Tips Archives • Page 5 of 7 • Middle East 24/7

[Guide] What You Need to Know About Working in Bahrain

There are many attractive places to work in the Middle East, but not all are as ideal as Bahrain, which has one of the strongest economies in the region as well as the warmest people to work with.

ALSO READ: Labour Laws in Bahrain: Working Hours and Rest Days

However, before you could even get a job in the country, you need to be acquainted first with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), which serves as the primary agency that handles all foreign workers coming into Bahrain. Through the LMRA, you will understand the requirements which you need to secure to apply for a work visa, identification card, and residency permit in the country.

An Expat’s Guide to Working in Bahrain

In this post, we will share with you some important information that you need to know about the LMRA to help you successfully land a job and hopefully build a career in this country:

What is the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA)?

As mentioned earlier, the LMRA handles all people coming into Bahrain for employment. This means that if you want to work in Bahrain, you have to go through the process for application set by the LMRA since they would also be the ones to issue entry visas, residency permits, and identification cards.

Also, the LMRA closely works with the Ministry of Health in organizing medical appointments or check-ups. Furthermore, the LMRA is also responsible for transferring workers’ work visa to other employers once their contract ends.

What are the requirements for Work Visa?

For those interested to work in Bahrain, here are the general requirements that you will need to prepare:

Visa application form
Valid passport
Passport size photographs
Letter of sponsorship
Photocopy of job contract
Health record from an authorized clinic
Processing fee of BD 1000

Note: The sponsorship letter is a letter of employment that should specify the worker’s name, date of birth, nationality, name of employer / company, commercial registration number, as well as salary.

What are the requirements for Residency Permit or Family Visa?

Meanwhile, for those who are looking to bring their families with them to Bahrain, the following are the requirements needed to acquire a residency permit or family visa:

Application form
Photocopies of your passport (including those of your family members)
Your employee sponsorship letter
Your job contract
Your family health record issued by an authorized clinic
Processing fee of BD 22 per applicant

Note: All of the above requirements are to be submitted to the LMRA. The General Department for Nationality and Passport Residence is responsible for the issuance of your family visa.

What are the requirements for Identification Card or CPR Card?

For those who need to obtain an identification card in Bahrain, also known as the CPR card, here are the following requirements that you need to present at the LMRA:

Valid passport
Letter of sponsorship indicating the name/s of your dependent/s (if any)
Marriage certificate (for spouse) and birth certificates (for children)
Processing fee of BD 1 per applicant

Other Things to Note:

Prior to leaving your home country, it’s important to perform the following measures:

Review the validity of your visa via the LMRA online portal.
Make sure that the clinic where you have availed your medical appointments is authorized and recognized by the LMRA to officially do so. You may visit their website to check their list of approved facilities.
Be sure to have the following documents with you:
- Passport (along with several copies)
- A photocopy of your LMRA-issued work visa
- A photocopy of your job contract
- Driver’s license (if any)
- Education and skills certification (where applicable)
For those travelling with a spouse or with children, be sure to have a copy of your marriage certificate as well as your children’s passport/s.

As you would prepare for travel to any country, you need to secure all the basic requirements, including those needed by your employer when going to Bahrain. To know more about the specific requirements or changes posted for this purpose, be sure to check out the LMRA website as a general guide for your preparations.

ALSO READ: [GUIDE] Riding Public Buses in Bahrain Using a GO Card

Guide to Bahrain Labour Law: Policies on Wages

Bahrain has been one of the top work destinations in the Middle East, for OFWs and expats alike. Aside from the competitive salary package and tax-free earnings, many people also enjoy the benefits that come in working as a foreign national in the Kingdom, which include excellent basic services, quality health care, world-class shopping experience, and the many opportunities for travel in the country.

ALSO READ: [Guide] What You Need to Know About Working in Bahrain

As a foreign resident working in the Kingdom, one of the most important things to note aside from your employment contract are the policies on labour and wages, which we will tackle in this post.

Understanding Policies on Wages in Bahrain

When it comes to working in Bahrain, here are some of the most important provisions on the Bahrain Law when it comes to salaries and wages:

Calculation of Wages and Payment

Salary may be calculated on a per hour, per day, or per month basis. This can also be calculated based on a piece rate or per production, as long as this is clearly specified on the employee’s labour contract (Article 38).
Salary and other amounts due to the worker must be paid in Bahraini currency (BR). Likewise, an agreement for payment in legal tender currency may also be arranged (Article 40).
Upon end of contract, the employee shall be paid their wages and other amounts they are due. However, in the instance where the employee decides to terminate his contract, the employer must settle the worker’s wages within seven (7) days from the date on which the employee ended his contract (Article 40).

Repayment of Loans

During the effectivity and validity period of a worker’s contract, the employer is not allowed to deduct more than one-tenth of the employee’s salary in repayment of loans. Similarly, the employer cannot charge any interest for these loans. This rule also applies to salaries that are given in advance (Article 44).
With regard to loans granted for house construction, the employer can increase the amount deducted from the worker’s wage by up to 25% only. Also, for this arrangement to be valid and lawful, it has to be put into writing with the worker’s written consent (Article 44).

Rights and Welfare of Employees

Wages and pay scale assigned to employees should not be discriminated based on gender, nationality, religion, or ideology (Article 39).
An employer is not allowed to designate an employee working on a monthly basis to one who works on an hourly, daily, weekly, or piece-rate basis without duly informing the employee or a written agreement approved by the latter (Article 41).
The employer should not force or compel their employee/s to purchase food, products, or services from establishments they own or by any third party offered by the employer (Article 42).

Aside from getting in depth with the provisions stipulated on the employment contract, the above details are just some of the basic things that every foreign worker in Bahrain should understand.

Disclaimer: The pieces of information provided in this post are intended for information-sharing purposes only. This should not be used as the sole and official basis or reference for actual labour concerns or any legal proceedings. To know more about the Bahrain Law, you may visit the website of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA).

[Guide] How to Rent a Car in Kuwait

Getting around Kuwait isn’t difficult to do, even so when you have a car that you can drive at your own leisure and pace. And because public transportation is only limited to taxis and buses at the moment, getting a car is one of the most convenient things you can do, especially if you’re only staying for a couple of days to several weeks.

ALSO READ: 6 Things to Know when Visiting the Middle East

And because there is a constant need for easy to access cars in the country, the government has made it easier for car rental companies to set up their offices in strategic locations, such as in hotels and at the Kuwait Airport.

What You Need to Know about Renting a Car in Kuwait

For those interested in getting a car to drive around the city, here are a couple of requirements that must be met by interested renters:

The individual renting a car must be at least 18 years of age.
The individual must also possess an international driving license (i.e. expats on visit visas)

Note: National driving licenses issued by a driver’s country of origin will not be accepted. And even if the person has an international driving license, they will still need to apply for a Kuwaiti driving license if they intend to stay in the country for a longer period of time.

Once you have secured the basic requirements to drive a car in the country, you may get in touch with the following car rental service providers in the country:

List of Car Rental Service Companies in Kuwait:

A1 Car Rental – 25649100
Al Abdel Ghafour – 22611675
Al Afraa Establishment – 226300333
Al Austad – 22669668
Al Maseela – 257200005
Al Motor – 25717171
Al Sukuk – 24316176
Algeeran – 22613123
Alkhaldeya – 22634347
AlZeer Car Rental – 22452655
Andalus – 24345692
Dana Centre – 24748104
Exotic Motors – 25326866
Formula Rent-a-Car – 22415551
Golden Sands – 26722926
Group Caron – 22611102
KGL – 22492147
Monte Carlo – 25711007
Prestige – 25645761
Rekab Rent-a-Car – 24821000
Special Car – 24739003
Tsahel Car Rental – 22664647

With a car at your own disposal, getting around in Kuwait, whether for short or long distances, should not be a problem anymore, most especially when you have your family in tow. Also, car rental is great in the country as in any part of the Middle East, because of the very affordable gas prices.

However, before you consider driving in the country, you have to understand that traffic rules in Kuwait may not be necessarily similar in the place where you came from. And so, in consideration of safety and security purposes, it’s important that you take a look into these things first, even if you feel that you are qualified to drive and to rent a car in the country.

Always remember that the law can be very specific in some parts of the world and as far as public safety and order is concerned, every resident (local or otherwise) will be strictly held accountable for any violations regarding these matters. As a final tip, always consult with authorities as to how you can best observe the law and comply with them as best as you can.

What You Need to Know About Saudi Employment Contracts

Here’s What You Need to Know about the Saudi Employment Contract

If you’re setting your sights on working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, there are a few things that you need to get acquainted with. Of course, there’s the culture and customs in the country, and then there’s work.

ALSO READ: [Guide] Applying for a Work Visa in Saudi Arabia

If you want to become great at your job and if you intend to make it as smooth-sailing for as long as you can, be sure to get to know about your rights as an employee and make sure that you understand the terms and provisions stated in your employment contract. This should provide you all the basic things that you need to achieve in your job, as well as the benefits that come along with it.

Get to Know About the Employment Contract in Saudi Arabia

By understanding you employment contract, you are one step closer to ensuring your success (and protection) at work.

Basically, your employment contract serves as a written agreement between you and your employer, so it’s important that you understand most parts (if not all) of it. Your contract will serve as your guide, indicating your job description, working hours, salary, and benefits, among others. The contract also details the terms and conditions you agree on prior to entering, ending, or renewing the work contract.

Here are the basic things that you need to note in your employment contract:

Entering a Contract
1. The contract must have several duplicates, one copy each for both the employer and the employee.
2. The contract must specify the name of the employer, workplace, name of employee, nationality, salary and benefits, date of employment, and duration of contract (if fixed).
3. Employment contract for non-Saudis should be based on a definite term. If the contract does not indicate the term, then the work permit shall serve as the legal basis for the duration of the contract.
Ending/Terminating the Employment Contract
1. Both the employer and employee agree to terminate the contract.
2. The term by which the contract is considered valid has already lapsed/expired (unless brought up for renewal).
3. The employee reaches the age of retirement (60 years for men and 55 years for women).
4. Force majeure or circumstances that prevent someone from fulfilling a contract.
5. The company has been shut down for good.
6. The party deciding to terminate the contract should still base their action on the notice period. Otherwise, they can be held liable to paying an amount equal to the worker’s salary for the remaining duration of the notice.
7. The employer will not be required to give an advance notice or settle indemnity if the employee:
  - Assaults the employer, manager, or any of his superiors.
  - Fails to perform essential obligations or follow legitimate orders despite written warnings.
  - Has committed grave misconduct or any actions with dishonesty or lack of integrity.
  - Has intentionally caused material loss to the company/employer.
  - Has committed forgery or falsification of official and legal documents.
  - Fails to report to work without valid reason for more than 15 consecutive days or more than 30 days in a year, despite written warnings.
  - Discloses work-related confidential information.

On the other hand, the employee may leave their job without notice if the employer:

Fails to fulfill his obligations based on the contract.
Resorts to fraud at the time the contract was being established.
Requires the employee to perform a task or a role without their consent that is entirely different from the nature of the work agreed upon.
Assaults or commits an indecent act on the employee.
Treats employees with cruelty, injustice, or insult.
Fails to enforce measures to address serious work hazards despite knowing about them.
Causes the employee to appear as the one who terminated the contract.
Understanding the Probation Period
1. The contract must clearly state how long an employee is placed on probation at work.
2. This period should not go beyond 90 days, although this may reach up to 180 days, as specified in a written agreement between both parties.
3. The employee cannot be placed under probation more than once under the same employer.
4. The employer or employee may terminate the contract during this period, unless the contract specifies otherwise.
5. If the work contract is terminated during this period, neither the employer nor the employee will be held liable to any payment or compensation.

The above details are just some of the things that you need to know regarding your employment contract in Saudi Arabia. If there are still other concerns that you would like to raise or clarify, it would be best to bring it up with your prospective agency or employer. Good luck!

Disclaimer: The details provided in this article are for information-sharing purposes only and should not be considered as the legal basis for any employment-related concerns. To know more about the employment contract under the Saudi Labour Law, you may visit the official website of the Ministry of Labour and Social Development for specific details.

List of Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia for 2019

For many years, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been one of the most preferred work destinations of OFWs and expats alike.

However, with changes as to the tax schemes in the country as well as the government’s position on the shift of labour employment to locals known as “Saudization”, foreign nationals are starting to look for other places such as Bahrain or the UAE to find work opportunities. But those who are given the chance to work in the Kingdom should understand Saudi Arabia’s labour laws as well as observances of public holidays as this would determine their use of leaves, which is also sanctioned by the law.

List of 2019 Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia

And while there aren’t as many holidays in KSA as compared to other Muslim countries in the region, it’s still just as important to know like elsewhere in the world.

Of note, Saudi Arabia also follows moon patterns or lunar sightings in determining the dates of public holidays. And while there can be speculations as to when holidays would normally fall in a year, government authorities will have to release official dates for uniformity and compliance across the Kingdom.

For 2019, public holidays/observances are expected to fall within these dates:

Beginning of Ramadan – May 6^th (Monday)*
Eid Al Fitr – June 5^th (holiday until the 8^th, Saturday)*
Eid Al Adha – August 12^th (Monday)*
Islamic New Year – September 1^st (Sunday)*
National Day – September 23^rd (Monday)
Birthday of the Prophet Mohammad – November 10^th (Sunday)*

Note: Dates with asterisks (*) are still subject to change, based on the actual sightings of the moon.

For some of the above-listed holidays, the number of days without work depends on whether you work in the public or private sector. For safe measure, always watch out for official announcements, and plan your vacation leaves ahead of time with some leeway for adjustments depending on when the holiday would actually fall every year.

With the limited number of public holidays and observances in the Kingdom, it’s all the more important to plan your travels and trips (back home). Otherwise, you can always take comfort in the fact that working on a holiday also has its perks. And these are things that every employee must know wherever they may be in the world, so as not to be taken advantage of or discriminated against.

ALSO READ: [GUIDE] What You Need to Know about Public Transportation in Saudi Arabia

Labour Laws in Bahrain: Working Hours and Rest Days

In a 2017 survey, Bahrain was hailed as one of the most preferred places to live in by many expats. The result revealed that 87% of the expat respondents were happy with their lives in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

ALSO READ: What’s Ramadan Like in Bahrain?

It is for this reason that many foreign nationals aspire to land a job or get an opportunity to migrate to this wonderful Arab country in the Middle East. If you happen to be one of those foreign nationals who wish to find employment in this country, continue to read this post.

Get to Know About Working Hours and Rest Days in Bahrain

One of the main considerations why expats choose to live in Bahrain is, of course, the abundance of well-paying jobs in the country. However, job pay is only one of the many things we should all be concerned about when planning to work overseas. Other considerations are the job environment, work treatment, as well as observance of labour laws in the said country.

For starters, foreign workers should know about working hours and rest days in accordance to the provisions of Bahrain’s Labour Laws:

Working Hours

In Bahrain, employees work for 8 hours per day or an average of 48 hours/week. Work hours may also be extended for more than 8 hours per day, but should not go beyond 10 hours/day (Article 53).
However, for Muslim workers, working hours during Ramadan should not go beyond 6 hours per day or 36 hours/week (Article 51).
Based on Bahrain’s labour laws, work hours may be extended or shortened under certain work circumstances. For each additional hour rendered at work per day, a worker is entitled to receive their hourly wage and an additional 25% of the said rate.
Meanwhile, those who work additional hours at night are entitled to receive their hourly wage and an additional 50% of the said rate (Article 54).

Prayer, Meals, and Rest Periods

Employees should not work for six consecutive hours in a day. There must be at least one or more intervals for rest, meals, and prayers (for Muslims). These periods should not be less than 30 minutes, and are not considered part of working hours (Article 52).
Employees are not allowed to stay at work for more than 11 hours per day, including working hours and rest periods (Article 57).
Employees may be asked to report to work on their rest day under certain circumstances. In such cases, the employee may choose between receiving an additional wage equal to 150% of their base rate, or another rest day (Article 57).

Other Provisions of the Law

Employees working on night shifts as well as those covered by the “occupational confinement system” are entitled to compensation based on the nature of their jobs (Article 50).
The Ministry of Labour may impose changes to the working hours and rest periods in certain industries such as those required to perform continuous services due to the technical nature of work (Articles 51 and 52).
Employers should display the working hours, rest days, and rest periods for all worker categories in a spot where it can be easily viewed or accessed in the workplace (Article 55).

All employees are required to learn and understand their duties and responsibilities before they get absorbed in the workforce. It should also be their personal goal to understand their rights as workers, which the government also supports and advocates for.

ALSO READ: [GUIDE] Riding Public Buses in Bahrain Using a GO Card

[GUIDE] What You Need to Know about Public Transportation in Saudi Arabia

As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been among the top destinations for work among expats for quite some time now, going to this country for whatever purpose you may have should not be a very difficult thing to do, especially since the country has invested in its basic services including public transportation, which aims to give the citizens as well as expats an easier time to adjust to life in the country.

ALSO READ: 6 Things to Know when Visiting the Middle East

And just like most modern nations, KSA has invested in infrastructure, in the same way that the government has accommodated more businesses to be established in the country, and with all these advancements — the other sectors of society must also keep in step with the progress.

Getting Around the KSA via Public Transportation

It’s just great to note that the country has a well-developed transportation network, which makes it easy for everyone to travel from one place to another. It’s also quite impressive to note that KSA has invested much of its riches on public infrastructures such as roads and bridges. This only makes travelling within the country an experience worth having.

And while eligible people can take private vehicles to get around the city, those who opt to take public transport are provided with safe, comfortable, and affordable travel options:

By Air

Arriving in the Kingdom’s capital, Riyadh, you would find the King Khalid International Airport. However, if we are talking about the busiest airport in Saudi Arabia, then it would have to be the King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah. This airport is connected to most major international airlines as well as to other airports within the country and the region. Furthermore, the airport in the capital also accommodates domestic flights provided by the country’s flag carrier, Saudia Airlines.

Buses

You would find that the majority of buses plying the city are under the operation of the Saudi Arabian Public Transport Company (SAPTCO). The company offers transport services within Dammam, Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, and Riyadh.

The standard bus fare per passenger is SAR 2. You can simply place your fare inside the fare box as you board the bus, or purchase tickets beforehand at the bus station or any transport ticket outlets.

Of note, SAPTCO also provides inter-city transport services, which connect major cities and available international routes, as well. On the other hand, you will also find other independent bus operators servicing other areas and destinations within the country.

Trains

At present, a metro rail transport service is still under construction. SAPTCO is working with RATP Dev, a leading international metro rail and public transport service provider. The partnership aims to establish metro and heavy rail networks all over the country.

Taxis

And if you’re really in a big hurry, you can always hail a taxi anywhere to get you practically around the city. Most of the taxis in the Kingdom are white in colour and are metered with a base fare starting at SAR 5.

As the government is still working on a couple of major transportation projects as of the moment, it’s safe to say that as for the public transportation in the Kingdom: the best is yet come. Meanwhile, be sure to check out your other travel options for a more convenient and efficient experience (and stay) while in the country.

Here’s What You Need to Know About Labour Leaves in Qatar

Whether you choose to work locally or overseas, it’s important to know that there are existing labour laws that you need to be familiar with, as these will help you make informed decisions on how you must proceed with your duties and responsibilities to your employer, without setting aside your rights as a employee.

ALSO READ: Why it’s Illegal to Work if You Have a Tourist/Visit Visa

And as there are specific provisions under Article 75 to 85 of the Qatar Labour Code which influence the employees’ working hours, it’s important that we also look into the official leaves which employees are entitled to for whatever reasons they have use for them.

[Labour Laws] What are the Official Leaves in Qatar?

The applicable leaves in a Muslim country such as Qatar differs slightly from non-Muslim countries because of the influence of Islamic traditions and rituals, which also affect workplace set-ups in most companies, if not all.

Here are the official leaves of employees in Qatar:

Annual Leaves
- Employees are entitled to the following annual leaves without any deductions on their compensation.
  - Eid al Fitr Leave (3 Working Days)
  - Eid Al Adha Leave (3 Working Days)
  - Independence Day Leave (1 Working Day)
  - Three (3) working days authorized by the employer

Note/s:

– If a worker has rendered one (1) continuous year of service, but less than five (5) years with a single employer, he/she will be entitled to an annual leave with pay for at least three (3) weeks. Meanwhile, those who have rendered service for five (5) continuous years are entitled to an annual leave with pay for at least four (4) weeks.

– The worker is allowed to take a leave for a fraction of the year in proportion to the period of his service.

– Also, the employer is empowered to do the following on his/her worker’s annual leave:

Set the dates of his/her employees’ annual leaves.
Split the leaves, provided that the employee agrees to it and the division is not more than two periods;
Delay the annual leave of the worker for not more than half of the annual leave to the year following the year of entitlement. This requires a written application of postponement from the employer.

– The worker does not have the option to waive his entitlement to his/her annual leave.

– If for any reason, the worker’s contract has been terminated even before he/she was able to take the leave, he/she is entitled to payment equivalent to his/her wage for the unused leave dates.

Sick Leave
- A worker is entitled to a sick leave with pay for every year he/she works with a company.
- A sick leave benefit may only be claimed by presenting a valid medical certificate issued by a physician and as approved by the employer.
- If the worker’s sick leave does not exceed two weeks, he/she must be paid with full compensation, but if the leave extends beyond four weeks, the worker would still get half the amount of the wage. If the leave is further extended, the worker would no longer be compensated unless he/she returns to work, resigns, or get terminated from service.
- If the leave extends up to twelve weeks, the employer can legally terminate the worker on grounds of a physician’s evaluation noting that the worker is no longer able to return to work from that point onward.
- If a worker decides to resign due to sickness (as certified by a physician) before the end of the 6th week of their absence, the worker is still entitled to payment of their sick leave balance from work. This also applies to a worker who dies before the end of the sixth week of their absence due to sickness.
- The above provisions do not affect the right of the worker for any compensation for the duration of their service while the sick leave for 12 weeks will not be considered as disruption to their service with the company.

Leave(s) for Muslim Workers
- Muslim workers are allowed to go on a leave without pay for not more than two weeks to fulfill their pilgrimage duty once during their period of service. Also, the employer reserves the right to decide on who will be granted with such leaves, giving priority to those who have longer tenure.

Other Provisions
- A worker on leave must not work for another employer during this period as this can be used as grounds for the employer to withhold or retrieve the wage issued to the worker, if found guilty.
- The employer cannot terminate the worker even if with due notification during their leave from work. Furthermore, the employer cannot notify the employee of their termination if the notice period lapses while the worker is on leave.

As employees, it is our duty to know and understand the terms and conditions of our contract as well as the governing labour laws in the country we are working in. Doing so will empower us to make informed decisions and to avoid being taken advantage of by others as well.

ALSO READ: Qatar Do’s and Don’ts

What’s Ramadan Like in Bahrain?

Bahrain, being one of the many oil-rich countries in the Middle East, is also predominantly a Muslim nation. Therefore, it pays to know about the basics of Muslim culture if you’re planning on visiting this country anytime soon or in the future.

ALSO READ: 5 Tips when Travelling to the Middle East During Ramadan

This is particularly important if you happen (or plan) to visit during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Because as you can imagine, there are various customary events that only happen during Ramadan, and we shall take a look at them especially in the context of Bahrain in this post.

[GUIDE] What to Expect During Ramadan in Bahrain

A few things worth noting: During the month of Ramadan, Muslims wake up before sunrise to have “suhoor,” a pre-fast meal. After which, they no longer partake of any eating, drinking, smoking, and even chewing gum for the rest of the day. But when the sun sets, Muslims take part in a public meal known as “iftar”.

That being said, expats are not necessarily obliged to perform these rituals, but do note that food items and supplies will be scarce during this period so it’s important to take note a few things to be prepared for your stay during this time in Bahrain:

Most businesses and public offices will have shorter operating hours during this time (usually from 8am to 2 pm only).
Several shops won’t be open during the day, but will be open at night until early morning.
Also, food spots such as cafes and restaurants won’t be operational during the day.
Meanwhile, licensed restaurants will not be serving alcohol. Also, don’t expect these places to play music or offer entertainment during the whole month.

The following is a set of guidelines on how to behave during Ramadan:

Dress modestly and appropriately. Remember to cover up your shoulders and knees, especially for the ladies. Men are expected to wear long trousers and clothes with long sleeves when out in public.
Greet the people you get to cross paths with. Basic greetings such as “Ramadan Kareem” and “Ramadan Mubarak” speak of blessings and good will to the recipient.
Be willing to donate or share food, money, or clothes to charity. Organized charity work is promoted during Ramadan. Also, almsgiving is widely practised during this time, as well.
Be willing to accept invitations to iftar. Whether it be your host or a couple of friends from work, it’s a good social response to join Muslims at iftar where you can share good stories and experiences about Muslim culture, and to make new friends or connections.
Do not eat, drink, smoke, or even chew gum in public. Understand that fasting is difficult as it is, and you wouldn’t want other people to give you mean looks when you fail to remember this.
Avoid public displays of affection such as hugging or kissing in public, even if you are with your spouse or lover, as this is deemed inappropriate in social settings in Muslim countries, more so during Ramadan.
Avoid using offensive words or gestures, or causing loud noise. As proper decorum and right conduct warrant this, speaking ill or acting offensively towards others, as well as creating a distraction are widely condemned during Ramadan.

The idea during Ramadan is for everyone to exercise respect and discipline towards the long-standing traditions of the people and the land. And while expats are not obliged to take part in any of these activities, knowing how to behave accordingly is a good first step to showing your respect towards the people and their beliefs.

Things to Know When Applying for Alcohol License in Qatar

As you know, being a country in the Middle East, Qatar also follows Islamic rules, and therefore has a unique set of rules and laws regarding the purchase and consumption of alcohol.

ALSO READ: 6 Things to Know when Visiting the Middle East

As an expat, this is very important to understand, because the only way to purchase and consume alcohol in Qatar is by applying for a liquor permit. This permit is required to purchase several kinds of alcoholic beverages, but with discretion — as purchased liquor cannot be seen in public. Furthermore, a person can only purchase a certain amount of alcohol based on their monthly salary.

How to Apply for Alcohol License in Qatar

To know more about the guidelines and laws about alcohol in Qatar, continue to read below…

Laws Governing Alcohol Purchase and Consumption

It is illegal to import liquor into the country. All luggage is screened and inspected at the arrivals hall of Doha Airport.
Consuming alcohol in public or getting drunk is considered an offense. Those who will be caught doing either of these can be subject to deportation, fine, or imprisonment, whereas corporal punishment may be given to Muslims caught violating this law.
Transporting alcohol within the country is also prohibited, except for bringing it home after purchasing from the warehouse on the same day it was bought.
Offering alcohol to Muslims and minors is considered a crime.
Unauthorized selling or donating and sharing of alcohol is also not allowed.
OFWs based in Qatar can only get a hand on alcoholic beverages via a permit system. Licensed restaurants and hotels may sell alcohol to non-Muslim adult customers in restricted areas.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is a crime punishable by law in Qatar. If caught by authorities, the violator may be detained for a month up to 3 years or be given a hefty fine or both. The offender may also be subject to deportation depending on the severity of the case. Those with existing charges under this law will not be allowed to leave the country until the case has been resolved.

Applying for an Alcohol Permit

The Qatar Distribution Company issues alcohol permits and application forms can be requested and filed in their shop. However, in order to enter the shop, a permit will be required. To file an application for the permit, you should provide a written letter which must be signed and stamped by an authorized person within your company or by your employer, and addressed to the Qatar Ditribution Company with the following information:

Your current position in the company
Your current basic salary. The minimum basic salary to be issued a permit is QAR 4,000 (or about USD 1,100).
Your place of accommodation, whether rented or freely sponsored
Your place of marriage (where applicable) and religion

Note: After filling out the application form, you will be required to settle a returnable deposit.

The following requirements may also be requested:

Your passport or any equivalent identification document (photocopy is accepted)
Your residence permit (photocopy is accepted).

As in the case of living elsewhere in the world, certain rules and specific customs have to be observed by both locals as well as foreign nationals living there. As expats, it is also our responsibility to know and follow these rules in order to avoid getting into trouble with the law.

An Expat’s Guide to Working in Bahrain

Understanding Policies on Wages in Bahrain

What You Need to Know about Renting a Car in Kuwait

Get to Know About the Employment Contract in Saudi Arabia

List of 2019 Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia

Get to Know About Working Hours and Rest Days in Bahrain

Getting Around the KSA via Public Transportation

By Air

Buses

Trains

Taxis

[Labour Laws] What are the Official Leaves in Qatar?

[GUIDE] What to Expect During Ramadan in Bahrain

How to Apply for Alcohol License in Qatar