No workers have died on World Cup projects, says Qatar

Tue, May 13 12:13 PM EDT By Mike Collett SWEIMEH Jordan (Reuters) - No construction workers have been killed working on a 2022 World Cup project site, Nasser Al Khater, the media and marketing director of the Qatar organizing committee, said on Tuesday. Reports of the deaths of immigrant workers in the Gulf State have made global headlines for the last year since a report in Britain's Guardian newspaper, but Al Khater, delivering an update on progress for the finals in eight years' time, sought to put the figures into perspective. Speaking to delegates at the Soccerex Asian Forum by the banks of the Dead Sea, Al Khater addressed the issues of workers rights under the kafala (tied employment) system used in the country. "Contrary to what the international media says there has not been a single injury or death on the World Cup projects," he said. "It's not possible to have 400 deaths when you are still digging a hole in the ground so I would like to make sure this matter is put to rest. "However, we have taken the issue of workers welfare very seriously and made sure that the highest standards in terms of workers welfare are stated in all our contracts. "We have always said the World Cup is a catalyst for change and we welcome the spotlight this issue has brought." Hundreds of construction workers have died in Qatar on non-World Cup projects, but moves are underway to implement major safety changes throughout the country's construction industry. Al Khater said that only one World Cup stadium was currently under construction and that five would get under way by the end of this year. He said that "important announcements" would soon be made on the issue of workers' welfare, adding that no firm decisions had yet been made over cutting the number of World Cup stadiums from 12 to eight. He said this decision would be taken next year and hinted that due to the size of the country, only eight might be used and not 12. FIFA's rules are that eight is the minimum number for a World Cup. "There has been a lot of speculation that Qatar has minimized the number of stadiums and some have said it's because of budget cuts," Al Khater said. "That’s not true. "Given the size of the country, while we propose 12 stadiums, eight are in final preparation. Of those eight, five will be in different phases of construction by end of this year, with the remaining three announced after 2014. "Then, in 2015 we will decide alongside FIFA how many stadia Qatar really needs. "We will make sure that the World Cup will represent the Middle East - and that when we welcome the fans they get a taste of the culture and understand that the Middle East is not what is being perceived right now." ===================================== HOMENEWS QatarMiddle EastInternationalIndiaPakistan/AfghanistanPhilippinesAsiaBUSINESS QatarGCCMiddle EastInternationalStock MarketLIFESTYLE TechfileMotoringFoodcourtFeature, Movies & BooksCultureHealth & WellnessSPORTS QatarFootballFormula OneMotoGPGolfTennisNBANHLNFLAthleticsRugbyVIEWS EditorialEditor-in-chief ColumnsPolitical ViewsBusiness ViewsLetters to the editorSPECIAL PAGES IslamLawRamadan ThoughtsCARTOONS PoliticsBusinessPLUS CoverCommunityCampusFeatureBusinessMarketARCHIVE Quick Links Qatar Middle East International India Pakistan / Afghanistan Philippines Asia Sponsorship rules being reviewed May 08, 2014 - 3:46:18 am The Assistant Foreign Minister for International Cooperation H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdurrahman bin Jassim Al Thani heading Qatar’s delegation to the Universal Periodical Review meeting of the United Nations Human Rights Commission in Geneva yesterday. DOHA: Qatar is conducting a comprehensive review of rules concerning sponsorship, exit and residency permits for foreign workers. The idea is to match international best practices in human rights protection. This was revealed by Qatar’s Assistant Foreign Minister for International Cooperation at a key human rights meeting in Geneva yesterday. H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani told the meeting that Qatar was also studying means to organise the working hours and rights of domestic workers. He said an extensive review of the labour law and procedures and policies with regard to labour rights protection was being carried out in accordance with international standards. The Assistant Minister, as head of the Qatari delegation to the UN Human Rights meeting, said different laws concerning human rights were also being improved. He said an international consultancy had been mandated to review all laws and procedures that relate to foreign workers and compare them with the best practices worldwide and make suggestions for improvement. The idea is to improve these laws and systems and in effect improve the lives and working environment of expatriate workers in the country. The consultancy, according to the Assistant Minister, submitted its report on April 30 this year. Copies of the report have been forwarded to agencies concerned in the country so that they review the report as per their area of specialisation. All these agencies will be coordinating their efforts and coming up with an integrated approach so that recommendations can be implemented. “An announcement will be made very soon regarding that report,” the Assistant Minister told the Geneva meeting. He said Qatar deals positively and openly with all comments and suggestions given to it regarding hosting the 2022 World Cup. Qatar hosting this big event would be a great incentive for the Qatari government to fulfil all requirements contributing to the success of the event, Qatar News Agency (QNA) reported yesterday. Meanwhile, in a report submitted to the Geneva meeting (Universal Periodical Review of the UN Human Rights Commission where human rights situation of member countries is discussed), Qatar’s National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) called for a suitable alternative to the sponsorship law. An alternative is needed to the sponsorship system to protect the rights of both foreign workers and their employers, said the rights body. It also called for raising the wages of labourers and improving labour camps. The Peninsula ============================================= Sign in with d F T G Sign up for Disqus or pick a name ?Disqus is a conversation networkDisqus never moderates or censors. The rules on this community are its own.Your email is safe with us. It's only used for moderation and optional notifications.Don't be a jerk or do anything illegal. Everything is easier that way.Read full terms and conditions I'd rather post as guest →→ Be the first to comment. − + ⚑Ahmed • 6 days agoQATAR IS UNDER THE ABLE LEADERSHIP OF DYNAMIC MINISTERS AND IT WILL SHOW COUNTRYS PROGRESS AND PROSPEROUS IN FUTURE. THE REAL PROBLEM IS NOT THE SPONSORS.THE MEDIATORS BETWEEN ORIGINAL QATAR CITIZENS ,MANGERS/PARTNERS/DIRECTORS WHO HAVE DIRECT BENEFIT FROM BUSINESS PROFIT.THESE MANAGERS MISLEAD/HIDE THE VIOLATIONS OF LAW AGAINST WORKERS,FROM SPONSORS. THESE MEDIATORS/MANAGERS MAKE MAXIMUM BENEFITS AFTER MISUSING THE GOOD WILL OF QATARI CITIZENS AND BLUFFING THEM. IT IS A COCCUS INVOLVING MANAGERS/DIRECTORS/ACCOUNTANTS WHO ARE IN THE ADMIN PANEL.THEY WILL NEVER EVER ALLOW ANY OTHER STAFF TO BE IN TOUCH WITH ORIGINAL QATARI CITIZEN. THESE PARTNERS ARE AFRAID OF ,SPECIALLY THE ACCOUNTANT,CONVEYING THE FRAUD ACTIVITIES HAPPENING IN THE GROUP TO SPONSOR. THESE SO CALLED MANGERS/POWER OF ATTORNEYS/DIRECTORS USED TO TRANSFER FUNDS IN MILLIONS ACCOUNTED AS EXPENSES. TRULY SPEAKING THESE PARTNERS/MANAGERS WHO HAVE SIGNING AUTHORITY MUST BE UNDER THE EXIT PERMIT LAW SINCE MORE POSSIBILITIES TO CHEAT THE CITIZENS. EVEN THERE WERE SITUATIONS WHERE THESE MANAGERS SHOUTED ARROGANTLY THAT THEY ARE ABOVE LAW AND WHATEVER THEY WISH BE WORKED OUT. EVEN IF SALARY DELAYED,CUTS IN SALARY NO EMPLOYEES WERE DARE TO CLARIFY WITH HR.IF SO,THEIR NAME WOULD BE NOTED AND FURTHER ANY HELP FROM MANAGEMENT USED TO BE DENIED TO SUCH WORKERS. ONE FAMOUS HEALTHCARE GROUP POLICY IS AS BELOW- IF ANYONE NEED ONE DAY LEAVE ,THEY ARE FORCED TO TAKE LEAVE FOR ONE WEEK CONTINUOUSLY.SATURDAY ONLY WORKERS ARE ALLOWED TO JOIN.FRIDAY ONLY THEY ARE ALLOWED TO TRAVEL. THE LEAST BASIC SALARY IS FIXED FOR WORKERS.DOCTORS ARE WORKING LIKE LABORS WHO ARE SUPPOSED TO TAKE CARE OF HUMAN BEINGS HEALTH ARE WORKING UNDER STRESS.HEARD CURSING THE MANAGEMENT THESE NEW CHANGES,IF HAPPENS,WILL GIVE A HOPE TO THE WORKERS AND DEFINITELY EXPATRIATE WORKERS WILL WORK HARD WITH QATAR TO MAKE FIFA 2022 A MARVELOUS EXPERIENCE. FOR MANY EXPATRIATE QATAR GAVE PROSPERITY. JUST BECAUSE OF SOME FRAUD MANGERS/DIRECTORS,QATAR SHOULD NOT GET A BAD NAME. ENFORCEMENT OF THESE CHANGES WILL GIVE SUCH PEOPLE TO RESPECT THE LAW OF QATAR. see more 4 △▽You must sign in to down-vote this post. • Ahmed • 6 days agoYES BROTHER YOUR POINT IS VERY CLEAR AND ALL TRUE.I CAN CONFIDENTLY SAY THAT THOSE SO CALLED 'MANAGERS'MAJORITY OF THEM ARE KERELAS WHO MAKE SURE THAT THE COMPLAINTS OF THE WORKERS DONT REACH THERE SENIOR[qataris].THE KNOW VERY WELL THAT EVEN THE POSITION OF BEEN A 'MANAGER'HE OR SHE IS NOT QUALIFIED TO HOLD SO ANY COMPLAINTS ARE DANGEROUS ACCORDING TO THEM. see more 5 △▽You must sign in to down-vote this post. • RASHID • 6 days ago"KERELAS" all of them! specially DKB! =================== The rich of the Gulf Author: Khalid Al Jaber May 08, 2014 - 4:39:58 am What is the image of the wealthy elite of the Gulf internationally? What positive role do they play in bringing change to their communities and in the development of their countries? The fact is that their image is poor in the Arab as well as Western media, going by some reports about them. The World Wealth Report 2014 says that people in the Gulf countries are the most prosperous in the world, but some of the well-to-do individuals in these countries spend their money extravagantly on luxury items. The report contained stories about some well-heeled individuals in the Gulf and said that some of them pay huge amounts of money just to have dinner with a Hollywood star or other celebrities. This is nothing new, and was happening in the past as well, with one rich man paying millions of dollars in the 1980s to invite some Hollywood stars. There is another story, about another wealthy man from the Gulf, who spent £6m buying gifts at Harrods, one of the preferred stores for Arabs and other rich foreigners. The report also mentioned how one rich man bought a goat of an uncommon species for 13 million riyals. Another affluent man bought a bathtub made of a rare kind of stone for $6m. A third man bought a garment that belonged to a famous tennis player for $30,000. The last story in the report is about a wealthy Arab who paid $50,000 for an iPad glossed with gold and adorned with precious stones and platinum. On the other hand, there was news about Bill Gates visiting some GCC countries. Gates was for several years the richest man in the world. During his visit, Gates renewed his call for the rich to devote half of their wealth to philanthropy. He lauded business magnate Warren Buffet, 79, for supporting charity works and giving half of his wealth, which is estimated at $47bn, to charity. Gates’ message, however, does not seem to have reached the ears of the wealthy in the Gulf. Perhaps these people have not made enough effort to earn their riches, unlike their Western peers, thanks to the oil revenues that are controlled and distributed by the Gulf states.

Has wealth made Qatar happy?

28 April 2014 Last updated at 19:44 ET By Matthew Teller Doha, Qatar Continue reading the main story In today's MagazineHow many middle-aged men need HRT? The people who are still addicted to the Rubik's Cube A US soldier searches for his Vietnamese son The man who made South Africa's flag Oil and gas have made Qatar the richest country in the world - rich enough to be ready, apparently, to spend $200bn (£120bn) on stadiums and infrastructure for the 2022 World Cup. But has virtually limitless wealth brought the country happiness? It's still cool enough to sit outside in Qatar's capital, Doha. In another few weeks it will be too hot and most people - those who don't have to work outside - will be retreating indoors to the comfort of air-conditioning. For now, though, families relax in the afternoon sun on the waterfront promenade, the Corniche. The view has changed beyond recognition in the last few years. Glass and steel towers rise like an artificial forest from what was once a shoreline of flat sand. "We have become urban," says Dr Kaltham Al Ghanim, a sociology professor at Qatar University. "Our social and economic life has changed - families have become separated, consumption culture has taken over." Qatar's government puts a positive spin on the pace of change. Continue reading the main story Richest countries (GDP per capita) Qatar ($102,000) Liechtenstein ($89,000) Bermuda ($86,000) Macau ($82,000) Luxembourg ($78,000) Source: CIA World Factbook From desperate poverty less than a century ago, this, after all, has become the richest nation in the world, with an average per-capita income topping $100,000 (£60,000). What's less well understood is the impact of such rapid change on Qatari society itself. You can feel the pressure in Doha. The city is a building site, with whole districts either under construction or being demolished for redevelopment. Constantly snarled traffic adds hours to the working week, fuelling stress and impatience. Local media report that 40% of Qatari marriages now end in divorce. More than two-thirds of Qataris, adults and children, are obese. Qataris benefit from free education, free healthcare, job guarantees, grants for housing, even free water and electricity, but abundance has created its own problems. "It's bewildering for students to graduate and be faced with 20 job offers," one academic at an American university campus in Qatar tells me. "People feel an overwhelming pressure to make the right decision." Continue reading the main story Find out more Listen to From Our Own Correspondent for insight and analysis from BBC journalists, correspondents and writers from around the world Broadcast on Radio 4 on Saturdays at 11:30 BST and BBC World Service Listen to the programme Download the programme In a society where Qataris are outnumbered roughly seven-to-one by expatriates, long-term residents speak of a growing frustration among graduates that they are being fobbed off with sinecures while the most satisfying jobs go to foreigners. The sense is deepening that, in the rush for development, something important has been lost. Qatari family life is atomising. With children almost universally being raised by nannies brought in from the Philippines, Nepal or Indonesia, gaps of culture and outlook are opening up between the generations. Umm Khalaf, a woman in her 60s, her features hidden behind a traditional batoola face-mask, described to me the "beautiful simplicity" of life in her youth. "We were self-resourceful once. It's painful to lose that family intimacy," she says. Out on the dusty plains west of Doha, at Umm Al Afai - roughly, the Place of Snakes - farmer Ali al-Jehani is treating me to a tin bowl of warm, foamy camel's milk, fresh from the udder. Continue reading the main story “ Start Quote It's the only souk I know where men go round with dustpans and brushes” End Quote "Before you could be rich if you worked and not if you didn't - it was much better," he says, swiping a soft, sweet date through the milky froth and chewing thoughtfully. "The government is trying to help, but things are moving too fast." Others echo his sense of politicians being out of step with people, particularly with regard to the strenuous - and allegedly corrupt - effort made to bring the 2022 football World Cup to Qatar, and the unanticipated level of media scrutiny that has come with the turmoil of construction. Mariam Dahrouj, a journalism graduate, adjusts her niqab while speaking of a sense of threat. "People in Qatar are afraid," she says. "Suddenly all the world wants to see us. We are a closed community, and they want to come and bring their differences. How can we express our values?" Souk Waqif was torn down - and rebuilt in replica Qatari society is defined by class, which is often linked to race. It is desperately unequal. Redress the balance - by, for instance, abolishing the kafala system that condemns migrant workers to near-slavery, or by opening Qatari citizenship to expatriates - and the fear is stability will erode and cultural values be undermined. But stability is already a shrinking asset here, and values are already shifting. As once-solid regional alliances with Saudi Arabia and other neighbours crumble, and corrosive apprehension spreads among Qataris about the impact of the World Cup - still eight years away - the government may yet find itself facing pressure to reform. "I didn't know about all this kafala stuff," one young Qatari woman told me. "And I'm feeling: why didn't we fix it before?" Behind the Corniche, coffee-drinkers and waterpipe-smokers enjoy the cool evening in the Souk Waqif market - a replica, since the original was torn down a decade ago and rebuilt to look old. It's the only souk I know where men go round with dustpans and brushes. Cleanliness is another Doha obsession. "Have some sympathy for Qataris," says an American anthropologist, who has spent years in Doha. "They've lost almost everything that matters." ==== Argument Making Qatar an Offer It Can't RefuseSaudi Arabia is setting new terms in the Gulf’s relationship with its wayward neighbor. But will Doha bridle at the deal? BY Hassan Hassan Hassan Hassan is a columnist for The National, an English-language daily in the United Arab Emirates. Follow him on Twitter: @hhassan140. APRIL 22, 2014 Share + Twitter Facebook Google + Reddit 1.6k Shares Politics Islam Egypt Middle East The Arab states of the Gulf have launched a new plan to resolve their most serious diplomatic crisis in four decades. Last week, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar agreed on a framework meant to patch up the other Gulf states' disagreements with Qatar on a range of regional political issues. The deal was designed to reverse the collapse in relations early last month, when Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Manama recalled their ambassadors from Doha in protest of Qatari policies that they deemed threatening to regional security. The public move was a sign of how serious the crisis had become in the Gulf states, where differences are customarily resolved behind closed doors. Qatar agreed to a list of demands made by its three neighbors that, if Doha fully complies, will deal a heavy blow to the Muslim Brotherhood across the region. But Gulf capitals are skeptical whether Doha will make good on its promises: After all, if Doha fulfills the terms of the agreement, it will mean the reversal of a decade's worth of strenuous and expensive efforts to create a web of influence across the Middle East and North Africa. The public statement that accompanied the agreement only referred vaguely to an understanding that no member state's foreign policy should undermine the other members' "interests, security and stability." Leaks about the agreement suggested that Doha had agreed to expel Muslim Brotherhood members from the country and stop Al Jazeera from referring to the removal of former President Mohamed Morsi from power in July as a coup. But according to the document itself, the deal's terms are far more wide-ranging and complex than what has been revealed so far. One of the three countries' demands is for Qatar to rein in media outlets that criticize and attack the Gulf states. One of the three countries' demands is for Qatar to rein in media outlets that criticize and attack the Gulf states. This applies to media outlets "inside and outside Doha" and which are supported by Qatar "directly or indirectly." The document makes no mention of stopping Al Jazeera from referring to the Morsi ouster as a "coup" -- which the station does regularly -- although it might have been discussed during officials' meetings. Qatar is said to have funded a plethora of media outlets run by Islamists throughout the region, including Rabaa TV, a channel run from Turkey by Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood members. The document also stipulates that Qatar will expel Brotherhood members currently living in Doha. The document does not specify Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood -- rather, the focus has been on the expulsion of 15 members from the Arabian Peninsula -- five Emiratis, two Saudis, six Bahrainis, and two Yemenis. A previous version of the draft stated that Doha would "abstain" or "no longer support" the Muslim Brotherhood or the Houthis in Yemen, but Doha insisted that the wording implied that it had supported these two groups in the past. The wording was then changed to "Doha will not support" the Muslim Brotherhood or the Houthis, a formulation to which Doha agreed. The three countries accused Doha of supporting the Houthis, a Shiite insurgent group that is reportedly supported by Iran, to sabotage the Gulf Cooperation Council-brokered deal for a political transition in Yemen, according to one Gulf official. Qatar pulled out of the negotiations to reach the deal, which eventually resulted in longtime President Ali Abdullah Saleh relinquishing power in February 2012. The Houthis have long proven to be a thorn in the Saudis' side: They have endured several military campaigns by Riyadh, including a major Saudi offensive in 2009 led by former Deputy Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Sultan. Another key part of the deal would bring about an end to Doha's naturalization of Gulf citizens, mostly opposition and Islamist figures. Gulf officials believe that Qatar actively supports these figures both financially and politically -- several UAE and Saudi Islamists are allegedly using Qatari passports to travel in Europe and in the region, according to a source. In 2012, Ahmed Mohammed al-Ahmari, a well-known Saudi Islamist, created a firestorm in Saudi Arabia after he announced that he was retracting his Saudi citizenship for a Qatari one. In an interview, he said that he was approached by the Qataris to grant him citizenship because of his status as an intellectual. Ahmari is also a staunch critic of the Saudi political and religious establishment. He accused Saudi Salafism of "bringing idolatry to Islam" due to its ideological doctrine counseling obedience to the legitimate ruler. On Twitter last year, he posted a picture of donkeys contentedly drinking water with a quote attributed to the founder of Saudi Arabia reading: "I will make you a great nation that lives in prosperity far greater than that enjoyed by your ancestors." Qatar has benefited from Islamists such as Ahmari because they have formed a political network across the region that can be called on when needed. For example, according to a source close to Syrian Islamists, Doha has asked an influential Libyan cleric based in Qatar to help form a large rebel coalition in Syria. Instead of being directly involved, Doha often designates such figures to bring together individuals or groups to form alliances in the region. Coinciding with the push against Qatar to halt support for Islamists, Saudi Arabia is moving actively against the Syrian Muslim Brotherhood. According to a Free Syrian Army (FSA) commander in northern Syria, FSA groups backed by Saudi Arabia and the United States are being asked to assimilate more factions into their ranks -- but to steer clear of those close to the Brotherhood. According to another Syrian source, a Gulf-backed plan also aims to boot the Muslim Brotherhood from the opposition's political and military councils. While some articles have reported that the Gulf states are demanding Qatar shutter Al Jazeera and local branches of international research centers in Doha, the reconciliation document makes no mention of these demands -- nor would Qatar likely agree to them. The demands to which Doha has agreed were the same demands it had rejected before the Gulf ambassadors' withdrawal last month. Amid Qatar's refusal to sign the document, the three countries threatened to escalate, reportedly considering trade sanctions and closing their airspace and land borders with the emirate. Influential Gulf writers even suggested that military action was not off the table. After Qatari Foreign Minister Khalid al-Attiya signed the deal on Thursday, the Gulf countries will now give Doha a two-month "probation period" for compliance before sending back their envoys. For Saudi Arabia, many of these sticking points in its relationship with Qatar are not new. But this time, Riyadh is adamant that it will continue to escalate the conflict with its much smaller neighbor if Doha does not come around to its point of view. For Qatar, however, any major compromise will be costly for its regional standing. It remains to be seen how these divergent interests will be =====================

Saudi's Khodari says labour reform impact to start fading in H2

Wed, Apr 09 11:30 AM EDT By Marwa Rashad KHOBAR, Saudi Arabia, April 9 (Reuters) - Major Saudi Arabian construction firm Abdullah A. M. Al-Khodari Sons expects labour reforms to keep weighing on its bottom line for a few more years, but the situation will start improving in the second half of 2014, its chief executive said. After decades of ineffective localisation policies, the Saudi government imposed in late 2011 stricter penalties on companies which failed to meet quotas for hiring Saudi citizens. A year later, it also introduced a levy of 2,400 riyals ($640) a year for every foreigner which a company employs above the number of its Saudi workers. Most private-sector jobs in the kingdom are held by roughly 10 million expatriates, who are typically paid less than Saudis, so the tighter labour policies have had a big impact on some firms by pushing up their costs and cutting profits. In labour-intensive industries such as construction, companies complained the reforms caused bottlenecks in important projects. Telecommunications firms lost business as some foreign workers left the country; even banks were hit as they made bad loan provisions in case the construction firms were forced to delay some loan repayments. Al-Khodari, which has about 17,000 employees, has been at the centre of the upheaval. The company's margins were eroded by more than 50 percent as the labour reforms were introduced, with an average annual cost impact of 50 million riyals since July 2011, Fawwaz Al-Khodari said in an interview. The company now includes the cost of the reforms in the new contracts it signs, but it still feels some negative effect as it works through contracts signed before the reforms were introduced. This effect will "drag on for a few more years", but it is steadily decreasing, the executive said.

"2014 will have a mix of old and new business, but I think by the second half of this year we will be coming out of the rot and the damage we've been having in the last couple of years, and we should be witnessing an improvement reflected on our bottom line."

The company, which has yet to announce its first-quarter earnings, reported a 69 percent year-on-year decline in net profit for the fourth quarter of 2013 to 8.5 million riyals. It cited as one reason an increase in manpower costs, which jumped 28 percent. METROS While the labour reforms appear to have slowed the country's overall economic growth moderately - gross domestic product expanded 3.8 percent last year, after 5.8 percent in 2012, mostly because of slower oil sector growth - government policies are in some other ways stimulating the economy, a fact which Khodari readily ackowledged. As demand for the company's services grows with rising incomes and heavy infrastructure spending by the government, there is huge potential for growth in the local construction market, he said. In its 2014 budget, the government plans to spend 855 billion riyals, with much of that focused on social welfare projects such as schools, hospitals, new roads and railways, and upgrades of ports and airports. Al-Khodari's core business line is executing such government projects; it also hauls and disposes of municipal solid waste. Last July, the government awarded $22.5 billion in contracts to three foreign-led consortia for the design and construction of the Riyadh Metro, the capital's first metro rail system, which will require tens of thousands of workers. Authorities plan other metro systems in cities such as Mecca and Jeddah. The company has discussed with some of the Riyadh consortium members the possibility of being nominated as a subcontractor for that project, Khodari said. "If Al-Khodari participated with one consortium or more, the areas which would be relevant to our scope could be up to 6 billion (riyals) in any single contract," he said. "We all know that as things develop, capacity problems may build up with some of the contractors, and there may be a need for other contractors to come in." He added, "I think in 2015 (Saudi Arabia) will probably be the busiest workshop in the world for metros. The potential is huge and if we are successful in our drive to get our share of the business, it could definitely have a major positive impact on the top and bottom lines of Al-Khodari." These expectations may explain why the company's share price is up 15 percent so far this year, slightly outperforming a 13 percent rise in the main Saudi stock market index. Last year, the company won contracts worth nearly 2.7 billion riyals, up from slightly below 1 billion riyals in 2012. This year it hopes for a further increase, Khodari said. "Our backlog in 2012 was about 2.5 billion riyals and in 2013 it was about 3.7 billion. So if we accept that this rise will be reflected in our revenue stream, then you should see pretty healthy growth in the top line in coming years." The firm, with offices in Abu Dhabi, Qatar and Kuwait, expects to see better opportunities in Qatar later this year or during 2015 as the country prepares to host the 2022 World Cup soccer tournament, Khodari said. LABOUR REFORMS Labour Minister Adel al-Fakeih said in January that Saudi Arabia had doubled the number of its citizens working for private companies in the 30 months since it began introducing the labour reforms. Khodari, speaking in an interview at his 11th-floor office overlooking the Gulf, acknowledged the good intentions of the reforms. But he said the country also needed adequate educational and vocational training for Saudi citizens, aligned to the requirements of industries which employed them. Since 2011, many companies have said they struggle to find qualified Saudis to replace expatriates, despite high government spending on university scholarship programmes and technical training colleges. Firms have also complained that employment rules make it too hard to fire Saudis. "I think the last thing you should expect is for the contracting industry to be forced to become professional universities and colleges and vocational training centers," Khodari said. "We can be part of the process, but we cannot take on the whole responsibility." He also said the statistics on Saudis finding private sector employment might be misleading, as all construction companies were having "a serious battle trying to get those that they hire to actually do anything". He said many Saudis were not willing to work in projects such as city cleaning or at remote sites, making hiring a large number of Saudis in non-administrative jobs a major challenge. "By forcing the contracting sector to hire nationals that are neither available in the numbers needed, nor with interest in the sector, we are encouraging unproductive dependency. "Official figures will indicate that we are beating unemployment, while we are in fact affecting our youths, morally and ethically, by promoting such dependency." (Reporting by Marwa Rashad; Editing by Andrew Torchia) ==================== Number of labour strikes in Dubai falls almost 25% Officials say that although the number of incidents declined last year, there were more workers – 25,788 – involved in the strikes, with wage delays cited as the primary reason for industrial action. Preeti Kannan April 17, 2014 Updated: April 20, 2014 08:13:00 Save this article DUBAI // The number of labour strikes in the emirate last year fell to 34, from 45 in 2012, according to a report released by the Federal Government. Related ■ Arabtec workers in UAE strike over wage dispute ■ Pay disputes behind 75% of UAE labour strikes ■ Consulate staff dash to airport to stop unpaid workers being deported Labour abuses can start even before workers get here ■ Dh68m in unpaid wages returned to workers Topic Workers' rights, Nearly 26,000 workers were involved in industrial action. The National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking said in its annual report that the main reason for the strikes, and which accounted for at least 20 last year, was delayed payment of wages. Demands for higher salaries were another reason. Officials said although the number of protests had declined from 2012, when 21,600 workers had downed tools, more workers – 25,788 – were involved in fewer protests last year. Figures for other emirates were not available. “We have started many programmes, which include meeting workers in their accommodations regularly,” said Col Dr Mohamed Abdullah Al Murr, director general of the human rights department at Dubai Police. “We also have a 24-hour toll-free number – 800 50005 – where workers can call any time with their complaints. We want to know if they have a problem before they stop working. We have put up posters in accommodations in English, Urdu, Bengali and Arabic with our number.” Col Al Murr said the most strikes in any one month was five, which occurred in January and August last year. One of the largest strikes, however, took place in May, when thousands of employees from Arabtec Construction stopped work for four days over a pay dispute. The staff, who earned between Dh650 and Dh1,200 a month, wanted their Dh350 food allowance to be paid in cash, instead of being given daily meals. More than 460 workers, mostly from Bangladesh, Pakistan and India, were discharged and sent home. Four months later, the company announced it had raised the salaries of 36,000 of its workers by an average of 20 per cent. The committee report, which was released last week, also revealed that nearly Dh30 million owed to workers as wages was recovered from companies last year. This represents a substantial jump from Dh2.76m in 2012, but lower than 2011, when Dh87.3m was recovered from companies. Complaints numbering 1,005 were made by workers to Dubai Police last year, the report said. Of this, 43 per cent involved demand for higher pay and another 23 per cent reported a delay in the payment of wages. However, police said the rise in complaints was a good sign, as more workers now understood their rights and were approaching them before downing tools. “The complaints have increased but the strikes have decreased,” said Major Saeed Rashid Alhelli, head of Temporary Employment Conditions Control Section and General Department of Legal and Disciplinary Inspection at Dubai Police. “They now have an easy way to contact the police. They understand that police can help them. We are telling the workers: ‘We will come to you. You don’t have to go to the roads.’ “We want to quickly respond to build their confidence. We realised that when a strike happens, we can stop it for that time but we can’t stop them from happening again. So, we have focused on preventative ways.” However, with a rising number of grievances related to pay, experts said companies should have strategies in place to increase wages. “Salaries cannot stay the same forever,” said Dr Saeed Al Ghufli, assistant undersecretary for Federal National Council Affairs and a coordinator at the human trafficking committee. “There should be increases and evaluations. Companies should have clear strategies from the beginning on how they will increase salaries.” A labour recruitment firm said companies have to look at pay increases of at least 30 per cent for skilled and unskilled workers. “If they need workers to finish projects before 2020, they need to offer better pay,” said Mohammed Jindran, managing director of Overseas Labour Supply, which recruits workers from 16 countries on behalf of contracting firms. “There is a huge shortage of workers and companies are in dire straits. We are trying hard to recruit workers from India and other countries, but Indian workers want better salaries.” He said unskilled workers do not want to settle for less than Dh1,000 a month, despite Dh750 being acceptable a couple of years ago. The 2013 NCCHT report also said more workers – 3.6 million – were receiving their monthly earnings through the Wage Protection System (WPS), which was introduced in 2009. It also said a total of 252,000 labourers now had companies transfer their salaries through banks or money transfer companies, rather than making cash payments. pkannan@thenational.ae Read more: http://www.thenational.ae/uae/workers-rights/number-of-labour-strikes-in-dubai-falls-almost-25#ixzz2zOjq9oiJ Follow us: @TheNationalUAE on Twitter | thenational.ae on Facebook ============================= Khodari Q1 net profit up 78pc on auction April 21, 2014 - 12:00:00 am DUBAI: Major Saudi Arabian construction firm Abdullah A M Al Khodari Sons said yesterday that its net profit for the first quarter of this year jumped 78 percent on the back of earnings from an auction of plant and machinery. Net profit rose to SR32.63m ($8.7m) from SR18.28m a year earlier. The machinery auction brought in SR41.3m of income. Operating profit plunged 96 percent to SR1.02m, however, partly because of reforms to Saudi Arabia’s labour market which have made it more expensive to hire foreign workers. Work permit costs to the company increased by SR13.2m. Profit was also hurt by an increase in depreciation costs as the company deployed equipment for newly awarded projects worth SR1.5bn, a 31 percent rise in manpower costs mainly due to a ramp-up of labour-intensive cleaning projects, and a 69 percent leap in financing charges as the company enlarged its funding base to meet its contract backlog. Reuters

Do we need Qatarization?

الاثنين، 7 مارس، 2011Do we need Qatarization ? A question we hear from time to time, which makes some of us wondering, do we? And if yes why? And why we don't hear about Americanization, Austrilization or Canadization? Yes we do need Qatarization, as long Qatar is an open market for employing form all over the world. We do need Qatarization for the Following main reasons: 1- To insure jobs and development of new Qatari graduate. 2- To continue development of existing employee. 3-To protect Qatar interests on big companies which effecting the economy. If the unemployment now is zero or close to in Qatar, when Qatarization is stopped and no monitoring program and pressure on the companies to employee and train Qataries , we will get one digit number after some years and we might get two digits number for unemployment, as companies will not employee local fresh graduate and spend on training them, while they could get a cheaper 10 years experience employee from far East. Also companies will always find it better to employee who they can Fire when is not needed or in downsizing with out problems. Until we get a restrictions on issuing work permit visas for any nationality, Qatarization will be a must so Qataries can get a reasonable jobs. Few Qataris who miss behave or abuse the system dose not mean that Qatarization is the reason, there are many Qataris are working hard and skillful and they have been supported by Qatarization, and the Qataris who claim that they don't have work to do, in most cases their supervisor don't want them to get involved in the effective work either because they will ask a lot of questions, and he feel is loosing his time answering them, or he is afraid that if they get to know how he do work with time he will not be needed any more. Having the ambition to become managers, is their right and natural feeling and should not bother any body, managing their country business and protecting it interests is every Qatari goal, and for example if a father own a company I don't think his son will be the coffee boy in that company, but he will be the managing director and that's normal. I believe companies in Qatar has build a culture, which based on employing experienced ready to go workers, so no room for fresh employee who need to be trained, as a result of that we see a lot of Arab non Qatari student who graduate from local universities with GPA 4 can't find work in any local company !! So companies’ culture and mentality should be changed and Qatarization is the driver for that. We don’t hear about Americanization, Austrilization or Canadization. Because no company there can get an unlimited number of work permit visas from any nationality, for that we see the big US companies open factories in China and India, while employing Chinese and Indians in their existing Factory in the States will be much cheaper, and they could protect their technology in better way. What we have in Qatar is a special situation can’t be compared to the western countries as their rules and regulations are different. In Qatar we have three labor markets Expats, Locals and Qataris, if we don’t have the protection and the pressure of Qatarization , we will be compared in wages with the Locals who are from different living cost where MacDonald’s meal cost 5 QR , and in skills and knowledge you will be compared with expats who have a very high wages and by both comparison , we Qataries will be the losers. Bottom line: Quality Qatarization can only be achieved when companies start to feel that they only have Qataries to employee for certain jobs, then they will choose Qataries carefully and will train them seriously, and after all will retain them in a good way, and that will be done with out monitoring as it will be the only way to keep their companies in business. مرسلة بواسطة أحمد الكواري في 12:07 ص ‏هناك 4 تعليقات: =============== Living the Confused Expatriate Life – Part 1 of a Few 16 February 2013 by Ms. Hala Abdoun | 20 Comments Dear Faithful Readers, Thank you all for your kind messages after noticing my absence for the last month. It’s been rough living with limited access at my place and working hard to prove myself at this new turn in my career. I have been writing a lot, believe me! I’ve written a few parts about my expatriate life in Qatar. Let’s start it off with the piece I wrote about identity… Living the Confused Expatriate Life Part 1 of a Few… Identity By: Ms. Hala I have lived the expatriate life here in Qatar for over 8 months now. There’s still a few bumps in the road to smooth out but overall, life is good. I’m enjoying my very busy and challenging job in a new industry. I’m apartment hunting for a third time now that my temp rent will be up soon. I’m following my 2013 resolution to a tee thus far… so life is good! Oh, did I mention I’m a legal resident of Qatar now? Oh yes baby I am! Got my residency permit a couple of weeks ago, now I can do stuff like get a monthly mobile phone service… hehehe Yes, mobile not cell… I’m catching on to the popular Euro lingo here. ;) However, living this expatriate life comes with a couple of interesting confusions. Maybe I just lived in this wonderful tolerant city that is San Francisco to have to deal with this identity confusion that I’m dealing with now. I’m a Muslim Egyptian American expatriate who talks in a lovely California accent but “looks” and talks Arabic like an Egyptian. Confusing much? Apparently so! When I first took on my new job, the grapevines of the office announced there’s an American among them. Aside from the fact that everyone thought the American was getting paid a bazillion dollars (that’s another entry, I promise you!), no one could tell whom the American was. Many didn’t realize until I started talking to everyone, introducing myself and getting the question, “Where’s your accent from?” Say Whaaat? I reply, “I’m American”. “Really?” “Yes, I’m from Calfornia.” “How long did you live there?” “Born and raised.” “Wow…” “Uh huh…” The major problem in Qatar is that everyone here is labeled based on their nationality. Even those born and raised in Qatar don’t even get a Qatar citizenship. They do get treated like Qataris with regards to “Qatarization” but aside from that, they are not even legally Qatari. There’s this thinking that one or the other has a look, has a personality, has a way of thinking or a way of doing… and everyone’s judging you based mostely on those ideologies and stereotypes. There are so many ridiculous notions about every ethnicity out here, it’s unbelievable. Let’s start with being an American girl and how exhausting it is to overcome that terrible stereotype. What’s the stereotype here about American girls you ask? Drum roll please… American girls have non-stop wild parties, get drunk all the time and the rest is flushed down a toilet in the morning. Mind you, many conservative expatriates here have come to this conclusion from the many movies and television shows that “always show you American girls drinking and having crrrazy parties.” *sighing and shaking my head* Finding an apartment under the American girl banner has simply been the most annoying experience of my life, twice! Having to do it so many times now is just torture at this point. I’m repeatedly asked where I’m from and have to answer with Egypt just to get a viewing appointment. Once they see my “Egyptian look” but hear my “berfect ingelesh”, I get asked, “Where are you from, exactly?” After going through an identity explanation, I have to further explain that the idea that us American girls are drunk party animals is just plain false. I’ve even had to emphasis that family will be joining me in Qatar permanently just so that they don’t think I will be in fact living alone and using this “extra space” for my wild parties. *sighing angrily* During my time as a temporary English instructor, I was asked to take on a group of young children. To my hesitation, I accepted and on the first day, disaster. One of the parents whom signed up his very disrespectful son only signed him up because it was exclaimed that the instructor was an American lady. Seeing that I wasn’t up to par, the Egyptian expatriate bee lined it to the director’s office exclaiming false advertisement. What did he expect? A tall blonde woman like the Americans he sees on television. Upon hearing this, I rolled my eyes and walked away before the ghetto San Francisco girl in me came out to bitch slap the stupid outta him! I’m trying my best to overcome this stupid ideology that I can only be either Egyptian or American. I had an argument with an Egyptian fellow a while back over a remark I found quite offensive. He went on to say, “oh, is your American turned on? I forgot you don’t get some of our jokes.” I didn’t even know we could switch between our bicultural identities… WTF? Apparently, there’s a stupid stereotype about bicultural Americans, especially Arabs… Those whom hold an American citizenship think they are better than everyone else, act like they don’t get some traditional lingo and will use their American identity for beneficial purposes. As a first generation born Arab American, this stereotype is so far from the truth, you’ve got to wait for the six o’clock train to get there! Half my family from both sides hold an American citizenship after immigrating from Egypt in the early 70′s and 80′s. They’ve all worked tirelessly, raised their children and grandchildren, paid their taxes, contributed to the American society just like any other immigrant family from any corner of the world. They all deserve the same respect as every other American out there.

I’ve learned over time that I’m not alone in this odd confusion. The citizens of Qatar themselves are also in this weird situation where stereotypes about them isn’t only false, but many act upon it to the point of disgraceful. The stereotypes about Qataris… they are extremely conservative, snubby, spoiled and unkind individuals seeing all others as second class citizens. Not only is this stupidity far from the truth, but many dress in traditional Qatari attire in an attempt to act upon these stereotypes and intimidate others. Yes, this includes bullying people on road to outrageous behavior towards others… just disgraceful!

On New Year’s Eve, a Qatari lady was discriminated against for, get this, looking and dressing Qatari… WTF? According to Doha News, a Qatari lady was not allowed into a hotel restaurant on the said day because it was deemed inappropriate for Qatari ladies to attend. Again, WTF? Sadly, this this happens a lot across Qatar.

I must say however, for the most part, Qataris are the complete opposite of these stereotypes just like any other ethnicity being treated according to whatever stereotype is drawn up of them. Qataris are quite polite, kind and generous. They may be wealthy but not many act like it’s their forsaken right to the wealth or OK the ill treatment upon others.

An interesting example I see all the time: in Qatar, you are not to fuel your own vehicle (similar to the law in New Jersey), you are to stay in your vehicle or go to the many shops at the station while an station employee fuels your vehicle. On any given day, as I sit comfortably while another fuels my car, I’ll see a Qatari gentleman step out of his vehicle, have a small talk conversation with the employee fueling and washing down his car, before tipping and driving off. Every time I see that scene, I see the employee with a huge smile on his face. Many of these employees can use the extra tip for phone cards to call home or even save up for an occasion. Other times, I hear of stories of how someone had their tires blown out and a Qatari pulled over in their designer attire to help out hands on. That I’ve personally experienced personally when I had my car accident. Yes, people from various backgrounds pulled over and offered to help but I gotta say, the Qataris were the ones whom stepped out of their vehicles, yelled at the rude police officer on my behalf and moved my car because, “She’s a lady and should be treated with respect.” Chivalry is still alive and kicking! Even the Qatari police officers at the police station gave it to the non-Qatari police officer for discriminating against me because I was American. “That doesn’t matter, she’s still a lady, have some manners brother!” Thank you. =) I do have to admit that my identity has brought up many a funny conversations. At an event a few months ago, I was blessed to meet some wonderful people. One of them was an elder businessman whom owns one of Egypt’s first timeshare businesses. We got to talking business until I mentioned how the timeshare business in the USA works. Once I stated that yes, I was an Egyptian American, he just stared at me. “And you wear hijab?” I couldn’t stop laughing before it was like, man you just opened Pandora’s box! I went on and on about the wonderful community that is the Muslim American community; from the San Francisco Islamic School where I volunteered to the advocacy work of CAIR to the masjids where I’ve prayed at. I had to stop myself at one point because I realized I was missing my community to the brink of tears. I know Qatar is trying really hard to create a tolerant, diverse and welcoming community. I know it will not happen over night and not by one feeling superior or the other feeling intimidated. I see the problem in Qatar as people coming from the many corners of the world with ignorant, close-minded and/or just confused and conflicted as I am. The thing is, it’s going to take a long time before the ignorant to be educated, the close-minded to be tolerant and the confused to take it all in one day at a time. I’m in the process still of taking it all in, one day at a time. - Ms. Hala 22 February 2013 at 10:53 pm Well I’m glad you did brother! hehehe Thank you for your comment but may I make a few points… 1. I think it’s utterly disgusting this whole categorization… two people, same job, different pay based on ethnicity? Just disgusting… and the fact that you mention that I have it better than most Egyptians makes me feel worst about it. 2. My American identity has brought me a headache and my native English has been good to me, Alhamdulillah! hehehe 3. I guess being bilingual has its advantages socially… However I’d like to note that I don’t associate with others whom are discriminatory or intolerant of others, no matter their background. I’ve cut a few ties with people because of this, including the story I mentioned above. I wish you the best as well Insha’Allah, thank you! Part 2 is coming! =) Ms. Hala 23 February 2013 at 9:32 am Well some rules were meant to be broken, especially one that is as disgusting as categorization! I did get in trouble, I waved the only passport I hold and it was of no help… that’s another story for another day. No I haven’t seen that movie, but I’m trying to find it online! hehehe I’ve only been here for about 9 months so my experiences are limited as well I’m sure. Arabian nights? Ummm… hehehe Exactly, there’s good and bad in all but to make a general assumption is what gets to me. Glad you enjoyed my rants, stayed tuned for more! =) Ms. Hala 7 March 2013 at 5:07 pm My comment, “They do get treated like Qataris with regards to ‘Qatarization’” was with regards to attaining employment, nothing more. I too know of a handful of Qatari born individuals whom are in your husband’s shoes. That was the point of my comment, that they are discriminated against and not allowed citizenship of the country in which they were born in. I’m sorry for what you and your husband have been through, it’s unfair and honestly very disgusting. No one deserves this kind of treatment nor should they accept this treatment upon themselves. That I think is the bigger problem here, that people accept this form of treatment and my advise to them is to simply not tolerate it. When there is no more talent in Qatar, than maybe, just maybe, people will change. Maybe I just have high hopes for humanity… I don’t know. Same to you my dear! =) Ms. Hala 30 April 2013 at 9:00 am I agree, most of that attitude is coming from expats more than the locals. Funny enough, the locals don’t give citizenship to those born and raised in their country which I find quite sad. ==================== Living the Confused Expatriate Life – Part 2 of a Few 2 May 2013 by Ms. Hala Abdoun | 10 Comments Living the Confused Expatriate Life Part 2 of a Few… Marital Status By: Ms. Hala I am not married. I am not engaged. I am not in a relationship. I am single. It has followed me around to no end, even when I’ve moved thousands of miles away, to a conservative Arab country. When it comes to my status here in Qatar, I’ve come across two reactions in people. The first being the cheerleaders. They are the ones with nothing but kind and positive reinforcements. It’s even more astounding when it comes from those I least expect it from. For example, the older Egyptian gentlemen whom I work with that are always encouraging me. In the last four months that I’ve worked with one of the managers, not a day goes by without him always complementing my strength and determination, especially during some of the challenges we’ve faced at the office, for doing what I do. With limited internet access in the past few months, when I do log on, I find a good number of emails and messages via social media from young people whom have noted how they follow-up on my latest Qatar adventures with inspiration. Some of them, already here in Qatar, have blessed me with their friendship. The second being the haters. They are the ones with nothing but stupid, stereotypical and just plain envious words because I can’t find any other reason for their bad energy. These are the people that feel the need to say one of three things: “You’re here, alone? No family? No husband? But why? You poor thing.” “I could do what you’re doing now but so-and-so said men don’t like girls like that and I really want to get married.” “I wish I was you! You’re doing everything I’m too dipshit* to do on my own! People talk you know.” Sigh. After my third month living in Qatar, I just stopped trying to answer to these people. Yes, I’m here alone with the blessings of my family. However, that’s when I came to realize that there are very few people like me in Qatar and most young ladies are living here either with family or a spouse, not alone. I miss my mommy. Please, don’t tell me of how you could do things for yourself if your life revolves around someone else. You people are more irritable to me than those whom keep trying to set me up with this “great guy”. Please realize that not all of us are living up to some odd standard of husband hunting. Some of us actually live for ourselves, have more meaning to life than just finding someone to accept us. I mean you want to get married, great, but life doesn’t need to revolve around the idea. And for crying out loud, if you want to do something, just shut the fuck up and go for it. Trust me, when you don’t do nothing, people will have something to say about it. When you do anything, guess what? People will have something to say about it. Funny thing though, most people don’t give two shits about what you are (or aren’t) doing so I’m still trying to figure out why you even care about the opinion of those people. Sigh. As of last month though, I’ve come across the third reaction that has started to get under my skin. The third being some of Qatar’s policies. Before I go on a rant here, I want to state that I understand why some of these policies are in play, to prevent human trafficking and prostitution. However, there’s got to be some kind of line of reasoning, understanding, common sensing (Is that even a word? Well it should be.) around here. And here’s where my rant begins. Exhibit A: In order to obtain my Qatar Residency Permit (RP), I had to go through a medical screening. Mainly an X-ray of the chest for TB screening and two different blood tests. For those sponsored under employment, the company pays in advance for the fees or refunds you for it while all others usually pay upfront during their appointment. If you are born in Qatar, you don’t go through this lovely experience. The Medical Commission that I was blessed to attend through my place of work was the most disgusting place in Qatar. It starts out nice, divided into a section for the ladies and a section for the men. Or I thought, until I drove towards the ladies section to find swarms of men waiting outside the ladies’ only entrance. I entered alone, passing the many odd stares and glares. Once inside, there were two lines, those pre-paid and those needing to pay. The pre-paid line was empty. Showed the lady at the counter my blue passport, got the up and down look before the lovely question, “You’re here through work? You’re here alone?” “Yes” I answered back smiling sarcastically and annoyed. She kept rolling her eyes as she processed my papers and directed me to the x-ray room. After the lovely experience of being herded like animals and watched by others as I took the x-ray, twice, I picked up what was left of my dignity and went to get my first blood test. Upon looking me up on the computer, the lovely lady at the counter made stupid remarks about me being work sponsored before handing me a few documents plus a little booklet. Not paying attention, I walked towards the exam room where a kind nurse was assisting me in getting my blood test. Having small talk and looking at the booklet because I hate needles (don’t ask me how I got my lip pierced!), I realized what the booklet was, “Prayers for the Dead”. Really? Bitch gave me a prayer book for the dead? Kind nurse laughed at a comment I made as she instructed me to go to a private clinic for my second blood test. I gave the bitch the booklet back stating, “I’m not dead!” Throughout the short drive to the clinic I kept thinking what the hell was her intention giving me that booklet? Am I as good as dead? Or did she just run out of “Prayers for the Living” booklets? Deeply annoyed sigh. Exhibit B: I finally found a nice little apartment, comfortable for myself and my little devil child, Ms. Doha in a brand new gated community. Upon registering and signing, it was brought to the attention of the gentleman handling my application that the contract would be under my happy name. Ms. Doha is having a hard time adapting to the new place. She did her best to get comfy on her first night… #FirstWorldKittyProblems “Ma’am, are you registering under your name?” “Yeeeeeees. I’m the one whom will live here.” “Do you have an ID?” “Yes! Here’s my Qatar ID and my passport as well.” “Do you have a letter of employment verification?” “No, I wasn’t told I needed one when I inquired over the phone.” “You need a letter of employment verification to complete your application.” “Why? My Qatar ID specifically states my place of employment as my sponsor.” “Yes but you’re special.” He joked politely seeing my disapproved reaction. I’ve been told that reaction scares a lot of people. Not sure if that’s a good or bad thing so I tried to make a curious face. It didn’t work. Poor guy continued with his charming self, “Company policy requires that you bring a letter of employment verification because you’re a single lady. We’ll extend your booking time and follow-up with you, don’t worry.” I just stared blankly, watching other people register without a hitch. The gentleman assured that the apartment was mine and that he would follow-up with me but to please bring that letter from my employers. I left a little disappointment and fearful I was going to lose this nice place. I had to move out of my place and my lifestyle choice was the reason for the delay? Akh! I have to say that the lovely people of our HR department were understanding and produced the necessary documentations for me within the hour. The apartment company did continuously follow-up with me until I showed up with the letter later that evening. They were generous enough to expedite my move-in date upon knowing my circumstances. People here are helpful towards a single lady, especially if she’s willing to follow company policy. Sigh. * Disclaimer: none of those whom made that statement actually called themselves “dipshit”, but I think they should have. Read: Living the Confused Expatriate Life – Part 1 of a Few Ms. Hala 9 May 2013 at 11:11 am I’m not sure but try looking up some sources on QatarLiving.com or IloveQatar.com. I know there are a few alternative medicine and polyclinics in Doha, mainly near the Villaggio mall. Hope that helps! Ms. Hala 22 May 2013 at 8:56 am Is this a different mall aside from Center Point off the Khor Cornishe? I wasn’t even aware of that. I’ve meet many teachers who happen to live in AlKhor, so far, they all love it. ===================== 23 June 2013 by Ms. Hala Abdoun 7 Comments Living the Confused Expatriate Life – Part 3 of a Few Living the Confused Expatriate Life Part 3 of a Few… Unprofessional By: Ms. Hala I have to admit, being part of a management team in a growing industry in this part of the world has it’s perks. Even though I’m technically an entry-level manager, I’m the only female ever to hold a managerial position in the history of this company. Females in this company are about 10% of the entire workforce. So I think that in itself is a huge perk. I’ve been warned one too many times by colleagues with the phrase, “You’re not in America anymore. Welcome to the Middle East. This is how things work.” Yet I would always remind them that in my opinion, professionalism is universal. You can’t convince me that the lack of professionalism is the reason behind the Middle East’s successful economy despite the rest of the developing world’s economic downfall. It was the lack of professionalism that caused US taxpayers to bail out stupid big banks whom brought our economy to a recession. So yes, I’m in the Middle East – thanks for the warm welcome – but that shouldn’t mean professionalism is dead. Right? Ummm… to some extent. You see, it’s not necessarily where you are working in the world but whom you are working with in the world. Yes, certain cultural etiquettes need to be understood and respected. However, many misinterpret these etiquettes to their advantages. Sounds a little too familiar? This is when I discovered that half the staff, a mix of various languages, nationalities, levels of management, are scared of me. Yes, scared. Lack of professionalism is the culprit here. Here’s the shpeal, I manage the logistics of this global division. I deal in large part with clearing and transporting agents, Qatar customs administrators and global suppliers in over 15 countries including the USA. On one lovely day unlike today, I realized that the term “professionalism” to some extent did not exist in the eyes of some people I deal with on a daily basis. I was only about 3 months into my position and the idea of how my job was to deal with extremely unprofessional people hit me, hard. What the hell am I going to do? How the hell am I going to make it in this industry? How the hell am I going to even last in Qatar? Damn. There I was on the phone with the most incompetent person representing the clearing and transport agents behind the delays for our division in receiving units sitting at the ports for days. Paying customers threatening to cancel sales. Sales team members freaking out fearing losing those sales. Managers scrambling to meet their goals before month end just two days away. Our division simply trying to, you know, do business! It was just me between my division and this incompetent imbecile whom was oblivious to the importance of his work for us. He kept going on and on with this bullshit, one lie after the other in the most unprofessional manner I’ve ever dealt with in my entire working life… I couldn’t take it anymore. I hold two masters degrees in business, I have multiple years of experience dealing with people of all personalities and here I was unable to take this waste of oxygen anymore. I became the very thing I feared being in my career… unprofessional. I just held that phone with a tight grip and gave it to this imbecile, cursing and screaming amongst a culture of appropriate and polite manners. “If your fucking company can’t get my shit done on time, I have 20 other cheaper and more competent companies that can! Don’t fucking bullshit me man because I don’t give a fuck! Just. Get. My. Shit. Done. Now! Do you hear me?” The man on the other line just froze, sniffled and broke down like a two year old kid. He would get it done he said, by the end of the day. I slammed the phone, took a few deep breathes, checked I didn’t break the phone, then placed my hand over my dropped jaw… the entire office within sight had heard every single word I said. I turned around to one of my sales managers applauding me, “YES! It’s about time someone showed them who’s boss! They are always screwing us over!” I just giggled in disbelief as I whispered, “I made him cry.” Some had their jaws dropped while others laughed, “you made him cry?!” The rest continued to give me this wide-eyed stare, unsure what to make of me anymore. Conversing what had just happened, this apparently wasn’t the first time these agents had been delaying work fulfillment. They were behind lost deals and damaged goods in the past. Then, my boss called me into his glass office. Damn. “What the hell is going on out there?” “Ummm, I was on the phone with what’s his name trying to figure out what was taking them so long to get our units delivered. And honestly,” I was trying to find that professional lady, she’s here somewhere, I know it. “I couldn’t help it when he started BSing me so I just gave it to him pretty bad till he cried. I know it’s-” “You mean bitch!” “Hey!” I responded, that the professional lady was now lost forever, or the rest of the day maybe. “This ‘mean bitch’ just saved your ass there. You’re fucking welcome!” My boss just laughed, “Good, thanks! Please keep me posted, we need get these units to our customers ASAP. We have to meet our deadline and goals in the next couple of days.” “We shall, we shall.” The rest of that day, everyone gave me odd wide-eyed looks. Everyone asked me what happened, whom got the wrath of the American. In a few hours, our work was cleared, units were delivered, everything was good. It shouldn’t have taken me being unprofessional, was the thought at the back of my head. By the end of the day, I was shown an invoiced by one of our accountants, “are we responsible for these fines?” Of course things didn’t end there, it got worse. The agents had sent us an invoice for their incomplete services, dated days before the shipments even arrived, with fines they racked up leaving our shipments for days at the ports. When I brought this to the management’s attention, they had a fit. “We need to review all their back invoices.” “This is a matter of principle.” “Hala should be in charge of reviewing all these invoices before they go to the accounting department.” “Right, she deals with them daily, she would be the authority approving whether or not we are responsible for these fines.” Damn. A little irked, I shot an email to their head honco on vacation for like the millionth time that if I didn’t get a corrected invoice, they wouldn’t get paid a dirham (thats pennies for you American folk). He of course complied by sending me the imbecil to my office to “clear things up” the next day. Everyone slyly watched as the guy again started with his bullshit and knowing I might just explode, I took a deep breath and with a loud but very calm tone, “Listen man, don’t fucking start with me again. You guys fucked up and left our units out there for days. You need to own up to that, period.” I found her, I found the professional lady again and this one is awesome! “So you either get me the corrected invoice by the end of the day today or it’s free. Plain and simple, ok?” He just stared at me and when he teared up, he walked away because he had to “take care of work.” No yelling, no scream, just slightly loud and straight in the face. Professionalism at it’s best, I thought, until I looked around again to the wide-eyed faces. It was official, I was the scary person in the office. Damn. “I heard she pushed him against the window, threatening to throw him over if he didn’t get us our stuff.” “I heard him cry when she yelled at him… why did he even come to the office?” “I watched her scare him straight while she sat there casually. He’s so much taller than her and he is scared of her. A girl!“ “Now she knows how things work in the Middle East.” Damn. Like Loading...Categories: In Living Qatar, Job Sustenance | Tags: America, career, cultural etiquettes, damn, female, global, manager, Middle East, professionalism, Qatar, unprofessional, work | Permalink. Ms. Hala 23 June 2013 at 10:14 am Thanks Museem! hehehe It’s just I didn’t want that to define me in the office nor scare people from me but I guess that’s the reality of things here. Yea, that’s why I emphasized that there weren’t even that many ladies here. A lot aren’t sure how to work with one or what to expect from one. Most are nice and quiet while a few are social and outgoing. I thank you for supporting the ladies’, ummm, “professional” manners within the workplace. =D Ms. Hala 23 June 2013 at 11:14 am Agreed, collective team efforts are much more productive than divided teams. That’s one of the things I like in my company, those divides are slowly breaking… keyword, slowly! hehehe I’m not an unprofessional professional… I’m a confused expatriate! Ms. Hala 25 June 2013 at 9:59 am I haven’t flown Qatar Airways but everyone I know that did has had nothing but positive feedback. Let me know if you still need help getting the issue resolved. And yes, LOVE Emirates Air! =D ============== JOB ALERT: Marketing ManagerJOB ALERT: Marketing Manager in Stockton, CA needed! Details: Small credit union looking for a candidate to manage and coordinate all marketing, advertising and promotional projects. Ideal candidate has 1-2 yrs in financial services industry and a BA in Marketing or Business related degree. Compensation is between $45,000-$50,000 but no relocation assistance is provided. Email resume & cover letter to Ms. Frieda Afandi at . Good luck! ============== UPDATE 2-Qatar buys helicopters, missiles in $23 bln arms deals Thu, Mar 27 16:08 PM EDT * U.S. firms get deals worth $7.6 bln * Boeing gets contract for 24 Apache attack helicopters * Lockheed, Raytheon also win contracts (Adds details, in paragraphs 9-11, of additional weapons included) By Praveen Menon DOHA, March 27 (Reuters) - Qatar announced contracts worth about $23 billion on Thursday to buy attack helicopters, guided missiles, tankers and other weapons from Boeing Co, Airbus and other arms makers as the Gulf state accelerates its military build-up. The world's top liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter announced deals with about 20 global companies, including firms from the United States which were awarded deals worth 27.5 billion riyals ($7.6 billion), said a spokeswoman for a Doha defense conference where the announcements were made. The weapons purchases include large deals with Lockheed Martin, Raytheon and others. Qatar, and other Gulf Arab and Middle Eastern countries are looking to acquire new high-tech military equipment to protect themselves from neighboring Iran and internal threats after the Arab Spring uprising. Boeing confirmed that the announcement included a contract to buy 24 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and three Boeing 737 Airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft. The deal for the helicopters was valued at 8.9 billion riyals, said the spokeswoman for the conference. In Paris, France's Defense Ministry said Qatar had agreed to buy 22 NH90 military helicopters from a unit of European aerospace group Airbus worth 2 billion euros ($2.76 billion) and two Airbus-made refueling tankers. NHIndustries is 62.5 percent owned by Airbus' Eurocopter helicopter unit, 32 percent owned by AgustaWestland, a unit of Italy Finmeccanica's and 5.5 percent by Stork Fokker. Qatar also committed to buy a Patriot missile defense system built by Raytheon equipped with PAC-3 missiles made by Lockheed; advanced daytime, high-definition sensors and radars for Apache helicopters; and Javelin missiles built by a Lockheed-Raytheon joint venture, according to sources familiar with the matter. Raytheon had told analysts in January that it expected to finalize an order with Qatar in the first half of 2014 for over $2 billion in Patriot missile defense system equipment. The Pentagon approved the sale to Qatar of $9.9 billion worth of Patriot fire units, radars, and various Raytheon and Lockheed missiles in November 2012. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the U.S. body which oversees foreign arms sales, had notified lawmakers in July 2012 of a possible sale of Apache helicopters to Qatar. A spokeswoman for the U.S. agency had no immediate comment. Washington has been keen to deepen its cooperation with Gulf nations, which have been long-standing allies, on missile defense and increase pressure on Iran over its nuclear program. The Apache helicopters are built by Boeing and used by the U.S. Army, Egypt, Greece, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom. They will be fitted with Longbow radar equipment made by a joint venture of Lockheed and Northrop Grumman Corp. ($1 = 3.6415 Qatar Riyals) (Additional reporting by Marine Pennetier in Paris and Andrea Shalal in Washington, Editing by William Maclean, Elaine Hardcastle and Tom Brown) =================== Qatar ‘promises to improve labour laws’ Dozens of Nepalese workers had died in Qatar Reuters Published: 14:32 March 26, 2014 Share on facebookShare on twitterShare on emailShare on printMore Sharing Services6. Image Credit: Supplied Doha: Qatar has promised to improve its labour laws, a member of the European parliament visiting the Gulf Arab state said, after persistent criticism from human rights group over its treatment of workers. Pressure on Qatar, which is hosting the 2022 soccer World Cup, grew after Britain’s Guardian newspaper reported in September that dozens of Nepali construction workers had died and that labourers were not given enough food and water. Qatari and Nepali officials denied the report. Richard Howitt, a member of the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights who visited Doha this week as part of efforts to help Qatar reform its labour laws, said Qatari officials were working on new legislation to improve conditions for foreign workers in the Gulf Arab state. “It’s been a very constructive visit,” Howitt, a Briton, said on Tuesday. “I met with officials who said that we should be hearing about new announcements which include laws to protect domestic workers by this summer... Change is imminent,” he added, referring to house maids and cleaners, who are usually foreign. He did not give any more details. Officials from the Qatari Labour Ministry were not available on Wednesday for a comment. Summer in the Middle East falls between June and September. The European Parliament subcommittee on human rights, which is looking into the issue of sports and human rights, last month decided to help Qatar introduce labour reforms after a hearing with several witnesses including human rights groups and the UN’s International Labour Organisation. Howitt said he had also urged Qatari officials to abolish the “kafala” or “sponsorship” system that allows sponsors to hold guest workers’ passports for the duration of their contracts. He said the Qatari’s said they were planning to introduce some changes into this system but gave no specific time frame. Qatari officials were reluctant to allow the formation of labour unions, he said, because they viewed the issue as “not compatible with national security”. Faced with the challenge of completing big construction and infrastructure projects before the World Cup, Qatar has an increasing number of its estimated 1.8 million foreigners working on projects related to soccer’s showcase event. Howitt also said executives from European construction companies he met in Qatar admitted to having laxer workers’ welfare standards there compared with their operations in Europe. “Some European companies confessed that they apply lower standards in Qatar compared to what they do in Europe,” he said. “European companies and the private sector have to take the lead in providing better conditions for workers, and this is something that I had discussed with them.” Last month, Qatar’s 2022 World Cup organisers said they will penalise contractors who violate the welfare of construction workers after the Gulf country was widely criticized over its labour rights record. But the measures, which included detailed standards unveiled by the Qatar 2022 Supreme Committee, did not deal with the sponsorship system for migrant workers that a UN official said in November was a source of labour abuse. ================= MIDEAST STOCKS-Egypt extends profit-taking bout; Qatar, Bahrain rise 1. A contest between antagonists; a match: a wrestling bout. 2. A period of time spent in a particular way; a spell: " ====================== Emirati official draws ire after calling on UAE to ‘reclaim’ Qatar By: Nada Badawi | April 2, 2014View as "Clean Read" | 25 Comments 395 SHARES EmailUPrint Dubai Police/Facebook New remarks from one of Dubai’s top security officials, who has called for the annexation of Qatar into the UAE, are generating an outpouring of online response from Doha’s local community. In a series of tweets posted this week to his more than 600,000 followers, Lt. General Dhahi Khalfan, the deputy chairman of Police and General Security in Dubai, said: Translation: “We demand that Qatar be returned to its original ruling under Abu Dhabi, return the branch to its original one.” “Qatar is an integral part of the UAE. We must put up signs on our borders with Qatar stating: ‘You are now entering the UAE’s eighth emirate.’” “Qatar should not be ‘a safe haven’ to the so-called ‘Muslim’ Brotherhood.” Khalfan, formerly Dubai’s police chief, is a longtime critic of the Islamist group, which Qatar has supported. However, many in the GCC see the Muslim Brotherhood as a threat to their political stability. Qatar’s position on the group has been cited by analysts and local officials as the main reason the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain recalled their ambassadors from Doha last month. Khalfan’s tweets also mention his disapproval of Azmi Bishara, a former member of Israel’s Knesset and the general director of Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies in Qatar, in addition to prominent Doha-based Islamic scholar Sheikh Yusuf Al Qaradawi. Online reaction Qatar has not publicly commented on the senior security official’s remarks. But the Qatari community has been discussing Khalfan’s statements on social networks, with some mocking his posts under the Twitter hashtag #ضاحي_خلفان_يطالب_بضم_قطر_للإمارات (Dhahi Khalfan demanding the annexation of Qatar to UAE). Khalfan also asserted that Emiratis comprise 80 percent of Qatar’s total population, and were the first to name the country’s city Doha, saying: “I hope you’re not upset, this is the truth.” But Twitter users scorned the remarks, reminding Khalfan that the UAE, along with Qatar and Bahrain, were collectively known as the Trucial States after the British withdrew their colonial presence from the region in 1968. Diplomatic ties Some have expressed concern about the online row, saying Khalfan’s tweets could heighten the already existing tension between Qatar and the UAE. Translation: “I love the UAE and its people, but he’s crazy! It’s not allowed to cause chaos between Gulf countries. Shame on his words.” The tensions began worsening earlier this year, after the UAE officially objected to a sermon of Al Qaradawi’s. During a broadcast speech, the Egyptian-born Qatari cleric criticized the UAE’s support for Egypt’s new military government, which overthrew Brotherhood-backed President Mohamed Morsi last year in Cairo. Since then, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have pledged billions of dollars in aid to the new government. Qatar meanwhile had backed Morsi’s government and has seen the return of aid it previously offered to his administration. The situation escalated last month with the withdrawal of Saudi, UAE and Bahrain’s envoys. In addition, Saudi Arabia declared the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist group. However, many are doubtful that Khalfan’s messages will do anything more than spark ire for now. A think tank source in Qatar who asked to remain anonymous told Doha News: “His remarks have surprised many people and have done little other than to exacerbate public antipathy between Qatar and the UAE. It is hard to see why such a senior official feels the need to express himself in this way – it is extremely counterproductive.” He added that the problems between the Gulf countries would be fixed by officials more senior than Khalfan, and “not on Twitter.” Thoughts? ======================

Do we need Qatarization

الاثنين، 7 مارس، 2011Do we need Qatarization ? A question we hear from time to time, which makes some of us wondering, do we? And if yes why? And why we don't hear about Americanization, Austrilization or Canadization? Yes we do need Qatarization, as long Qatar is an open market for employing form all over the world. We do need Qatarization for the Following main reasons: 1- To insure jobs and development of new Qatari graduate. 2- To continue development of existing employee. 3-To protect Qatar interests on big companies which effecting the economy. If the unemployment now is zero or close to in Qatar, when Qatarization is stopped and no monitoring program and pressure on the companies to employee and train Qataries , we will get one digit number after some years and we might get two digits number for unemployment, as companies will not employee local fresh graduate and spend on training them, while they could get a cheaper 10 years experience employee from far East. Also companies will always find it better to employee who they can Fire when is not needed or in downsizing with out problems. Until we get a restrictions on issuing work permit visas for any nationality, Qatarization will be a must so Qataries can get a reasonable jobs. Few Qataris who miss behave or abuse the system dose not mean that Qatarization is the reason, there are many Qataris are working hard and skillful and they have been supported by Qatarization, and the Qataris who claim that they don't have work to do, in most cases their supervisor don't want them to get involved in the effective work either because they will ask a lot of questions, and he feel is loosing his time answering them, or he is afraid that if they get to know how he do work with time he will not be needed any more. Having the ambition to become managers, is their right and natural feeling and should not bother any body, managing their country business and protecting it interests is every Qatari goal, and for example if a father own a company I don't think his son will be the coffee boy in that company, but he will be the managing director and that's normal. I believe companies in Qatar has build a culture, which based on employing experienced ready to go workers, so no room for fresh employee who need to be trained, as a result of that we see a lot of Arab non Qatari student who graduate from local universities with GPA 4 can't find work in any local company !! So companies’ culture and mentality should be changed and Qatarization is the driver for that. We don’t hear about Americanization, Austrilization or Canadization. Because no company there can get an unlimited number of work permit visas from any nationality, for that we see the big US companies open factories in China and India, while employing Chinese and Indians in their existing Factory in the States will be much cheaper, and they could protect their technology in better way. What we have in Qatar is a special situation can’t be compared to the western countries as their rules and regulations are different. In Qatar we have three labor markets Expats, Locals and Qataris, if we don’t have the protection and the pressure of Qatarization , we will be compared in wages with the Locals who are from different living cost where MacDonald’s meal cost 5 QR , and in skills and knowledge you will be compared with expats who have a very high wages and by both comparison , we Qataries will be the losers. Bottom line: Quality Qatarization can only be achieved when companies start to feel that they only have Qataries to employee for certain jobs, then they will choose Qataries carefully and will train them seriously, and after all will retain them in a good way, and that will be done with out monitoring as it will be the only way to keep their companies in business. مرسلة بواسطة أحمد الكواري في 12:07 ص ‏هناك 4 تعليقات: =============== Living the Confused Expatriate Life – Part 1 of a Few 16 February 2013 by Ms. Hala Abdoun | 20 Comments Dear Faithful Readers, Thank you all for your kind messages after noticing my absence for the last month. It’s been rough living with limited access at my place and working hard to prove myself at this new turn in my career. I have been writing a lot, believe me! I’ve written a few parts about my expatriate life in Qatar. Let’s start it off with the piece I wrote about identity… Living the Confused Expatriate Life Part 1 of a Few… Identity By: Ms. Hala I have lived the expatriate life here in Qatar for over 8 months now. There’s still a few bumps in the road to smooth out but overall, life is good. I’m enjoying my very busy and challenging job in a new industry. I’m apartment hunting for a third time now that my temp rent will be up soon. I’m following my 2013 resolution to a tee thus far… so life is good! Oh, did I mention I’m a legal resident of Qatar now? Oh yes baby I am! Got my residency permit a couple of weeks ago, now I can do stuff like get a monthly mobile phone service… hehehe Yes, mobile not cell… I’m catching on to the popular Euro lingo here. ;) However, living this expatriate life comes with a couple of interesting confusions. Maybe I just lived in this wonderful tolerant city that is San Francisco to have to deal with this identity confusion that I’m dealing with now. I’m a Muslim Egyptian American expatriate who talks in a lovely California accent but “looks” and talks Arabic like an Egyptian. Confusing much? Apparently so! When I first took on my new job, the grapevines of the office announced there’s an American among them. Aside from the fact that everyone thought the American was getting paid a bazillion dollars (that’s another entry, I promise you!), no one could tell whom the American was. Many didn’t realize until I started talking to everyone, introducing myself and getting the question, “Where’s your accent from?” Say Whaaat? I reply, “I’m American”. “Really?” “Yes, I’m from Calfornia.” “How long did you live there?” “Born and raised.” “Wow…” “Uh huh…” The major problem in Qatar is that everyone here is labeled based on their nationality. Even those born and raised in Qatar don’t even get a Qatar citizenship. They do get treated like Qataris with regards to “Qatarization” but aside from that, they are not even legally Qatari. There’s this thinking that one or the other has a look, has a personality, has a way of thinking or a way of doing… and everyone’s judging you based mostely on those ideologies and stereotypes. There are so many ridiculous notions about every ethnicity out here, it’s unbelievable. Let’s start with being an American girl and how exhausting it is to overcome that terrible stereotype. What’s the stereotype here about American girls you ask? Drum roll please… American girls have non-stop wild parties, get drunk all the time and the rest is flushed down a toilet in the morning. Mind you, many conservative expatriates here have come to this conclusion from the many movies and television shows that “always show you American girls drinking and having crrrazy parties.” *sighing and shaking my head* Finding an apartment under the American girl banner has simply been the most annoying experience of my life, twice! Having to do it so many times now is just torture at this point. I’m repeatedly asked where I’m from and have to answer with Egypt just to get a viewing appointment. Once they see my “Egyptian look” but hear my “berfect ingelesh”, I get asked, “Where are you from, exactly?” After going through an identity explanation, I have to further explain that the idea that us American girls are drunk party animals is just plain false. I’ve even had to emphasis that family will be joining me in Qatar permanently just so that they don’t think I will be in fact living alone and using this “extra space” for my wild parties. *sighing angrily* During my time as a temporary English instructor, I was asked to take on a group of young children. To my hesitation, I accepted and on the first day, disaster. One of the parents whom signed up his very disrespectful son only signed him up because it was exclaimed that the instructor was an American lady. Seeing that I wasn’t up to par, the Egyptian expatriate bee lined it to the director’s office exclaiming false advertisement. What did he expect? A tall blonde woman like the Americans he sees on television. Upon hearing this, I rolled my eyes and walked away before the ghetto San Francisco girl in me came out to bitch slap the stupid outta him! I’m trying my best to overcome this stupid ideology that I can only be either Egyptian or American. I had an argument with an Egyptian fellow a while back over a remark I found quite offensive. He went on to say, “oh, is your American turned on? I forgot you don’t get some of our jokes.” I didn’t even know we could switch between our bicultural identities… WTF? Apparently, there’s a stupid stereotype about bicultural Americans, especially Arabs… Those whom hold an American citizenship think they are better than everyone else, act like they don’t get some traditional lingo and will use their American identity for beneficial purposes. As a first generation born Arab American, this stereotype is so far from the truth, you’ve got to wait for the six o’clock train to get there! Half my family from both sides hold an American citizenship after immigrating from Egypt in the early 70′s and 80′s. They’ve all worked tirelessly, raised their children and grandchildren, paid their taxes, contributed to the American society just like any other immigrant family from any corner of the world. They all deserve the same respect as every other American out there.

I’ve learned over time that I’m not alone in this odd confusion. The citizens of Qatar themselves are also in this weird situation where stereotypes about them isn’t only false, but many act upon it to the point of disgraceful. The stereotypes about Qataris… they are extremely conservative, snubby, spoiled and unkind individuals seeing all others as second class citizens. Not only is this stupidity far from the truth, but many dress in traditional Qatari attire in an attempt to act upon these stereotypes and intimidate others. Yes, this includes bullying people on road to outrageous behavior towards others… just disgraceful!

On New Year’s Eve, a Qatari lady was discriminated against for, get this, looking and dressing Qatari… WTF? According to Doha News, a Qatari lady was not allowed into a hotel restaurant on the said day because it was deemed inappropriate for Qatari ladies to attend. Again, WTF? Sadly, this this happens a lot across Qatar.

I must say however, for the most part, Qataris are the complete opposite of these stereotypes just like any other ethnicity being treated according to whatever stereotype is drawn up of them. Qataris are quite polite, kind and generous. They may be wealthy but not many act like it’s their forsaken right to the wealth or OK the ill treatment upon others.

An interesting example I see all the time: in Qatar, you are not to fuel your own vehicle (similar to the law in New Jersey), you are to stay in your vehicle or go to the many shops at the station while an station employee fuels your vehicle. On any given day, as I sit comfortably while another fuels my car, I’ll see a Qatari gentleman step out of his vehicle, have a small talk conversation with the employee fueling and washing down his car, before tipping and driving off. Every time I see that scene, I see the employee with a huge smile on his face. Many of these employees can use the extra tip for phone cards to call home or even save up for an occasion. Other times, I hear of stories of how someone had their tires blown out and a Qatari pulled over in their designer attire to help out hands on. That I’ve personally experienced personally when I had my car accident. Yes, people from various backgrounds pulled over and offered to help but I gotta say, the Qataris were the ones whom stepped out of their vehicles, yelled at the rude police officer on my behalf and moved my car because, “She’s a lady and should be treated with respect.” Chivalry is still alive and kicking! Even the Qatari police officers at the police station gave it to the non-Qatari police officer for discriminating against me because I was American. “That doesn’t matter, she’s still a lady, have some manners brother!” Thank you. =) I do have to admit that my identity has brought up many a funny conversations. At an event a few months ago, I was blessed to meet some wonderful people. One of them was an elder businessman whom owns one of Egypt’s first timeshare businesses. We got to talking business until I mentioned how the timeshare business in the USA works. Once I stated that yes, I was an Egyptian American, he just stared at me. “And you wear hijab?” I couldn’t stop laughing before it was like, man you just opened Pandora’s box! I went on and on about the wonderful community that is the Muslim American community; from the San Francisco Islamic School where I volunteered to the advocacy work of CAIR to the masjids where I’ve prayed at. I had to stop myself at one point because I realized I was missing my community to the brink of tears. I know Qatar is trying really hard to create a tolerant, diverse and welcoming community. I know it will not happen over night and not by one feeling superior or the other feeling intimidated. I see the problem in Qatar as people coming from the many corners of the world with ignorant, close-minded and/or just confused and conflicted as I am. The thing is, it’s going to take a long time before the ignorant to be educated, the close-minded to be tolerant and the confused to take it all in one day at a time. I’m in the process still of taking it all in, one day at a time. - Ms. Hala 22 February 2013 at 10:53 pm Well I’m glad you did brother! hehehe Thank you for your comment but may I make a few points… 1. I think it’s utterly disgusting this whole categorization… two people, same job, different pay based on ethnicity? Just disgusting… and the fact that you mention that I have it better than most Egyptians makes me feel worst about it. 2. My American identity has brought me a headache and my native English has been good to me, Alhamdulillah! hehehe 3. I guess being bilingual has its advantages socially… However I’d like to note that I don’t associate with others whom are discriminatory or intolerant of others, no matter their background. I’ve cut a few ties with people because of this, including the story I mentioned above. I wish you the best as well Insha’Allah, thank you! Part 2 is coming! =) Ms. Hala 23 February 2013 at 9:32 am Well some rules were meant to be broken, especially one that is as disgusting as categorization! I did get in trouble, I waved the only passport I hold and it was of no help… that’s another story for another day. No I haven’t seen that movie, but I’m trying to find it online! hehehe I’ve only been here for about 9 months so my experiences are limited as well I’m sure. Arabian nights? Ummm… hehehe Exactly, there’s good and bad in all but to make a general assumption is what gets to me. Glad you enjoyed my rants, stayed tuned for more! =) Ms. Hala 7 March 2013 at 5:07 pm My comment, “They do get treated like Qataris with regards to ‘Qatarization’” was with regards to attaining employment, nothing more. I too know of a handful of Qatari born individuals whom are in your husband’s shoes. That was the point of my comment, that they are discriminated against and not allowed citizenship of the country in which they were born in. I’m sorry for what you and your husband have been through, it’s unfair and honestly very disgusting. No one deserves this kind of treatment nor should they accept this treatment upon themselves. That I think is the bigger problem here, that people accept this form of treatment and my advise to them is to simply not tolerate it. When there is no more talent in Qatar, than maybe, just maybe, people will change. Maybe I just have high hopes for humanity… I don’t know. Same to you my dear! =) Ms. Hala 30 April 2013 at 9:00 am I agree, most of that attitude is coming from expats more than the locals. Funny enough, the locals don’t give citizenship to those born and raised in their country which I find quite sad. ==================== Living the Confused Expatriate Life – Part 2 of a Few 2 May 2013 by Ms. Hala Abdoun | 10 Comments Living the Confused Expatriate Life Part 2 of a Few… Marital Status By: Ms. Hala I am not married. I am not engaged. I am not in a relationship. I am single. It has followed me around to no end, even when I’ve moved thousands of miles away, to a conservative Arab country. When it comes to my status here in Qatar, I’ve come across two reactions in people. The first being the cheerleaders. They are the ones with nothing but kind and positive reinforcements. It’s even more astounding when it comes from those I least expect it from. For example, the older Egyptian gentlemen whom I work with that are always encouraging me. In the last four months that I’ve worked with one of the managers, not a day goes by without him always complementing my strength and determination, especially during some of the challenges we’ve faced at the office, for doing what I do. With limited internet access in the past few months, when I do log on, I find a good number of emails and messages via social media from young people whom have noted how they follow-up on my latest Qatar adventures with inspiration. Some of them, already here in Qatar, have blessed me with their friendship. The second being the haters. They are the ones with nothing but stupid, stereotypical and just plain envious words because I can’t find any other reason for their bad energy. These are the people that feel the need to say one of three things: “You’re here, alone? No family? No husband? But why? You poor thing.” “I could do what you’re doing now but so-and-so said men don’t like girls like that and I really want to get married.” “I wish I was you! You’re doing everything I’m too dipshit* to do on my own! People talk you know.” Sigh. After my third month living in Qatar, I just stopped trying to answer to these people. Yes, I’m here alone with the blessings of my family. However, that’s when I came to realize that there are very few people like me in Qatar and most young ladies are living here either with family or a spouse, not alone. I miss my mommy. Please, don’t tell me of how you could do things for yourself if your life revolves around someone else. You people are more irritable to me than those whom keep trying to set me up with this “great guy”. Please realize that not all of us are living up to some odd standard of husband hunting. Some of us actually live for ourselves, have more meaning to life than just finding someone to accept us. I mean you want to get married, great, but life doesn’t need to revolve around the idea. And for crying out loud, if you want to do something, just shut the fuck up and go for it. Trust me, when you don’t do nothing, people will have something to say about it. When you do anything, guess what? People will have something to say about it. Funny thing though, most people don’t give two shits about what you are (or aren’t) doing so I’m still trying to figure out why you even care about the opinion of those people. Sigh. As of last month though, I’ve come across the third reaction that has started to get under my skin. The third being some of Qatar’s policies. Before I go on a rant here, I want to state that I understand why some of these policies are in play, to prevent human trafficking and prostitution. However, there’s got to be some kind of line of reasoning, understanding, common sensing (Is that even a word? Well it should be.) around here. And here’s where my rant begins. Exhibit A: In order to obtain my Qatar Residency Permit (RP), I had to go through a medical screening. Mainly an X-ray of the chest for TB screening and two different blood tests. For those sponsored under employment, the company pays in advance for the fees or refunds you for it while all others usually pay upfront during their appointment. If you are born in Qatar, you don’t go through this lovely experience. The Medical Commission that I was blessed to attend through my place of work was the most disgusting place in Qatar. It starts out nice, divided into a section for the ladies and a section for the men. Or I thought, until I drove towards the ladies section to find swarms of men waiting outside the ladies’ only entrance. I entered alone, passing the many odd stares and glares. Once inside, there were two lines, those pre-paid and those needing to pay. The pre-paid line was empty. Showed the lady at the counter my blue passport, got the up and down look before the lovely question, “You’re here through work? You’re here alone?” “Yes” I answered back smiling sarcastically and annoyed. She kept rolling her eyes as she processed my papers and directed me to the x-ray room. After the lovely experience of being herded like animals and watched by others as I took the x-ray, twice, I picked up what was left of my dignity and went to get my first blood test. Upon looking me up on the computer, the lovely lady at the counter made stupid remarks about me being work sponsored before handing me a few documents plus a little booklet. Not paying attention, I walked towards the exam room where a kind nurse was assisting me in getting my blood test. Having small talk and looking at the booklet because I hate needles (don’t ask me how I got my lip pierced!), I realized what the booklet was, “Prayers for the Dead”. Really? Bitch gave me a prayer book for the dead? Kind nurse laughed at a comment I made as she instructed me to go to a private clinic for my second blood test. I gave the bitch the booklet back stating, “I’m not dead!” Throughout the short drive to the clinic I kept thinking what the hell was her intention giving me that booklet? Am I as good as dead? Or did she just run out of “Prayers for the Living” booklets? Deeply annoyed sigh. Exhibit B: I finally found a nice little apartment, comfortable for myself and my little devil child, Ms. Doha in a brand new gated community. Upon registering and signing, it was brought to the attention of the gentleman handling my application that the contract would be under my happy name. Ms. Doha is having a hard time adapting to the new place. She did her best to get comfy on her first night… #FirstWorldKittyProblems “Ma’am, are you registering under your name?” “Yeeeeeees. I’m the one whom will live here.” “Do you have an ID?” “Yes! Here’s my Qatar ID and my passport as well.” “Do you have a letter of employment verification?” “No, I wasn’t told I needed one when I inquired over the phone.” “You need a letter of employment verification to complete your application.” “Why? My Qatar ID specifically states my place of employment as my sponsor.” “Yes but you’re special.” He joked politely seeing my disapproved reaction. I’ve been told that reaction scares a lot of people. Not sure if that’s a good or bad thing so I tried to make a curious face. It didn’t work. Poor guy continued with his charming self, “Company policy requires that you bring a letter of employment verification because you’re a single lady. We’ll extend your booking time and follow-up with you, don’t worry.” I just stared blankly, watching other people register without a hitch. The gentleman assured that the apartment was mine and that he would follow-up with me but to please bring that letter from my employers. I left a little disappointment and fearful I was going to lose this nice place. I had to move out of my place and my lifestyle choice was the reason for the delay? Akh! I have to say that the lovely people of our HR department were understanding and produced the necessary documentations for me within the hour. The apartment company did continuously follow-up with me until I showed up with the letter later that evening. They were generous enough to expedite my move-in date upon knowing my circumstances. People here are helpful towards a single lady, especially if she’s willing to follow company policy. Sigh. * Disclaimer: none of those whom made that statement actually called themselves “dipshit”, but I think they should have. Read: Living the Confused Expatriate Life – Part 1 of a Few Ms. Hala 9 May 2013 at 11:11 am I’m not sure but try looking up some sources on QatarLiving.com or IloveQatar.com. I know there are a few alternative medicine and polyclinics in Doha, mainly near the Villaggio mall. Hope that helps! Ms. Hala 22 May 2013 at 8:56 am Is this a different mall aside from Center Point off the Khor Cornishe? I wasn’t even aware of that. I’ve meet many teachers who happen to live in AlKhor, so far, they all love it. ===================== 23 June 2013 by Ms. Hala Abdoun 7 Comments Living the Confused Expatriate Life – Part 3 of a Few Living the Confused Expatriate Life Part 3 of a Few… Unprofessional By: Ms. Hala I have to admit, being part of a management team in a growing industry in this part of the world has it’s perks. Even though I’m technically an entry-level manager, I’m the only female ever to hold a managerial position in the history of this company. Females in this company are about 10% of the entire workforce. So I think that in itself is a huge perk. I’ve been warned one too many times by colleagues with the phrase, “You’re not in America anymore. Welcome to the Middle East. This is how things work.” Yet I would always remind them that in my opinion, professionalism is universal. You can’t convince me that the lack of professionalism is the reason behind the Middle East’s successful economy despite the rest of the developing world’s economic downfall. It was the lack of professionalism that caused US taxpayers to bail out stupid big banks whom brought our economy to a recession. So yes, I’m in the Middle East – thanks for the warm welcome – but that shouldn’t mean professionalism is dead. Right? Ummm… to some extent. You see, it’s not necessarily where you are working in the world but whom you are working with in the world. Yes, certain cultural etiquettes need to be understood and respected. However, many misinterpret these etiquettes to their advantages. Sounds a little too familiar? This is when I discovered that half the staff, a mix of various languages, nationalities, levels of management, are scared of me. Yes, scared. Lack of professionalism is the culprit here. Here’s the shpeal, I manage the logistics of this global division. I deal in large part with clearing and transporting agents, Qatar customs administrators and global suppliers in over 15 countries including the USA. On one lovely day unlike today, I realized that the term “professionalism” to some extent did not exist in the eyes of some people I deal with on a daily basis. I was only about 3 months into my position and the idea of how my job was to deal with extremely unprofessional people hit me, hard. What the hell am I going to do? How the hell am I going to make it in this industry? How the hell am I going to even last in Qatar? Damn. There I was on the phone with the most incompetent person representing the clearing and transport agents behind the delays for our division in receiving units sitting at the ports for days. Paying customers threatening to cancel sales. Sales team members freaking out fearing losing those sales. Managers scrambling to meet their goals before month end just two days away. Our division simply trying to, you know, do business! It was just me between my division and this incompetent imbecile whom was oblivious to the importance of his work for us. He kept going on and on with this bullshit, one lie after the other in the most unprofessional manner I’ve ever dealt with in my entire working life… I couldn’t take it anymore. I hold two masters degrees in business, I have multiple years of experience dealing with people of all personalities and here I was unable to take this waste of oxygen anymore. I became the very thing I feared being in my career… unprofessional. I just held that phone with a tight grip and gave it to this imbecile, cursing and screaming amongst a culture of appropriate and polite manners. “If your fucking company can’t get my shit done on time, I have 20 other cheaper and more competent companies that can! Don’t fucking bullshit me man because I don’t give a fuck! Just. Get. My. Shit. Done. Now! Do you hear me?” The man on the other line just froze, sniffled and broke down like a two year old kid. He would get it done he said, by the end of the day. I slammed the phone, took a few deep breathes, checked I didn’t break the phone, then placed my hand over my dropped jaw… the entire office within sight had heard every single word I said. I turned around to one of my sales managers applauding me, “YES! It’s about time someone showed them who’s boss! They are always screwing us over!” I just giggled in disbelief as I whispered, “I made him cry.” Some had their jaws dropped while others laughed, “you made him cry?!” The rest continued to give me this wide-eyed stare, unsure what to make of me anymore. Conversing what had just happened, this apparently wasn’t the first time these agents had been delaying work fulfillment. They were behind lost deals and damaged goods in the past. Then, my boss called me into his glass office. Damn. “What the hell is going on out there?” “Ummm, I was on the phone with what’s his name trying to figure out what was taking them so long to get our units delivered. And honestly,” I was trying to find that professional lady, she’s here somewhere, I know it. “I couldn’t help it when he started BSing me so I just gave it to him pretty bad till he cried. I know it’s-” “You mean bitch!” “Hey!” I responded, that the professional lady was now lost forever, or the rest of the day maybe. “This ‘mean bitch’ just saved your ass there. You’re fucking welcome!” My boss just laughed, “Good, thanks! Please keep me posted, we need get these units to our customers ASAP. We have to meet our deadline and goals in the next couple of days.” “We shall, we shall.” The rest of that day, everyone gave me odd wide-eyed looks. Everyone asked me what happened, whom got the wrath of the American. In a few hours, our work was cleared, units were delivered, everything was good. It shouldn’t have taken me being unprofessional, was the thought at the back of my head. By the end of the day, I was shown an invoiced by one of our accountants, “are we responsible for these fines?” Of course things didn’t end there, it got worse. The agents had sent us an invoice for their incomplete services, dated days before the shipments even arrived, with fines they racked up leaving our shipments for days at the ports. When I brought this to the management’s attention, they had a fit. “We need to review all their back invoices.” “This is a matter of principle.” “Hala should be in charge of reviewing all these invoices before they go to the accounting department.” “Right, she deals with them daily, she would be the authority approving whether or not we are responsible for these fines.” Damn. A little irked, I shot an email to their head honco on vacation for like the millionth time that if I didn’t get a corrected invoice, they wouldn’t get paid a dirham (thats pennies for you American folk). He of course complied by sending me the imbecil to my office to “clear things up” the next day. Everyone slyly watched as the guy again started with his bullshit and knowing I might just explode, I took a deep breath and with a loud but very calm tone, “Listen man, don’t fucking start with me again. You guys fucked up and left our units out there for days. You need to own up to that, period.” I found her, I found the professional lady again and this one is awesome! “So you either get me the corrected invoice by the end of the day today or it’s free. Plain and simple, ok?” He just stared at me and when he teared up, he walked away because he had to “take care of work.” No yelling, no scream, just slightly loud and straight in the face. Professionalism at it’s best, I thought, until I looked around again to the wide-eyed faces. It was official, I was the scary person in the office. Damn. “I heard she pushed him against the window, threatening to throw him over if he didn’t get us our stuff.” “I heard him cry when she yelled at him… why did he even come to the office?” “I watched her scare him straight while she sat there casually. He’s so much taller than her and he is scared of her. A girl!“ “Now she knows how things work in the Middle East.” Damn. Like Loading...Categories: In Living Qatar, Job Sustenance | Tags: America, career, cultural etiquettes, damn, female, global, manager, Middle East, professionalism, Qatar, unprofessional, work | Permalink. Ms. Hala 23 June 2013 at 10:14 am Thanks Museem! hehehe It’s just I didn’t want that to define me in the office nor scare people from me but I guess that’s the reality of things here. Yea, that’s why I emphasized that there weren’t even that many ladies here. A lot aren’t sure how to work with one or what to expect from one. Most are nice and quiet while a few are social and outgoing. I thank you for supporting the ladies’, ummm, “professional” manners within the workplace. =D Ms. Hala 23 June 2013 at 11:14 am Agreed, collective team efforts are much more productive than divided teams. That’s one of the things I like in my company, those divides are slowly breaking… keyword, slowly! hehehe I’m not an unprofessional professional… I’m a confused expatriate! Ms. Hala 25 June 2013 at 9:59 am I haven’t flown Qatar Airways but everyone I know that did has had nothing but positive feedback. Let me know if you still need help getting the issue resolved. And yes, LOVE Emirates Air! =D ============== JOB ALERT: Marketing ManagerJOB ALERT: Marketing Manager in Stockton, CA needed! Details: Small credit union looking for a candidate to manage and coordinate all marketing, advertising and promotional projects. Ideal candidate has 1-2 yrs in financial services industry and a BA in Marketing or Business related degree. Compensation is between $45,000-$50,000 but no relocation assistance is provided. Email resume & cover letter to Ms. Frieda Afandi at . Good luck! ==============