If you both are not Qatari nationals how can you get a divorce in Qatar? I mean in that case the law of your country applies for the divorce, doesn't it?
But one thing is right: be happy you can keep the children. I was told about a case when a Qatari died and his wife (foreigner) was told by his family the children don't belong to her, she can go back home but without the kids. What kinda sick rule is this???
If your ex is a Qatari he must have more than that. Playing on the feelings of his family might backfire - what if they decide they want to keep the kids? Playing with his reputation could either get you what you want or bring you in even more troubles. I don't really think talking to him leads anywhere. Anyway, if you fight against a local ex your chances are not high...
Irrysa, you're right, in Europe we have a better system. Fathers have to pay no matter what. If they don't, it's deducted from their salaries. If they resign their driving license is gone and it's deducted from their social support. In certain cases they even have to pay for their ex-wife. But here... women aren't worth a dime, really. They don't inherit a fair share, their word is worth half of a man's word at court, they can lose their children in case of divorce easily. Not sure how much a prenuptial contract would help as they could say it's against their legal system thus it's not valid. It's just the same with marriage documents issued in Qatar - invalid in my country. I don't really believe there is a fair win situation for a woman here even though I wish it from the bottom of my heart...