Biggest Mistakes to Avoid When in Qatar – The Seven Definite No No’s

Refrain from touching or speaking to the native females, even as a cursory greeting. Although you may feel that it is condescending to ignore the females, please hold yourself together. Breaking this cultural norm may result in huge penalties that are strictly enforced.

You may feel that it is relatively alright or think that it is complimentary to take random photographs of the Qatari people. Well, it is not the case. If you do need to take a picture, please consult with that particular person first; the chances are that they might refuse, though. Unwarranted photographing of government buildings or military camps is completely prohibited as well.

Public Display of Affection is frowned upon by the highly conservative people of the Qatari community. They have a rather strong sense of what should and shouldn't be done in a public space, which refers to malls, beaches, and theatres. Engaging in homosexual relationships can bring you jail time as they are taboo in the traditional Qatari culture.

It is considered rather rude and offensive to point your soles directly at someone when you're in a meeting or a gathering. Being aware of this faux pas will help you win over the people of the Qatari community, especially when dealing with business relationships.

Being a country that dwells upon its rich heritage with the utmost respect, the Qatari community becomes highly sensitive when women wear clothes that tend to expose their skin. Show your respect to the country by abiding by their cultural norms by wearing clothes that cover yourself from head to knee. Although it is not unusual for women from the west to dress in a bikini at the beach, it will not be received well by the natives.

In Qatar, irresponsible behaviour such as drinking in public can get you instant jail time. Although there aren't any rules to regulate drinking at private confines, one should never travel in public, in a state of drunkenness. Driving while being intoxicated can be met with severe consequences such as enormous fines or extended jail time.

The Qatari dishes usually do not require the use of cutlery. Most natives use three to four fingers of their right hand to bring food to their mouths. As a foreigner, you should be mindful when dining with your Qatari guests at one of the hotels in Doha Qatar the likes of Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli. For example, you should never use your left hand to touch food as it is solely reserved for personal hygiene purposes.