In a country like Qatar, which imports over 90 percent of its food needs, food security remains one of the major challenges. With extreme water scarcity and time-bound hydrocarbon wealth, the nation has limited choices. It either continues “business-as usual”, relying heavily on imports, or engages in an enormous undertaking to establish its food sovereignty. The 2008 food crises came as a wake-up call for the country that had, for decades, depended on cheap food imports. In response, a National Food Security Programme (QNFSP) was established by the Office of the Heir Apparent of the State of Qatar, H.H. Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani.

I’m slumped on the bed, one eye on the Thai game show on TV and the other watching Matthew absorbed in the simple task of packing. He’s methodical, rolling his black t-shirts and boxers small and tight so there’s enough room for his books and cans of tobacco. He doesn’t speak while he’s packing and I gave up trying to help. How is it that such mundane things get his attention so fully and I have to fight to be noticed. “I’m leaving you my DVDs,” he says casually. “Don’t want to get arrested in

Qatar is an exciting and burgeoning market for doing business. But local knowledge is key, and a reliable source of up to date information essential.

Tackles the sensitive subject of job loss and offers some insight into how expats in Qatar can cope with this set back.