The Constitution of Qatar(Arabic: دستور قطر Dastūr Qatar) is the supreme law of the State of Qatar.[1] It came into effect on 9 April 2004.[2] The constitution was overwhelmingly approved, with almost 98% in favour.[3]
Article 1 – Islam is official religion of the state, and sharia a principal source of legislation. Its political system is democratic. Arabic is the official language.
Article 2 – Doha is the capital of the state. It can be transferred to any other place by law. The state cannot cede any of its territory.
Article 8 – The ruling family of the state is the House of Thani. Rule shall be passed down from father to son, in the case that there is no son, rule shall be passed to whomever the emir names heir apparent.
Article 9 – The heir apparent must be a Muslim of a Qatari Muslim mother.
Article 16 – If the heir apparent is named head of state and is less than 18 years old, then rule shall be passed to a regency council with the majority of members to be amongst the ruling family.
Article 22 – The state shall provide care for the young, and protect them from corruption, exploitation, and the evils of physical, mental, and spiritual neglect. The State shall also create conducive circumstances for developing their capabilities in all fields based on sound education.
Article 23 – The state shall ensure, foster, and endeavour to spread education.
Article 27 – Private property is inviolable.
Article 29 – Natural wealth and its resources are the property of the state.
Article 148 – No article of this constitution may be proposed for amendment before it being 10 years from the date the constitution has come into force.