Why aren't people respecting Qatar?

Don't understand why you are putting the blame on 'Shariah'. It does not dictate everything.

I think they should enforce minimum wage. Businesses are pocketing money from inflation. I say it cant get worser with standardization of wages. At some point businesses will have to suck up cost rather than passing it to consumer.

Learning of multi cultural and International etiquette, Qatar is changing slowly.

Read: Interesting

http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/general/indecent-exposure-lungi-ban-at-cinema-1.923250

That's not true Qatar is one of the most beautiful country I ever spent.I am truly respectful for the culture and heritage of Qatar but despites of this there are still qataries who doesnt respect some outlandish people.Respect is the only way to do that.

So would you be willing to be a housemaid and be paid poorly

Almost all the countries have separate immigration counters for their own nationals.

I stay 5 days in Dubai and when I come back to Doha immediately at airport I feel negative energy, primitive behaviors, rude people, crazy drivers and I come home stressed...

after so nice relax in Dubai.

I understand that here is more then 100 different nationality's but what is too much is too much.

In Dubai I feel more respect, more gentle people and never never feel one negative thing...Ye sits just 5 days but this is true.

At airport I will not allow people who don't have any basic culture, any minimum behaviors in social environment to enter country before they didn't make at least few days course of nice, respect behavior at town.

I know you cant change primitive peasant who never see town, never have any connections with city people but at least minimum must be...MUST BE MINIMUM SOCIAL CULTURE>

So sorry nothing personal or against any one but I feel sick of Qatar and I leave this country who going to collapse in primitive behaviors...

p.s. at airport more then 100 people waiting hour or more to enter...then come some Qatari and pass at all line of course untill this things happen Qatar is slavery country. WHy he dont wont to wait like others?

He call someone and pick them out from line. NO WAY.

Untill is like this Duck of Qatar and respect.

Im still reading from page 1 .

I respect Qatar and Qatari's, even though I don't have Qatari friends.

I respect Qatar and have been working harmoniously with my Qatari colleagues

Qataria78... nicely said.

I hate it when the main subject concerns my country and what i really hate is when people live in it and are not happy , so why bother your self by staying if you werent happy in the first place. We are Qataris and proud of it and please dizgner dont say that many dont respect our culture and traditions and think about the salary ( that is totally wrong ) , i have met alot of people and herd that people before coming into qatar try their best to know the culture and religion before setting a foot in Qatar . If some dont respect our culture and religion then its their upbringing was wrong in the first place because they werent brought up in the right way to respect others . just close the subject please coz its hurtfull for me and others to see people write something about Qatar which is not true . Qatar and Qatari people will always welcome others into the country , its a safe and wonderful place to be in and will always be .

thanks

bye

I stay and work in more then 30 different countries all around the globe.

What is characteristics for all countries who get money fast and try to develop his nation is retard in mental look at western culture, behaviors, way of living, clothing ect...and of course social life.

Mentality of some people you cant change in 5 or 10 years but just whit time, long long time...more then 50 or even 100 years if this is accepted from local people...

And Qatar is the same...10 years ago Qatar was living how?

Normal respectfully national traditional way...

and now? all this development so quick is bring also one most dangerous things in life.

you know what I mean.

Bye.

I stay and work in more then 30 different countries all around the globe.

What is characteristics for all countries who get money fast and try to develop his nation is retard in mental look at western culture, behaviors, way of living, clothing ect...and of course social life.

Mentality of some people you cant change in 5 or 10 years but just whit time, long long time...more then 50 or even 100 years if this is accepted from local people...

And Qatar is the same...10 years ago Qatar was living how?

Normal respectfully national traditional way...

and now? all this development so quick is bring also one most dangerous things in life.

you know what I mean.

Bye.

More respect and more smiling to everyone return smile.

Oh , there was Wajed Qerqer in this subject !!

could anyone give us the Conclusion ؟؟

send me a personal messege... we should go out and get some coffee... and talk about these issues.

motez, whatever, ur the one flexing ur muscles on line. didnt u just read anything i said about haiti. A REAL ISSUE. Like i said this is a worthless subject. at least we're all not going the crap they r right now. u see man im trying to be peaceful right now.but look here man, im not scared of u either, would i say it to ur face? u bet i would, we would battle it out, so dont think u put fear in me, but y go there, what would it accomplish? nothing, hey look man im being real cool, i know ur american, its just that obvious. so im out. i wish u wealth and good health

True is that Qatar still don't respect international law regarding modern slavery with Indian and other nationality poor people.

Also at my work I have more then 100 Indian people who get 600 QAR salary monthly and bad food...and Im from Europe and they pay me 50.000 QAR !!! Where is the respect!!! please don't speak about respect and equal law.

REad forum regarding traffic violations of Qatari people.

When they pay this bills I will pay mine. I'm happy that I don't have it now. But trust me if I get it I will pay it to respect law and social life.

Is this respect of Qatar companies. Why I mention Qatari company !!!

Obviously law order 51 % must be Qatar owner. And where is the respect of International business law?

Please take a walk, take a drive, involve in some primitive behavior of young Qatrian boys like I have few days ago...

and then start speaking about respect.

I have driver license more then 26 years and I fall down 2 times until someone dont tell me pay to Sudan man and they give you driver license and I pay...

what will be if I go to police and say corruption? Nothing they kick me out of Qatar and then? I call Osama? No.

I stay, live and work in so many countries that number 50 will be small...and I know one basic rule:

in any country is good and bad people.

Respectful and primitive.

True in Qatar is that more then 60 % of any contacts is humiliate and not respectful from locals...

I was working 2 years ago here and I come back.

Just for one reason. SALARY and work.

NO this money that I will live or buy house here.

Social life, social behavior of Qatar is dead.

My opinion so sorry.

Who is not respecting Qatari? Give me his number.

No body hates or have a disrespect for Qatar. Thats the reason why we are all here in the first place - To be hired and get paid by the wealthy host. For those who are not willing to be appreciative of all the benefits they are getting by working in Qatar, they surly are not welcomed to stay in Qatar. Its quite a pity that like everywhere on the Internet, there are bound to be a small number of people who make comments that are offensive. Probably given a few who have crossed the cultural line. We are all for freedom of expression but that does not mean you cross boundaries and heap insults on qatar. Historically-based Western notions of superiority lead to cultural tensions between Qatari nationals and skilled foreign workers. Sometimes you need an honest discussion but not a nasty, provocative, insensitive manner. Complaining is the easiest thing to do and you can't draw conclusions based on a few incidental experiences. If you don't like it here and you want to see a change, then do something constructive to help address the issues that need to be dealt with in this society. Its like the saying goes, Respect Qatar, and for those who don't, knows where the airport is.

What's to respect??? People who think themselves superior and look down on absolutely everyone else? People who think everyone else is out there to get their money? I mean hello, the money in many cases is paid by international companies, NOT Qataris. I don't know why they go on about massive salaries in Qatar, if these salaries are the only reason international companies can entice their people to move to this country in the first place? There is a reason salaries are high - and that's not because life in Qatar is so beautiful. It's because it is a third world country with poor legal system, no human rights, no basic rights for foreigners (especially Asians), tough working conditions and strict Muslim regulations. Qatar is not a place people would choose if the salaries there were on par with those in the rest of the world, so what exactly is the problem with people asking about their salaries? That's the only thing that makes them come to Qatar in the first place.

shawnt...the funny thing is u piece of trash is that you wont dare to say any of this to my face.... so stick to your keyboard and your online muscles you low life butt pirate.

motez1, SCUMBAG,chump please, i see ur still mouthing off to anyone and everyone. ur still missing the point. still saying that i have claimed to be enslaved. TUTOR1 MY MAN . im with u. this punk ass motez just talking trash. his candle is burning out. but u know what man, after watching the news and the internet about HAITI, motez no longers matters to me, as if he ever did lol, but anyway like i was saying, after watching what those people r going through right now, all that pain, grief, thousands upon thousands of lossed loved ones, my heart is really greiving for those people, damn near brought tears to my eyes. and we're all here arguing over pretty much a worthless subject man. my heart pours to haiti right now. so please let us remember the more precious and important things life.

yea no hard feelings bro ;)

i actually am not a drinker, but that was just an example just like the do not eat in the day during Ramadan, just like do not wear shorts if you got boobs just like if you are a chick you can not swim or take a dip on the beach unless resort bla bla bla...( i, myself can live with all these restrictions, but do they make complete sense to you?, n'tyou think they will change in 20 years? ) all i am saying, it is 2010!!!.. two thousand and ten years dude... IN US and Europe there are probably more mosques than churches now ;), The world is becoming one mate, time for people to accept that idea, each mind their business, and stop the you are in my country bullshit... And about winning, How do you want people to express their dislikes? by farting? ... hehe like comon, i'm sure you know better.

I do know about middle eastern's struggles cuz i am one. Let's just not see things from one dimension dude, and Again, It is only complaining and winning that make things change to better...(politics, ur day to day life, science, etc )

cheers, no hard feelings man

H

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If language did change since then, meanings of words & phrases changed as well. Written guidelines and rules must reflect the present.

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tutor1... Calm down buddy... Relax... count to 10. Like I said before it isn't perfect here but then again NOWHERE is perfect. Your whining about having a drink in this country since the westerners give Arabs the same rights. Dude don't even go there. You haven't seen the bullshit middle easterns went through over there for you to even say that. So dont compare your alcohol and arab practicing their traditions. Second of all I am not DEFENDING Qatar like im obsessed with this place or anything, im that way with whatever country. When people sit and bitch about the USA i tell them the same thing... GET OUT if you dont like it. Noone wants to hear you whine. Theres plenty of ways for people to speak out but insulting the country isnt one of them. The fact of the matter is... all of you are here for WORK.. because YOUR country couldn't give you better pay... isn't that correct? So its not even loyalty for the country and you expect people to be loyal to you? Doesn't work like that my friend. Just accept it for what it is. And last but not least.. my experience in Qatar is not too bad but the only times I'VE BEEN DISRESPECTED wasn't by Qataris or should I say the ppl that wear "white dresses" it was the none arabs... The other group of people that over populate this country which im not going into because im not racist. And you don't see me bash and insult them.

Motez1, stop talking outta your ass man, what you want to live in a non complaining environment?

What if some people experienced things a bit outside the horizon of your good all happy experiences?.. it is like asking someone not to ever be happy! and who are you to give that ultimatum of either be thankful or leave... common dude, questioning leads to complaining leads to something bigger leads to change in most of the cases! don't you believe in change to the better?!

Arabs go to the west and do get ALL their rights and get to practice their traditions everywhere they go. foreigners should get the same legacy when they live in Arabic countries as well! It is only fair dude, why be picked on if u decide to have a drink on the weekend after busting your ass at work? Why some ass would have to stand in front of you in line just cause he is wearing a white dress?

I don't a give a flying *** of what you think of these things, but respect is EARNED not Claimed.

H

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If language did change since then, meanings of words & phrases changed as well. Written guidelines and rules must reflect the present.

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Yawn.....

I think I can write 20 - 25 posts and keep copy pasting them ...

its the same text every time....

___________________________________________

Men will wrangle for religion, write for it, fight for it, die for it, anything but live for it

Shawnt.... First of all you scumbag its not called "kissbutt"... second of all im not tryin to make anyone see me at a "higherlight" (what ever that means). What im tryin to say is that stop whining "WAAAAA!!!!! slavery!! they treat me so bad.. WAAAAAAA" all i said was if you hate it... GET THE HELL OUT!!!!! And didnt you say "but sometimes its hard to hold ur tongue when u have arrogant gestures thrown at u and witness slavery here." Stop trying to deny any of this.

I LOVE THIS COUNTRY MORE THAN ANYTHING ELSE ,,,, I AM NOT QATARI BUT LIVING HERE 12 YEARS MADE ME FEEL I AM BETWEEN THE PEOPLE I LIKE TO BE ,,,, I RESPECT THIS COUNTRY MORE THAN YOU Can imagine ,,,

MOTEZ1. baby? whatever clown. u know what, do us all a favor and shut ur mouth. all ur doing is telling people to get the hell out. using all this profane language, but yet u want us and the qatari's to see u in this higher light. well y dont u get the hell out too. it's no different if i were to do the same. u would be doing us a favor as well. all i see is a kissbutt or something, talking about how they treat u from everybody else. well i guess ur just freaking special. i can see ur not really reading none of these blogs. ur just scimming through and then BLABBING about getting out this country. first of all i never said they treated me unfair, ive met good people here, but the fact remains that there r still people here who r practically building this place and still not being treated THE WAY U WOULD WANT TO BE TREATED. its a human thing and it would really hurt. remember im not the only one saying these things. and funny how there seems to be more negative things being said about this place than positive. hmmmnnn i love all who loves me, qatari, asian, white etc. i only despise idiots like u who are like an unwelcomed cancer that wont go away. oh well i guess every now and then we r forced to lower our standards by unwillingly acknowledging ur existence.

Very well said Genesis.. at least someone has spoken out of the box... respect to be respected....

We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers and magistrates in obeying, honoring and sustaining the law. we also respect fellow men and their cultures. I think those who know how to respect are those who were taught by their parents and those rude you see need to be educated. So let us built better generation by teaching the young ones good manners and right conduct and correct principles. Don't just complain but do something. The world is just a mirror. Hope you understand. God be with you.

Shawnt...Yes i am just another number like the rest of you... but i dont CRY about it, you baby. I will not pack my bags because i have nothing against the country... IF I DID have something against it then YES i will leave. You mentioned slavery and how unfair they treat you. So LEAVE!!!!!!!!!!! DO us allllllllll a favor and get the hell out!!!! Same goes for anyone else that has major problems with this country!!!!! Noone is forcing you to stay!

IVE BEEN BLESSED 4 HAVIN U IN MY LYF, IF I HAD THE CHANCE I WUDN'T HESITATE 2 MAKE U MY WIFE.

whatever motez1, other people here r giving their opinion, so will i. other people here r really dogging this place out and for some reason u chose me to personally reply too. well i say to u pack ur bags as well. who cares what u say. oh by the way, ur really representing ur country well with all those barbaric quotations about getting out this country. im pretty sure that the qataris r looking at u with acute scrutiny. to them ur just another number like the rest of us.

...In fairness to you Mr.dezigner seems you are different from your countrymen.but bahraini83 is right discrimination from qataris to expat are rampant their are SOME who even treated professional expat like their servant,SORRY to say but you cannot speak in behalf of other qataries coz we expat observed that SOME of your own people are those who dont respect your laws and culture....

Qatariyah...You are 100% correct. People need to remember that this country is a MUSLIM country with MUSLIM beliefs. And as for the VISITORS that sit here and complain... they should STOP complaining and RESPECT the countries traditions and way of life.

Qatariyah...You are 100% correct. People need to remember that this country is a MUSLIM country with MUSLIM beliefs. And as for the VISITORS that sit here and complain... they should STOP complaining and RESPECT the countries traditions and way of life.

Qatariyah...

You wrote: "People see a problem with wearing shorts here. WHAT DO YOU EXPECT?! its freaking HOT here! You are too up-tight to wear shorts? Where do you learn its a taboo"

In answer I write: It's being religious that true & I repeat true Muslim women do not wear shorts. We are not against you wearing it, if it was in at least a respectful length (ex. knee-length). The least you could do is respecting the country you are currently living in by abiding with its society’s wishes & regulations.

Respect begets respect...

My family and I respects your culture and tradition as well as enjoys living in your country. You cannot please everybody, and everybody cannot please all Qataris...

The inquiries regarding salary is to be expected since they wanted to know if the offered amount will be sufficient enough to cover their expenses here and still has extras for savings...afterall, everybody wasn't born with a golden spoon. And we should be compensated for working well for families that were left behind. :)

...listen to the sound of silence....

Shawnt... Excuse me? I am a westerner what is it your trying to say? How about we just let YOU run the whole country since you think you know everything!! I will say this again Shawnt... if you have a problem with Qatar then please pack your bags and get the out of here. Since there is "slavery" in Qatar.

some people here say that these people lack proper training of how to treat people. arrogance is not an absense of knowledge or an accident. these people r not stupid. they know who to mess with and who not to try to mess with. i think a lot here get angry knowing that most westerners r not gonna be pushed around and take thier crap

i agree with abuamerican and climbhigh. i really try to understand this place, and its not a bad place to live, but sometimes its hard to hold ur tongue when u have arrogant gestures thrown at u and witness slavery here.

Keep in mind that I am not Qatari nor am i an Arab. But I dont think its right to sit here and COMPLAIN about the country that pays your bills. Its very simple ladies and gentlemen... if you have a problem with Qatar then simply GET THE F OUT.... LEAVE! Its that easy! Keep in mind that many of you left YOUR country to find a job that QATAR provided for you and you sit here and bash this country like they did something horrible to you. Yes its not perfect, but then again NOTHING is perfect. If you dont like it and u think they are treating you bad then please save ur breath and get out so that another person that would LOVE to work in this country can take ur position and we will all be happy. That is all for now. Take care.

Simple "Give respect and take respect"

I think people are too used to expecting respect for everything. Nobody should automatically get respect, respect is earned. Frankly, while I do respect some Qatari's and some aspects of the culture, there are a great deal of things that I don't agree with or respect, and you can't make me respect them. To me respecting something means that you agree with it and have found something honourable or worthy of respect in it. Since I can't agree with much of the cultural things here the more proper term is I accept that it's not my place to change it and I tolerate it and adjust my life to suit it cause I'm in the minority.

I think there is a huge difference here on this post. I believe most expats come here well aware of the culture and we do respect it and its people - if nothing else because we all come from countries where we accept and respect people that are different from us (I am not being blind about racist people but most people are not racists) anyway, what I think locals mistake by disrespect is that fact that expats/westerns usually dont agree with some of the culture aspects and local people are not used to criticism or questioning about anything in their lives.

Thats what they mistake by disrespect.

Why should foreigners learn Arabic. In the very near future Hindi will be the majority language of Qatar. Qataris chose to make it this way. I am always amused when they complain about foreigners, yet realize that this is a decision that they have consciously made, to make themselves into a tiny minority in their own country.

There is no right to respect, it has to be earned again every day.

Well, many Qataris are very rude. I have often been cut in front of in line and when I protested I was told "I am Qatari." Qataris in general have low educational achievement and professional skills (not the elite, but the masses)-particularly the men and show little interest in bettering themselves.

Qataris have little tolerance for outsiders and it is often made clear to me that we are not wanted here and only tolerated because we are needed. If it is made clear that I am only here because I'm needed and not because I'm valued, why would I wish to become more involved in such a society? It is simple, Qataris use us and we use them, that is the nature of the relationship.

Qatar has made absolute tremendous achievements in the last 15 years, but the mindsets of many young Qataris seem to be becoming as distasteful and arrogant as that of many Saudis. I have great time and relationship for most Qataris over the age sixty, and for certain members of the cosmopolitan elite, but I consider spending time with many Qataris under the ago of about 40 a waste of time-particularly the men.

I think it's exceptionally arrogant to go and live in a country and not respect their culture and customs.

'Up there for thinking....down there for dancing.'

Thanks guys, i like your posts :)

well said. respect begets respect.

I personally respect Qatari's, I've been to many Arab countries and Qatari's are the cleanest people amongst them. They never leave home with a bad smell, they are not obnoxious towards other people, and they offer help when needed. But hey thats just MY experience in Qatar.

Nice ... another thread has been dug up from its grave.

By dezigner on Thu, 07/08/2008 - 11:19pm

I noticed many people do not respect local Qataries or they do not respect the country. They come here without having an idea about our culture and religion. All they think about is how much salary they will take.

We as a Qataries feel worried about the thousands of outlandish people and we try to be open with others but if they respect our culture and our land.

What do u think..?

----------

ASK YOURSELF WHY OTHERS DONT RESPECT THEM?

OR YOU WANT ME A ANSWER OF MINE?

OK!they dont respect local coz they dont deserve it,and never they will deserve it.much better to respect animals coz if you trained them,they will behave like a lovely pet,but locals?never...ask yourself why and get back to me later...

We are not all the same, don't really have the same mentality. In fact we don't even merry from each other

I agree with abuAmerican about some having the me better than you mentality...

This comes from being insecure...

When all they read about in newspapers, Qatar is achieving great financial returns from investments & having the highest GDP among other Arab Countries.Yet , some live on less than 10k

When writers like Nora Alsaad & others write in dailies , We should have more rights in Qatar Airways!, Foreigners must respect our culture!, Exit permit exist to protect Qataris interests!blaming road work & traffic for bad driving attitude!..I guess they would behave accordingly.

But do they really have the right.No they don't.

Powers to be are changing this country to the better.

However, no one is paying attention to the social impact it has on the locals. All of a sudden (in a decade to be exact). The population tripled, there is traffic everywhere, the women are demanding to drive & work and inflation that barely covers their bills & debts.

Did they ask for all that, no they did not

Very interesting thread. Thanks, dezigner and all who spoke their minds. I read all of the above comments. Agree with members like canadiangoldygirl, nadt, genesis, Victor Bhatt and others with a similarly balanced view.

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Don't want no drama,

No, no drama, no, no, no, no drama

I read most of the comments and concluded that It is a 2 way bond.....respect cannot be asked for, this should be "inbuilt values" which comes to you from your Parents, people around you and country, which is rich with the cultural values. I agree one can't teach anybody (an adult) a Lesson on RESPECT.

Read Beepinoy's comment on previous page and to add from my experience in Doha. Qatar is growing very fast in recent years and flooded with expatriate population. We do need to show respect being a good Guest,

We are Guest here in a Foreign country as a good guest we should respect your host.

Again its a matter of 2 ways communication, being language is a barrier. People with knowledge of dual spoken language especially (Eng & ARABIC) has a better edge and repo with locals and influence easily.

As there are always a mix of different communities in every society, its same in Qatar.

Most of the asian migrate in Qatar due to various factor (different in individual case) , everybody love his/her own nation. It is very clear from Day one that You will get Citizenship in this part of world (GCC), so don't crib on this point.

Regarding discrimination of Laws for locals and expatriates is painful. All humans are same, RACISM is not accepted anywhere in the world.

To have harmony among all resident is possible with some extra effort to be made by NGO or social and family affairs departments to organise International cultural events in Qatar and invite all communities to represent.

I am sure such initiative will definitely bring all of us more close, regular communication and will break the ICE.

One need to be positive and look forward positively, as UAE has changed a lot in last decade, we will insha-allah see the similar or better changes in future.

I guess the people will respect the citizens of the country if those citizens respect them back. I would respect a person if this person was worth it, whatever the nationality. Qataris and foreigners is a love-hate but win-win relationship. We all benefit from it. Qataris get their country developed (lets be honest, they wouldn't manage on their own, and most of them know it), and foreigners make more money than back home (otherwise 99,99% of them wouldn't be in Qatar in the first place). So why all the hate? Yeah well it's tough to respect someone who jumps queues, drives like he's chasing yesterday's wind or behaves like King of the world. But hey, you find such people in every country. No nationality is immune. We have to coexist in the end!

Tagging to read later at home.

*****************************************

Don't want no drama,

No, no drama, no, no, no, no drama

I understand your comment, as an American we have any number of people from other countries, some legally many illegally. Some abide by our customs and attempt to assimilate into our society, some do not. But we make an effort to respect each persons individual rights to be an individual.

Now I ask you, would you as a Qatari want people here to assimilate into your society, I think not. How difficult is it for someone to become a citizen here, it is not exactly open arms is it.

The second issue is in order to gain respect you have to give respect. There are any number of stories that we hear everyday about how Qataris drive or how they treat the Filipinos or the Indians or whatever. I am not sitting here in judgement, I am simply being as astute observer of the obvious.

Now with that said, I do agree that we should respect the norms and cultures of this country and I will do that. But please do understand that a friendly gesture will always win more compliance than a slap in the face. Just something to consider.

Hashin!

Wow! What a great commentary.

The Qataris want expat respect without giving one and they want things handed to them on gold plates and they treat expats like greedy bloodsuckers even though they do work very hard without a Thank you

How can we like people who are so arrogant they demand to be treated like kings while treating expats with disrespect.

Show me one country other than Qatar where everytime you drive you get Flashing landcruisers threatening to kill you unless you move out of their Qatari Way!!!

No respect for lines at all and littering everywhere.

Very rude children.

Very rude employees.

No caring about environmet, parks, etc.

Sponsorship aka Slavery

Dezigner: "if the western ppl proud that they are more civilization than qataries or other why we dont see any effect from them,"

Have a couple of examples for you: Landcruisers, mobile phones, and fast food....

I see them everywhere in Doha! LOL

Give respect to get respect. Amen! I agree with your experience. I see it always. People jump lines and people get special treatment based on wasta and connection. It is so hard to do anything here without connection.

I advise this proud dude who see nothing to compain about here to go visit Abu Dhabi or Dubai. The grass is literally GREENER. Abu Dhabi for example is so GREEN and has so many beautiful parks and lovely landscape and CLEAN CLEAN CLEAN. Why is Doha so dirt-filled and streets are so messed up and not a single Ashghal project finish ontime and digging aimlessly everywhere and houses so poor etc. etc. etc.

Even Manama, Bahrain is much cleaner and tidier and has better services, schools, and infrastructure despite being oil and gas poor.

If you ask why expats come here, it is because your PR machine is so good people think they are coming to Heaven on Earth! They quit their job and pay huge expenses to move only to get surprised later.

Well I haven't made a dime yet, lol, but a job is what is on my mind so that I can get residency.

I like to think I've been respectful of local customs and such, so far.

Big culture shock for me really, as I lived in the centre of Brisbane, close to clubs and pubs. Now I sit at home here, bouncing about, wanting to do something.

I can't help looking at all the beautiful local gals, but I don't stare. For some reason Indians and other asians have this habbit of staring at me for some reason. :/

Anyway, I was happy to hear there is a Catholic church here (I'm Anglican though). Good that Qataris are accepting of other associations.

- Adam

does dezigner got the answer of his question???

I love and respect Qatar but not as much as my country. But how can you love and respect a country if other people is not respecting the country especially those who is the host.

as the old saying goes...respect others as they respect you.

I had a brief working period for 2 years when i stayed with my family. We really enjoyed the cool pace of life and generally the Qataris are educated and well behaved.

The only disgusting factor of Qatar is the labour laws, sponsorship and 2 year ban period which prevent free movement of professionals and other workers.

I feel in this regard, other arab countries are keeping in touch with 21st century realities while Qatar lags behind, and misusing the labour laws are mainly the expatriate managers rather than Qataris themselves !! these expat managers/owners of companies consider themselves as above law, and as half-Qataris :)

Since the labour department is doing nothing to catch the offenders, who will bell that cat ?

Yea, exactly!! tis not the qataris that is the problem. it is the managers/directors of construction companies that misuse and mistreat the labourers. and the Labour ministry is seen doing nothing to bring these guys to book. Its mainly Egyptian and Indian manpower groups who backtrak on salaries and facilities once the labourers land in Qatar. When the oil prices were high, The Qataris did precious little for these poor labourers. Now lets see Qatar feeling the pinch since oil sells below 50 $ per barrel.

But I must agree that Qataris are far better thAN sAUDIS and Kuwaitis who r well known for their arrogance.

should be enough.....

go where you want, but where are you going,

SIMPLY

follow the rules of the place.....

Yeah i am western and it really bothers me me to see skanks dressed inappropriately out in public when they should know full well it's offensive. and on more than one occasion seeing people smoke pot and drink out in public.

I was in the bathroom at megamart one day and someone was puffing on a joint in one of the stalls. I like to drink and smoke pot occasionally but i refuse to do it here i am a guest in Qatar, and love it enough that i can do without till my yearly trip home,

I respect nearly all people and their cultures, especially if they respect there own. there are many locals who drink, take drugs, have sex before marriage (both genders), abuse and offend those who are here to help develop the country.

They drive so crazy they cause many accidents and take innocent lives, they abuse their own government systems, they threaten and use their nationality when they are in the wrong.

So please to gain respect you have to give it. I like Qatar as i like my own country but like others i come here to support my family back home.I am a part of the Arab culture but sometimes when i see and hear what goes on here by my own people its hurtful.

The majority of expats are respectful but there are a few who act as if they live in their own counrty which is not acceptable.

People serve many purposes here, teachers, engineers, labour, prostitutes, etc. this is what happens when you open your country and not develop it using the local people. i don't think i would ever see a national working in the construction industry as a labour as the work is hard and dirty and the hours are too long.

I generalise in what i say, as i have met some real decent nationals who reflect the religious and culure of this country as its important to them that this is not lost in the westernisation of Qatar.

Qatar itself is a nice place so respect it.

Eid adha muabarak

Moneera:

Sounds a little like jealousy to me.

The bottom line is that Qataris don't respect its own country or residents, so why should others respect them?

Latest incident: My cube-mate's car got hit driving to work by a Qatari making an illegal left turn. The Qatari sped off, cutting between other vehicles and creating a dangerous situation with other motorists before he could catch up with him. Oh well, at least it's a company vehicle.

I could think of many worse things severly damaging and not respecting Qatar, like driving dangerously or polluting the desert with garbage, etc, etc, etc...

The mischievousness can be in the mind of those who see it where it is not.

Not all of them don't respect Qatar or Qataries but sadly some. The most bad scene which makes me soooo angry is when I see a Woman in public areas with indecent clothing such as Skirts above the knee. we dont favor such clothing and we dont give respect for such people. As for me, when I see a woman like this I, with a big confidence, do not stop looking her with contempt look. I think all who intend to come to Qatar should read about Qatar's culture and traditions. ppl who respect my country, for sure I will give them a big respect.

Alexa is right, when ever I see a woman wearing a questionable outfit, she turns out to be arabic!!! Strange but true...

If you could choose one characteristic that would get you through life, choose a sense of humour.

Have you seen Cucumber, Carrots or any other vegetable. Toss em on the table and they remain as they were left. Humans on the other hand are nothing like vegetables. They think. So you do the background researchwork before you step in here. If you think their mollycoddling with good salary will be reflected in every other facet of living in qatar. Think again.....

Its a nice place. I would love to be a part of this culture. I would dearly love them (qataris) to inject effort and resources to securing sustainability for their way of living.

Why they don`t go back home if they do not like the country and people here !!

Do you also respect other nationalities and their cultures when you go abroad?

Medoha left home country 17 years ago and worked in a few countries. Most of them people on the projects are local people. Here in Qatar, we can find many nationalities from all over the world. I enjoyed working with many nationalities and knew their cultures. Even we all come from the different cultures and religious background, I love working in this kind of environment. Interesting to know all humans beings from all over the world.

So sure I respect Qatar and local culture.

You yourself shall mix with all other nationalities to learn their cultures. OK this is culture issue.

Money issue - Of course, some people are roaming around the world to have better experience and advantage. Everyone needs MONEY to live. To live we need to work.

You are also working to live. So you get money. That is.

Give respect to others to get respect from others.

I Love Qatar

worried about the thousands of outlandish people

A scenario which exists everywhere. We must enhance through the friendly competition of cultures and be pride of our human identity above all identities.

the universal law says" give respect and get respect"

and after all if we give the respect to others sure they intreturn gona give us respect. this is the law this is the nature of human....

Stop complaining and workout on urself and i m sure there will b a big change..

ppl come here to earn money coz thats the only case they leave their family behind but if they r not treated properly by any mean then defininlty they will show some negative signs, and mr. deziner for ur kind information i agree qatari go outside countries n treat well but just try to work in a foreign country other than qatar and when someone will treat u bad then tell me wat will b ur reaction..so it is said that clap with both hands not with single hand..

thnx

Me, I respect Qatar as well as the nationals on it... but there's just a little something that has to be done... and that's their courteousness... That's "my opinion". It happens everywhere...

in my opinion, some are pretending to be a qatari locals by wearing the same clothes that they have, sometimes i cannot identify who is qatari local to the one who pretends to be a qatari

Read this and tell me, what shall I do .. LOVE or HATE?

http://www.qatarliving.com/node/273656

I'll respect a country and its people when they choose to respect humanity. As of now, these can't even be logically discussed in the same sentence.

The reason for the bad driving and irate behavior towards expats and OCN's is fear; they're threatened by social & financial replacement or loss of petty heritage. What does an animal do when it is in danger? It acts angry, irrational and lashes out at its opposition.

..a couple...

Whatever I had thought of writing has been written by someone or the other, not that its going to make a difference in the real world.

All I really wana say now is that expats, give these guys a break. Thier government is paying them for a reoson, how often do you see a Qatari & think he can handle something real? I used to fight with them on roads every single day, not anymore recently, you guys know why? Cuz I feel sorry for them. ALL the expats writing here in this forum are extremely ruthless, how can you bash a guy who can hardly type? A nation that can hardly 'actually' work? Dont you feel sorry for them? Trust me on this, have some patience, a couple of more years, thats it.

People that are claiming to "love" qatar obviously haven't visited many countries outside their own or are jaded against non-muslim countries because of their own religion.

I have been to many, many countries, including predominantly Arabic and Muslim locales, and I can honestly say that this place is the biggest ****hole that I have ever set foot in.

While here, I have witnessed:

1. The likes of modern-day slavery, prejudices and racism that were abandoned more than a hundred years ago in other developed nations

2. The reckless driving of locals which endanger not only themselves, but the people around them, young and old, blatantly disregarding the value of human life

3. Flatulence of monetary objects bordering in idolatry (that's a sin in multiple religions)

4. A first-hand account of a local Qatari snickering and joking at a dying Indian man lying right in front of me. Yep, that's right.

5. The horrifying and atrocious act of banning the Indians from the malls.

6. The list goes on and on... Oh well, Darwinism will prevail.

i love Qatar this is my homeland and as much precious as my own country...i am from Pakistan but i born here and thats why i Love QATAR...

LOL!!!

Grateful for job and conditions, but hate:

1) utter lack of respect for the people BUILDING THIS COUNTRY. These stupid, discriminatory 'family days' at the soulless malls probably exclude the very people who helped build them. That's disgraceful.

2) Appalling wages paid to these workers and domestic staff who Qataris seem to expect as normal and treat with indifference. This is one of the richest countries in the world, yet no minimum wage..........absolutely disgraceful. This is a country essentially built on indentured labour, something most countries left behind with slavery.

3) drivers of white land cruisers

4) it's a theocracy, not as bad as the abhorrent Saudi Arabia, but not far off........it's the 21st century, but the legal system is stuck around 500 AD. As you can guess i'm not the biggest fan of sharia law..........

may I finalize this matter to all of you in few Wards, PPl come to Qatar or any place else to work & collect money they live like Rats to maximum the amount collected so they hate the country, the life & the others, wise PPL who knew that money is for spent & enjoying of life they life happily in everywhere & they love life, country & others, so chose your life & don`t judge others

Respect culture. Toe the line...

Otherwise...if it hurts your ego....Loose the chip off your shoulder

Be well dressed. Conduct yourself in a dignified fashion. And bullseye. No one is a snot.

classism is present (if not as much prevalent as before). Racism...as-such... not all that common

Dezigner.. I am sure you have an idea about what and why??

I am sure this thread will go on untill QL exists and Unless Qataris dont change.

Sit back and read.

______________________________________________

Live,

Let Live,

& Help Live..

I totally understand and agree with you. Its true. but know this that Qataris with big cars don't only bully foreigners but also each others. they are usually teenagers.

We are a very closed society (between each other) based on tribalism. The thing is that the policy of Qatar is to make foreigners comfortable and at home more than advocating its culture...kinda like dubai. thats why you don't see much qataris engaging with foreigner much..they dont like the idea of changing themselves to make others comfortable so they avoid it all together...of course im speaking in general.

I really apologies for your experience in Qatar you seem like a pleasant person. I can only blame it on capitalism and greed.

dezigner.....I have been here for a little over a year. I will be leaving a few months back home. If anybody asks me what is Qatari culture since I have lived here, I really have no answer apart from telling them that they drive big cars with which they bully others on the road and exploit people for labour and salaries.

I may be totally wrong, I have not interacted with a single qatari till date (I think). The reason being a.language, I dont speak arabic but I like to learn, b. attitude towards people coming from my country is not very friendly.

All my Qatari friends here in QL, please tell me what is Qatari culture

I am open minded person and would really like to learn, even if you want to meet me in person ..i am usually in corniche from 7 to 8 p.m..

Period eh?

Maybe you think you have more rights than you actually do

tnalj...good on you mate.....

i alwayse consider Qatar as my second homeland..im here since 5 yaers and never been offended. i really do love Qatar...wallah A7bek ya Qatar.

simple answer my friend, because qatar is not respecting people, period...

dezigner.. my point is if the qataris learn to respect us expats, then there should be no problem.. i know i do my part to respect whoever im dealing with regardless where they come from...but i still come across rude qataris especially while driving.they act like we are slaves here and have no rights. yes lots of us came her for the money, but still deserve to be respected too.....in this case, while driving, i dont give any respect to them at all. i know it is not all qataris that are like that, but there is a whole lot of you that do not respect us too, its a two way thing, as you see...if you go to my country, i can bet you that you will get your respect wherever you go..

I noticed the same thing.

Many indeed grow to love Qatar.

but many also come with preset ideas that do not change.

For example the other day in Hamad hospital a "westerner" woman made a scene because the desk clerk didn't speak English.

Qatari doctor out of respect took her aside and apologized to her....but winked at the desk clerk lol.

Another "Asian" doctor that works in Hamad hospital is known to have amazing racism and prejudice against the locals (specially the Bedouins). He is the type that always brags of being from a "High class" family.

Not everyone is equal and we certainly dont stereotype people according to their race or background.

This is a Muslim country first and foremost. If you respect us we will certainly respect you.

I noticed the same thing.

Many indeed grow to love Qatar.

but many also come with preset ideas that do not change.

For example the other day in Hamad hospital a "westerner" woman made a scene because the desk clerk didn't speak English.

Qatari doctor out of respect took her aside and apologized to her....but winked at the desk clerk lol.

Another "Asian" doctor that works in Hamad hospital is known to have amazing racism and prejudice against the locals (specially the Bedouins). He is the type that always brags of being from a "High class" family.

Not everyone is equal and we certainly dont stereotype people according to their race or background.

This is a Muslim country first and foremost. If you respect us we will certainly respect you.

I beg to disagree with you. I did a comprehensive study of Qatari culture prior to working here. I think this has been done by the majority of expats here. It is beneficial as it prepared me to effectively deal with my students and so with their parents and colleagues as well.

AS SALAAM ALAIKUM DEZINER,

Hey there,

u selected a good topic....

But allow me to spread few points.

Well, its not that expatriate do not respect the country, its people and culture.

The day any person decide to leave their country, they think about the new country, its people abd culture. And they believe to try to follow the most. However, they might not follow 100%. Apart from that all know Qatar follow Sahriya law (Islamic rule). May b some non muslims are not acquainted or not b comfortable. Like clothes , etc....Ofcourse, I do feel men - women clothes should b covered.

But as a muslim, do we all follow 100% law, do we offer 5 times prayers. What we do to make non muslim show that we follow Islam in the best possible manner....

So many times, the masjids are vacant during Fajar salaah.....Have you seen so many crimes done by our Muslim brothers....And how much are we helping them.....Lets not argue with expatriates, residents or government.....

I personally observed that many Qataries, Government machineries and ofcourse expatriates and some companies are really doing marvellous for the country and its people. Not only in terms of building the towers, but donations, helping needy people, etc. etc...

Only bcoz of few people we should not hold all expatriates not following culture. Nor any expatriates should point out about the country and its people.....

I believe this palnet is ours and its individual's responsibility to take care of one another....

What you give is what u get and we should stop complaining, regretting the government, culture and its people....

I appeal to all the citizens of the world to share the common goal of peace, love and integrity towards the nation where you reside.....

Any mistake in this article please forgive.....

Salaam again to all

its not about money

even its a major factor

Respect is gained and earned. It is not automatic. People and countries earn respect through hardwork, individual behaviour, etc....just look at Singapore and Japan.

respect works both ways,.... you'll earn other's respect if you give it as well...

Pardon for what you've posted,I would like to correct you,we came here to work to earn for a living,however it dosen't necessary mean that we ignore your culture & traditions.If it is so,maybe in time of ramadan we will be doing incorrect behaviors,like neglecting your religious practices or by harassing qatari women.But i've been here in DOHA for nearly 6 years & up to now my respect & love for your country stays the same.We may be foreign to your country but we do & follow your rules & regulations.

like I said abohmaid this is not aimed at you or any other Qatri in particular. Just the ones who disgrace there own culture and country by disrepecting everything not under there own shirt. So no disrespect to you as I don't know you and as long as I feel respected by you I will also respect you.

I show respect to those who earn it and deserve it. I always will and do respect the countries culture and the laws even if they are not enforced! But as far as the people-thats differs by individual

advice

for now let us forget about ur white american &55

and i will advive to keep showing respect

I had a Qatari last night almost run me over on my bicycle!! He saw me, I made eye contact as I was passing by his window, what did he do. Decided to drive on the shoulder where I was and put my life at risk so he could beat traffic. He came within 1/2 inch of nailing me. I wonder what he would tell to my wife or my 2 year old son you f*&#ing bastard. Would you sacrifice your family for mine since you sacrificed my life for yours? I use to respect any country I was in. I even tried to learn arabic- then one Qatari laughed at me when I tried to say "Shalam"-then he and his wife and son started chanting-salami salami salami. You talk of respect. The hard working poor people working there asses off building your country and then Qataris cut que in front of these humans taking precious time off work to get stuff done that they can't get done on there day off because gov't offices are closed. Show them some respect. While they work there butts off for you Qataris take there sweat ass time chatting with there friends or staring blanky into the air as these people stand in line-respect? Oooooooohhh you got me worked up now. (once again this is not all Qataris-I do respect those who earn respect-I respect your culture also and your country but for those (which is most I run in to) have little or no respect for another humans life-kiss my white American &55)

Respect has to be earned-forcing respect earns only fear which is what I see most of here in Qatar!! Laws made to protect people but they are not enforced or enforced only to the "lesser" person!!I see Qataris on a regular basis putting my family at risks so they can be one car in front of me at a red light!! I see people leaving there families and countries for 2 years at a time and being treated like maggots here. Then when they are free one day a week they want to feel at home as much as possible by dressing the way they would at home and doing things the way they would at home-so what!! They are here building your dam country-give them respect and they'll respect you. In the U.S. a counstruction worker makes minumum $7 an hour or 26 qr per hour. Here its what 70 rihals or $19 a day-would you respect someone or there country that exploits you and your country men like that? Walk in there shoes for a day you stuck up rich ass lazy Qatari!! (there are some nice kind generous Qataris out there-this was not geared towards those humane Qataris)

Not acknowledging the problem, will never solve it!

I read most of the comments and concluded that It is a 2 way bond.....respect cannot be asked for, this should be "inbuilt values" which comes to you from your Parents, people around you and country, which is rich with the cultural values. I agree one can't teach anybody (adult) a Lesson on RESPECT.

Read Beepinoy's comment on previous page and to add from my experience in Doha. Qatar is growing very fast in recent years and flooded with expatriate population. We do need to show respect being a good guest,

We are Guest here in a Foreign country as a good guest we should respect your host.

Again its a matter of 2 ways communication, being language is a barrier. People with knowledge of dual spoken language especially (Eng & ARABIC) has a better edge and repo with locals and influence easily.

As there are always a mix of different communities in every society, its same in Qatar.

Most of the asian migrate in Qatar due to various factor (different in individual case) , everybody love his/her own nation. It is very clear from Day one that You will get Citizenship in this part of world (GCC), so don't crib on this point.

Regarding discrimination of Laws for locals and expatriates is painful. All humans are same, RACISM is not accepted anywhere in the world.

To have harmony among all resident is possible with some extra effort to be made by NGO or social and family affairs departments to organise International cultural events in Qatar and invite all communities to represent.

I am sure such initiative will definitely bring all of us more close, regular communication and will break the ICE.

One need to be positive and look forward positively, as UAE has changed a lot in last decade, we will insha-allah see the similar or better changes in future.

I respect Qatar more than they do for me !!!

Don't get caught throwing garbage in my beach or it will cost you one Oil field(Money wise), jail time and a very long walk cleaning those beaches for miles to come as part of 10000 hours penalty of community services.

“Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful,”

...their own country. Go to the Qatari desert and see what I mean. It is sad to see rubbish all over, left by Qataris...

I respect Qatar as I respect any other country, but the disrespect (often from Qataris) I see here, I have never seen in any other countries I have been.

Civilization levels are generally low here (respect, human rights, etc...).

Honestly, I never had an emigration officer screaming at me and threatening me that if I has a problem, he will show me what he could do, as this is HIS country and I need him more than he needs me... what a welcome reception at the Qatar Airport last night!....

As far as for the really nice and human Qataris, I feel sorry for to be seen by the world the way they are!

What shocks me the most is the government does nothing to educate society here in Qatar.

Simple adds would provide some awareness to those who have no education, such as:

- drive respectfully

- do not throw rubbish out of the designated areas;

Respect others equally;

- pay fare salaries to those who build your country and give them human life conditions (contrary to what is happening here now, which is an "offense to Islam")

- Etc

- Etc

- Etc

Better working conditions would go a long way. Just compare with UAE about the rules for changing jobs, family visa, noc, exit permit, visit visa etc.

All expatriates in middle eastern countries are bonded labours held by golden chains.

Too many Camel Jockeys going locos in town Amigo..

They act like they got a very "HOT JALAPEÑO" stuck in the rear muchacho....

Yo se, there is no tequila plants in the desert, but you could drink your Bepsi in many ways to get respect mijo.

Where is my sombrero?

It is siesta time pinche jodido!

Don't bother me no more with your nonsense.

“Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful,”

MAYBE THERE ARE SOME, BUT WE LOVE QATAR

Not everyone is a bad apple, but there are some out there that need to be sort out properly.

Anyhow, I'm American and I know.

PS

I'm having dinner today with a Syrian, a Jew, A Lebanese, an Iranian, a Palestinian, a chinese, a gay and a North Korean, only for the purpose that I will keep my eyes on them.

Just kidding

“Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful,”

hmmmm....i feel qataries hv a respect towards others.....they behave well.....but some coming from outside dont gv back respect.....it depends on each one's attitude.....

To earn respect, you have to give respect and not intimidation tactics.

Most Qatari or anyone else understand this matter clearly.

It is not about your religion or customs, but a few issues that do have the tendency to boil, past their point of logic.

Here is a few points that had being debated over and over.

1- Housing prices and lack of strict regulations that will protect the consumer.

2- The current visa issues, sponsorship program, the labor laws and civil rights overall.

3- The language barrier, for most of us, it is a burden.

4- The current cost of living.

5- The bad and glutenous painful driving habits of the local population.

and the racial integration of the races in Doha is basically western with western not locally.

“Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful,”

Not true. I had done thousands of researches and asked thousands of questions about Qatar and its people before decide to come!

xyned -"Racism is not something you see in qatar." LOL..

visit malls on fridays and i'm sure you can tell most bachelors with 'you guys gotta try mars.....' lol

nice evening to all! :)

First of all, there are good and bad people in all communities and RESPECT IS BOTH WAYS, different cultures have different attitude.

I believe Qatar is a lovely country and there are nice Qatari people I am sure, I personally like and respect Qatar and its people as I would want people to like me and respect me.

We can’t really generalize people and blame everyone, but then again you know there is a something called FREEDOM OF SPEECH, and different individuals express them differently,

before asking this question you should ask this yourself...

there are millions of other places in the world where expats lives and work but the disrespect you see in qatar is no where to be seen...plain and simple

Dear very simple just apply the principle “do respect get respect” other way to be respected you have to learn respect others too.

My feelings for this country are as I do feel and respect my Loveland.

To be respected do respect & to be loved do love.

GIVE AND TAKE!!

To be loved Do love……..

Give Your Smile To Every One But Your Heart To Only One!

All countries have their own cultures. But from what i read in this thread and other, there are lots of Qatari's that are uncultured. You should be alarmed of what is happening to your countrymen Dezigner.

For the sake of argument, there are only 20,000 bad Qataris, that is 20% of your total population.

In this modern world, internet is the great equalizer.

qataris respect expats..... as much as needed. They do realize that expats are the "Work-Horses" to their success....And in cases... they are the ones heading key ops with them as work-horses....This Gen of qataris are not....noooooot...snobs... Really.. you gotta see the 40's gen aussies.....And the greek-aussies. man are they ..... Racist. Racism is not something you see in qatar. If you think it does...you guys gotta try mars.....

In a word Qataris Rock....

Eventual, slow paced change is good....accomodating needs and preserving culture....Radical changes are crazy and unbecoming of middle eastern philosophy and should remain that way

Dezigner...Respect is something u EARN!You dont just get it by being qatari. Qataris shud realise that and have respect for the non locals and maybe they will get the respect they are dying for!

badu people ..

thats the ones i hate ..

Qataries Huge Egos ..

me hate ..

me hate 96% of em Qataries ..

97% of em are gay / bi ..

98% of em are racists ..

99% of em are Ignorant ..

Culture and Traditions has to be preserved, But changes which are inevitable should not be stopped too or the country and the people will loose the pace and go backward from the rest of the world..

____________________________________________________

It Takes 72 Muscles to Frown...And Only 14 To Smile.

: ) Keep Smiling : )

They are not too worried. They are dumping culture and tradition themselves for good night life and alcopops.

I know them...they are not much of a hypocrite.

the council has gotta put in effort to preserve qatari tradition and cultural beliefs.

Otherwise........well....change happens

Nice...that is your point of view. but generally thats not the reason.

Well said, Rami.

I have a lot of Qatari friends. I love them to bits. They are great guys, but they simply don't follow the laws. It's not part of their culture. They don't mean it in a bad way, it's just that they don't really like the idea of being told not to smoke inside, and they don't see the harm of littering.

As far as breaking the rental law, that's a different matter entirely. That's simply greed, and that sort of behaviour must be condemned whenever encountered.

Dezigner, you asked a general question about why people don't respect Qatar. Rami simply pointed out that as far as breaches of written law are concerned, the bulk of offenders are Qataris.

It's one thing to say that western girls should just know what to wear and what not to wear (even in the absense of any written rules/laws) or that they should behave sensibly, again in the absense of written guidelines to follow.

But when it comes to breaking the law, and that's disrespecting Qatar in the worst possibly way, the Qataris are the worst offenders.

Don't distract yourself with the shortcomings of other countries. The question YOU asked refered to QATAR.

By the way, I'm Australian, so now you can start telling me about how Australians break laws and, by extension, how that makes it okay for Qataris to break laws.

@asfaq, all my Qatari friends have friends with expats.

Expats usually don't come up to Qataris or attempt to make friendship.

Qatari's are very social but are usually shy to initiate friendship.

__________________________

Mr. Q's Blog - A Qatari's view on Qatar.

Designer... ahk... you are missing the point... what is the title of the thread man????

Anybody with eyes and pays attention will see that it is Qataris doing all that that RAMI said in his initial post...

Qataris couldn't seem to care less what their Emir has decreed as law... Qataris should set the example for us expats....

They call it the American dream because you have to be asleep to see it... --George Carlin

i become to point that is difficult to discuess in english.. my language is not that level.

ur comments is unfair. you are talking about locla like the all were broken the laws. shall i discuess with you up to next year about ur believe somthing i not true at all. dont put urself as a police man on the all people.

i think fair people here can reply on u..

thank you all guys..

Hmmmm I'm not sure if I agree that Singapore, China and Japan became quite "Western" While Western countries and the North-East Asian countries do share some similarities they are quite different cultures. I would say that in the process of development both the West AND the Far-East had to leave behind some of it's tradition, and instead developed new ones to replace it (Karaoke anyone?)

Visit www.qatarhappening.com

Nicely written.

dezigner seems to have a really twisted sense of humor, finding the accounts of offense commited by qataris funny. regardless of the degree of the offense, I don't think it's a laughing matter.

Why do you keep pointing your finger whenever someone says something against some of the locals? your country's worse, your country is this and that... well we're talking about qatar aren't we? It's pathetic that you should consider other people's actions acceptable because there are others doing the same thing elsewhere.

the fact that you have to reference each commenter's nationality, home country and it's shortcomings hints at something... racism perhaps? and you're asking for respect? now that's funny.

Rami-leb, nicely written

Good point Magic Dragon.

This country is at a cross roads. What does it want to be? And who will lead it there?

Unfortunately, in other countries who have developed to similar points, the people looked to their leaders for wisdom.

efore 1950 Singapore was a tiny island of no global economic or political significance. Its leaders led the country to prosperity and the people dutifully followed.

China too was once just another under developed land, until its leaders brought the country into the modern world.

Japan too developed itself economically to become a modern powerhouse.

Each of these three countries lost a lot of their heritage along the way, and culturally become quite western. I’m not arguing that this was a good or bad thing.

But the point I will make is that these massive transitions were only successful because the vision of the leaders became the vision of the people. Qatar will have great difficulty achieving any sort of growth as a country because there doesn’t exist the strong leadership, or the will to follow, that is required. There are various factions pulling the policies in opposing directions, and as a result the country really isn’t moving.

The country needs to address:

Is it going to relax, or tighten, the labour laws?

Will the country trade cheap manual labour for ethical manual labour?

Will the country stand up to local sheikhs who are abusing the legal system, or leave them to freely and publicly break labour law, rental law, traffic laws etc?

Is the currency going to remain pegged to the dollar, or will it be allowed to float?

Will mixed sex education, like at education city, become the norm, or be phased out?

Will there be a growing acceptance of western ‘vices’ (alcohol, for instance)?

Will the country continue to pursue Olympic aspirations, while at the same time providing little assistance for sporting associations like the rugby club?

Will the country seek a stronger Islamic presence, or continue to open more churches?

Will the country continue to seek press freedom, while still maintaining internet censorship and the censorship of imported literature?

Will the country seek to become a financial powerhouse, while not allowing open governance?

Is HH Sheikha Mozah going to remain an advocate for women’s rights, while the Qatari government prevents woman from travelling, studying, working…. Without the permission of their husband/father?

The country is free to decide how to run itself, but with so many conflicting ideals and a populace of Qataris who have no desire to follow the will of the government, it will be a rough road ahead for this country.

I guess once of the reasons why democratic countries tend to be more powerful is that there is greater unity of purpose and spirit amongst the people. In democratic countries, people feel engaged in the country’s future and work together for the common good. In this country Qataris are used to just sitting back and letting the country run itself. Not only do they feel disengaged from the county’s economic development, but the rising numbers of expatriates makes them feel isolated from its social development. As a result the youth are becoming much less concerned with doing things for the good of the country, such as obeying the rule of law, for instance.

This country runs a very real risk of turning into a Saudi Arabia – home of a vast number of disenchanted, bitter young people who hate the outside world but who are still totally convinced of their own greatness and superiority.

I guess dezigner's point is something like:

ummm

well...

Not sure.

Maybe that bad things happen in other countries that are equal to or worse than the bad things that the locals do in this county.

So.... in other words...

Geez... dude. I'm glad you are proud to be a person who doesn't think that you should follow your own emir's laws.

I'm glad that you are proud of your compatriots who abuse the legal system, and ignore the police, and basically give the finger to the Emir and what he stands for. After all, who is the Emir of Qatar to tell a Qatari what to do?

You're a Qatari, right, and the Emir can stick his laws and his judicial system and his police force and the whole body of legislation right up his... as far as you're concerned, right?

Why don't you take a long hard look at the Qataris and see if the disrespect shown by foreigners is really the worst problem in this country.

It is the rapid change that this country is experiencing. In 1990, when I came here first, every Qatari I met was proud to be a Qatari, giving away anything out of this proudness, and if you were sensitive enough you would be treated like a king. Now Western influence is over-running this country and forces Qataris to change their way of living. That hurts.

Qatar, at the moment, is not sure what they want to be: a successful industrialized nation competing with the US or Germany, or just Dubai? That would mean giving up Qatarism. But they are not too good in Westernism. And it does not serve all Qataris equally. It is a long struggle from what a government wants to make the people want the same. And I am talking about 40 or 50 or even hundred years.

So all of you criticizing the behavior of Qataris make sure you are without fault. You are bad teachers if your only means is punishment to achieve performance.

Why are you comparing Qatar to Other Countries?

If you care ( and i guess you do). You must address these issues & criticize the offenders instead.

If you love this country as you claim, You should find solution for these issues instead of saying that it happens in other countries.

Because it doesn't. Take Singapore for example.

Rami-lebs point Dezigner is that we aren't living in Lebanon, we are living in Qatar, and if people see that Qatari's can't even respect their own laws and country, why should expats respect it?

Visit www.qatarhappening.com

Dont folish ppl sami-lebanon, i think who breaks laws better than who kills ppl at ur country..

what r u talking about ?? im proud to be QATARY and part of Qataries ppl whom you talk ur story about them.

is only qataries who do that (people who park anywhere ,people who roll down the window to dispose of any and all rubbish from their vehicles etc) !! ahahahah you are funny and all ppl belive you. did u visit lebanon ? did u see the dirtness thier? did u visit any asian country?? i leave this quastion to others who they visited other countries. and please respect Qatar since qatar give you the safe and secuirty and money..

live ur life at QATAR, and you can leave, (albab yfaawwet jamal).

very well said Rami-leb. For once, i do agree with you 100%.

All those issues are addressed several times at the local media. In fact last year MOI had banners all over doha in local dialect about the excuses qataris give to not wear seat belts.did it change anything?No, unfortunately.

It's a shame with the Emir's Qatar national 2030 Vision to transform Qatar into an advanced country.

I can't help but wonder, how many fellow-Qataris actually read the QNV 2030?

Okay, since we're talking in generalizations:

Your question is:

'Why aren't people respecting Qatar'

Well, from where I stand, the 'people' who are disrespecting the State of Qatar, are:

The people who sit in cafes smoking, right beneath signs carrying on how 'the Emir, in his wisdom, has decreed that smoking is to be banned in public places'.

I wonder who are the majority of these people, breaking the local laws of Qatar???

Then there are the people who disregard all the traffic laws, flying down in the left hand lane, ducking and weaving and endangering the lives of those sharing the road.

I wonder who are the majority of these people, breaking the local laws of Qatar???

Then there are the people who roll down the window to dispose of any and all rubbish from their vehicles - plastic cups from tea shops, wattle bottles, food wrappers, cigarette butts... the list is endless.

I wonder who are the majority of these people, breaking the local laws of Qatar???

Then there are the people who park anywhere they want, run red lights, and then call up their brother's uncle's best friend to get the Traffic Department to cancel the fine because they don't see that they should pay a fine imposed by the government.

I wonder who are the majority of these people, breaking the local laws of Qatar???

Or the employers who ignore the labour laws and mistreat workers.

I wonder who are the majority of these people, breaking the local laws of Qatar???

And the land lords who ignore the rental laws and increase rents and evict tenants in clear violation of local law.

I wonder who are the majority of these people, breaking the local laws of Qatar???

Seriously, if there is any one group of people who disrespect the laws of this country more than any others, it's the Qataris.

And don't give me crap about 'but that happens in every country'.

The question is - why aren't people respecting Qatar.

Well, gee, I don't know. Ask a Qatari, since they are the root of the problem.

nice as they said habibi, that mean they are friendly and they loves gypsy's ;)

paul, they might have some persian origins.. persian grammar does not differentiate between males & female like we arabs do ;)

They could have been calling me Habibti, it was hard to tell through all the kissing noises, rude gestures and hooting.

If I was back home I would given them a rude gesture back, but alas, this is Qatar and they were Qatari.

Visit www.qatarhappening.com

That means they are telling ya. yer look like a man !

[img_assist|nid=103941|title=.|desc=|link=none|align=left|width=|height=0]

NIL ILLEGITIMI CARBORUNDUM

desigenr, the thing is i can't make friendship with qataris when the avoid contact with me!!!

gypsy ... i guess u know why they have done that, don't u? ;P

Oh come now Bahraini, I find the Qatari's to be very friendly, why just yesterday a group of boys hooted, whistled and called me habibi from their land cruiser. :P

Visit www.qatarhappening.com

bahraini you are welcome, Qatar its ur country.. but dont expect Qataries to be like Filipinos, each ppl has thier own style, french, americans, indian, russian.. bur for sure local here you cant judge them until you live with them by having friendships.

Gulf Times

85 firms penalised for rules violationPublished: Thursday, 14 August, 2008, 01:02 AM Doha Time

THE Labour Department has penalised 85 private sector firms for violating labour laws during the August 3-7 period, a statement issued by the department said yesterday.

The department said the companies had committed glaring violations, including delaying the salary of a large number of workers and endangering workers by not following occupational health safety rules.

According to the statement, the action is part of an intensified crackdown against private firms violating labour laws.

The department had suspended the transactions of 92 private companies for similar violations last month.

Bahraini.. You are 100% right.. and this is what I wrote too..

Atleast learn to say hi, greet , and smile to people.. basic gestures any cultured and educated one would do..

Then they will see the difference.

____________________________________________________

It Takes 72 Muscles to Frown...And Only 14 To Smile.

: ) Keep Smiling : )

its a very long commented thread, that i couldn't read all... but i have few words to say to dezigner

my nick tells where do i come from...

and i like to be in any GCC country, as i always wanted to work outside Bahrian ... i have pplied for jobs ain almost all GCC countries but got a response only here .. i guessed that we Qatar and Bahrain are kind of similar in many aspects ... so i searched the net and luckily i found QL.com and signed up for a membership .. did some reading in the culture section

but the problem is lots of Qataris prefer not to socialize with expats other then those who they work with .. in malls -i won't say all Qataris- but majority avoid any contact with them ,,, i don't wear a thobe... i wear shirt, tie, trousers, jeans, t-shirts, so they behave with me as they behave with expats and i can see why you think that people are not respecting Qatar, becuase they don't fel respected in Qatar.. the previous sentence can be harsh but its true -don't you expats agree???- it takes some time for Qataris to get used to expats and stop discriminating people according to what they are dressing, or where they are coming from,

thats how i see it,,,, and i love Qatar

you with your monopoly tactic is not going anywhere. soon or later globalization will take over. and am wondering what you going to do then....

Everybody is right everybody is wrong, it depend where you stand

Yes, but when it happens in our countries the issues are addressed, and actions taken. That doesn't happen here.

Visit www.qatarhappening.com

funny story.. i can say thousands story and crimes happened at ur country, guys how old are you?

A lot has already been said so i guess I'll just share a few stories...

My boss's father went here to our factory one day to use the facilities for a project (he has his own company in their country). The next day after his arrival, I saw him working with the laborers, his shirt and hands all dirty from manual work.

I was on queue at a bank, I have been waiting for about 30 minutes when a man who just arrived went directly to the desk where I was queued on. He went about his transaction and left, leaving me and others patiently waiting our turn.

11:00am. In the absence of a collegue I attended to a client who came to take the job that we did for him, which was to be delivered at 12:30pm. The client told me that if he doesn't get the items he would drag me out to the street.

I can and do respect the country, it's cultures and abide by it's laws. Respect for it's people is not something that I can just hand off, they have to earn it from me. This is how I do it in this country, in my country and any country that I go to.

I believed people who are here think, even research, information about Qatar---their traditions, cultures, etc., before coming here for whatever purpose they may have..

Qatar needs these people to work for them and these people also need work.It's not easy to work in other land and away from their love ones...Just think about it!

Be cool man! Life is so short..so live it to the fullest!

i agree with what Bliksem said. nuff said.

There are undoubtedly feelings of contempt for Qatar among many expats. Given the appalling Qatari educational and labour system this can't really be helped. I feel much of it comes down the fact that Qatar lacks the human resource capacity to develop itself, and is utterly dependent on foreign help, yet it treats that help like dirt.

As the saying goes, respect isn't given, it is earned. I see Qatar doing little to earn the respect of those it is dependent upon.

Dezigner.. You sound gr8 and is an exemption. and I respect that.

But you are not aware of whats happening around brother. I guess we got deviated from the basic subject of the post. But still its not just one isolated incident am trying to portrait and claim. I can simply generalise on it .. they are being tortured, beaten and sexually abused in many cases.

Few were rescued from uae and KSA recently. A guy was beatn to death. one was found with wounds allover his body. Check the Gulf times day before.. two of them were sleeping otside in the heat , they were in the sun the whole day buidling the roof for all of us.

We are so called Guests , or expats here.. you are a Qatari.. one among those 200 000 who can do something about it.. do it , we will support you..

newspaper is not a summary of whats happening here, what theyre publishing wont even reach the backpages of a tabloid in my home country. as gypsy have suggested, look around and go to labour camp(s). and when you get there i hope you will be able to see the situation in the eyes of other people not just say "its happening everywhere"

and we went here for money. that money is in exchange for services period. if youre not happy with the work, send them home. thats the way it is, stop complaining.

offcourse i like to hear from all of you guys.. Alexa say whatever u want

@@

The Ministry of Labour have just suspended the transactions of the 92 violated companies for delay on payment,they didn't cancel their permit as you claim

do you think this is enough?

Mmm... Krispy Kreme donuts... mmmmmmmmmmmmm

-------------------------------------------------

╬ Pass the dutchie on the left hand side! ╬

hey guys,, what r u talking about there, were ppl who againest laws. they are in all world.. not only in qatar there is a companies who didnt paid for a labours, didnt u read the news-paper? the government stop companies permits every month, and there is government departments who take this matter seriously and take actions..

Dont draw a black picture and donut make the things like its a disaster,, and i think who not live in Qatar will believe you. you are totally wrong,

yes there is some bad ppl, there is some bad companies, we are not the best, we try to be the best even you guys who hate Qataries, we will continue build Qatar by good and possitive Qataries and non-Qataries ppl.

yea i agree 100%, you are right, and still we all must learn Arabic, why not? we have too, we are here so we must be able to speak their lang, not like stupid wondering what they are talking about.

AND.

for those who i have met, working and living in qatar for money only and they even hate Arabs, i say one thing.

F U C K YOU ALL

its take two to tango

dosent matter who you are ....qatari,indians,malaysian etc

respect each other...

who told you Qatarries not respect labours? you guys have a wrong idea about us.. did u made your thoughts regarding 1 story from here or there !! i can say in general its a FALSE.

why u not see Qataries do cleaning or housemaids, thats not bcoz ppl are lazy but bcoz the percentage of locals. why should i do hard work while there is easy work i can do it,, also dont forget its a money. you dont axpect from ppl to work in low salary job until they dont have another chance..

dont think that the cleaner boy, or tea boy have a chance to be officer but he love to work tea boy !! dont think dear..

We treat all ppl as human offcourse, We all at Masjed pray in one row, Me and indian tea boy attach me, and pakistanian,and philipeno.. we all same i have option after finishing the pray to give him my hand and welcome him..

Don't forget those sponsors who are making some of these maids prostitute themselves. And the one's who beat and rape their maids.

Visit www.qatarhappening.com

Who told us that Qatari's don't treat labourers with respect? Nobody had to tell us mate, we just opened our eyes and looked around.

Visit www.qatarhappening.com

Give Respect and Take Respect...

Dezigner.. Its fact mate..Forget about the professionals..lets talk about those ones who is doing the odd jobs out here. May be its their fate and they are lessfortunate.. But they are doing wht you dont wana do yourself.. The labourers, cleaners, housemaids..

Respect them.. they will respect you too.. Treat them as human..dont chase them away from streets.. dont chase them away from malls.

Otherwise , Qatar as a country and its Culture ..I respect ..every one respects.

Duhhhhhhhh whats happening in China?

far larger scale human rights abuses than most places...

Doha is small fry compared to that....

And I am sorry that some of you just haven't had the Qatar experience i have.... shame.

The Qatari humour is wonderful.... they really can laugh at them selves... i was with some this morning and we were making loads of jokes about getting Qataris to work in macdonalds.

Thats very rude of you to mention that in your last paragraph.

LAMBORJEEPNEY said I am a temporary guest of this contry.. ...

And respect their culture and heritage that why we are still here and raised our kids here. Unfortunately it is "some" of the locals who do not respect us:-(

You see Lamborjeepney unfortunately due to the wealth provided by oil money, most..... I’m not saying all but MOST locals have the luxury of wealth that they take advantage of others and disrespect other nationalities.

Now, I have had some who have called me racist against Qataris, which isn’t the case as I have met some decent ones who are open to many subjects that many choose to hide. Unfortunately it’s the majority who look at a person’s race and then decide how they should be treated.

Yeah it goes on everywhere blah blah BUT not at such high incidents as it does here.

There are some who dispute this and think it’s not a racial but an individual decision to behave in such a manner, but tell me why oh why have I been to so many other 3rd world countries where they treat other races with respect whether they are Indian, Pakistani, Other Arabs, Americans, Austrian etc etc etc? None on you can tell me that Asians are treated with respect in Qatar.

Dragonfly - I don’t feel or find often the local here respect us as we should deserved especially when they see Asian woman. am sorry. If you want us to respect your country you need to step down from your high horse.

They don’t respect you and never will – how strange it is to hear how westerners are racist towards Qatari’s blah when they are the most racist of them all. Disagree?

Let’s open our hearts and send a message to the world that this is not acceptable.

Such a shame that Doha doesn’t get to host the 2016 Olympics – it would have been a real eye opener to the world that have no idea that modern slave labour still exists to such an extent.

Such a shame.

and respect their culture and heritage thats why we are still here and raised our kids here. Unfurtunately it is "some" of the locals who do not respect us:-(

"Fascinated with Supercars but can’t afford it yet, so I settle down for a humble Jeepney. Proud Noypi!"

I think respecting a countrys culture and laws is the minimum a visitor should do. I would expect the same if you came to South Africa. You cannot compare Qatar to a weternized country because it is not. Until it opened it's borders to the world, Qatar was a sheltered Muslim country, sheltered from the ways of the West. Qatar citizens view visitors with suspicion because of attitudes, dress sense, mannerism, etc..etc...etc which goes against the grain of all Qatari nationals. I have not yet made up my mind to come to the country but I am aware of the following:

1. I will never become a citizen

2. I will not be accepted as a citizen

3. I am there to do a job based on my experience, and in return will be paid for it

4. I am not there for the scenery

5. I will respect the country

6. I will respect the culture

7. If the locals ignore me then I will ignore them, if they are friendly, then I will return the friendship

8. It is not the country I was born in and will not expect to be received with open arms

I may not agree with some of the rules and regulations... but then I expect that the country does not give a toss. I am a visitor and at some stage will return to my country where I can enjoy all the privileges as a citizen.

i think the truth word here is respect and you will get respected. i dont feel or find often the local here respect us as we should deserved specially when they see asian woman. am sorry. if you want us to respect your country you need to step down from your high horse.

Everybody is right everybody is wrong, it depend where you stand

Mr. BeePony

Thank you very much i like ur comment so much... and im open mind enough to recive whatever ppl think,, i knew we are in WEB which any one can say any think..

maybe im not represntative all qataries but i can say in general we are ready to to give our hand (help) any body from expatriates... while he realy come to build Qatar future with us.. who come to enjoy and earn both money and life experience he will get it, and who come only for money he will get only money..

Come on its a joke heard from you... i prefer to live in peace in tent with some of my sheeps than to live with silly ppl who think they are better than me.. you have to stop. Who call you to come Qatar to share with us to contsruct Qatar, you earn money and experience. many many of expatries come here in a dreamy job and have a chance to learn and bla bla until he has experience.

Regarding crazy driver we also as Qataries suffer from them.. dont think teenager be any where in the world, US, UK, So so so so on..

Beepinoy wellsaid..

Dezigner...

How many of you would do the labour work at construction sites the day the whole epxats leave the country??.. they are here to do stuff you cant do..no doubt and its not a JOKE as you think it is.

Because QATAR IS CHANGING or ITS THE CHANGING FACE OF QATAR!

Well said.

Beepinoy, that was very well written...esp the below suggestion..

"4. I suggest that someone should step forward to create programs/strategies on how the locals can reach to the expatriates and vice versa..

The Sponsor law IS inhuman.There is no doubt on that. Like you, i find some of the criticism hard to digest. However, most of it is true. Don't the queue jumpers, bad drivers (specially the one jump to the front raw of a traffic light to get passed), mean service at government offices bugs you? Unfortunately most of those offenders are in fact Qataris.You can't stop people from speaking their minds. Instead you can argue back, if you think that what they wrote is untrue.

If you don't like what's written here, you can always leave ;)

We should all thank Designer for being brave enough to come out and strive to realize the facts going inside his country. That is really heroic! Atleast we, the expats, knows that atleast one or more, like this guy is concerned about preserving and sharing their culture.

Mr. Dezigner, I am sorry that you have to read all these comments, pro and anti your beloved homeland.

Please don't forget the quotation "Respect is not forced to be applied, but it is hardly earned" and "If you want to gain respect, learn how to respect others"

These might be the key for Qataris and Expats harmonuous relationship.

Listed below are some of the facts why we love to stay in Qatar:

1. Genarally, its clean (cleaner than most of the places around the glove)

2. Sports events are for Free

3. No Tax

4. Police Visibility

Some things that Qatar needs a little attention:

1. Driving Ethics (those 4x4s were made to serve u better in a longest possible time, and not to secure u during accidents)

2. Salary protection for Expats (Most hard labor force have salaries ranging from 600-1000QAR) how much time will it take u to spend this much?

- Most of the companies that entered Qatar are abusive of the conditions of its worker's welfare.

- May I suggest that Qatar hires someone from the international surveys, to get accurate datas from the expats in Qatar.

- i think 70% of the asian expats cannot afford to hire the new flats/villas that are being constructed all over doha.

3. Most locals seldom smile to strangers (so we can feel very welcome in your country)

4. I suggest that someone should step forward to create programs/strategies on how the locals can reach to the expats and vice versa.

Mr. Dezigner, I agree that we your expats are mainly here to earn good money for us to be able to send as support to our families on our homeland, but we are here also to help Qatr realize its goals to a better community. You cannot do all these without us, and we as well cannot do all of these without your support.

Let us feel your concern to us and surely we will do our very best to improve on our work ethics and respect to Qatar and its people.

Together let us make Qatar work With the World...

Again, I thank you for the opportunity...

I can see non of-respectiveness here

some ppl wants to changes laws, bcoz they see it its (as they thought) inhuman laws.

some ppl as they said (they dont love Qataries ppl) and they just come to earn money.

some ppl think that they are a gift for qataris and they come to do job which qataries can not do it (i consider that as a joke) bcoz ppl come from all world in for a different job, cleaners, housemaids, engineers, Doctors and so on, and i think We as a qataries have alot of Doctors, engineers, technician,,, but we suffer from the low of populations,, we are only 200,000 and if you take it as a percentage u will find its normal.

some ppl here misunderstand me when i say respect Qatar, i mean they have to follow the regulations and culture.. but im sure many many of ppl here or around qatar they dont know about our culture and even they dont like to know, maybe they dont care..

i think qatar can be better without silly thoughts from differenet kind of ppl, who think that qatar will lose if he go to his home. we say he is not welcome here..

Respect is a two way street. If you want someone to respect you, you should respect them as well. Respect is not based on religion, wealth, family name, status, or ethnic affiliation. Respect means treating someone the way you would like to trea them.

People on both sides don't have respect for the other, and this happens in all countries between all nationalities.

I'd like to ask--NOT as an attack or a criticism of your post, but just out of curiosity--what is your idea of respecting Qatar & the Qatari people?

I like Qatar but not Qatari........Qatar is very nice place to live compare to othe GCC,but the people are not so kind,their attitude towards expatriate is not good.

A DAY WITHOUT LAUGHTER IS A WASTED DAY!..........

I hope there will be changes in the laws. I have been waiting for the 5 years for the changes...Now, i have to skip Qatar for a better job. I know only few Qatari are getting benefitted from this law as even my company employers are not Qataris....Best wishes to Qatar

I never mentioned that expatriate should respect Qatar's culture!In fact,i'm strongly against Niqab. And find dress codes controversy as ridicules (as i've expressed in previous posts). I agree with you about the unjustness of Qatar sponsor law.However, it's only less than 10% of qatari populations are benefiting from it. there is strong resistance from some of consultative council (Ashura) members against any amendments or abolishing of the law as they claim it's for the interest of Qataris.Change will definitely come soon. However, you must know that's will come with a price tag (fines, fees & restriction on facilities)

Qatar has everything that it requires and its on a road to prosperity,, blessed with massive resources . What makes a country is not just wealth but its people and culture..

Qataris are nice and not harmful.. I wouldnt say friendly because i would be generalising.. most of them are not.

An indian, phil, westrn.. though you know eachother or not.. always shows the courtsey to smile..say hi.. or a small gesture of greeting when you happens gets an eye contact.. How about a Qatari???..

The first lesson for them to learn is .. this I guess. Learn to smile, and greet people when you see them...

Dont look at them as if they are just intruders / guests/ expats/ came to beg.. Na they are here to earn, they are here because either they are qualified than you, or they are prepared to do some work wht you are not or cannot.. which helps you and the country survive and build.

Respect it.. and am sure you will be respected more....

Is anyone else getting sick of these "Ex-pats don't respect Qatari's, Qatari's don't resepct ex-pats." Excuse me folks while I get out the worlds smallest violin to play for you.

Seriously, Yes there are expats who don't respect Qatari laws, but really the vast majority do, if they didn't then ALL you would see at the malls is strappy tank tops and mini skirts, rather than the odd girl (in fact I've only seen someone dressed inappropriately once).

And yes some Qatari's are complete and utter dickheads. Is anyone saying there country doesn't have dickheads? And unfortunately dickheads are much easier to spot then non-dickheads.

At the end of the day folks, with the exception of the weather and some rather odd rules, here really isn't that much different from your home.

Visit www.qatarhappening.com

I love Qatar as a country and its culture too. I agree with the Dezigner and Genesis that the expatriate should respect Qatar's culture. We, as the guests should respect it. if you go to any other country as a guest or for earning, we should respect that country's culture and law. But, some laws, especially the SPONSORSHIP LAW, which restrict an employees movements is really inhuman, un islamic. If that law is not here in Qatar, at least if there is any changes in the law for the free movement of the employees, even after 2 year or even 5 years in a company...personally i'm happy...and i know majority of the middle class and low class employees, labours will be happy, as we came here to earn money. The sponsorship law, and 2 years re-entry ban are the main inhuman laws, which i seen as a big obstacle to SINCERE LOVE FOR QATAR. The other things is NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LAW. In many cases, especially in the labour law, the department is very softer to employers. We are reading many pathetic stories about the poor labours accommodation, non-payment of salaries for many months etc. The dept is very soft even when they found illegal things done by the employers. There is no SUCH BIG PENALTIES LIKE IN TRAFFIC VIOLATION in the labour department. Even though many of our company's emplyees complained in the Labour Dept about our company's many of the 'illegal rules' in last 4-5 years, non of the staff didn't come to our company to check it so far and or they didn't fine anything to our company. So, they continue the same 'illegal rules of the company'....If anyone complained, only that guy gets the benefit....

And the attitude of the employees by QATARI employers are far different from EUROPE/AMERICAN EMPLOYERS. If you ask any person, 'where do u wish to work with, a Qatari company or European/American Company', 90% peoples' answer will be EUROPEAN/AMERICAN COMPANY. its not only the salary or payments, their attitude to the empoyees too..

I'm a Muslim and i love the Qatar's attitude to the religeous acitivities. But, on many cases, I find it hard to believe the Qatar is following an Islamic culture, especially when they treat the poor labours....

Qatar is our secong home... so we respect Qatar as we respect love our own country.. the local here are great same with our elders they are the foundation of this country. The cultures and religion are same only, provided that they care also with our diferent belief..We love Qatar and our productive days are only spent here!!!

Meeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee

Been to several houses and over 20 weddings....

and stuffed my face stupid with many many chocolates and other tasty delights...

been invited falcon flying

been invited to engagements

been invited to baby shower

been invited to camel farms

been invited by Qatari family to wedding in Bahrain even.

I am not muslim and not arab....OK?

Qatari hospitality is tip top!

Taking about culture and knowing Qatari people are having friends with Qatari seems out of question.

Having said that i want to ask e.one one question..Beign expat how many people from Qatarliving have been invited to a Qatari residence for lunch/dinner or some kind of party or wedding party or so on..?

In our countries when there are people coming from outside if they want to friends they invite people home thats the begning of a good relation I think ...with respect to all.

I made my comment based on hashin's comment of not getting the local nationality. It has nothing to do with respect. I think my perspective in that is vary clear in my earlier posts.

National pride!

have your read my posts!

did i mention anything like, if you don't like it than leave?

If a Qatari asked me, i'll answer the same. Since we don't pay taxes, electricity/water bills, parking fees,etc

Qatar Owe us nothing.

People are really edgy about respect, here. In UK everyone makes fun out of each other, and so you get used to it, and so you don't worry about it. And I think the Americans (and I'm here to be corrected) would say its up to you to work on yourself to become strong, so that you control your emotions, and you don't let others bother you.

I agree with you on that and that's what i wrote in my first post.

Have you read any government decree or officials announcement demanding respect from expatriates?

None, that I've heard off.

The American Multinational company is payed somehow by The Qatari Government...otherwise they wouldn't be here in the first place

Definitely not for me... that was hypothetical... if you think you got me to admit that Qatar owes me nothing except a salary... you are WRONG

Besides my salary is not paid by Qatar, its paid by an American multinational company

Have your read my post!

Ordinary Qataris don't care about skyscrapers. They haven't build it nor do they own it.

A decade ago it wasn't there...

All those building, housing complexes, malls are owned by the same people (the big 5)

You lived here for 30 years, did you pay taxes, road tolls, parking fees,actual electricity/water bills, etc?

With all due respect,Qatar owes you nothing except your salary...

If Qatar owes me nothing except my salary, then I don't owe respect to Qatar which is what this whole thread is about isn't it...

If Qatar owes me nothing except my salary, then all I owe Qatar is the work that I do... nothing else...

you say that you are concerned with 'outlandish people'

I suggest you go to the corniche... and look at all those concrete skyscrapers... I am sure you feel mighty proud of your country when you look at them...

Now while looking at them... I'd like you to ask yourself one question... how many bricks would have been laid by a Qatari in all those buildings put together?

There is a typical attitude that all Qatari's have, that they are doing expatriates a favour by letting them have work in Qatar...

You need to realize that you need these expatriates here or your country would come to a grinding halt

Expatriates in a lot many other countries get treated much better than here in Qatar...

Like I said earlier, I've lived in Qatar for 30 years. Had I been in almost any other country I would have been offered the local nationality. I can vote, stand for elections, own property freely, social service etc. etc. etc...

But here in Qatar... I am at the mercy of a 'sponsor'

justifying wrongs by saying that this is how things happen in other places as well is just poor logic...

give respect to take respect is a very popular expression in english... not something that I made up...

Trying to turn that around by a silly argument such as who should respect whom first is childish and very typical...

My point is simple, many people here need to learn respect human beings irrespective of their nationality, origin, race etc...

I agree with blackcat.. it should be MUTUAL!

you respect me, i respect you, and otherwise...

http://www.worldvision.org/

I agree that many westerners don't respect the Muslim culture and expect the country to bend to them when they come. How many western women have you seen walking around with their hoochie mama micro mini skirts or skin tight pants and stilletos, completely disregarding that the women around them are covered....a pretty obvious hint you'd think. Westerners know better so shame on them for that. BUT, I have also seen some western women actually wearing abayas and really making an effort to respect Qatar. I really respect those women alot. There is in fact a dress code, but it is not enforced.

I love Qatar for the following beautiful reasons

Security - One of the few places in the world where you can leave your car, ignition on, parked in front of a supermarket, go and shop come back and still find it there....This was few years ago, hope it still works. Never tried it out :)

Good Roads - Much better than roads in our country. Only I should be able to drive through the traffic in my 4X4

Petrol price - We pay roughly 8 times for a litre in our country. Hope we could store some at home but the security wouldn't alow it :)

Loans - We get them so easily and with so less paperwork. Though I still dont think about taking one. :)

People - There are so many nationalities here I think you dont need to watch Olympics opening ceremony, just go to Lulu or City Centre on fridays :)

Saving money - I think even if I had 100,000 Riyals I could spend everything in one day :) but saving money is difficult provided you do the following....

Dont loan your money, Dont take a loan :)

High Living status - We can take an apartment in any posche residency suites(for a loan) and enjoy 99 years RP free :) if you can live that long and someone invents the longevity gene therapy :) , was it already invented? who knows. Lemme wiki

Respect & Recognition - People truly cherish if you are from Qatar. Especially people from my country India if you tell them about Qatar they immediatly say, yes the country which hosted the last Asian games. But they also say, I tried to find a job there but when I checked out from QatarLiving about the prospects, had to back off because of the huge cost of living :(

The plus point is.....there are 400,000 of us here so God bless us and hope we live in harmony and help build Qatar. By the way I am a resident here from the last 25 years and still having a good time paying my loan :)

"Forcing someone to convert to be allowed to marry one of their citizans" DOES NOT call descrimination......

check in the dictionary what does descrimination mean...

excellent points- couldn't agree more

i think it should be mutual,no??

if host does not respect whoever HE HAS INVITED in, how this whoever can respct the host? based on what?

Qatar wants us to come here; to work, having minimum rights (or none of them!) at the same time; and to leave the country. Qatar is BUYING us as slaves, no matter what countries we are from. So, that’s what we do. We state our PRICE, come to get this price paid and leave the country.

Which respect, feelings, sensitivity are you talking about? This is sell-buy market. Qatar set up these rules. Expats are acting accordingly.

"who said globalization and nothing mean culture.. i can say thats american joke,, and its very funny "normal ppl can not believe it" "

I'm the one that spoke about globalization, if you mean that "globalization" doesn't exist, than i advise you to ask anyone with more culture than you about it.

Being considered as an equal on a foreign country is part of the respect. Forcing someone to convert to be allowed to marry one of their citizans can't be considered respect, it's called descrimination.

Only God Can Judge Me

الله فقط يمكنه محاكمتي

I am you and you are me, if you love i love, if you suffer i suffer

أنا أنت, و أنت أنا, إذا أحببت نفسك أحببت نفسي, إذا عانيتَ عانيتُ

honestly when i saw Qatar team at the Olympic opening ceremony i cheered for them...instinctly thats more than respect i think.

but for sure any individual who will not respect me and my country neither will i respect him/her.

[img_assist|nid=21401|title=Adjust, Adopt & Overcome|desc=|link=none|align=left|width=180|height=135]

ClimbHigh,,,

only what u are looking in this life is HOW TO ENJOY IT,,, but as i said you have to respect others,,, i believe in god, in morals, in many many things maybe u r not agree with me about it, but in last you have to respect that...

u can stay at ur home and wear whatever u want, do whatever u like,,

u said u r saw qataries who r not civilization and through trash from cars (that what i understand) we all admit ppl here are learning and that what i talk about it,, u r American and you can bring ur civilization here...

but sorry to say that all what we learned from americans is Macdonald, and KFC. thats bcoz u r not free to sharing the poor society. u didnt think how you can make change in positive way in this point of land (Qatar). bcoz u think life is only (short).

happy to see your nice comment canadiangoldygirl and im totally agree with you,,

i wish u spend the happiest time in Qatar, with all ur family and friends :)

mr hashin i think the cases which you talked about can be to anyone, non qataries or qataries, its depend on the person morals,,, do u think as u said all immigration staff are acting the same?

i feel sad about ppl who said "let ppl respect us after that we will respect others" bcoz someone who doent had the respectives inside him cant have it, even ppl respect him or not... im talking about respect the culture of country im not talking about the person or guy who not respect others,,,

for sure who not respect me, i will not respect him.. but for sure i have to respect his family his country his relegion, his culture,, even if i am from other world.

who said globalization and nothing mean culture.. i can say thats american joke,, and its very funny "normal ppl can not believe it"

This is happening not only in Qatar but in other places that brings in people on work basis, their main focus would be earning and saving plus there is no facilities for Orientation. The Pre departure orientation of workers from their country of origin includes Culture and Tradition of the country. Their circumstances will not allow them to integrate socially with the locals.

It is not the same for people who goes to another country on Immigration or relocation wherein their mind is set that the new country will be their home permanently. Tourist who goes to a country would try and absorb as much of the culture and meet the locals.

I am sure that one way or another, people will have a respect for QATAR and the QATARIS simply as it is giving them their daily bread and there are a lot of people we know that think of Qatar as their home.

Its a matter of respecting other people no matter what his race,religion,culture,work etc....very simple..if u want to be respected also.

Dezigner: Qataris will follow the rest of the world on the costumes soon because this is a globalized world and the internet is making us all to live nearer each others, so we all need to find a middle term on cultural/religous matters.

Only God Can Judge Me

الله فقط يمكنه محاكمتي

I am you and you are me, if you love i love, if you suffer i suffer

أنا أنت, و أنت أنا, إذا أحببت نفسك أحببت نفسي, إذا عانيتَ عانيتُ

"

dezigner said some of foreign ppl not ...

some of foreign ppl not respct country by do things against culture and religion like drinks outside, wearing bad clothes (short, naked). and so on "

Dezigner: From which hole did you come out?

If only 15% of the population is Qatari, are you sure that the police can keep you safe, if foreigners were that bad?

I don't live in Qatar so all i can speack about is Morrocco, i enjoyed the country respected the costumes except the part of kissing my girl in the lips, at Rabat zoo, only fealt kinda shocked when they told me that if i don't convert to marry her, she's considered single, this is just an example how religion and politics should be apart, at Portugal, if you marry on civil registration, you are married everywhere without depending from your/our religion.

Only God Can Judge Me

الله فقط يمكنه محاكمتي

I am you and you are me, if you love i love, if you suffer i suffer

أنا أنت, و أنت أنا, إذا أحببت نفسك أحببت نفسي, إذا عانيتَ عانيتُ

Im here :) .. i will reply on ur comments guys but give time to breath, its difficult for me to understand and write in english since my educated english only within Qatary skools :$..

thanks nadt as u said "Actually i find expatriates are very respectful of Qatari culture, you might get a few that arent but you wil also get a few from Qatari culture that arent respectful"

and that all what we are looking for, also we have responsibility as a Qataries we have to printout and distribute our culture regulations and suggestion to all kind of expatriates, through the media, internet, newspaper, Tv, brochures and anywhere, and this step honestly not started yet..

My husband and I are here to do the work that Qataris SHOULD be doing- that's what I feel. I understand that Qataries can't do everthing but the jobs they are in they should be doing properly - MOST of the them don't seem to do much at work ( of course you have the exception)

I like the environment and the religious side of it which is really the reason why my family is here. The money was secondary since I had a business and my husband had a good job back in the UK. Qatar wants us here to work and build Qatar - unlike some people we have to work to get PAID !

Qataries are muslims but they don't practice their religion with regards to equality and rights that others have whatever their nationality or job (this include labourers and Indians). Even amongst themselves they have a kind of CASTE system where if you belong to a different family you are better - very similar to the HINDU CASTE system. This is all unIslamic. We are all human and made of the same stuff whatever our colour and nationality - the only thing that differentiates is our beliefs.

I pray Qatar becomes a good society respecting others and respecting themselves by not importing cultures from the West or the East but having their own identity which currently they seem to be losing.

Abu Mr P Genesis

Well said.

I really like Qatar and I am very grateful for my job and my life here

Gentlemen... you have all made valid points....

respect is a two way street...

where is Mr.Designer....never heard from him..?

I LOVE QATAR

I LOVE QATAR

I LOVE QATAR

I LOVE QATAR

I LOVE QATAR

I LOVE QATAR

I LOVE QATAR

I LOVE QATAR

I LOVE QATAR, THAT IS REAL LOVE!!!!!!!!!

BCOZ...!

MOST PEACEFUL, FRIENDLY PLACE.

AND QATAR IS GIVING ME EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!!!!

Respect comes from Mutual respect. I have been here only three weeks and I like Qatar. I respect the customs of the Qatari people and do not expect the Qatari people to respect me because I am in their country,but, if you want my respect as a person, you must show respect for me. I was invited here to manage a business, so the way I see it, I was needed here. This is the same for all expatriots,we are needed here to make this country grow. We do respect this country, but we are all here to make a living.

if the western ppl proud that they are more civilization than qataries or other why we dont see any effect from them, they only come to have a $$$ and left !!

Westerner’s don’t claim to be more civilized, that’s not the issue. We are appalled and disgusted of the treatment of others and yes many of us try to help out as much as possible. We have westerners helping out at the labour camps, westerners running an animal shelter for all the poor and mistreated animals etc etc. Maybe if you left the mall now and then you might realize that yes westerners do try to help.

Please answer this next question honestly. What else would people come to live in Doha for if it wasn’t for money? Why does anyone anywhere move countries? It’s not like foreigners are living in Doha, doing no work and living off the locals. WE ALL work hard for that money – do you really suggest we all leave if we are only here for the money? Yes we leave in the end - it's a thing called family and a life back home that we want to go back to.

Why don’t you have a little more appreciation for the foreigners living in Qatar and think where you would be if it wasn’t for them.

You want respect, bloody well earn it !!

You mention about expats not respecting yer customs, come to Bahrain at the weekends, and see yer fellow countrymen racing around the (already crowded) roads. Watch them hang around malls, leering at women like they are pieces of meat.

See them in various bars and clubs, getting totally pi$$ed out of their tiny heads on alcohol, whilst visiting " Ladies" for pleasure, whilst at the same time, cursing the " West" for its so called immoral values.Cursing alcohol as the mother of all sins.

Maybe yer should take a look around at yer fellow Qataris, and yer will see life isnt as rosy as yer think it is !

[img_assist|nid=103941|title=.|desc=|link=none|align=left|width=|height=0]

NIL ILLEGITIMI CARBORUNDUM

A wise guy once said "If u want to see the change in world, make a change in yourself first", the rules are made for everyone in the world who comes to this country, exept for the Qataris, they have the wasta.

--------

Norton Anti-virus cant keep draculas and T-viruses away, "G-lik" can ;), get yours today :D.

I noticed many of ppl here are not respect local qataries or even they not respect the country,, they come here without have an idea about our culture and religion. and all what they think about is how much salary they will take.

We as a Qataries feel worried about the thousands of outlandish ppl and we try to pe open with others but if they respect our culture and our land.

what do u think .. ?

some of foreign ppl not respct country by do things against culture and religion like drinks outside, wearing bad clothes (short, naked). and so on

This is the part I don’t understand. You and so many get so offended by these things, which is fine as we all disprove of different things, but I never see posts by Qatari’s that are offended by the trafficking that occurs in Qatar and the appalling state of human rights. Instead of critising the people that make this country function why not thank them for all their hard work?

To be fair I’ve rarely seen ex-pats disrespect Qatar, and as someone said, how can you judge others respect for Qatar when you litter your own country and don’t even respect it yourself?

About being open with others, I’ve never been to a country like Qatar where I see quite the opposite – which is fine but don’t make out as if the locals are open and warm with everyone.

The other point I wanted to make is do you think that ALL Qatari’s respect other countries when visiting? I don’t think so and will give you a few examples.

1.Malaysia – Qatari’s walk into a pharmacy, interrupt the sale that was going on and insisted on being served. We are Qatari's they said. The shop assistant served the Qatari’s first and when I asked him why he did that, he said to keep peace, we are used to this sort of behaviour, that’s why we don’t like Gulf Arabs.

2. Sri Lanka – Taxis drivers everywhere told me stories about Qatari’s disrespecting their country and said they are very bad people - we don’t want them here.

3. Yemen – Driving from Sana'a to Aden, we came across very rude Qatari’s who treated the country like their own. Littering everywhere, driving at insane speeds.

4. Damascus – Driving around the beautiful area of Bab Touma in their 4x4’s speeding up the alleyways having no respect for the people or the significance of this beautiful place.

6. India – All I heard was, very, very bad people; only care about money and they treat us with disrespect.

In fact I have never heard a positive thing said about Qatari’s outside of Qatar...has anyone else?

The point is you get this EVERYWHERE you go with ALL different nationalities.

So you see you will always get people of different cultures disrespecting other countries – can you come up with the perfect society who have never had foreigners disrespecting another country? This thread is absurd.

I mean all the foreigners can go home and you can always build your own country....oh wait, that would mean having to actually work.

It goes both ways, treat people the way you want to be treated – I don’t see the labour workers getting treated with respect, do you? After all they do build your country, and very few of you – yes very few give a damn.

I love Qatar, too. It's such a nice weather outside:

Homeless’ workers live out in the open

Publish Date: Friday,8 August, 2008, at 01:04 AM Doha Time

By Sarmad Qazi

Despite the oppressive weather these labourers find sleeping in the open a better option than living in the “hell” of labour camp accommodation

A GROUP of construction workers have been sleeping in the open for the past eight months – because it is better than living in the “hell” of labour camp accommodation.

Five men, four from North Africa and a south Asian, were seen bedding down for the night next to an under-construction 7-storey residential building at 11pm in the heart of Doha on Wednesday.

“It is an irony that we build these ‘residential apartments’ and don’t have a roof to sleep under,” said one visibly exhausted worker.

“My company did provide me with accommodation when I landed here in January, but the rooms were overcrowded – 12 in one room – and the food quality was horrendous. We simply decided to live out in the open rather than the hell my company calls accommodation. The decision is solely ours.”

According to the labourer, there are more than 200 Nepalese workers at the company-provided accommodation located in the Industrial Area, as well as the dozens of Muslims from his home country, Egypt.

“How are we supposed to live together with people who have religious and cultural habits, diametrically opposed to ours?” he asked.

“There is a remarkable difference in our bathroom habits, food tastes and living style, all of which we were forced to share.”

The labourers Gulf Times spoke to work on site from 5am to 1pm. Due to the lack of facilities, they use the local mosque to freshen up and dinner is “one chicken with a lot of gravy and bread” paid for by the five of them chipping in.

“We have also made a makeshift bathroom onsite, while our clothes and ‘bedding’ gets bundled up every morning and tucked into a brick-made storage space,” the worker explained.

Despite making the best of their environment, the labourers admit they often spend a torturous night struggling to get to sleep on old, worn mattresses and pillows – and in the midst of the summer humidity even breathing becomes an act of great difficulty.

The labourer added: “The winters are tolerable in the open, but now half the night is wasted scratching my skin due to heat rashes. For most of the time we just pretend to each other that we are sleeping and gaze at the stars.”

The Egyptian said he and his colleagues were not the only labourers these days to spurn camp accommodation for the open skies, and he claimed other workers were sleeping at under-construction sites in Muntazah, Mansoura and Najma.

“We like our Arab-speaking Qatari brothers. It’s the construction firms that maltreat us. Actually that’s an understatement. They treat us like animals. I’m just an employee, a number, to my company,” he said.

‘It is an irony that we build these residential apartments and don’t have a roof to sleep under. My company did provide me with accommodation when I landed here, but the rooms were overcrowded – 12 in one room – and the food quality was horrendous. We simply decided to live out in the open rather than the hell my company calls accommodation’

Goodlookin still up at 6h11 am ?? :P :P lol!!

Let me explain the way i see it... you could definitely look at the bad experiences you have had with those 20 who were rubbish and just try to look at the good Qataris you have met...

I always tried to keep a positive attitude about Doha otherwise you become emo... for example i got really really sad when the police station refused me for my license even if it said they would give it to me two months before hand (age issues) so the dude lied to me... but then you just have to cross out those really depressing moments out and just think about the good stuff... Obviously its the best country in the world, but we are here so we should all stop complain because no one on this site was forced to come here... unless you are part of a 'family decision'...

I agree vips_on. There are good and bad people in every country, every country and culture has there faults.

BUT...it just seems that Qataris belive Qatar is perfect and that I should feel so privallaged to live here....i don't.

Over the last year I have met a lot of good Qataris, but for every good one, i've met 20 who were rubbish.

Wooooooow man... This is generalization... Like in every country there are good and bad people, there are good and bad expatriates, and there are good and bad locals.

You see i reckon the problem is that in contrary to other gulf countries (I.E Oman) the number of expat outweigths the number of locals, so you dont actually have that much contact with the local culture apart from the Land-Cruiser coming flashing you on the highway which, assumably pisses of those who have a hard to adapt to local driving style for example...

The problem is..... Qatar is not great!!! Why do Qataris belive this is such a great country? Do you really belive were all here because of the faboulous lifestyle in Doha?

The Qatari attitude stinks...seriously!!! I have even seen little Qatari girls shout, order, hit and humilate there maids, it must be genetic. How many times have I heard, "this is my country, i go fist" or "I'm Qatari, this is my airline i don't pay excess".

There is 0% crime in Doha.....oh ok! The crime is covered up or not reported. I would not feel safe living in Doha if I was a woman.

There is nothing to do in this place, go shopping every weekend...ummm..well that's it.

Don't get me started on Ramadam! No I don't respect the culture...it just seems like i'm living in 19th Century England, Qatar Airways aircraft are actually time machines!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In 20 years i guess Qatar might have caught up a bit and might be a good place to live, but now...i'd rather take the risk of being stabbed in London then live here.

I'm moving to Qatar next week and I expect to always be conscious of the local people and customs. I am sorry you have experienced any kind of ignorance or disrespect from foreign expatriates but please understand that most do not mean to be either of those things. I am confident that most foreigners are happy to be in Qatar and are thankful that Qatar has been so open and accepting of other countries.

I can only hope that your opinions of foreign workers will change in time and that nobody else will give you reason to be wary or concerned about any kind of 'invasion' of your country.

Problems with landlords are not limited to Qataris only.

You must understand that renting properties is only income to some of the local landlord. Greed & arrogance is not justifiable. However, You must understand that Qataris are also affected by the inflation.

Hypothetical From UK:

"I noticed many people here do not respect local Brits or even respect the country. They come here without having an idea about our culture and religion, and all that they think about is how much salary they will take.

We as a British people feel worried about the thousands of foreigners - we try to be open with others but if they respect our culture and our land, (e.g. Speak English, celebrate Xmas and wear our clothes)

what do u think .. ?"

.........................................................

I don't think I would ever say the above. I don't require immigrants to abandon their culture; I don't require them to speak English. I'm not worried about them making money. I don't need them to wear traditional clothes. There are laws which make it illegal to incite racial hatred. The first half of this comment would be illegal. Openness.

dezigner,please come and meet my qatari friends!

criticism doesn't really come out of respect. Don't we ALL rant about Corruption, caste, delay in infrastructure work,bad driving,road rage,etc.

Expatriates are the real contributors to the developing of our country & we must appreciate that in return.

Alcohol is permitted in Hotels & there is no dress code suggested by Authorities.

I could argue with you that Niqab is not part of our culture, although it's worn by alot of Qatari women

To gain respect, you must also understand & respect other's culture

Give respect to take respect....

You see? this is the root of the problem. Just listen to the original posters mentality along with other similar posts. Pointing fingers etc. I think everyone needs to chill-out and stop thinking about other and casting judgment. People see a problem with wearing shorts here. WHAT DO YOU EXPECT?! its freaking HOT here! You are too up-tight to wear shorts? Where do you learn its a taboo? are my legs too sexy for your wife to look at? Its wonderful to wear shorts! its not my damn problem of your mentality! or some guy wants to walk around with his other race of girl friend?! just mind your own business. its very simple. JUST RELAX LET GO. this after a few generations of all us die out, this country will be totally different in 100 years. so just try to enjoy your short life. getting offended or thinking about it does you no good. If you ask me. One of the most disrespectful things you can do in your OWN COUNTRY is LITTERING. Yet I see it happen all the time. At first I was shocked to see Qataris littering in their own country. But now its such a common site. Throwing trash out of their cars, or walking out of the store, taking the wrapper off then chucking it. I just say... "ah that's the way it is"... oh well... its Qatar, you gotta love it :-)

I love it here, and my friends and co-workers love it here too.

I do see ppl who are not respectful, but these are the people who never last long outside of their own country.

But, most of the people I come in contact with have a high respect and regard for Qatar and Qataris.

We wish we could get to know you better and be better friends.

What has made you post this comment?

Whatever it was, or whoever it was, just try to not let it get to you.

There are many, many people who really love qatar and the local qatari people, who are interested in the country and the culture, and are here for not only the money, but for the experience, and meeting new friends.

Hope that helps you.

It's the disrespectful people who easily grab your attention, but look closely- good people are here, and are many!!

Today morning I was made to wait for half an hour at one of the immigration outlet in the city while the gentlemen attended a phone call and then went out for a cigarette and then went to the restroom.... and what I went there for shouldn't take more than 5 minutes...

Meanwhile he let another chap jump the queue ahead of a lot of other expatriates who had tokens in hand because this particular gentleman was under the sponsorship of the Qatari at the counter...

And this is not a one off incident... I can recount several other incidents...

There are several Qataris who treat me extremely well too... but sadly the bad experiences far outweigh the good ones...

I travel on short business trips to Dubai every other month or so... On one of these trips I happened to meet a Emarati who warmed up to me so much that he offered to drop me off to the airport and he insisted on doing so... and that is really something considering the Dubai traffic... I rate that gesture higher than any positive experience that I've had with a Qatari in my thirty years here...

My Qatari landlord just threw a tantrum last week asking me to vacate his house because I struck five nails on the perimeter walls of my garden... and he did that while blocking my car as I was just about to set off to the airport for my holiday

My old landlord made me vacate my house of 16 years after I had spend a significant amount of money to renovate it... saying that he was going to tear it down... only to give it off to on rent to someone else...

Do you want me to go on?

Today morning I was made to wait for half an hour at one of the immigration outlet in the city while the gentlemen attended a phone call and then went out for a cigarette and then went to the restroom.... and what I went there for shouldn't take more than 5 minutes...

Meanwhile he let another chap jump the queue ahead of a lot of other expatriates who had tokens in hand because this particular gentleman was under the sponsorship of the Qatari at the counter...

And this is not a one off incident... I can recount several other incidents...

There are several Qataris who treat me extremely well too... but sadly the bad experiences far outweigh the good ones...

I travel on short business trips to Dubai every other month or so... On one of these trips I happened to meet a Emarati who warmed up to me so much that he offered to drop me off to the airport and he insisted on doing so... and that is really something considering the Dubai traffic... I rate that gesture higher than any positive experience that I've had with a Qatari in my thirty years here...

My Qatari landlord just threw a tantrum last week asking me to vacate his house because I struck five nails on the perimeter walls of my garden... and he did that while blocking my car as I was just about to set off to the airport for my holiday

My old landlord made me vacate my house of 16 years after I had spend a significant amount of money to renovate it... saying that he was going to tear it down... only to give it off to on rent to someone else...

Do you want me to go on?

Designer...I dont see why peopleh ave to speak Arabic, TBH, i speak Arabic and English and i find it hard communicating in public in general, because most speak netiher...esp in shops etc, personally i think we should learn to speak tag a long...

Actually i find expats are very respectful of Qatari culture, you might get a few that arent but you wil also get a few from Qatari culture that arent respectful, its normal...

if the western ppl proud that they are more civilization than qataries or other why we dont see any effect from them, they only come to have a $$$ and left !!

is that the only thing what we r looking in our life..

this forum is one of chanel for healthy discussion but i think also forigen have to learn arabic and be more share in the public society..

we all love money locals and foreign but in same time we have to have a way to help others without waiting $$$

thanks for all who put lovely messges, Qatar love who love her,, and we as a locals welcomed any body from anywhere.

huyenqatar,,, Im not agree you the only important thing is salary, before i go to any country i have to read and know about ppl there,,, also its good if i try to make a friendship and relationship with locals,,,

but i noticed from some off ppl silly ideas, they look on the empty of cup and think they are all foolhardy !!

do u think foreign ppl come to qatar to be guards and police and that's why i can sleep in peace every nite, looool !! (i dont know what the relationship between the respect and sleeping at nite)

some of foreign ppl not respct country by do things against culture and religion like drinks outside, wearing bad clothes (short, naked). and so on

We all LOVE QATAR. KULUNA QATAR :)

Ramadan on its Way.......:)

there may be some but i know most of the people residing here specially those who brings their families certainly love Qatar...

There r ppl who dont respect ..I agree.

But dont u know there are also people who r not Qataris but love Qatar as much as u do?

Ramadan on its Way.......:)

thats not true. who told you that?

i'm working here so i respect qatar.

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