Marital Dissolution in a Trasnational Context: a Case Study of Iranian Expatriate Community in Qatar

Abstract

This thesis investigates the rising rates of divorce among Iranian expatriates in Qatar and the multifaceted legal, social, and economic factors that contribute to marital dissolution in a transnational setting. Drawing on data from semi-structured interviews with a sample of divorced Iranian men and women, Qatari policymakers, and legal practitioners, alongside an analysis of relevant court protocols, the study presents a case study of marital dissolution, which explores how overlapping legal frameworks—Qatari Personal Status Law, Iranian family law, and broader Sharia principles—shape divorce processes. It highlights the structural effects of the sponsorship (kafala) system, which can limit women’s financial independence and allow unilateral child removal by fathers under paternal guardianship norms. Participants’ testimonies reveal that economic pressures, cultural adaptation strains, and patriarchal assumptions deepen marital conflict, while language barriers and prolonged legal procedures compound the burden of navigating divorce. At the same time, these challenges not only underlie why divorces occur but also directly affect the dissolution process itself—extending legal timelines, complicating custody arrangements, and influencing judgments, often to the disadvantage of women. Conceptually, the research leverages legal pluralism to show how Iranian expatriates must reconcile conflicting norms in multiple jurisdictions, and transnationalism to capture how cross-border ties sustain cultural practices yet introduce regulatory complexities. A feminist perspective underscores how these systems often disadvantage women, particularly in custody disputes. This thesis argues that addressing the heightened divorce rates among Iranian expatriates requires comprehensive policy revisions—such as mandatory child-travel consent, and more transparent legal-aid mechanisms—to protect the rights and welfare of all family members. By mapping the lived experiences of a select group of Iranian expatriates, the research not only enriches scholarly discussions on family law in the Gulf but also offers practical insights for policymakers and community advocates seeking more equitable outcomes in cross-border marital disputes.  

Date of Award	2025
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	HBKU College of Humanities and Social Science