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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 is not 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 wider community, since evangelising Muslims is strictly forbidden and can lead to prosecution. Migrants can also face pressure to convert to Islam.
Converts are at the greatest risk of hostility: Qataris from their families and communities, and migrant workers from their own national or ethnic communities.
“We have been overjoyed to provide opportunities for our friends to gather around the Scriptures, learn its lessons, and apply the Word to their daily lives. These secret gatherings havebeen made possible through your generosity"
"A believer in the Arabian Peninsula, who has been supported by Open Doors partners.
Little has changed. While many Qatari Christians, notably converts, continue to endure pressure for their faith in Jesus, there was good news in January 2025 when the Evangelical Churches Alliance Qatar (ECAQ) started building a church to serve its 129 member congregations. And as is happening across the Arabian Peninsula, people in Qatar are continuing to encounter Jesus, often through dreams, visions and other divine happenings. The church in Qatar is very small, but it is growing.
Open Doors supports the body of Christ on the Arabian Peninsula by raising prayer, distributing Scripture resources, providing discipleship, and training believers and pastors.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the many converts in Qatar who have encountered You over recent years. Strengthen, encourage and protect them, provide spaces for them to gather safely, and give them opportunities to share their faith with those who are seeking You. Give church leaders wisdom, discernment and courage amid scrutiny. Work in the hearts of the authorities and monarchy, drawing them to You through dreams, visions and the faithful witness of Your children. Amen.
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