Fans from different parts of the world may find cultural challenges in Qatar when visiting the country for the 2022 World Cup.
Restrictions imposed by Islamic law are usually odd to the Western world, which means it is essential to be aware of habits and culture that may eventually impact part of the visitors’ behavior during this World Cup. We have listed 6 curious facts that are, in a certain way, cultural challenges in Qatar.
1) Share a room only if you are married
When planning your stay in Qatar, pay attention to an important detail: in many hotels, men and women with no proof of family relationship cannot share a room – a sweetheart couple, for example, needs to book two of them. Hostels are also divided, with exclusive rooms for each sex.
2) “TGIT” instead of “TGIF”
In Qatar, the days of rest are Fridays (a holy day for Arabs) and Saturdays. So, most commercial establishments are open from Sunday to Thursday, but it is possible to find stores open on the weekend in shopping malls and commercial galleries. The Brazilian embassy in the country opens from Sunday to Thursday.
3) “I am already dressed up to go,” but… watch out!
Women wear black tunic (abaia) with a scarf (hijab), while men wear white tunic (thoub). Foreigners do not need these garments, but should dress discreetly, covering the knees, shoulders, lap, and stomach. Tight or transparent clothing are also disapproved and liable to punishment. Filming and photographing people without prior authorization are a crime. The same goes for photographing police officers and military buildings, as it can be considered suspicious and can lead to jail time.
4) Can I smoke and drink in Qatar?
There are a number of restrictions on buying and drinking alcohol in Qatar. First, it is prohibited to bring liquor into the country in your suitcase. To purchase it, look for licensed places, such as hotels, bars, and some restaurants. But, prepare your wallet, because the prices are high. A simple bottle of beer does not cost less than 25 riais (approximately 35 reais).
Besides that, you may end up in jail if you are caught causing trouble by being drunk. Oh, another important detail: the minimum age to drink alcohol is 21, and if you look younger than that, the attendants may ask for some ID that proves your age.
A word of warning: In Qatar is prohibited to use tobacco and tobacco products is. Travelers cannot enter the country with conventional or electronic cigarettes. Smoking in public or indoor is also subject to a fine, which can reach 500 Qatari rials (approximately 712 Reais).
5) No kissing in public
The Qatari penal code is very strict and considers kissing, hugging, caress and even shaking hands between people of opposite sexes as indecorous gestures. For us Brazilians, who are so used to touch, this is perhaps one of the most difficult rules to follow. Libidinous acts are punishable by jail time and lashes. The rule also applies to foreigners.
6) Throw trash in the trash can (there, too)
Qatar works hard to keep its cities clean and has been doing massive awareness work. Faced with the ineffectiveness of its campaigns, people who do not respect the rules feel the pinch, valid for both local residents and foreign tourists. Spitting on the sidewalk and throwing papers, cans or any other kind of trash on the ground can cost you a fine of 500 rials (approximately 712 reals). Leaving garbage bags and food leftovers on public roads can cost you 300 rials (approx. 427 reais).
