Information needed

Cultural Do's And Don'ts

Alcohol is a very sensitive subject in Qatar and the utmost discretion must be shown at all times by those permitted to consume it. This means drawing as little attention as possible to the possession or consumption of alcohol, practices which are restricted to the private homes of authorized liquor permit holders. The resale or giving of liquor by individuals is strictly forbidden and result in severe penalties. Alcohol must only be transported in your vehicle to your residence on the day it is purchased.

The traffic laws of Qatar should be strictly obeyed. It is against Qatari law to drink any alcohol and drive. Anyone involved in an accident that is found to have consumed alcohol will be held to blame.

The style of driving in Qatar will be unfamiliar to you. Be patient. When a cavalcade of cars accompanying the Emir or the crown prince pass, other traffic is required to move onto the hard shoulder or side of the road and stop and move as directed by the police.

Gambling is forbidden.

Dress should be conservative. It is offensive to many Gulf Arabs for men in public to wear shorts or sleeveless vests without a shirt. This applies especially to shopping in supermarkets. Do not wear or imitate Qatari national dress as it is considered disrespectful. Women should also respect local customs and feelings by refraining from wearing shorts, sundresses, low-necked or very short dresses or tight jeans in public places. These recommendations do not apply at the beach or at the hotel swimming pool, although again there is a need for discretion.

Any intimacy in public places between men and women (including teenagers) is frowned upon.

Qataris are sensitive about the taking of photographs. Whenever possible seek permission. Do not photograph official buildings, industrial plants or military camps/installations without specific permission. Photography at the airport is banned.

Throughout the month of Ramadan, it is forbidden to eat, drink or smoke in public during the hours of fasting (between dawn and sunset). It is also advisable to take particular care not to offend Muslim customs and traditions during this period.

Always carry identification.
Tourist visa cannot be changed into Work Visa.

nice answer

Good advice.

Hello,

Keep in mind that in most forums, you naturally hear more about bad stuff, it is human nature to share negative things than positive ones. 

I think the most important things to keep in mind are:
- It is a package, and it comes as a package.  You will find tons of stuff you like, but you won't like a few. 
- Keep in mind it is a different culture, adapt and respect
- Do not compare anything to back home, just enjoy it.

First six months can be tough during the settling part, things go on cruise control after that.

>> Can tourist visa be changed into work visa?
Yes it can.

>> Can it be worn anything that covers shoulders and knees?
For the most part yes, but I would not say anything.  It is advisable to dress conservatively and not be provocative in your dress.     If one is showing too much, worst I have seen is a few looks of disapproval.

Hope this helps.

hi, i am looking for a job, i am  english licence student , i know french language also in addition that i studied spanish in high school. Thank you for you time