Qatar-Local Customs & Culture

In general, the Qatari Inhabitants are of Arabic origin and the culture is very much based on Islamic tradition. Islam is the dominant influence on day-to-day life. This rich cultural tradition is present in what they wear, eat and drink. Qataris are known for their generosity and friendliness, thus making Qatar a very welcoming country.
Traditional dress is evident throughout Qatar with the men wearing a long flowing white garment called the dishdha or thobe with a headdress called the gutra. Women in public where the black Abaya, a long loose black robe which covers the clothes worn underneath. Some women wear a thin black veil over the face, while some a burka, which sometimes can cover the cheek, bones and leave only the eyes open.
Pork is outlawed in Qatar and cannot be found anywhere- it is also illegal to bring it into the country. Muslims are forbidden to eat any meat that is not slaughtered in accordance to the Islamic code; this is referred to as halaal. Consumption of alcohol is frowned upon by Qataris.

(reference: www.qatarliving.com)

Halal-Certified Products - for Middle East countries

Consuming Halal-certified products is essential to the practice of the Islamic faith.
It is important for Middle East countries to ensure that the meat and poultry they consume are genuinely Halal-certified to adhere to the lawful food prescribed for Muslim countries.
With this in mind, more and more food manufacturers acknowledge the importance and the salability of Halal-certified products.

To date, the total value of the global Halal food market is worth about US$ 632 billion based on industry reports.
Since our main source is from the Philippines, we coordinate with various government agencies in doing business with Philippine companies that are Halal-certified.
“Looking at the results of the two business missions organized by the Philippine  Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) last year, we can say that Halal-certified products  have huge potential in the world Halal market,” shared Sue Guru, Focal Halal Person of DTI.

CITEM will also promote Halal products in a special pavilion in the country’s trade show for food, the International Food Exhibition Philippines (IFEX). IFEX Philippines is the country’s premier trade event for quality and delectable food ideas scheduled on 6-8 May at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, Pasay City.
Moreover, the 3-day event will feature the Halal Pavilion, a creative display of Halal certified products from the Philippines that cover a wide range of food categories.
(notes from IFEX)