Top 6 Things to Keep in Mind When Dining ​in Qatar – How to Be a Gracious and Respected Guest

Firstly, it is advisable to dress conservatively if you plan to dine with Qataris. Secondly, you must keep in mind that in some homes and possibly even certain restaurants, dining with someone of the opposite gender is unacceptable unless it happens to be your spouse, sibling or child. As men typically dine with other men and women with women, you generally shouldn’t take along a person of the opposite gender to a meal in Qatar unless your hosts invite you to do so. 

It is considered polite to arrive punctually for a meal in this country. If dining at a local residence, you should take off your footwear before entering the home if others do so. Additionally, it is customary to greet elders upon entering a home. Typically, you would be offered tea or coffee and it is courteous to accept this drink. You should sit where your host suggests, and whilst seated, take care to avoid keeping the soles of the feet pointed in the direction of any person. 

Due to the fact that Muslims refrain from consuming pork and alcohol, you should always avoid these items when dining with them. Naturally, in local residences, these foodstuffs simply wouldn’t be served. Whilst pork isn’t available at Qatari restaurants, some will serve alcohol; when having a meal with Muslims, you must refrain from ordering such beverages. 

Generally, at a meal, the elders or you as a guest would be served first. It is proper to try a little of everything presented as it is rude to turn down food. In many settings in Qatar, you may eat in the Western manner with a knife and fork; however, there may be times when you are expected to dine as the locals do using your hand. In such a case, you should only use the right hand to handle food. Of course, there may be instances where you want to host your Qatari associates for a meal. This will be easy to do when staying at properties like Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli where apart from a stylish setting, you will also find some of the best restaurants in Doha.

There happen to be two significant religious occasions for local Muslims that involve feasting, mainly with traditional dishes. One of these is Eid al Fitr which follows the month of Ramadan; during this event, a number of foods such as dates, meats, fish, vegetables and grains are eaten. Another noteworthy occasion is Eid al Adha, a celebration that follows a Muslim’s return from the haj pilgrimage; many dishes are also prepared for this event. 

Often in this country, a greeting would be accompanied by some coffee. Whilst Arabian coffee is most commonly served, Turkish coffee as well as other varieties may sometimes be offered. Refreshing juices could be enjoyed at many street corners and something like an avocado smoothie will be an interesting choice. There are also plenty of other juices, soft drinks and milk drinks available for the visitor, whilst alcohol could be enjoyed at hotels.