I have recently arrived in Qatar and I am involved in Property Management. This is my 4th GCC country that I have lived in but by far the most bureaucratic. However that being said the Real Estate sector needs regulating as is the case in the UAE, Bahrain etc. yes and adding a bit more bureaucracy into the mix.

I had dealings with Al Asmakh during my search for accommodation and found them totally incompetent. I have since found a good property with Al Emadi who's customer service levels outstrip many of the competitors.

For those of us not willing to pay the exhorbitent prices in the Pearl and Westbay we have to make do with the the more unscrupulous agents around who just want to make a fast buck at our expense.

When agreeing your contract make sure normal wear and tear is included and if charges are to be made for the repair of walls after picture/shelf/ curtain hanging etc then these should be agreed in advance. As for a loose screw in the furniture then these guys are out and out cowboys.

So always read the contract in detail and address any concerns about vacating in the future before you sign.