INTRODUCTORY GUIDE TO

QATAR

01INTRODUCING QATAR OFFICE

WELCOME TO HYDER CONSULTING MIDDLE EAST LIMITED

Welcome to Hyder Consulting Middle East Limited. It is our intention to make your transition to Qatar a smooth one by supplying you with the necessary information.

Please take the opportunity to read this pack in full as it will save you time and help you understand how we operate in the Middle East and in Qatar. It covers general topics related to life and work here in Doha, gives details of company policies and procedures and lists important documentation that you will need to process your visa application and get settled here.

We have been operating in the region for over 50 years and now have over 1,000 employees originating from 40 different countries, in our various regional offices in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Dubai in the UAE, Doha in Qatar, Manila in the Philippines, Bahrain and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Key Information

QatarP O Box 1854Doha, QatarTel: + 974 4424 5000Fax: + 974 4424 5001

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02VISA AND IMPORTANTDOCUMENTATIONSEach office has a Public Relations Officer (PRO) who will guide you with and help you complete all the necessary paperwork for you to obtain the required documentation. We request that you return with your signed employment contract the documents listed below. Once in the country please note that you (and your spouse) will be required to have a blood test for contagious diseases and a chest x-ray:

Passport; Academic qualification certificates;

The following documents will (if applicable) also be required during the first few months in Qatar.

Attested qualification certificates A total of 12 passport photographs are required Attested marriage certificate; Attested birth certificate for children who will be on family visa; Valid driving licence; International driving licence; Spouses passport and 7 passport photos Childrens passports, birth certificates and 2 passport photos

What Happens on Arrival?

You (and your family) will be met on arrival and taken to your temporary accommodation. At a pre-arranged time you will be brought to the office to meet your line manager and colleagues and to start work.

Assistance and advice can be provided for all matters such as obtaining a driving licence, rental agreements, visas, opening a bank account, obtaining a liquor licence, doctors, dentists, utilities, purchasing a car etc. This booklet provides an initial introduction. Your hours will be flexible when you are looking for accommodation, receiving deliveries, going for medicals etc.

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03INTRODUCING QATARQatar has developed from being one of the poorest Gulf States with its income based primarily on pearl fishing, to become one of the richest, thanks to the exploitation of large oil and gas fields since the 1940s.

With a population of about 1.7 million (Qatar Statistics Authority January 2012). Qatar is one of the smallest countries in the Arab world. There are approximately 250,000 Qatari nationals while the expatriate population is a mix of Asians, Arabs, Indians and Western nationals.

In 1995 Crown Prince Hamad Bin Khalifa deposed his father to become Emir, since when he has brought in several liberal reforms and is seen as one of the regions most tolerant and forward thinking leaders.

History

Archaeological discoveries, inscriptions and a collection of exquisite pottery which were found in scattered areas in the country have proven that the peninsula was populated as early as 4000 BC.

For most of its recent history, Qatar has been dominated by the Al-Thani family who arrived in the mid-18th century, when Qatar was already well established as a pearling centre, and became the peninsulas rulers about one hundred years later. Historically, Doha (now the capital) was never a particularly important trading port, and throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries Qatar remained very poor, even by pre-oil Gulf standards.

In 1915 the Emir of Qatar expelled the Turkish garrison then based in Doha. With Britain and Turkey on opposite sides in WWI, and the British controlling the rest of the Gulf, a switch in alliances seemed wise. After expelling the Turks, Qatars Emir signed an exclusive agreement with the British, under which Britain guaranteed Qatars protection in exchange for a promise that the ruler would not deal with other foreign powers without British permission.

Even before the collapse of the pearl market around 1930, life in Qatar was rough. The Emir welcomed the oil prospectors who first arrived in the early 1930s. A concession was granted in 1935 and the prospectors struck oil in 1939. Because of WWII, however, production did not begin for another ten years.

When the British announced they would withdraw by the end of 1971, Qatar entered talks with Bahrain and the Trucial States (now the United Arab Emirates) with the intention of forming a confederation. When Bahrain pulled out of the talks, Qatar followed suit and declared independence on 1 September 1971. Six months later Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al-Thani, a cousin of the Emir, and for many years Qatars ruler in all but title, took power in a coup.

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04GENERAL INFORMATION4.1 AccommodationLong term accommodation within Qatar consists of villas and apartments, varying from locations within compounds or separately, furnished or unfurnished, serviced or unserviced, some including facilities such as gyms, pools etc.

There are many real estate agents within Qatar, who are happy to assist in locating accommodation for personnel. They will collect and drive you to available villas or apartments. Below are some helpful contact details:

Tenancy agreements tend to be arranged on a yearly basis, with the rent being paid monthly. (12 month contract / Post dated cheques + security deposit) Rental costs vary depending on the size and facilities of apartments and villas.

Rental assistance can be provided by the Company on arrival, for the first year.

4.2 AnimalsA valid health certificate issued by a vet registered with the Public Health authorities in the country of departure must be produced for pets to be imported into Qatar.

4.3 BanksThere are international banks, both European and Arab, with full banking facilities. Banking hours are generally Sunday to Thursday 7.30am to 1pm and 9am to 12pm on Saturdays but all have ATM Machines for access outside normal working hours. ATMs are also widely available in shopping centres and supermarkets.

You will have to wait for your residency visa before being eligible for a credit card or cheque book.

4.4 ClimateThe Gulf is known for year round sunshine and virtually no rain. From mid-October to late-April, the climate is moderate and ideal for outdoor activities. The temperatures may drop to as low as 15oC in the evenings during winter but average daily temperatures rarely exceeds 25oC at this time.

The winter is an ideal time for relatives to stay and enjoy the warm weather, with Christmas being a particularly popular time for visitors.

The summers from mid-May to late-September are hot and humid with day temperatures generally upwards of 45oC.

Rain can be expected between December and April, although this is usually limited to two or three big rainstorms and several brief showers. During this period Qatar also experiences strong winds resulting in spectacular sand storms.

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4.5 ClothingLight clothing is ideal for most of the year, although jackets are required during winter. There is no formal dress code, but be conservative in the way you dress.

In conformity with local customs, women should avoid wearing revealing and/or tight outfits and men should always wear a shirt in public.

On beaches frequented by locals, it is advisable for men to wear beach shorts rather than swimming trunks. Ladies are advised to wear one-piece bathing costumes with wraps rather than bikinis.

4.6 Credit CardsMost shops, hotels and restaurants accept major credit cards (Amex, Diners Club, Visa, Access and Master Card).

4.7 CurrencyThe currency of Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (QR). Which is currently fixed against the US dollar but there are plans to move towards a common GCC currency.

4.8 DrivingDriving is on the right hand side of the road. You will need to bring your home country license with you. This will permit you to drive a hire vehicle immediately for a period of up to 1 week. After the end of the week it will be necessary to obtain a local driving licence. For expatriates of most western countries this will involve no more than an eye sight test.

Petrol is available at less than the price of water. New and second hand cars of all shapes and sizes are readily available to purchase. They are cheaper than many countries including UK and Australia. Insurance is also considerably cheaper.

4.9 Emergency ServicesPolice, Fire and Ambulance: 999Traffic Accidents Qatar: 4890666

4.10 FoodThere are outlets for most popular types of cuisine in Qatar. Indian, Turkish, and Lebanese foods are widely (and cheaply) catered for. Chinese, Mexican, and Thai restaurants (to name just a few) are also available.

Hotel restaurants are good but tend to be relatively expensive. Local smaller restaurants are excellent value and have extensive menus.

Pork can now be obtained from QDC (Qatar Distribution Comapany). It is forbidden to bring pork in to the country.

Qatar hosts (several) branches of just about every known fast food chain and take away food is widely available, often with free home delivery.

4.11 Health and Dental CareGovernment medical care is easily available. There are a number of Government run hospitals and clinics, most of which have specialist and outpatient facilities. Residents may obtain a Government Health Card, which entitles them to free health care in the Government Hospitals and Clinics. There are also a number of private establishments. A nominal charge for medicines is usually made.

Private hospitals and clinics have a generally high and acceptable standard but can be expensive. There is no shortage of pharmacies and all locations will each have pharmacies open 24 hours a day. Most medicines available in other countries are available here. Dental clinics are available and have a high standard but can be expensive.

4.12 Household GoodsMost of the more economically available properties are unfurnished and new arrivals to the Country therefore often purchase vehicles, furniture and white-goods from individuals who are leaving. (There is always a high turnover of persons commencing and concluding their time in Gulf countries).

Goods are advertised on supermarket notice boards and newspapers. People also hold house sales where a wide range of items can be purchased from fridges, to barbeques and tools.

Electrical goods can be purchased new and delivered usually within a few days. Prices are reasonable as there is no sales tax.

You can from the numerous shops within Qatar.

4.13 ImmunisationsImmunisations are not mandatory for Qatar.

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4.14 LanguageThe official language of Qatar is Arabic. However, English is widely understood and most road and shop signs, restaurant menus etc are in both languages. Urdu, Hindi and Tagalog are also widely spoken.

4.15 LaundryThere are many laundries and dry cleaners. Standards are usually high and the prices are very reasonable. Service tends to be two days.

4.16 LiquorLiquor is available in most of the larger hotels and in the handful of nightclubs. Alcohol may also be consumed within the pool/beach areas of several clubs for which a day membership is payable.Otherwise, liquor is not available within stores and can only be purchased from one outlet within Qatar for which it is necessary to pay a deposit and obtain an annually renewable liquor licence.

4.17 Local TimeQatar is three hours ahead of GMT

4.18 MarriageAlthough the private lives of Westerners are considered their own, cohabitation is illegal and can (on very rare occasions) result in imprisonment.

4.19 Office HoursThe working week in the Middle East is different to most other parts of the world.

Staff based in the Qatar Office work from Sunday to Thursday (45 hours per week) from 7:30am to 5pm with half an hour for lunch from 12:30pm to 1:00pm.

Site based staff work a six-day week generally concluding at 4pm in the afternoons (48 hours per week).

4.20 Overseas TravelOne of the beauties of the region is that the travel opportunities are excellent. You can fly to the nearby countries of UAE, Egypt, Oman or Jordan. Then theres Europe, India, and Sri Lanka with Thailand being not much further a field.

4.21 Public HolidaysThere are 11 Official Holidays in Qatar. The longest of these are Eid-Al Fitr (3 days) and Eid-Al-Adhar (3 days). The exact timings of these holidays are generally based on the sighting of the moon and not on fixed dates. The dates of Islamic holidays are confirmed a few days beforehand in the local papers.

4.22 ReligionIslam is the official religion, although other religions are respected and actively practised.

Muslims fast during the Holy Month of Ramadan and abstain totally from food, drink and tobacco from dawn to dusk. Non-Muslims should respect this practice. During Ramadan, cafes and restaurants are closed during the day and open after sunset and remain open well into the late evening/early morning.

Some hotel restaurants remain open during the day but are normally shielded from public view. It is illegal to eat or drink in the public during the day - it could mean a hefty fine.

4.23 Schools and ChildcareThere are very high quality Primary and Secondary Schools in Qatar which operate under a variety of curriculums.

For further details of relevant schools in a particular location, please contact the HR Team. It is imperative that children are registered with the schools as soon as possible as there can be lengthy waiting lists.

4.24 SecurityQatar is perceived to be a very safe place to live. Crime rates are extremely low, however, it is always best to take precautions.

4.25 ShoppingShops are normally open seven days a week, although the vast majority are closed on Friday morning. Shopping Hours are normally a split shift (i.e. 9.00am to 1.00pm and again from 4.30pm to 9.30pm) however; most of the larger malls are open all day from 10.00am to 10.00pm without a break.

You name it you can buy it! The shopping varies from Souqs full of shops peddling the same goods (e.g. tools, gold, spices, and clothing) to your typical western outlets e.g. Marks and Spencers, Debenhams, BHS, Next, Mothercare, Early Learning Centre, Toys R Us, etc.

4.26 SightseeingThere are many day trips, half-day trips and evening trips well worth undertaking. The desert is beautiful. Adventurous types will be delighted with what is available in the desert and when suitably equipped, an enjoyable outing can be had. Beach, desert and BBQs are particularly enjoyable in the winter months.

4.27 SupermarketsThere are numerous supermarkets both Western and local. Local products are of good quality, in particular, locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables. European items are generally more expensive due to freighting costs etc.

4.28 TaxationThere is no income or sales taxes in Qatar.

4.29 TelephonesIn Qatar the telephone network is operated by one supplier; Q-Tel. A home phone can only be installed once your residency is in place.

Mobile telephones are readily available, and locally purchased SIM card in both post and pre-paid formats.

Internet accounts and cable television fees are also paid for through Q-Tel.

4.30 TelevisionOn terrestrial TV there are a few English language channels. Satellite TV is available and offers a variety of channels including movies, sport, music and natural history.

4.31 TippingTipping practices are similar to most parts of the world. An increasing number of restaurants include service although it is unlikely to end up with your waiter. Otherwise 10% is usual.

4.32 TransportThere are no trains in Qatar yet. There are taxis which are cheap and operate in all areas at all times. Taxi services are Karrwa (aqua and white).

4.33 UtilitiesElectricity and water services are excellent. The electricity supply is 220/240volts and 50 cycles. Sockets and plugs are UK standard but vary from appliance to appliance. The tap water is safe to drink.

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05COMPANY POLICIES ANDPROCEDURES5.1 Company SystemHyder Consulting operates a Company System which embraces the quality requirements of ISO 9001 and in addition includes procedures on Health and Safety, Marketing, Administration, Finance and Information Technology. The Company System therefore covers all aspects of the companys activities. The result is an effective quality management system. Its objectives are to ensure that client needs are met, to comply with standards and regulations and to enhance profit by ensuring that work is done right first time. These objectives are achieved through organisation and control, clear responsibilities, records and audits.

All staff will receive induction training on the Company System which will outline the documentation within the system, responsibilities, system and operational improvements and auditing and certification.

The first point of contact for matters relating to the Company System is the Company System Representative who will be identified to you on commencement.

5.2 Employee Introductory Bonus SchemeThe Company operates an Employee Introductory Bonus Scheme whereby an existing permanent employee may receive a financial reward for introducing staff members. Full details of the Employee Introductory Bonus Scheme are available on the Company system.

5.3 Health and SafetyIt is Company policy that all work and activities are carried out in accordance with good practice and the relevant statutory provisions to minimise risk to employees and all others who may be affected by Company activities. Every member of staff has a responsibility for implementing the Health and Safety Policy and to ensure that health and safety considerations are incorporated into all stages of work. All staff will receive a specific and individual induction. This incorporates a health and safety briefing, completion of forms and provision of necessary documentation which will include a workplace assessment checklist if applicable. The first point of contact for health and safety issues is the Safety Liaison Officer (SLO) who will be identified to you on commencement.

5.4 Information TechnologyThe company has invested heavily in ensuring that its technical and support staff have access to modern computer facilities for word processing, desktop publishing, documentation preparation, financial planning and management information. In addition, special emphasis has been placed within the company on the provision of advanced computer design facilities to aid drafting and design work engineering projects.

5.5 SalariesSalaries are paid on the last working day of the month directly into your bank account. The annual salary review is conducted on 1st April each year.

5.6 Smoking PolicyAll offices have restrictions on smoking and employees will be expected to comply with these.

5.7 Standards of Conduct and appearanceThe Company expects its employees to maintain high standards of conduct and appearance at all times, observe all safety regulations and treat all company property with care. Employees should carry out all duties in a responsible, courteous and helpful manner.

5.8 TravelThe region has a travel provider who deals with all business travel arrangements. Your Line Manager will be able to tell you who this is in your office.

5.9 Leave

AnnualPermanent employees are entitled to receive leave for every year of service. Your entitlement will be noted in your Contract of Employment. A Leave Application Form must be completed and forwarded to HR prior to your Line Manager for approval.

CompassionateThe Company acknowledges the traumatic time when an employee may suffer serious illness or death in his immediate family and will grant paid leave to the employee accordingly.

Up to a maximum of seven (7) days leave may be granted at the discretion of the Regional HR Manager.

MaternityWorking women are entitled to Maternity Leave as per the local labour law. Further details may be obtained from the HR Team.

SicknessYou must advise your Line Manager, Resident Engineer or the HR Department by 8am on the first working day of any absence caused by illness or accident. No medical certificate is required for periods of sickness of up to two working days. For periods of sickness in excess of two consecutive days, a medical certificate must be provided.

5.10 Training and DevelopmentHyder Consulting believes that the success of its business both now and in the future depends on the people that it employs. It is committed to the development of highly capable and motivated staff.

Performance and Development ReviewsHyder Consulting is committed to the use of an assigned Performance and Development Review as a means by which employee performance can be periodically assessed against agreed business and job requirements, with training needs and career development reviewed. It also gives you the opportunity to give an honest view of your performance, your strengths and weaknesses, together with any problems you have encountered during the year and how these can be overcome.

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DubaiPO Box: 52750United Arab EmiratesTel: +971 (0) 4 3242 532Fax: +971 (0) 4 3242 531

JeddahPO Box: 1655, Jeddah 21441Kingdom of Saudi ArabiaTel: +966 2 665 8305Fax: +966 2 661 0258

Abu DhabiPO Box: 2774United Arab EmiratesTel: +971 (0) 2 6333 400Fax: +971 (0) 2 6330 746

Al AinPO Box: 15205United Arab EmiratesTel: +971 (0) 3 7642917Fax: 971 (0) 3 7657760

BahrainPO Box: 26073Kingdom of BahrainTel: +973 17564 755Fax: +973 1 756 4929

QatarPO Box: 1854Doha, QatarTel: + 974 4424 5000Fax: + 974 4424 5001