The Qatari Cabinet has approved a new draft law, prepared by the Ministry of Interior in 2021, regulating procedures for handling lost and abandoned property. The law has been referred to the Shura Council for discussion and approval. It protects rights and encourages individuals to return found items to their rightful owners following clear legal procedures.
This legislative initiative underscores the necessity of a clear legal framework for managing lost property. This framework should safeguard individual rights and promote a culture of honesty and social responsibility.
According to Islamic law, “luqata” refers to any lost or misplaced property. It is considered a trust held by the finder, who is responsible for safeguarding it without misusing or neglecting it. If the rightful owner comes forward and correctly identifies the item with distinctive features, it must be returned immediately. If a year passes without the owner claiming it, the finder may either donate or use it, regardless of their financial status.
For example, if someone forgets their mobile phone in a taxi or a public place, they are not allowed to sell or dispose of it unless a full year has passed since it was found, and efforts have been made to announce its discovery. This principle aligns with the hadith of Zayd ibn Khalid Al-Juhani (may Allah be pleased with him), where a man asked the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) about lost items. The Prophet instructed:
“Recognize its container and its strap, then announce it for a year. If its owner comes, return it to them; otherwise, you may use it.”
In addition to the new law, several travel and transportation companies in Qatar provide efficient ways for individuals to report and reclaim lost items.
At airports, travellers who lose their belongings at Hamad International Airport can contact the Lost and Found Office via email or phone. Items are stored for 30 days before being donated to charity organizations.
While at public transport, passengers using Karwa buses and metro services can report lost items through customer service. Additionally, users of private ride-hailing services like Uber can retrieve their lost items via the app.
Most shopping malls and commercial centers in Qatar have customer service desks dedicated to handling lost and found items and ensuring they are returned to their rightful owners.
Additionally, individuals can file an official report at the nearest police station, where lost items are documented and securely stored according to official procedures.
This new law marks a significant step in promoting honesty and social responsibility. It encourages individuals to report and return lost items within a clear legal framework that upholds integrity and protects rights.
