Rationing in Qatar

I think any Qatari national can receive the cards to buy the subsidised foods. Obviously some of them do not need a subsidy (or are embarassed to use them) and give the cards away to their drivers or others, who may sell them instead of using them. These are the cards that sometimes end up in the wrong hands.

Perhaps all Qatari's receive ration items?

I wonder what's the household income of a "poor family" here in Doha?

It would be quite interesting to know especially if you juxtapose this figure to what a labourer receives.

I also read from the papers a few weeks ago that Qatar Charity plans to replace the ration coupons with credit cards so that those receiving welfare benefits from the government will not be subject to embarassing questions from storekeepers where ration cards are accepted.

I don't know of many countries where 'poverty level' would include people who employ domestic help.

I guess some countries have a greater sense of self-reliance, and others demand more assistance, both domestically and from the state.

Things like this make it less and less surprising that the government in Qatar is having such problems balancing its budget.

Fubar..genuine doubt..lol

I dunno if its true... I even heard some people sell their ration items through their maids and drivers to other expats.... if that’s the case...who is guilty?

I suppose its all relative. What the government deems "poverty level" for locals may not be in line with our perception.

It is also possible, that those provided ration cards are the infirm, elderly or others who may not be able to drive themselves.