A Critical evaluation of the impacts of “Wasta” on employees and organizations in Qatar

Abstract

Wasta is an Arabic word (واسطة), with a similar meaning to nepotism in English, which means using someone’s connections or influence to achieve multiple benefits, for example securing a job, speeding up access to government services, gaining exemption from taxes, pushing for fees reduction, favoring transfers and promotions of public servants, and even waiving of traffic fines. It has become deeply rooted in the Middle East culture, especially in Qatar. This study argues that wasta has become a cultural paradox that intersects with classes as a social construction, reinforcing racism, class privilege, and social inequalities among employees in Qatar. This paper is critical as it addresses this threatening issue that has severe consequences on the country’s progress, highlights its root cause, and examines the impact of this social phenomenon. This paper is the first step forward to face the wasta phenomenon in Qatar.