Reminders from OWWA for Filipinos Bound for Qatar

When our kababayans go abroad, such as Qatar, it is common to get some advice from families and friends to help them succeed. But it’s also important to follow the regulations set by the government officials, especially by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and those from the host country.

ALSO READ: 5 Important Reminders If You Want to Work Abroad

Working abroad means more adjustment, especially in terms of culture and prevailing laws. Take the time to know the regulations and customs before you get on the plane.

Attending the Orientation is a Must

Attending the pre-departure orientation is one of the requirements before Filipinos can leave for their jobs. The orientation is an essential step for workers so they will know what to expect.

Here are some reminders from OWWA to keep in mind when you are in your host country:

Learn and understand their language, and respect their traditions and culture
Understand the provisions of the contract, and know your rights and responsibilities
Follow their rules and regulations

Keep out of trouble and stay away from these activities:

Engaging in drugs and other harmful and illegal substances
Accepting hand-carried materials from anyone else without seeing what’s inside. There have been cases of people getting arrested for unknowingly carrying guns or illegal drugs
Engaging in gambling, alcohol use, carrying obscene materials, or pirated videos
Lending your ATM, passport, and other important documents to other people since they might use them for illegal activities
Accumulating too much debt that you cannot pay. Don’t agree to be a guarantor for debts, either
Taking part in get-rich-quick schemes. Don’t pay attention to offers of transferring money to your account or winning the lottery
Running away from your employer. Try to work out the issue, instead

Additional Reminders for OFWs

Despite being a Muslim country, there is a Catholic and Christian church in the city
Non-Muslims should not eat in public during Ramadan
It is also best to keep quiet when your Muslim neighbors are reading the Holy Quran
Do not walk on the prayer mat
Wear modest clothes, especially during Ramadan
Identifying as homosexual is illegal. The convicted person may face punishment or deportation
It is illegal to show intimacy in public
Always bring a copy of the passport to show to authorities when needed
Remember that employers should not to hold on to their employees’ passports except for the processing of visas or immigration
Qatar has strict laws on alcohol consumption. For one, it is illegal to bring alcohol into the country.
But there are some licensed restaurants where OFWs can purchase their drink, but they need to show a corresponding permit
It is also forbidden to appear drunk in public
It is also illegal to offer alcoholic drinks to Muslims
For OFWs with a permit to buy alcohol, they are required to keep the product hidden until they get home
Anyone violating the alcohol laws will face a punishment of either imprisonment, fine, or deportation
Drunk driving is a serious offense, corresponding punishment may include a custodial sentence and deportation
Qatari cuisine is composed of traditional Arab food

We all want to succeed in our jobs, that’s why it’s important to learn as much as you can before you sign your contract. Of course, you should also enjoy your experience because not everyone has this opportunity.