Qatar

Qatar became a Party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control on February 27, 2005.

Smoke Free Places

The law prohibits smoking in indoor public places “set forth by a decision of the Minister.” However, an implementing decree has not yet been issued specifying the places where smoking is prohibited. Therefore, there are currently no restrictions on smoking in indoor public places, indoor workplaces, and on public transport.

Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship

The law generally prohibits the advertising and promotion of tobacco products, with the exception of point of sale product display. The law prohibits all forms of tobacco sponsorship; however, the law fails to define sponsorship.

Tobacco Packaging and Labeling

Tobacco products must carry a combined text and picture warning that occupies no less than 50 percent of the front and back of the package. The law does not contain specific rotation requirements, instead stating that warnings are to be updated “as required by the public interest.” Misleading packaging and labeling, including terms such as “light” and “low tar,” is prohibited.

Cigarette Contents and Disclosures

The law regulates specified contents of cigarettes, including restricting the use of certain herbs, spices, and other flavorings. The law requires that manufacturers disclose to government authorities information on the contents of their products.

Sales Restrictions

The law prohibits the sale of tobacco products via vending machine and within 1,000 meters of schools and educational facilities. In addition, the law prohibits the sale of chewing tobacco, sweika (dipping tobacco), and waterpipe tobacco. However, there are no restrictions on the sale of single cigarettes, small packs of cigarettes, or tobacco products via the internet. The sale of tobacco products is prohibited to persons under the age of 18.

E-Cigarettes

The retail sale of e-cigarettes is prohibited. There are no restrictions on use or advertising, promotion and sponsorship of e-cigarettes.

Roadmap to Tobacco Control Legislation

Law No. 10 of 2016 on the Control of Tobacco and its Derivatives is the principal law governing tobacco control in Qatar. The law regulates smoke free places; tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship; and tobacco packaging and labeling. The law also prohibits the sale of e-cigarettes.

There are several GSO (GCC Standardization Organization) technical regulations that apply to tobacco products in Qatar. Technical Regulation 597/2009 includes emissions limits for cigarettes. Technical Regulation 246/2011 regulates tobacco product packaging and labeling, including health warnings. Technical Regulation 2390/2014 lists permissible and impermissible tobacco additives.

Review Status

This country’s legal measures were reviewed by our legal staff. No in-country lawyers or tobacco control experts reviewed our analysis.