectacles To Watch Out For

A country that promises all the joy and fun of a holiday, Qatar is a paradise that keeps on giving. From rich culture and hospitality to iconic landmarks and so much more, every aspect of this country has something unique and special about it. In fact, the culture in Qatar is something that every traveler should look to discover. From attending a party at a Qatari house to behaving at a public place, that are many things that travelers should remember during their time in Qatar. So, do you wish to uncover the rich culture of Qatar or long to visit the iconic locations of the place? Be a part of the family of thousands of travelers booking their Qatar flights and have a fun time spending your holiday in the country.

FAQs