Racism towards Asians in Qatar

Hi Kand,

You are correct in saying that your expenses will depend on how you choose to live. Renting a two-bedroom place will cost QAR 5,000 per month. If it just the two of you I think a salary on QAR 30,000 should be OK. To get a better idea about living expenses in Qatar, please read our Cost of Living in Qatar page.  

Compounds are types of gated communities that you find in the Middle East. Compounds tend to be full of expats and the rules tend to be a lot less stringent that the would be outside on the streets of Qatar. In a Western Compound you might feel more comfortable wearing western clothes and restrictions on the consumption of alchol will be a little more relaxed. Our pages on Accommodation in Qatar and Areas and Suburbs of Qatar should be useful to you.  

Racism should not be too much of a problem in Qatar. Qatar has a large expat population and is therefore pretty cosmopolitan. As long as you dress modestly, and respect local Islamic customs you shouldn't experience any problems from the locals. Take a look at the Culture Shock in Qatar to educate yourself on the nuances on Qatari culture. 

Hope this information helps and good luck in Qatar.

Thank you shantalie, So our asian back ground and appearance should not be a concern? We are both born and raised in australia

Hi Kand, 

I don't think it will be too much of an issue. Obviously, you might get the odd person here and there who isn't too fond of expats but I don't think your ethnic background will prevent you from progressing in the work place and getting along safely in Qatar. 

Living in a Western compound will certainl help you settle in faster. You'll be surrounded by other expats and have extra security if thats a concern for you.

Best of luck,

Shantalie 



 

Kand, I lived in Qatar for 30 years. Please be advised that if your husband looks chinese and walked alone anywhere, chances are very high that he will be harrassed. When he goes to renew his (and your) visa at immigration, he will be humiliated and singled out while all westerners (caucasians) will be given preferential treatment. But apart from all of that, he will not be able to leave the country until his employer allows him to leave (and provides it in writing).

Wow... Thank you so much. That's unfortunate...

Hi. If you said its US $30,000, then its a huge amount. You can get a good villa/house(3 BHK) in a good gated community within $3250. There is some racism, but not too much to be worried. I'm also staying here since 8 years. Also, an additional $3000 would cover you all your expenses like Car Loan, Monthly Groceries and Miscellaneous. You can live like a King with $30000 in Qatar. Actually, you can save at least $20,000 easily even if you spend lavishly.

hi everybody i m planning to move to qatar from London, with 5 years exp in marketing specialty CRM how much can i expect. thank you Rosh, London

Hi Anonymous,

Racism isn't a major problem in Qatar and with quite a large expat community, the locals are used to seeing people from all over the world. However, it is important to note that while Qatar is not as conservative as some of its counterparts, it is still an Islamic country and public displays of affection will be frowned upon in some circles.

Good luck

Shantalie