Local Rules You Need to Know When Visiting Qatar Pt.1

Local rules and traditions

Qatar is an Islamic country, which is reflected in local laws and practices. Always be mindful of your behavior to avoid offending others and respect local traditions, customs, laws, and faiths, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan or if you plan to visit religious sites. Additionally, there can be severe repercussions if you do something that is prohibited in Qatar but not in the UK, such as writing someone a bad check. It is very important that you become familiar with and respect local laws and customs.

The holy month of Ramadan is predicted to begin on March 22 and end on April 21 in 2023, though this is subject to change. Check Travelling during Ramadan

Drugs

Infractions involving drugs are not tolerated in Qatar. Drug usage, trafficking, smuggling, and possession of narcotics (even small amounts) can carry harsh consequences. Deportation, lengthy incarceration terms, and hefty fines are all possible forms of punishment.

On their way to other cities, many travelers stop at Hamad International Airport in transit. Modern security measures are in place at the airport; all luggage is examined, and transiting passengers carrying even trace amounts of drugs may be detained.

In Qatar, some prescription and over-the-counter medications might be considered restricted substances. If you need to bring in controlled or prescription medication into Qatar, make sure you have a letter from your GP, hospital notes, or an official prescription from your doctor that specifies the medication, the dosage, and the amount given. Additionally, the doctor's or consultant's signature and the hospital's or surgery's stamp should be on this note or letter. To learn how to legalize a document for use in Qatar, visit Legalisation of UK documents for use in the State of Qatar.

For more information, contact the Qatar Supreme Health Council.

Alcohol

Being intoxicated or drinking in public is illegal. British nationals have been detained in accordance with this statute, usually after the police had become aware of them as a result of related activity such as unruly or provocative behavior. For instance, drinking in public places is punishable by a fine of up to QAR3,000 or a jail term of up to 6 months. Only authorized hotel restaurants and bars provide alcohol, and foreign nationals living in Qatar can only get it with a permit. Don't bring alcohol with you anywhere (except to take it on the day of collection from the warehouse to your home).

In Qatar, the legal drinking age is 21, and any businesses that serve alcohol will require a valid photo ID upon admittance.

Inappropriate behavior

Swearing and making offensive gestures are obscene acts, and violators may face imprisonment and/or deportation. Dealing with the police and other authorities should be done with extra caution.

Importing products

Drugs, alcohol, pornography, ham, and religious books are prohibited imports into Qatar. At the arrivals hall of Hamad International Airport, all luggage is scanned. Videos and DVDs may be checked, edited, and seized.

The importation, sale, and purchase of electronic cigarettes, liquids, and other like goods are also prohibited under Qatari legislation (eg electronic shisha pipes). Regardless of quantity or intended purpose, the law is applicable. Any such things discovered entering the nation via any method, including in traveler luggage, or sent via mail, may be seized and confiscated by customs agents.