What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Qatar?
We asked people in Qatar if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"It is important to be respectful of Qatar's culture and customs when visiting the country. It is important to dress modestly, especially for women, and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local laws and customs, such as not drinking alcohol in public or eating during the day during Ramadan. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious sites and to avoid taking photographs without permission. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid using offensive language or gestures," said a member in Qatar.
Get Quote
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote
"Yes, when I turned and suddenly saw a women covered in an abaya and I nearly screamed. It took me some time to get used to the women in black," remarked another expat who made the move to Doha, Qatar.
Please login to continue reading this article.
Not a member? Join Today (it's free).
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Qatar?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Qatar?
- Will I be able to find a job in Qatar?
- What is life like in Qatar?
- What do expats in Qatar appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Qatar?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Qatar accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Qatar like?
- What are healthcare services like in Qatar?
- What are medical services in Qatar like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Qatar?
- What are emergency services like in Qatar?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Qatar?
- How are local medical facilities in Qatar?
- As a foreigner living in Qatar, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Qatar?
If you live in Qatar, newcomers to Qatar would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.