Irish families ditching the ‘rat race’ for free homes and well-paid jobs in Qatar

Expats say they enjoy a better quality of life in the state, with well-paid jobs, free homes and affordable childcare, but the enticement of teachers has contributed to a shortage domestically
Patrick O’Donoghue
The Sunday Times
Colman Hands with his wife, Tess, and their children Grace, three, and newborn Gary, whose arrival has made the family think seriously about their long-term future in Qatar
Colman Hands with his wife, Tess, and their children Grace, three, and newborn Gary, whose arrival has made the family think seriously about their long-term future in Qatar
Patrick O’Donoghue
The Sunday Times

Tax-free salaries, sponsored accommodation and affordable childcare are among the many perks offered to Irish workers living in Qatar, who say that moving to the Gulf state has allowed them to break free from the “rat race” and the housing crisis at home.

While the Irish community in Qatar is small — according to the latest figures provided to the Department of Foreign Affairs, there are about 1,712 Irish residents — it is tight-knit and thriving, with most expats represented in lucrative roles across healthcare, engineering and education.

However, despite the apparent ease of acquiring affluence, most only spend a short period seeking their fortune in Qatar before returning to Ireland, while families find the call of home difficult to ignore when their children reach