Things to Avoid and Social Media Etiquette in Qatar

In many parts of the world, we learn that various rules and regulations apply concerning behaviour and social conduct. And as the world moves progressively forward, we should also understand that values such as respect and tolerance of one another must still prevail amid the bold changes that come with the modern ages.

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And being an Islamic nation, Qatar is one of those countries that strictly adhere to the principles and teachings of their religion as seen in their culture and way of life. Understanding these things is an important step in living harmoniously with the people, who come from various walks of life, convictions and principles.

Social Media in Qatar: Things to Avoid

And as connectivity has become a way of life for many of us, those who wish to build a life in Qatar, or any country in the Middle East, for that matter, must understand that there are certain laws that apply as to how people can share information over social media or through the internet.

To help us understand the specifics of what this entails, continue to read on below:

With the signing of an Emirati law that protects the citizens from being attacked and abused online, it’s important that we become acquainted of the law’s provisions and what this means for us as residents of Qatar, as well:

• On spreading fake news:

Content that would pose a threat to national safety, sovereignty of the state, public order, as well as international peace shared over the internet may be fined by up to QAR 500,000 and/or sentenced with a maximum of three years’ imprisonment.

• On sharing or creating pornographic content:

Any media or material containing pornographic content involving a child shared over the internet may be fined by up to QAR 500,000 and/or sentenced with a maximum of five years’ prison term.

• On violation of social values and principles:

Posting materials with information of another private entity such as news, pictures, or videos, and their family member(s) without their consent may be fined by up to QAR 100,000 and/or sentenced with a maximum of three years’ imprisonment.

• On slander or threatening a person online:

Any form of malicious attacks on a person’s privacy and dignity online in the form of blackmailing, bullying, or sending threats in exchange for a favour may be fined by up to QAR 100,000 and/or sentenced with a maximum of three years’ prison term.

It’s imperative that we exercise discipline and critical thinking whenever we use social media, even if we only choose to express our personal opinions to a certain group of people or audience.

And since the use of information technology and social media in countries such as Qatar among others is sanctioned by the state, everyone should treat this as a privilege and to exercise conscientious decision-making at all times to avoid getting into trouble with the law.

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