alinux, I hear you. I see the exit permit as futile as it sounds, because it fails to abort theft, embezzlements, unpaid large loans ..etc.

I disagree with your 2nd point, I ARGUED for 2 things when I arrived in Qatar for work, my passport stays with me and an annual exit permit, I was granted both, although the second request is not the norm in my firm.

Don't take "abuse" for granted. Ask!

All the best.
Salaam