Residents in Qatar duty-bound to value local culture

Gulf Times: Respecting the customs and values of Qatar is the duty of all residents of this country.

People from all over the world live and work in Qatar, but so long as they are in this country, they are expected to respect local traditions.

By law, Qatar has prohibited begging. But in the past, many cases of begging have come to light, mostly in markets, commercial complexes and residential neighbourhoods. Some of those involved were women.

Recently, the Community Police Department sought the co-operation of all residents in curbing this unhealthy and unlawful practice and reminded people of the harsh punishment that awaits beggars in the country.

A senior official of the Community Police Department said that if one was in need of financial support, one must approach authorised charity organisations in the country as they are formed to support and help the needy and the poor.

It is ideal to donate food, clothes or money to such organisations so that these can be distributed to the needy.

Many of the authorised charities have put in place facilities for online donation.

Residents must take care not to encourage beggars; they must also caution them about Qatari laws and regulations that prohibit begging.

If cases need to be brought to the notice of the law-enforcement authority, residents must do so.

Another matter of concern is improper dressing by some residents, both men and women, in public places.

While in Qatar, residents must make sure they wore decent clothes and dresses.

The Qatari society gives utmost respect to women and therefore it expects residents also to do the same.

Avoid going to public places like shopping centres and parks in shorts, mini-skirts or sleeveless outfits. Dress modestly.

The Community Police Department has also cautioned residents against some hand gestures, which are offensive in this country, and hence punishable by law.

Some residents, motorists in particular, are seen engaged in hand gestures when they enter into a dispute, often with another driver.

If reported to the police, those making hand gestures will be taken to task. Also, the use of abusive language is a crime punishable under the Qatari law.

As we are in the holy month of Ramadan, non-Muslim residents must not eat or drink in public during fasting hours.

Residents must understand it will hurt the feelings of Muslims. We must show respect for those who are fasting during the holy month.

As with eating and drinking, smoking is also not allowed in public during the holy month of Ramadan.

Drivers on the road close to the Iftar time must be extra cautious. Many accidents occur at this time as the roads are filled with people heading to break their fast.

Image below: sandraskovic