Qatar Sheik holds up British Airways plane

According to this MSNBC article, an Al Thani Sheik (the Al Thani family are the royal family in Qatar) held up a British Airways plane for several hours when he realised several female members of his family were seated next to men.

When other business class passengers in the plane refused to change places, he stormed into the pilot's cabin to complain.

Eventually, he, his family and his servants had to leave the plane. However, by this time three hours had passed and fifty furious passengers missed their connecting flights in London.

This story must sound strange to someone who has never lived in Qatar. However, many Qataris believe very strongly that women should not be exposed to strange men. This belief is so strong that many women cover their faces with black veils.

A common misconception is that is covering their face is part of their religion. In fact, when women undertake the pilgrimage to Mecca they are obliged to uncover both their hands and their face.

Families are also very concerned about honour. An insult to a women is an insult to their families honour.

Qataris are also not accustomed to people saying no to them. Most Qataris have servants, and expect instant service in shops and restaurants. A Qatari will not normally get out of his car at a corner shop or cafe - instead he will beep his horn until an assistant runs up to take his order.

In this holiday season Qataris, many of whom are now fleeing the desert heat, may have some difficulty in adjusting to different standards abroad - especially in countries where a more egalitarian culture exists.

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Qatar Doha Middle East culture