Going to the Qatar World Cup? Here are the top laws and customs to keep in mind

Over a million fans will be going to watch the Qatar World Cup before the end of this year. Here are the most important cultural customs and laws you should keep in mind.

Qatar World Cup tips: Top laws to remember

World Cup host nations usually turn into a nonstop party destination. However, a small conservative Muslim government such as Qatar may show less tolerance towards alcohol-fuelled hooliganism. Over the years, the country has portrayed itself as traditional but welcoming to foreigners. However, its judicial system, based on an interpretation of Shariah, Islamic law has received western criticism. The country’s authorities stated it will loosen up for the unusual tourist influx.

Alcohol serving is reserved for restaurants and bars with licenses and it is illegal to consume them elsewhere. However, non-Muslim residents of Doha with a liquor license may drink at home. At the Qatar World Cup, fans can buy Budweiser beer on stadium grounds and at the designated “fan zone” downtown. While the police may turn a blind eye to public drunkenness unlike usual, they may arrest those getting into drunken brawls. Additionally, the legal drinking age is 21 and it’s best to have an ID with you.

Similarly, drug usage is highly restrictive. Consuming cannabis, over-the-counter narcotics, amphetamines, and sedatives are a crime in Qatar. Additionally, both possession and trafficking lead to penalties, long-term prison time, and deportation. The smuggling of drugs can also lead to the death penalty.

More laws and customs you should know

The cohabitation of unmarried men and women is a crime in Qatar, based on its indecency laws. However, authorities announced that unmarried couples can share a room during the World Cup. Additionally, public displays of affection are “frowned upon”. It is important to remember that consensual sex between members of the same sex and cross-dressing are criminalized in the country. The World Cup organizers revealed that people could come to watch the games “without fear of any sort of repercussions”. However, an official warned they will be confiscating rainbow flags. This is mainly for protecting fans from getting attacked for promoting LGBTQ+ rights in the region.

Several criminal cases entrap unwary foreign tourists as flashing the middle finger, swearing, etc can lead to an arrest. Several Qataris will not shake hands with people of the opposite sex. Photographing and filming people without consent can also lead to prosecution. It is also a crime to spread fake news and harm the nation’s interests as a tourist.

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