Time
Qatar local time is GMT + 3 hours.

Public Holidays
Friday is the Muslim day of rest and all offices and most large shops are closed. The major holidays observed in Qatar are as follows:
Eid Al Fitr 3 days holiday
Eid Al Adha 3 days holiday
National Day 1 day holiday (18 December)

Religion
Islam is the official religion arid the Islamic Sharia is the principal source of legislation in the country.

Language
Arabic is the official language, although English is widely understood and spoken. Official correspondence and the laws and regulations are published in Arabic

Electricity
Electric power is 240/220 volts, 50 cycles A/C.

Utilities
Utilities in Qatar are generally subsidized. Water, electricity and petrol are inexpensive; some basic foods are subsidized; local telephone calls are free.

Tax
There is no income tax payable on wages, and there is no property or municipal taxes; government housing is available in certain cases to Qatari nationals at nominal rent.

Food
Most foods and goods are imported into Qatar. The country is, however, self-sufficient in fish, and also produces some of its own vegetables, dairy and farm products.

Shopping
World-class shopping malls featuring outlets of luxury goods and renowned brands are opening up to cater to the needs of a variety of economic classes. There are also excellent supermarkets in almost all residential neighborhoods.