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Here’s What You Need to Know About Living and Working in Qatar

Qatar, and its capital city of Doha, is quickly becoming another popular Middle Eastern destination for expats. Foreign employees from all over the world go to Qatar to work in industries such as oil, information technology, and construction.

Working in Qatar may turn out to be the best move you’ve ever made. The country has a lot to offer expats, including better jobs, gorgeous tourist attractions, safe travel, and much more. It is a fantastic place to work because it offers numerous benefits such as tax-free income, a higher wage, and a multicultural environment.

Basic Guide on What You Need to Know About Living and Working in Qatar

In this guide, we provide you with a launchpad on what you need to know and do if you plan to live and work in Qatar soon. Make sure to read the rest of this guide to prepare yourself (at least mentally) for what you’ll experience living and working in Qatar:

Settling In

To ensure that you settle in properly when you first arrive, it is critical that you consider some financial factors before you fly. Consider banking; whether or not you keep your UK bank account will be determined by a variety of circumstances. You may believe that having a bank account in the UK will be beneficial for paying bills and other existing financial obligations in the UK. However, if you want to become a UK non-resident, shutting your UK bank account will be crucial in demonstrating your lack of UK ties.

Taking out an offshore bank account could be a good solution to your new banking needs. Most offshore bank accounts are ideal for expatriates. You will be able to use several currencies with an offshore bank account, which is perfect if you will still be using Sterling, possibly for existing commitments in the United Kingdom.

Another significant financial consideration is your pension. As an expat living and working in Qatar, you will be eligible to transfer your UK pension into a QROPS, which is an offshore pension transfer (Qualified Overseas Pensions Schemes). The QROPS allows you to avoid purchasing a UK annuity while also providing a variety of other financial and tax advantages.

What are the Costs of Common Items in Qatar?

If you want to get an idea of how much you’ll be spending for basic commodities in Qatar (where 1 QR = USD 0.27), you may refer to this simple outline:

Pint of beer QR 20 (USD 5.49)
Six pack of beer QR 70 (USD 19.22)
Loaf of bread QR 5 (USD 1.37)
Fast-food burger QR 15 (USD 4.12)
CD QR 50 (USD 13.73)
20 cigarettes QR 6 (USD 1.65)
Cinema ticket QR 35 (USD 9.61)
DVD QR 90 (USD 24.71)
6-10 kg beef QR 30 (USD 8.24)
1 kg chicken QR 25 (USD 6.87)
1 kg of fish QR 10–40 (USD 2.75-10.98)
1 liter of milk QR 4 (USD 1.10)
1 gallon of gasoline QR 3 (USD 0.82)
takeout pizza QR 50 (USD 13.73)
kg of potatoes QR 4-5 (USD 1.10-1.37)
can of coke QR 1 (USD 0.27)
1.5 litres of water QR 2 (USD 0.55)

What You Need to Know About Employment, Work Permits and Visas

To work lawfully in Qatar, you must have residence permission. This permission will only be awarded if an employer or sponsor has offered you a position in Qatar. Your sponsor will next apply for your residency permit on your behalf. You will be subjected to medical examinations, a blood test, and the provision of a fingerprint sample in order to complete this procedure. Your new employers are likely to have a department that assists expats with these formalities in order to facilitate a smooth transition for their new employers.

Most expats who come to Qatar for work are usually hired on the condition that they have specialized talents that are not available among Qataris. You will not be able to travel to Qatar with the intention of finding work; you must first acquire a job. There are numerous online forums and businesses that promote employment for would-be expats. Women are welcome to join the ranks of Qatar’s expats, but their possibilities will be more limited than those of men; traditionally, female roles have been limited to healthcare, education, and administration.

Qatar’s Business Culture

Because Qatar is a Muslim country, its corporate culture reflects this and may be quite different from what you are used to in your home country. Although Arabic is the national language, English is commonly spoken, particularly in the corporate world; yet, if you make the effort to learn a few easy Arabic words, you will undoubtedly endear yourself to your new colleagues. The Arabs prefer to do business in a personal and friendly manner; always take the time to engage in small conversation with your new acquaintances and avoid going right into business. Little gestures like this will help you build a pleasant working relationship with the Qatar faithful. Strong eye contact is required.

When ordering business cards, have one side printed in English and the other in Arabic. There are a few other factors to consider. For example, in Arab culture, if you compliment an item possessed by another person, they may feel obligated to offer the item to you. Avoid asking about female family members and be prepared for meetings to be disturbed by personal calls; Qataris’ families will always be more important than their work arrangements.

Arab businesspeople do not place a high value on timekeeping and punctuality, but as a foreigner, you should always attempt to be on time, but don’t get irritated if you are forced to wait. Always appear patient and calm; a ten-minute meeting might easily develop into a half-hour one, and this should never be an issue.

Accommodations

Expat lodging in Qatar is frequently included in your employment contract, either for free or at a reduced fee. This is frequently in the shape of nice apartments in designated housing compounds that house a slew of other expats. These properties will include a gym, swimming pool, sports spaces, and children’s sections, among other amenities. They are also conveniently positioned near expatriate hotspots like schools and the city center.

Qatar has begun to encourage foreigners to buy property on its sandy landscape in recent years, with luxury new residences being built particularly for this purpose. If you buy a home in Qatar, you will be granted permanent residency. Prices vary from property to property, depending on the standard aspects such as size, facilities, and so on.

Transport

Doha has recently made progress in its public transportation system; where there was once nothing, there is now a good bus service and a plethora of taxis, and there are plans to install a metro system.

Similarly to housing benefits, some organizations provide employees with free use of a company automobile, complete with a personal driver. If you own a motor vehicle that is less than five years old, you may bring it with you to Qatar. To drive in Qatar, you will, of course, require a Qatari driver’s license; however, if you already have a driver’s license from your home country, you may only need to complete a quick written test and a vision test to get it converted into a Qatari license.

Be warned that driving on Qatari roads may be a quite different experience than what you are used to back home. Traffic accidents are the leading cause of death in Qatar, where driving etiquette is non-existent and vehicles routinely race across the streets at dizzying speeds. The sudden presence of roving camels is also a severe impediment. If you are unfortunate enough to be involved in a traffic accident, you must always remain at the scene of the accident or your insurance will not reimburse you.

Healthcare in Qatar

In general, healthcare services in Qatar are of high quality. To use public services, you must have your health card, which is handed to you once you have your residency permit. You would then have access to Qatar’s National Health Service, which is quite affordable for expats and free for natives. There is also the private alternative, with rates varying depending on the procedure. Private health care is of the highest quality.

Education

There are numerous possibilities for expats traveling with children; Qatari schools have very good standards of education, but if you prefer your child to be taught their own curriculum, there are a number of great international schools. Education in Qatar consists of six years of elementary school, three years of prep school, and three years of secondary school. The secondary step is optional. If you work in Qatar’s public sector, your child will be eligible for free education in Qatari schools; nonetheless, the majority of expats prefer to send their children to international schools.

Qatar International School, Doha English Speaking School, and American School are among the most popular international schools. These schools will either follow an American or a British curriculum. Fees for these colleges might be fairly pricey, but you may find that your company covers these fees. There are also a lot of nurseries with English-speaking personnel for very young children.

Entertainment and Lifestyle

Qatar, like all Arab governments, is a Muslim country, so there will be many practices and norms of conduct that are significantly different from what happens in the Wild West. Except in specially regulated pubs and restaurants located in hotels, alcohol is not permitted to drink elsewhere. Pork products are likewise prohibited. Keep public shows of affection to a minimum and be aware that homosexuality is strictly prohibited. You should always dress modestly and avoid becoming boisterous or obnoxious. Avoid using your left hand as often as possible because it is considered filthy.

These Muslim senses are amplified during the holy month of Ramadan, so always be mindful of these religious times. Qatar has more recreational options than neighboring Saudi Arabia. Sport is very important in Qatar, with numerous elite events occurring here, the most popular of which are tennis and golf. There are numerous sporting facilities where you may have fun and get some fitness. Whether it’s football, golf, tennis, swimming, or even camel racing, there’s always somewhere to try it, often right in the expat compound where you live.

Aside from sports, there are many other attractions to help pass the time. Just outside of Doha, there are great beaches and huge expanses of desert sand where you can take a journey with the family for some relaxing time. You can swim and even go scuba diving on the beaches.

There are various theme parks and museums in Qatar, including the National Museum of Qatar, which is full of magnificent art and historical artefacts housed in a massive Arabian palace. If that doesn’t pique their interest, take them to Aladdin’s Kingdom, a terrific theme park with roller coasters and rides for kids and people of all ages.

Of course, it wouldn’t be the Middle East if there wasn’t somewhere to spend your money, so all you shopaholics will be happy to hear that Doha is packed with all the huge western shops and boutiques you might be used to, as well as traditional souks and markets.

No matter how well one plans before relocating, there will inevitably be some hiccups along the process. While you can’t expect the shift to be without bumps, having a plan of action and the determination to meet any circumstance head-on usually helps. This article’s information should have been useful in making an informed decision about relocating to Qatar.

Indeed, living and working in a country such as Qatar can pose some challenges at the onset, but through the help of this guide, you can better navigate through the new challenges you’ll face in terms of adjusting to life in this unique Gulf country. If you would like to share some of your experiences in living and working in Qatar, feel free to leave us a comment in the section below. We’d love to hear and learn from your experiences, as well!

Laws on Drugs and Alcohol that You Should Know When in Qatar

As all eyes are peeled for the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup, present alcohol rules in Qatar have been hotly contested in the worldwide media. Residents can only buy and consume alcohol with a permit under current restrictions, whereas tourists can drink at licensed restaurants and bars. Recreational drugs, on the other hand, are strictly prohibited. This approach is mainly consistent with the Islamic values that serve as the foundation of Qatar’s legal system.

In this guide, we look at Qatar’s drugs and alcohol policy, and what expats moving to the desert country need to know.

Here’s What You Need to Know About Drug and Alcohol Laws in Qatar

To date, MENA countries’ drug policies have centered on criminalizing drug possession and use (including alcohol, which is illegal in some countries in the region). In Bahrain, for example, persons who use opioids can be jailed for simply possessing needles, resulting in increased dangerous behavior among those who inject drugs. Arresting dealers and intercepting drug shipments has also been a major priority of MENA drug policies.

Drugs in Qatar

Qatar has harsh penalties for illegal drug possession, usage, and trafficking. Offenders may face long-term imprisonment and hefty penalties, followed by deportation. Fines of up to 200,000 QAR may be imposed; however, drug trafficking may result in the death penalty. When it comes to drug prohibitions in Qatar, authorities make no exceptions, and foreign embassies are often helpless to intervene on behalf of their residents.

Travelers entering the nation should anticipate their bags to be searched, though physical searches are uncommon rather than the rule. However, as is customary at most international airports, all luggage is searched at the Doha Airport Arrivals Hall.

Prescription Drugs in Qatar

In Qatar, a wide range of drugs are available without a prescription from pharmacies. Many of these may necessitate a prescription in most Western countries. In contrast, several drugs that are available without a prescription elsewhere in the world require one in Qatar. As a result, consulting with a doctor is advised.

NOTE: Antibiotics are no longer available over the counter due to new laws. Pain relievers, cough medicine, and eye drops are all frequently accessible in supermarkets and larger retailers.

IMPORTANT: Several mental health medicines, including tranquilizers, antidepressants, and several sleeping pills, are prohibited in Qatar. You may be able to receive these in extreme instances after contacting a local doctor.

So if you need to take regular drugs, keep them in their original packaging, together with any accompanying information and the doctor’s prescription. To be certain, request a note from your doctor verifying that you require these medications. Authorities often allow travelers to bring in 30 days’ worth of drugs, with any additional medication having to be obtained locally.

As a tip, remember that after visiting a licensed local medical facility, you must renew your prescriptions locally. It is also beneficial to be aware of the real contents and formula, rather than merely the brand name, as these differ from nation to country and manufacturer to manufacturer. Because many pharmacists will not take international prescriptions, you may need to renew your prescription from a local doctor.

Furthermore, passengers transiting Qatar carrying prescription medications in their hand luggage should seek assistance from their country’s embassy in Doha.

What You Need to Know About Alcohol Laws, Consumption, and Regulation in Qatar

Alcohol, like drugs, is forbidden to import into Qatar (pork products and firearms are other items on the list). It is illegal to consume alcohol or be intoxicated in public. Drunk driving, public intoxication, and other alcohol-related offenses are also taken seriously, with penalties including imprisonment, fines, and even deportation.

Despite the fact that it is a societal taboo, alcohol is available at licensed hotel restaurants, bars, and certain clubs. However, expats in Qatar should bring their Qatar ID or passport to these locations.

In line with this, with a permit, expats can also obtain alcohol. Only the Qatar Distribution Company is permitted to import and sell alcohol, and the retailer controls the country’s only liquor outlets. It also manages alcohol licenses. You will need a letter from your employer that is signed and stamped by an authorized individual in the firm to obtain one. This should include your position, basic wage, living situation, religious affiliation, and marital status. You will also need to provide copies of your valid passport and residence permit, as well as a payment. Furthermore, the minimum salary of 4,000 QAR (USD 1,078) applies.

IMPORTANT: In Qatar, Muslims are not permitted to purchase or consume alcohol. Furthermore, foreign women who are married to Muslims but practice a different faith and are sponsored by their husbands are not eligible for a permit.

What About Alcohol Laws During the FIFA World Cup 2022?

Tourists and visitors considering a trip to Qatar for the 2022 FIFA World Cup will be relieved to learn that alcohol regulations would be lifted during the tournament. During the tournament, beer, wine, and spirits will be available, but only in designated drinking places, not in public or on the streets.

Do note, however, that alcohol continues to be more expensive than in most other countries. Qatar slapped a 100 percent ‘sin tax’ on alcohol in January 2019, but then reduced prices by 30 percent. Despite the price drop, a case of beer in Qatar costs about $64 (or about $2.66 per beverage), according to Bloomberg. A typical hotel bar charges roughly $13.50 per pint.

For many fans, alcohol – particularly beer – remains an essential element of the World Cup experience. In fact, because supporters drank so much during the 2018 tournament, some Russian taverns ran out of beer! The four-week-long worldwide athletic extravaganza in what remains a devout Islamic country is projected to draw 1.5 million participants. Qatari authorities face a perplexing challenge in combining the expectations of that audience with their own historic values.

Being an Islamic country, Qatar holds on to certain values and restrictions on practices such as drinking and drug use, especially. But with a few exemptions, foreigners and expats, particularly those who will visit the Gulf nation for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2022 can avail of these products, considering proper protocols and requirements.

Qatar: All Residents to Download Ehteraz App, or Face Jail or up to QR 200,000 Fines

Qatar authorities, through a Cabinet decision, has obligated all residents who are going outside their houses to download and install the Ehteraz app beginning May 22, 2020. This, along with other precautionary decisions, should be strictly followed. Otherwise, violators will face penalties based on Decree-Law No. (17) of 1990 which deals with the Prevention of Infectious Diseases. Violators will face imprisonment of up to 3 years, and/or Fine of up to QR 200,000.

The Ehteraz app is meant to track users who have come into contact with a patient who has been infected with the virus.

Ehteraz means ‘precaution’ and this App was developed and designed by the Ministry of Interior. This app also provides users the latest updates regarding the virus, as well as other helpful tips and announcements as we all combat the disease.

Below is the announcement by the Qatar Council of Ministers regarding the precautionary decisions and measures to reduce the outbreak of the virus. Everyone is required to follow these rules and guidelines.

Ehteraz App for Qatar Residents – Required to Install

The Ehteraz app was available since April and the app uses Bluetooth and location features. Both Google Android and Apple iOS users can download this app. It is now mandatory for everyone in Qatar

Below is the announcement Here is the announcement from the Ministry:

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani chaired the Cabinet extraordinary meeting via video conference. The Cabinet announced several new measures to combat the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). #YourSafetyIsMySafety pic.twitter.com/v85JcM05vH

— مكتب الاتصال الحكومي (@GCOQatar) May 19, 2020

Here are some of the main features of the Ehteraz App:

Monitor quarantined persons and their locations.
Notify health officials for infected individuals to be given the appropriate treatment
Informs users if they have been in contact with an infected person
The health status of the user can also be checked through the QR codes used in the app.

How to Install Ehteraz App on iPhone / Android

Go to App Store or Google Play store
Search for Ehteraz
Click “Get” to install the app. Wait for the installation to be completed before opening the app.
Choose the preferred language by clicking “Accept”
Change the phone’s setting so that the location is “Always On”
Register your phone number, QID number and QID expiry date
Wait for the OTP to complete the log-in process

You can also watch this video for more information about this precautionary app:

Residents and citizens are reminded to comply with this Cabinet decision. For those who will not comply, the penalty is either imprisonment or a fine of QR 200,000 or both.

Anti-Trafficking Laws in the Middle East

There are millions of foreign workers living and working in the Middle East, including overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and other expats. When it comes to human trafficking, they can always turn to the embassies or diplomatic missions of their home countries.

In addition, foreign workers can also seek help from the government of the host countries themselves. Pursuant to anti-trafficking laws in each country, there are organizations, shelters, and other related agencies that work hand-in-hand in fighting against human trafficking crimes.

Combating Human Trafficking in the Middle East

In today’s post, we take a look at how some countries in the Middle East — particularly the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi, and Qatar — have been combating human trafficking and related crimes.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE has introduced several anti-trafficking laws over the years, starting with Federal Law No. 51 of 2006, which was later amended by Federal Law No. 1 of 2015. The law imposes a minimum fine of AED 100,000 at least five years in jail for perpetrators of human trafficking.

In 2007, the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking (NCCHT) was established to coordinate efforts across the seven emirates. The government has also established Ewa’a Shelters all over the country to care for women and children who are victims of sexual abuse and human trafficking.

In the emirate of Sharjah, the Women’s Protection Centre of the Social Services Department of the Government of Sharjah launched a website and toll free number (800-800-700), which anyone can call for help. The centre provides legal, social, and psychological counseling, and even family consultations for domestic abuse cases.

Likewise, in the emirate of Dubai, the Dubai Foundation for Women and Children (DFWAC) was established in 2007 as the first licensed, non-profit shelter in the country for women and children who are victims of domestic violence, abuse, and human trafficking crimes.

As for the Dubai Police, they have a General Directorate for Human Rights Protection, which provides legal, social, and psychological support to human trafficking victims. The agency also offers temporary shelter and temporary visas to victims who need support until they can return to their home countries.

The Dubai Police has also established the Human Trafficking Crime Control Centre, which accepts calls through +971 4 608 2347 and through the following contact details:

Human trafficking cases hotline: 8007283
Labour complaints hotline: 8005005
Fax number: +971 4 217 1644
Email address: [email protected].

Kingdom of Bahrain

To combat human trafficking, the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) in Bahrain has established a national trafficking hotline, centre, and shelter for victims of trafficking in persons.

Victims — as well as witnesses — of human trafficking are encouraged to call the national trafficking hotline, 995. They can also go directly to Northern Sehla, where they will find the Expat Protection Centre and Shelter.

The Expat Protection Centre and Shelter was established in 2015 by the LMRA, as part of the Bahrain government’s commitment to protecting and preserving the rights of overseas workers in the Kingdom. The functions of the centre include the following:

Identification, support, and follow-up of human trafficking victims and cases;
Provision of complete services to victims as well as potential victims of human trafficking; and
Provision of legal counseling, medical services, and mental health services to victims.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Pursuant to Council of Ministers Decision No. 207 of 12th September 2005, Saudi Arabia established the Human Rights Commission (HRC), which is the government body responsible for issuing advice and opinion on human rights matters in the Kingdom.

In 2009, pursuant to Council of Ministers Decision No. 244, Saudi Arabia also established the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Committee, which is headquartered at the HRC.

More recently, in 2019, Saudi government, through the HRC and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Committee, met with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to sign a memorandum of understanding on the prevention of human trafficking. In the same year, the committee held a meeting with IOM, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and other government agencies.

During the meeting, they discussed several measures for preventing and addressing human trafficking cases. These measures include the provision of technical and administrative expertise on the part of UNODC, as well as the establishment of legal, financial, and moral support services for the victims of human trafficking.

Kingdom of Qatar

Pursuant to Decree Law No. 38 for 2002, the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) in the Kingdom of Bahrain was established. It was later re-organized in accordance to Decree Law No. 17 for 2010, thus confirming the committee as a permanent official body that addresses human trafficking crimes.

In addition, the Kingdom has introduced other related laws: Law No. 21 for 2011 on Human Trafficking; Law No. 21 for 2015, which put an end to Bahrain’s Kafala system; and Law No. 15 for 2017, which pertains to the rights and protection of domestic workers. Moreover, the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking (NCCHT) was also established.

The NCCHT opened the Human Care Centre last year. Notably, this centre offers:

Help and protection for human trafficking victims;
Assistance in the victims’ rehabilitation and integration into society; and
Temporary employment until the victim is able to return to his/her home country.

Victims of human trafficking are encouraged to file complaints through the NCCHT website as well as through Qatar’s security department. The different departments work hand-in-hand, placing the victim at the Human Care Centre and providing extensive assistance including legal, financial, and moral support services.

If you are a foreign worker in the Middle East, or a job-seeker planning to work in the region, make sure that you know the anti-trafficking laws in your host or target country. By keeping them in mind, you become more aware of your rights as a person and as an employee, and you will know how to act when such rights are being violated — yours as well as those of your fellow workers.

DISCLAIMER: The above guide is presented for information-sharing purposes only. To know more about anti-trafficking laws and programs in the said countries, please visit the UAE Government Portal or the official websites of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) in Bahrain, the Human Rights Commission (HRC) in Saudi Arabia, and the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) in Qatar.

5 Things to Know for Those Who Want to Teach in Qatar

Dreaming of working overseas? For professionals in the teaching profession, working in a new environment flavoured with cultural variety can spell big challenges, but what doesn’t?

Teachers understand that their profession requires an open mind and a gentle heart to be able to understand the needs of every student that comes into their classroom. This job can be downright tedious and tiring, but what if you get to do this as a passion with great benefits, along with the opportunity for career advancement? This is just what teaching in Qatar could be or you, if it ever crosses your mind to work there…

[Guide] What to Expect as an Expat Teacher in Qatar

In this post, we will share five things to know about working as an expat teacher in the Gulf State. These are general guidelines, which you can expect when working as a school teacher in the country, but again, be sure to check your employment contract for the specifics of your job as well as the benefits that come along with it.

Expat teachers are highly paid in Qatari schools.

As in the case in most countries in the Middle East, international teachers are handsomely paid whether they work in public schools or international private schools, which are quite common in the region. Despite the exciting offer, the cost of living in these places may even it out just a little (if you’re not being careful and frugal).

As there is an abundance of teaching opportunities in the country, one of the first things that you need to consider is to look for a job with the most benefits other than (a nice) salary package.

There is much cultural diversity inside and outside classrooms.

Despite being a small country, Qatar is known to be one of the richest in the world in terms of capita GDP. As such, modernization has quickly caught up with the country’s cultural heritage and colours, threatening to take over much of what has been established of it through the years.

Nevertheless, the country has managed to preserve its cultural heritage, highlighting the significant role religion plays in Qatar’s society. Therefore, as an important tip – be sure to know the do’s and don’ts on how to behave and act appropriately when staying in this country.

Typical weather conditions may pose a challenge.

When working overseas, one of the first adjustments most of us have to make is to be acclimated to our host country’s weather conditions. In Qatar though, it’s important to note that the summer season can be quite brutal. It is for this reason that even nationals go on vacation somewhere else during this period.

As such, working in an environment with good air conditioning system is crucial to one’s stay when in the country. In contrast, the winter period in Qatar is quite wonderful, which allows one to comfortably stroll around and vest the beautiful sceneries in the area.

Exercise caution always.

Based on several research studies and reports, Qatar has been named as one of the safest places in the whole world. However, this does not reduce the need for one to be careful when going out and about, as danger is present everywhere.

Also, it’s important to note that not everything in news accurately portrays everything that is actually happening in society, as the government still has much to say about these things. So for safe measure, it’s important to exercise caution wherever you may be.

There is good expat community support available.

Expats who work as teachers in Qatar automatically become part of a great community of international educators who are always willing to extend their help, whether professionally or socially as you adapt to Qatar’s unique society.

Be sure to take advantage of these group benefits, as the community also organizes regular events (usually on weekends) for staff and to celebrate social festivities.

For those who are looking to build their career in teaching, and if teaching abroad is right on your goals, then give teaching in Qatar a shot – just be sure to consider the above pointers to maximize your experience in the country!

ALSO READ: Here’s What You Need to Know about Qatar’s Social Security System

Do you have a story to share about working or teaching in Qatar? Let us know by leaving a comment in the section below. Your tips and insights will be much appreciated!

Here’s What You Need to Know about Qatar’s Social Security System

In terms of living conditions, one of the most important things to consider when working or migrating to a different country is their social security programme. Qatar has been one of the most popular work destinations in the Middle East and the rest of the world among foreign nationals, not only because of the high pay, but also because of the benefits residents get from the government.

To date, Qatar boasts of having the biggest capita per GDP, making it the richest country in the world. And if you’re wondering what it’s like living in the world’s richest country, let’s take a look at their social security system.

5 Things to Know about the Social Security System in Qatar

In this post, we will share some of the social welfare support programmes the Qatari government provides its citizens and expats.

No Financial Duties to Settle.

The Middle East has been an excellent work destination for expats throughout the years, mainly because countries in the region do not impose taxes on the people’s income – which basically means higher take-home pay, minus other expenses, which even the government covers in certain places including Qatar.

To date, the only form of taxes in the Middle East is the value-added tax (VAT), which is comfortably set at 5% in select countries such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, the UAE, and soon – Kuwait.

Numerous Welfare Services Offered.

Qatari nationals, as expected, receive the bulk of the welfare services and benefits provided by the government. Among the social services Qataris are entitled to include medical care, child care, pensions, sickness coverage, maternity benefits, and assistance to the unemployed. In some cases, the government gives its citizens free housing and benefits for the disabled.

Limited Benefits for Foreign Nationals.

In contrast to point #2, citizens have it so much better than foreign residents, as you would expect. But the government still extends its support to expats through the use of its medical facilities. However, Qatar is now encouraging companies to provide free medical insurance to their expat employees to lessen the spending burden on the national government.

No Pension Scheme from the Gov’t for Expats.

With very little to no benefit expats are entitled to in terms of welfare help and support, the situation only builds up to the fact that no pension scheme is designed for expats in the country. But it’s not all bad, because for those who are working for an international company, your pension may be sponsored by the corporation you are working for.

Also, if you have a state pension back home, consider keeping it, even if it means that your benefits will be reduced.

Personalize Your Pension Plan thru Various (Private) Channels.

Despite the fact that expats have little social benefits from the Qatari government – in most cases, one’s salary is way above enough to compensate for their needs. This also allows them to set up their own pension, which can be availed through a number of companies in the country.

As in the case in most (if not all) countries in the world, governments do not offer equal benefits to nationals and foreign residents, but they make up for it through other ways such as higher salaries and other privileges in doing business or at work. The important thing, though, for expats is to get their own insurance, especially when they can afford to do so.

ALSO READ: Get to Know What Your Qatar ID Number Means

Qatar Airways Named World’s Best Airline for 2019

Being the best in a certain field within the region is admirable, but being called the best in the world defines excellence, and sets the benchmark for the rest of the players in the field to follow or surpass to become recognized for the same feat as well. Achievements recognized in the world makes smaller countries like Qatar become more known for good reasons.

For a number of years, Qatar’s official flag carrier, Qatar Airways, has been at the forefront of aviation services in the Middle East, edging competition from neighbouring countries such as the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, whose airlines are no pushovers, in their own right.

Skytrax Awards World’s Best Airline to Qatar Airways for 2019

But as far as aviation and airline service standards are concerned, Qatar Airways has been named the best airline in the world once again, for 2019 – putting a stop to Singapore Airlines’ four-year winning streak, as recognized at the World Airline Awards held in Paris last Tuesday (June 18).

Singapore Airlines claimed second place in Skytrax’s latest World Airline Rankings, based on a survey of more than 20 million passengers from around the globe.

This year marks Qatar’s fifth top placement in the prestigious rankings, following its feat in 2017, 2015, 2012, and 2011.

Moreover, the Gulf airline also bagged category awards for world’s best business class, world’s best business class seat, and best airline in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, ANA All Nippon Airways, Cathay Pacific Airways and Emirates claimed third, fourth and fifth spots in the world airline rankings, while Qantas Airways, which came in eighth, was the only Australasian airline to enter the top 10 rankings for global competitiveness.

Qatar Airways first started its operations in 1993, and then was reliance in 1997, when 50% of the ownership was passed on to a private company.

Since then, the airline has been known to offer the best in-flight services in the region, such as strong connectivity, also offering passengers the choice of flying to over 120 destinations worldwide. Qatar airways caters to the every need of passengers while on board. With unlimited entertainment options, a wide selection of scrumptious meals, comfortable seating, ample legroom, flying with the Gulf airline’s flag carrier is an experience not to be missed out when visiting Qatar.

ALSO READ: Qatar’s Tourism Council to Boost Activities During Eid, Summer

Qatar’s Tourism Council to Boost Activities During Eid, Summer

As a number of GCC member states have already announced the dates for the Eid holidays, movement is expected among nationals and residents within the Gulf Region for their holiday vacations.

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Out of the few countries in the GCC, there’s one that continues to aspire and raise its tourism efforts, and to make a mark among travellers coming from all parts of the world. For the uninitiated, Qatar is a small country in the Arabian Gulf, which has a rich cultural roots as well as modern-day services, luxuries and amenities.

Tourism Council Offers Discounts During Eid, Summer Period

In order to strengthen its bid, the Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) in collaboration with over 30 partners has announced to hold an array of tourist attractions, offering discounts on flight tickets and hotels, shopping promotions, attractive entertainment programmes for Eid Al Fitr and during the summer for families and individuals under Summer in Qatar 2019 (SiQ) to boost tourism, as shared in a report by MENAFN.

Acccording to Mashal Shahbik from the QNTC, “SiQ forms part of QNTC’s strategy to enrich and diversify the country’s tourism offering, particularly in the area of family and urban entertainment.”

Shahbik added that this year marks greater collaboration among QNTC’s partners in the public and private sectors, who have taken the initiative to create more tourism offerings. SiQ is part of QNTC’s focus on developing sustainable, year-round tourism, boosting a traditionally slower season in Qatar, she explained.

In line with this, a wide selection of unbeatable discounts on travel and hospitality, combined with dazzling shopping deals, promotions and packages offer a complete summer experience in the country. Of note, Qatar Airways’ deals include 25 percent discount on flights to Doha from May 30 to August 15, as well as a 25 percent discount on Al Maha Airport’s Meet and Assist / Lounge Services.

Under the hospitality sector, 12 hotels from Katara Hospitality, Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels, Al Najada Hotel and Souq al Wakra Hotel from Al Rayyan Project Management, and nine hotels from Marriott International hotels are participating in this year’s program offering 25 percent discount on best available rates on accommodation from June 4 to August 16.

Participating establishments including Fraser Suites West Bay, The Curve Hotel, Wyndham Grand, Regency Doha, La Cigale Hotel, Oryx Rotana, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Torch, Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel and Amari Doha are also participating in the summer programme by offering up to 25 percent off in services and amenities. Meanwhile, Katara Hospitality is offering an exclusive 40 percent discount for the residents of Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait.

For its part, Qatar Museums offer Culture Pass discounts on SiQ activities, retail, and access to cultural and community classes. Members can avail of special discounts at select locations including Trimoo Parks, QSports, KidzMondo Doha, Megapolis, Minipolis, Go Fun, Circusland, Power Loads, Bounce, Kidzania, live shows, concerts, and others.

Meanwhile, up to 70% shopping discount along with other promotions are offered across nine participating Malls: Doha Festival City, Mall of Qatar, Lagoona Mall, Landmark Mall, Gulf Mall, Tawar Mall, AlKhor Mall, Hyatt Plaza, and Al Mirqab Mall. For a minimum purchase worth QAR 200, guests can qualify for one of the three raffle draws with a total worth over QAR 2 million in cash & car prizes, with a MacLaren as the grand prize.

For your entertainment pleasure, Katara Cultural Village will have cultural performances, family shows, and fireworks during the 4 days of Eid Al Fitr & Eid Al Adha. Meanwhile, Souq Waqif and Souq Al Wakrah Eid Festival will feature cultural performances, musical acts and family shows for guets of all ages.

These are just a few of the many promotions and discounts to be offered to guests and residents of Qatar starting the Eid period continuing into the rest of the summer. Be sure to check with your favourite shopping places for amazing deals and prices on your retail and dining choices.

ALSO READ: How to Save Money When Eating Out in Doha

Things to Note When Traveling Solo in Qatar

Traveling enriches the human experience, as a person is able to connect with the rest of the world, and with cultures they may not have heard of if they stayed back home. But when done alone, traveling can also be an emancipating and empowering experience despite the challenges that might come along with it.

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But for the brave and the curious, the world is theirs for the taking. And since there are far too many great places to visit in an entire lifetime, it’s important that you choose your destination for what you wish to understand about life in that part of the world. A good place to start or to include in your bucket list would be Qatar, simply because not much is known about this country, at least even to well-traveled folks.

Tips for Solo Travelers in Qatar

To make your experience as meaningful and memorable as possible, ample planning is necessary. Ad when visiting Qatar on your own, here are some important tips to take note of:

Qatar is Safe.

Perhaps one of the main reservations people have in visiting Qatar is that it’s located in the Middle East. However, according to a recent report released by global records database, Numbeo, Qatar topped the list of 118 countries for being the safest in the world.

By looking at the numbers, Qatar ranked last (118^th) in terms of crime index with 13.26 points, and it received 86.74 points in the safety index, giving it a follow-up achievement it first received in 2017.

Qatar’s excellent ranking can be attributed to a number of factors such as houding indicators, traffic, pollution, crime, health care, and cost of living. Of note, Qatar has consistently ranked first in terms of safety among GCC countries since 2015. This reflects the efforts of the Ministry of Interior (MOI) in providing unparalleled safety and security in society. This only means that you don’t have to worry about travelling alone in Qatar.

Book a Trip During Cold Months.

Located within the desert region, Qatar can be really hot in the summer but the opposite in winter. This means that a visit sometime between November and March would be ideal as you would experience temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius in the day, and as low as 12 degrees Celsius at night.

Use Uber.

There are plenty of local taxis and cabs in Qatar, but prices can get unreasonable for solo travels. As an alternative, you can take advantage of the technology and services offered by point-to-point ride hailing apps such as Uber, as these are often cheaper, and much more convenient than the country’s public transportation at this time.

Observe Dress Codes.

As an Arab nation, Qatar also observes modest and conservative dress codes, especially for women. While wearing hijab is not necessarily a requirement, clothes should cover the knees as well as the shoulders, especially in public.

Keep Learning.

From time to time, you need to travel on your own not just for the sake of seeing different places, but also to learn more about other cultures, way of life, and perspectives. Traveling is all about sharing human experiences, and until you open yourself to greater learning, you’ll always find your experiences shallow and lacking.

Going on a solo adventure is one of the most intimidating yet satisfying experiences in life. However, with ample research and planning, there’s nothing insurmountable out there for you to experience. Good luck and have lots of fun!

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What are the Best Qatar-Made Products?

They say one of best the parts of travelling is getting to experience a variety of food or products that are native to the country you are visiting.

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If getting to know a culture is through tasting various delicacies patronized in a country, then it pays to know which products or food items must be tried out by first-time travellers. Now, if we take this to a country in the Middle East such as Qatar, here are some of the best products tourists and expats need to try at least once in their life when in the Kingdom…

Products You Need to Check Out When in Qatar

From an outsider’s perspective, Qataris have a deep appreciation for all products made in their homeland. While this may reflect values such as patriotism or nationalism, its actually not so hard to appreciate one’s own products, especially when they’re so good.

But don’t take our word for it; you should at least try them on your own to find out for yourself!

On that note, here are some of the must-try products when in Qatar:

Ghadeer

Ghadeer, which is also recognized as the Arab Qatari Company for Dairy Production, was first established in 1986. The top Qatari brand started out as a project aimed at integrating livestock projects with agriculture. To date, the company owns the biggest green farm in the nation, at 1,200 hectares. The company also has around 2,000 Holstein cows in its pioneering cow farm.

Safa International Co.

So you may think, “What’s so great about water?” As a product, water is one of the most important commodities inside every household, not just in Qatar but all over the world. And if you’re looking for a great quality brand for a good price, then you should consider getting Safa water, because it has been recognized internationally for its quality after it was awarded the prestigious ISO 22000:2005 certification since 2012. The company offers products such as Water 5 gallons, dispensers, hand pumps, and cup holders, among others.

QBake

When it comes to baked products and delicacies, one of the best brands in Qatar is QBake. Their products range from sliced bread, cakes and muffins, and croissants, to Arabic breads, buns, and rolls. Most of their products can be found across a wide range of commercial establishments, which include supermarkets, hypermarkets, restaurants, catering companies, fast food outlets, groceries, and many others.

Dates

You can’t visit any country in the Middle East and not have dates. Dates are perhaps one of the top export products in the region, especially since these delightful sweet products are very popular during the month of Ramadan, eaten after fasting. Dates are also naturally healthy, since they are very rich in magnesium, iron, potassium, fibre, vitamins and minerals. And as they are very popular commodities, you can buy fresh dates all over the country, including Souq Waqif, Carrefour, and the LuLu Hypermarket.

Qatari Souvenirs

To get a tangible representation of the Qatari culture and tradition, it’s highly recommended for tourists and visitors to get special souvenirs such as coffee pots, shishas, abayas, pashminas, shawls, and wooden boxes during their trip in the country. It’s also good to note that Qatar has many ornamental products like necklaces made of pearls for sale in the Gold Souq, and other jewelry shops, as Qatar is after all, the pearl capital of the world.

If you’re big on shopping, then you might chance upon some of these popular products on your visit to the country. But if not, you can always check with the locals as to what you should consider getting on your next visit in Qatar, and where to find them.

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