Glamorous World Cup fans face jail in Qatar if they show shoulders or midriffs in skimpy outfits

Posted Thursday, November 17, 2022 by Dailystar.co.uk

Strict Muslim laws in Qatar mean that fans could be fined and even arrested for wearing revealing clothing during the World Cup, despite temperatures soaring to 35 degrees

Glamorous World Cup fans face jail in Qatar if they show shoulders or midriffs in skimpy outfits
Female fans face fines and even jail time if they show too much skin in Qatar (Image: Getty Images)

You know that thing where World Cup cameramen pan to sexy fans during matches? Well don't expect any of that in Qatar.

Supporters could face fines and even jail time if they so much as get their shoulders out in the latest blow to fan freedom, despite the fact temperatures in the gulf state are expected to hit the mid-to-high thirties during the tournament.

According to Qatar's legal code, things considered harmless in the UK like public displays of affection or wearing revealing clothes could lead to arrests, and female fans will have to be particularly careful about how much skin they expose.

Non-Qatari women aren't expected to follow the country's strict Muslim dress code and wear the abaya (a traditional long black robe), but they will be expected to cover their midriff and shoulders, while skirts, dresses must cover their knees.

Similarly, men will face fines and jail time if they remove their tops completely, while sleeveless tank tops and tops with offensive slogans are not permitted.

Fans could be hit with fines up of up to £2,400 for littering during the tournament too. Some places in Qatar will have stricter rules than others, though it's expected there will be plenty of security to identify those who break them.

Fans dressed in colourful skimpy outfits is a common sight at the World Cup, but it won't be this year (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

Glamorous World Cup fans face jail in Qatar if they show shoulders or midriffs in skimpy outfits
This fan would be fined if she turned up in Qatar wearing this outfit (Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)

The World Cup website states: "People can generally wear their clothing of choice. Visitors are expected to cover their shoulders and knees when visiting public places like museums and other government buildings.

"Swimwear is allowed at hotel beaches and pools.

"Fans attending matches should note that the removal of shirts in the stadium is not permitted."