Is Weed Legal in Qatar?

Last reviewed: August 6, 2026.

Recreational marijuana is illegal in Qatar and penalties are among the harshest in the Gulf. Law No. 9 of 1987 on Combating Drugs and Dangerous Psychotropic Substances, amended in 2010, classifies cannabis as a Schedule I narcotic alongside heroin and methamphetamine.

Possession of any amount can result in imprisonment from 4 years to life, plus fines from QAR 200,000 (about USD 55,000) up to QAR 1,000,000. Trafficking carries the death penalty under aggravated circumstances, particularly for organized smuggling. Foreigners face automatic deportation following any sentence. The Ministry of Interior's Drug Enforcement Department leads enforcement; Hamad International Airport uses advanced body scanners and K-9 units, and Qatar Customs Authority screens all inbound parcels. Qatar enforced these laws aggressively during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and that posture has not softened.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.