On November 20, the 2022 Qatar World Cup kicked off following years of anticipation and controversy.
A last-minute ban on alcoholic beverages was the most recent surprise for fans who widely protested the decision.
CNN explained the conservative Muslim country's other local laws and customs that visitors should be aware of.
Alcohol, Public drunkenness is a crime and anyone violating this law could face legal ramifications.
According to the British government, drinking in public in Qatar could , “result in a prison sentence of up to six months and/or a fine up to 3,000 Qatar Rial ($824).”
Sex, Orientation and PDA, Extramarital sex, intimacy in public and sex between men is also illegal in Qatar.
Last month, a report from Human Rights Watch warned of security forces arbitrarily arresting LGBT individuals and subjecting them to "ill-treatment in detention."
However, FIFA and the Qatar government have assured that “everyone is welcome in Qatar" and measures had been enacted to ensure the protection of everyone.
Dress code, Despite the heat, Qatar's tourism authority asked all visitors to show “respect for local culture by avoiding excessively revealing clothing in public.”
It is recommended that men and women cover both their knees and their shoulders while in Qatar.
Drugs, Illegal drugs, which include some prescription drugs, can result in heavy fines and lengthy jail sentences.
Visitors should check the list of banned substances before traveling to Qatar.