The cynic is me thinks that the issue simply boils down to an increase in the number of locals who are now drinking. A few years ago there was the odd national in a bar or restaurant drinking discreetly. Now you see them en masse in every bar and restaurant freely enjoying beer and wine and whatever else they can get their hands on.

I don't think the issue of whether this creates a welcoming environment for expats or will make property at The Pearl more or less attractive has anything to do with it. Qataris are getting tired of seeing other Qataris drunk.

Cast your mind back to the last high profile place to have alcohol pulled - Amigos - and why.