The Eid al-Fitr celebrations this year have given many expatriates an opportunity to express their love, gratitude and support for Qatar in view of the ongoing blockade imposed on the country.
Speaking to Gulf Times, people from various nationalities and different segments of society stressed that the country has given them a chance to enhance the quality of their life and that of their near ones, including those living in their home countries. 
They hailed Qatar’s wise leadership for the numerous achievements observed in the country in many fields, including security, healthcare, education, sports, infrastructure and several others. They also lauded the government’s efforts to ensure that residents can avail of administrative and official services smoothly and conveniently, as well as to ensure workers’ rights.
“I have been living in the country for the past 15 years and have seen great advancements happening in record time. As the country prospers, myself and the people around me prosper, too. This applies to even those who do not live here thanks to the remittances people make to their families back home,” said a Pakistani expatriate working in the heavy equipment sector.
“On the occasion of Eid, we pray and hope for the continued prosperity of Qatar. We all stand by the country, its leadership and people,” said an expatriate from Sri Lanka.
People enjoying the Eid holidays across different festive venues, such as shopping malls, entertainment facilities, beaches and were united in expressing their love and appreciation for the country.
“I may be not making big money, but it is enough to secure a good education and better living standards for my children back home. Without being here, it would have been difficult,” said an Indian taxi driver, who came to Doha two years ago from another Arab country.
Comparing their experience of working in other countries in the region, many expatriates stressed that the work conditions and pay were much better in Qatar than in those places.
“I worked in a neighbouring country before coming here and it was very hard to live there – as if you do not have any rights. However, it is much better in Qatar and the payment is secure and protected,” said an Arab expatriate working as an accountant.
While describing the blockade as unjust, many expatriates said their everyday lives have not been affected thanks to the strategies and efforts of the government.
As reported earlier, many people also decided to stay back in Qatar for the Eid holidays. “This is a good time to enjoy the festivities as well as to show one’s love for the country. Like others, we too have decided to spend our Eid holidays here instead of travelling abroad,” said a Filipino expatriate.


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