Guardianship and Kafala
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 uses a guardianship system based on Sharia principles:
- Wilaya (guardianship) over a child's person and property belongs to the father, then the paternal grandfather.
- The guardian manages the child's education, medical care, and finances until they reach legal majority.
- Kafala (fostering) is the Islamic alternative to adoption. A kafil (sponsor) takes responsibility for a child's care without changing the child's family name or inheritance rights.
- Full adoption (changing the child's legal parentage) is not recognized under Qatar law.
- The court can remove a guardian who is found to be neglectful or harmful to the child.
When does it apply?
- You want to become a guardian or kafil for a child in Qatar.
- A child's guardian is not acting in the child's best interest.
- You need to appoint a guardian for a child whose father is deceased or absent.
What should you do?
- Apply to the Sharia Court for guardianship or kafala and submit required documents.
- If challenging a guardian's fitness, file a petition with the court and provide evidence of neglect or harm.
- Kafala applicants must demonstrate financial stability and a suitable home environment.
- Consult a family lawyer to navigate the process.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not attempt to adopt a child in the Western legal sense. Qatar does not recognize adoption.
- Do not change the child's family name under kafala. The child retains their biological family name.
- Do not bypass the court system. Informal guardianship arrangements have no legal protection.
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