They come from the pearl of Indian Ocean. Having a rich heritage and a strong tourism industry, they are warm and welcoming people. Sri Lankans are also known for their cuisine, diverse culture and love for cricket.
Around 120,000 Sri Lankans reside in Qatar and work in different sectors. They tend to enjoy Qatar as their second home without missing home in Sri Lanka.
The people of Sri Lanka possess a warm and friendly nature reflected in persistent smiling faces and adopt them to the environment. Qatar is now becoming a popular destination for Sri Lankans seeking job opportunities. The Sri Lankan community in Qatar is vibrant and widespread. Sport, cultural, networking events and social media are some venues where Sri Lankans in Doha meet often.
Some 28 community organizations are registered with the Sri Lankan embassy in Doha. These organizations lineup events throughout the year. At several occasions performers and artistes are flown here for cultural events.
Sri Lankans in Qatar are employed in different sectors. Many living here consider Qatar as their second home, which has offered them a safe and happy environment to work and live in. They take pride in the development Qatar is seeing over the years.
Kasun Gayan, a Sri Lankan expatriate living here for 13 years said, “The growth Qatar has seen in the past few years is phenomenal. It is so evident if you look at the Doha Cornice itself. Earlier, Sheraton Hotel was kind of the only landmark building there, but now it’s amazing to see the Doha skyline.”
“Something impresses me here is the attitude of locals, especially the younger generation. They embrace the expatriates warmly,” he added.
Another Sri Lankan expatriate, Tuan Hassim, living here for over three decades said that Qatar is second home for his children as well.
“We have seen the vast changes of the country. It has grown so much in every field including infrastructure, health, education and hospitality. Qatar has given us many opportunities. The calm environment makes life easy here. My children grew and living here,” he added.
Many Sri Lankans admire the cultural diversity of Qatar and its uniqueness. Ayesha Gunawardane a house wife, who has followed her husband to Doha said, “I like living here. I think Doha is one of the best cosmopolitan cities and it has so much to offer. Here you get to meet people whom you may not meet at any other place and experience things which no other city could offer.”
