Expert Dining Tips for Culinary Exploration in the Heart of the Middle East

The world brims with several different cultures, each with its own set of unspoken rules and guidelines. If you're travelling to a new country, it is always better to learn a little more about what it holds, in terms of cultural acceptance and traditions a new visitor may be unaware of. It's always better to take a step back, do your research and learn the dos and don'ts before embarking on your journey. The Middle East is known for its hospitality, the people are warm and welcoming. However, their cultural traditions make up an important part of their daily routine. While you may be looking forward to kicking back and relaxing at Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar By Tivoli, take a moment to read through the dining etiquette in Qatar. 

While this practice is not common in the Western world, in most parts of the Middle East and Asia, it is a common understanding to leave your shoes at the front door before entering another's home. This also applies to Qatar, unless your host insists that it's okay. If you're visiting someone known to you in Qatar, do keep this in mind so that you don't cause any offence. 

Arabic Coffee, also known as Kahwa, is a big part of Qatar culture, and this is apparent the moment you step into the country. Kahwa is typically served in traditional coffee pots called 'dallah' and poured into small delicate cups called 'finjaan,' which lack handles and are not filled to the brim. Instead, they are filled up to one-fourth capacity, ensuring the coffee is not too hot for the guest to sip. In Qatari culture, the host always samples the Arabic coffee first to ensure its quality before serving it to guests. Each guest is served individually, with the coffee never poured into a tray of 'finjaans.' It is customary for guests to drink the coffee using their right hand.

Hand washing is typical as a symbol of cleanliness before and after meals. Since the left hand is regarded as dirty, diners should only use their right when eating. It's also considered courteous to receive food or beverages offered with the appropriate hand. It's polite to wait to start eating when seated until the host has finished. To experience the food scene in Qatar, you can opt for a souq delight meal package, fully immersing yourself in the local experience. If everyone is eating the machboos (rice and meat/chicken) off the same large platter while you are seated on the floor, don't be alarmed. This is a typical way for Qataris to connect and share. You shouldn't object if someone uses their hands to place food on your plate as long as they wash them before eating.