Alcohol Purchase and Consumption
General Information
The religion of Islam plays a strong role in the Qatari way of life. Extra care must be taken to respect this way of life, especially when it comes to the consumption of alcohol.
The importation and consumption of alcohol is strictly regulated. While alcohol will be available in most hotel restaurants and bars, you will need to obtain a liquor permit in order to purchase alcohol for consumption in your home.
Alcohol Sale and Liquor Permits
You may purchase alcohol for home consumption in only one place in Qatar: the Qatar Distribution Company (QDC). You need a permit to purchase alcohol from the QDC. Permits are available on-site at the QDC.
The QDC (469-9412) is open from 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Saturday through Thursdays. It is closed on Friday and during the month of Ramadan. Only the card holder can enter, and no children are allowed. The QDC offers an extensive selection of wine, beer, and spirits from all over the world. You will be required to show your permit in order to get into the parking lot. See the satellite map for QDC.
In general, you must have a residency permit in order to apply for a liquor permit. However, this requirement may be waived if you have an authorized letter from your employer (Georgetown) confirming your position, salary, marital status, etc. Upon request, Georgetown Human Resources will provide you with this letter.
In addition to the letter, you must complete a liquor permit application and pay a QR1,000 refundable cash deposit at the time you apply for the liquor permit.
Other Considerations
- There is zero tolerance for drunken behavior or driving a car under the influence of alcohol, even a small amount. Severe penalties can include fines, imprisonment, or deportation.
- It is illegal to gift, sell, or exchange alcohol.
- Liquor purchased through the QDC must be taken directly home and should be kept concealed while driving
- Special caution should be exercised when driving home after dinner or a party - designated drivers are strongly recommended.
Quick Links
Events Calendar
Upcoming SFS-Qatar Events
- Nov 10, 6pm-7:30pm: Monthly Dialogue: John Crist
- Nov 17, 5pm: Faculty Film - The Last Wave
- Dec 1, 5:30pm: Faculty Film Series
SFS-Qatar News
- SFS Dean Discusses Changing Face of International Relations
More than 300 people gathered at the Four Seasons on Monday evening to listen to Georgetown professor Carol Lancaster discuss the “new world order” in international relations, and how this will impact the balance of wealth and power in the coming years. (October 14, 2009) - Georgetown Welcomes the Class of 2013
On Thursday, August 20, the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar (SFS-Qatar) officially welcomed the Class of 2013 into the university during its New Student Convocation ceremony. (August 25, 2009) - Summer Camp Makes Global Knowledge Local
This July, teenagers from Qatar's 16 local schools participated in Planet Georgetown, an internationally-themed summer camp. (August 01, 2009)
