The British Community Foundation (BCF) launched officially at a special event hosted by British Ambassador to Qatar, Neerav Patel, on 8 September. The BCF is an independent non-profit initiative focused on supporting and celebrating the British community and its links with Qatar, working closely with the British Embassy. The British Community Foundation’s main aims are to support the welfare and wellbeing of Brits in Qatar; to support British community initiatives; and to foster friendship between British and Qatari communities.

The British Community Foundation is run by volunteers drawn from across the British community in Qatar. The BCF relies on these creative, passionate and dedicated helpers to deliver all of their events and community initiatives.

This event – a British afternoon tea – brought together British diplomats, local media and representatives from across the British community in Qatar to celebrate the BCF’s launch, highlight upcoming events and thank all the volunteers who have helped get things up-and-running.

Speaking at the launch, Neerav Patel, British Ambassador and Chair of the BCF Council, said:
“The British Community Foundation has been created by the community, for the community. I hope all Brits in Qatar to come along to our community events and get involved. Whether you’ve just arrived from the UK, or have called Qatar home for many years, the Foundation is here to help you connect, contribute, and feel at home.”

In the line-up for Autumn 2025, members of the British community in Qatar can look forward to: a weekly playgroup for parents and pre-schoolers; a monthly mixer for Brits in Qatar; a support group and family days for British Special Educational Needs (SEN) families; town hall meetings to gather community feedback; and a Winter Bazaar hosted in the British Ambassador’s garden.

Roxy Hailes, founder of the 3000-strong British and Irish Mums Living in Doha Facebook Group, and volunteer organiser of the BCF playgroup, said:
“It’s wonderful to have the British Community Foundation here to help Brits. I am really excited to welcome parents and little ones to the BCF playgroup. This is something which has been really missing here in Doha in recent years. Playgroup is a brilliant opportunity for families to get together and make new friends. It is open to everyone across the British community: both new arrivals in Doha and those who have been here for years.”