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Cannabis — ProhibitedMENA

Qatar

Medical cannabis is prohibited in Qatar. Severe criminal penalties may apply for possession, use, or trafficking.

Qatar enforces some of the strictest drug laws in the world under Law No. 9 of 1987 on the Control of Narcotic Drugs and Dangerous Psychotropic Substances. Cannabis possession, use, trafficking, and importation are serious criminal offenses that can result in lengthy prison sentences, and foreign nationals may face deportation after serving their sentences.

Ask the Expert about Qatar
Regulator
Ministry of Interior — General Directorate of Drug Enforcement, and the Ministry of Public Health
Key Legislation
Law No. 9 of 1987 on the Control of Narcotic Drugs and Dangerous Psychotropic Substances
Year Legalized
N/A
Program Size
N/A — Prohibited

Key Facts

  • Cannabis is classified as a Category 1 narcotic substance under Law No. 9 of 1987, with zero tolerance for possession, use, import, or trafficking
  • First-time possession for personal use can result in 1 to 3 years imprisonment; repeat offenses and trafficking can carry sentences of up to life imprisonment or, in extreme cases involving large quantities, the death penalty
  • Qatar conducts rigorous airport and border screening with advanced detection technology, and even trace amounts of cannabis found on travelers can lead to arrest and prosecution
  • Foreign nationals make up approximately 85% of Qatar's population, and non-citizens convicted of drug offenses face mandatory deportation and permanent entry bans following their sentences
  • Qatar is a member of the GCC anti-narcotics cooperation framework and the Arab Interior Ministers' Council, which coordinate regional drug enforcement strategies and intelligence sharing

Key Legislation

Law No. 9 of 1987 on the Control of Narcotic Drugs and Dangerous Psychotropic Substances (amended by Law No. 19 of 2004)

Regulatory Body

Ministry of Interior — General Directorate of Drug Enforcement, and the Ministry of Public Health

Country Info
ISO Code
QA
Region
MENA
Tier
Tier 4 — Prohibited
Status
Cannabis — Prohibited
Sources
Qatar Ministry of Interior
Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Cannabis regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources and local legal counsel before making compliance decisions.