Language:

Arabic (official), English commonly used as a second language, Urdu

Cost of Living:

Although the cost of living in Qatar is apparently quite reasonable compared to other countries in the Gulf region, it is rising rapidly and increased by a record 8.8% in 2005. This is largely as a result of a sharp rise in the cost of real estate in the country. However, as there is no personal taxation on salaries in Qatar, this helps to ease the cost of living. For more information visit:
http://www.justlanded.com/english/qatar/
tools/just_landed_guide/money/cost_of_living 

Visa and Work Permits:

All foreign nationals are required to hold a residence permit in order to live and work in Qatar. Residence permits are granted for up to three years, depending on the duration of the person’s employment.  A  sponsor in Qatar, usually the employer offering the person a job, must apply to the Ministry of Interior, who will issue the visa either to the employer or to the applicant via the overseas Embassy.  It is reportedly very difficult for young women to obtain long-stay visas. For more information please visit:  http://www.justlanded.com/english/qatar/topics/visas_permits

Job Searching:

The main opportunities are reportedly in engineering, management, teaching, IT and other professional jobs.  Under Qatar’s Labour Law, employers can only offer jobs to foreign nationals if there are no suitably qualified Qataris or other Arab country nationals. 

            Additionally, the fast-growing Al-Jazeera news organization is headquartered in Qatar. Their new English-language international division is opening up many jobs for westerners in communication, journalism and production.

            There are no restrictions on the employment of women in Qatar, and although opportunities are limited, it may be possible for women to find jobs in some sectors such as teaching, health and administrative work.  The Gulf Times and Al Watan are Qatari newspapers that have English websites that you can check for job vacancies.  It may also be useful to check the websites of companies in Qatar for vacancies as well.

            For more general information visit: http://www.justlanded.com/english/qatar/topics/jobs

Cultural differences in the workplace:

The working day starts early in Qatar, usually before 7 a.m. During the hottest summer months, many businesses close between 12 noon and 4 pm, and reopen until 8 p.m.

            Non-Qataris account for some four-fifths of the population-- India, Pakistan and the Philippines, but there are also large numbers of western expatriates

            Islam is the national religion and it’s rules should be respected. On Fridays, the Islamic Sabbath, the community gathers for prayers at noon. Offices and many shops are closed on Fridays. For more information visit: http://www.justlanded.com/english/qatar/topics/culture

Money, Banking and Taxes:

To open a current or savings account in Qatar, you need to provide your Residence Permit and a letter from your employer in Qatar confirming your income. Qatar has no system of personal income tax, no value-added or sales taxes and no capital or wealth tax.  For more information visit: http://www.justlanded.com/english/qatar/topics/money

Safety and Security:

Qatar is reportedly a very safe city in which to live, despite the ever-present threat of terrorism due to its Middle Eastern location. There is hardly any petty crime, although women might experience minor harassment from local men unless they cover up with an Islamic abeya, the traditional long black cloak and headscarf. There are severe penalties for drunk driving and other alcohol-related offences, and for drug use or possession, including heavy fines, imprisonment or deportation. Homosexual activity is considered to be a criminal offence here.  For complete safety and security information visit:
http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1003.html