Qatar's Ministry of Justice has reaffirmed a 1989 law restricting certain groups of Qatari citizens from marrying foreign nationals, except those from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This legislation remains active in 2026 and outlines specific categories subject to the ban.
Categories Restricted from Marrying Foreigners
- Ministers and Deputy Ministers
- Heads and Deputy Heads of Public Boards and Institutions
- Diplomatic and Consular Staff
- Military, Police, and Security Personnel, subject to approval by relevant authorities
- Students studying abroad on government scholarships or self-funded
- Additional public officials designated by the Council of Ministers
These citizens are prohibited from marrying non-GCC foreigners unless granted approval through formal channels.
Exemptions and Authority
The Emir of Qatar holds discretionary power to grant exemptions to individuals already married to foreign nationals if it serves the public interest. Additionally, the Council of Ministers can expand the list of restricted categories as necessary.
Notably, citizens from GCC member states — including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman — are exempt from these marriage restrictions.
