Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Qatar is an Islamic country with conservative social norms. Dress should be modest, respectful, and not revealing. Not as strict as Saudi Arabia, but standards apply in public.
| Garment | Description | When/Where |
|---|---|---|
| Abaya | Long, loose black cloak over clothes | Traditional; still common, but not legally required for non-Qataris |
| Shayla | Headscarf covering hair/neck | Often with abaya; optional for expats |
| Khimar | Longer cape-style headscarf | More coverage |
| Niqab | Face veil (eyes visible) | Personal/religious choice |
| Western modest | Long sleeves, long skirts/pants, no cleavage | Acceptable in malls, workplaces, most public |
| Garment | Description | When/Where |
|---|---|---|
| Thobe (Dishdasha) | Ankle-length white (or colored) robe | National dress; daily wear for Qatari men |
| Ghutra / Keffiyeh | Head cloth (white or red-check) + agal (black cord) | With thobe |
| Bisht | Gold/black trimmed cloak over thobe | Formal, official, winter |
| Western business | Suit, or trousers + collared shirt | Standard for expats in offices |
| Casual | Long shorts (knee), polo/T-shirt | Malls, compounds, beaches — not government buildings |
Cover shoulders to knees (both genders). Avoid tight, sheer, low-cut, or offensive slogans. When in doubt, err modest. Qatari nationals wear traditional dress daily; expats adapt.