PURCHASING ALCOHOL IN QATAR....

25°17'12N 51°31'60E   T. 34°- 39 °C

Yesterday Francesco and I finally got the Liquor Permit so that we can buy alcohol "legally" from now on... Not that we are addicted but, you know, it's good to have one or 2 bottles of wine to share with friends (especially before Ramadan begins..) !!
However the law concerning the purchase of liquors and similar is very very strict...and sometimes a bit weird....don't you believe me? Just read here below...

The only licensed shop you can buy alcohol at is the Qatar Distribution Company (QDC). They have only two shops in the country, one of which is in Doha. Nevertheless, the Doha branch, though hidden away in a dusty corner of the city (next to the Department of Islamic Affairs!), is good. There is a large range of alcohol, though it is slightly weak on beer, the shop is large and cool and the staff extremely helpful. Prices do vary, but in general expect wine and beer to be a lot more expensive than the equivalent in Europe (actually 20 euros average for a bottle of an unknown Prosecco is a bit too much...expecially considering that the fuel full for a Nissan Qashqai is only 12 euros!!!).
Anyway, to buy alcohol, you will need an alcohol permit, which can be obtained at the QDC but, paradoxically, you need to show it before entering the shop! You can also purchase alcohol (to drink on the premises) from the hotels in the city or in several restaurants (mostly at The Pearl).
To obtain an alcohol permit you need a letter from your employer written in English. (An Arabic letter accompanied by a stamped translation is usually also acceptable). This must be signed and stamped by an authorised person in your company and be addressed to the Qatar Distribution Company. It must state the applicant's position, basic salary (must be above 4000 riyals or 1100 dollars, and the letter must use the word basic), state if an accommodation entitlement is received or if the applicant receives free accommodation and whether the applicant is married. It does not usually have to state that the applicant has permission for an alcohol permit.

The applicant must also provide their passport and residence permit (photocopies are acceptable) and a 1000 riyal (275 dollar) returnable deposit. You also have to complete an application form, and state your religion.
After alcohol has been bought it should be concealed from view in the car. It should be transported home directly and may only be drunk at home or in a licenced bar or restaurant. You may not sell or give away alcohol, or drink while inebriated. It is illegal either to be drunk in a public place or, even worse, while driving a car.

Law is law but we have the permit so now let's show our American  next-door neighbours how the Italian Spritz is made of!!!! ;-))



Whatever open-hearth.