As the World Cup is currently underway in Qatar, tourists have been made aware of some behaviours that are considered normal in other countries but could land them into trouble in Qatar.
The conservative Gulf country is hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup from 20 November to 18 December 2022.
There have been debates about members of the LGBTQ community being allowed the freedom to express themselves in the country. Also, debates around alcohol started after the sale of all beer with alcohol at the eight World Cup stadiums was banned Friday, Nov. 18, only two days before Qatar 2022.
Tourists travelling to the country have received several warnings about what is acceptable and what is not.
A guide to social norms and etiquette in Qatar was published by Expatica to educate tourists on what is proper and what is not.
According to the guide, gestures such as giving thumbs up and using your finger to point at someone to come to you can result in legal punishments.
The literature reads:
“Body language in Qatar
An important aspect of understanding the culture and social etiquette in Qatar is to learn the codes of conduct surrounding body language and physical contact. Here are some key things to be aware of.
Hand gestures
Hand gestures in Qatar are serious matters and can cause you legal punishments, from fines to imprisonment. To prevent being misinterpreted, avoid the following gestures:
Using your finger to ask (gesture) anyone to come to you or to point someone or something; instead, you may use your hand-palm.
Doing the thumbs-up sign – it has an offensive connotation, like using the middle finger in western countries.
Crossing legs – it can be interpreted as arrogance or as a sign of disrespect, especially if you are sitting in front of an aged person or someone of a higher hierarchical position.
Lifting the sole of your shoes in front of people or making a gesture with your feet to anyone.
Body language
On the other hand, body language or non-verbal communication is quite common in Arabic cultures, such as the following gestures:
Touching all your fingertips together while holding your hand out means to be patient or to wait.
Holding your hand outwards with the palm down and then suddenly twisting it upwards means “Why?” or “What?”.
Tilting your head to the side with a smile usually means yes.
Leaning your head back with your chin and eyebrows raised also means no.
Placing your right hand on your heart is a warm way to greet someone.
Quickly raising your eyebrows up and down with a serious face means something is not satisfactory.
Touching
Religious law in Qatar prohibits unmarried men and women from touching. The exception to this rule is the handshake in a formal greeting – which people can refrain from as a sign of respect. However, touching the arms or shoulders while talking is quite common between people from the same gender who have a certain level of intimacy.”
