44. Qatar
Region
Middle East
Christian population
390 000 (14.1%)
Main relegion
Islam
Main threats
• Islamic oppression
• Clan oppression
Total score
67%
Pressure
79.8%
Violence
5.6%
Whether native or migrant, Christians in Qatar can face huge obstacles to expressing and sharing their faith.
Islam is the state religion, with Qatar’s policy and culture dictated by strict adherence to Wahhabi Islam and Sharia (Islamic law). This is an identity Qatar is keen to maintain while welcoming an ever- growing number of immigrants and migrant workers. This can make life very difficult for Qatari converts, not least because changing religion from Islam isn’t recognised by the authorities. Conversion can cause serious legal issues around personal status and property. Added pressure can come from families and the local community.
Migrant workers who leave the religion they grew up in can face hostility from colleagues similar to that in their home country. For those living and working in poor conditions, the challenges can be especially acute.
Foreigners face other difficulties, including insufficient church space at the official Religious Complex outside Doha. Even if space is found, churches must be careful how they engage with the broader community, since evangelising Muslims is strictly forbidden and can lead to prosecution. Migrants can also face pressure to convert to Islam.
Please pray
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Praise God for the churches and church leaders who serve expatriate communities, and that they can do so openly.
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Pray that there would be freedom of faith for native Qataris who are currently unable to convert from Islam freely.
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Ask God to protect secret Christian converts in Qatar, that they would be safe from harm or arrest.