Domestic Violence Protections
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Qatari national laws, Emiri decrees, and ministerial decisions.
Qatari National Law
What is this right?
Qatar criminalized domestic violence with a dedicated law in 2020:
- Physical, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse within the family are all recognized forms of domestic violence.
- Victims can obtain protection orders from the court, which can order the abuser to leave the family home.
- The law covers spouses, children, parents, and other family members living in the same household.
- Penalties include imprisonment of up to 3 years and fines up to QAR 15,000 for domestic violence offences.
- A Family Cohesion Section was established to handle complaints and provide support services.
When does it apply?
- You or a family member are experiencing physical, emotional, sexual, or economic abuse at home.
- You need a protection order to keep an abuser away from you.
- You are a child or elderly person being mistreated by a family member.
What should you do?
- In immediate danger, call 999 (police emergency).
- File a complaint with the Family Cohesion Section at the Ministry of Social Development.
- Request a protection order from the court.
- Contact the Qatar Foundation for Social Work for shelter and support services.
- Seek medical attention and document any injuries.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not stay silent. Domestic violence is a crime in Qatar and help is available.
- Do not return to the abuser without a safety plan and legal protections in place.
- Do not destroy evidence of abuse (messages, photos of injuries, medical reports).
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