Current Time in Qatar
Qatari culture regarding time
Qatari culture regarding time
Flexible attitude toward time
In Qatar, it is not uncommon to be a little late for an appointment, and especially with close relationships, people tend to value human relationships and the atmosphere rather than strictly adhering to time.
Prayer times affect daily life
In Qatar, where the Muslim majority resides, five prayer times a day form the rhythm of daily life. Shop opening hours and schedules are also designed with prayer times in mind.
Daytime activities are low, nighttime activities are active
Due to the heat of summer and religious customs, daytime activities tend to be kept to a minimum and become more active in the evening and at night. This tendency is particularly noticeable during Ramadan.
Qatari values regarding time
Emphasis on sociability and flexibility
Conversations with people and situations while serving customers take priority, so people may be late for their next appointment. This is based on the cultural value that "caring for people takes precedence over time."
Punctuality is becoming more prevalent in business
Government agencies and foreign-affiliated companies use time management in line with international standards. In particular, in business situations, there is an expectation of starting on time, and being late can be considered rude.
The sense of time implied in "Insha'Allah"
There is a culture of using the expression "Insha'Allah (God willing)" when talking about plans, which reflects a flexible view of time in which future plans are uncertain.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or relocating to Qatar
Appointment times are just a guide
In informal gatherings, arriving a little later than the appointed time is not considered a problem. However, in business situations, it is important to be on time, and you need to respond differently depending on the person you are meeting.
Administrative procedures and public services are punctual
Public institutions such as government offices and banks often have strict business hours and appointment times, so it is safe to act early. They may be temporarily suspended, especially during Friday prayer times.
The sense of time changes dramatically during Ramadan
Daytime activities are more subdued during Ramadan, and the city may remain lively until late at night. Business hours and traffic conditions are also different from normal, so it is important to check in advance.
Interesting trivia about time in Qatar
Iftar during Ramadan determines the time
Iftar (the meal to break the fast), which takes place after sunset, begins at a fixed time every day, and many people watch their watches as they wait for that moment. It is a culture in which religion and time are closely linked.
Don't be surprised if the wait at the airport is long
In Qatar, procedures and transportation at the airport can take time, but passengers tend to accept this as a given and not get too annoyed.
Public transport times are only a guide
Public transport such as buses often run late, even though they have a timetable, and local people are used to "waiting," so you can sense the relaxed culture regarding time.