In November 2008 British performer George Michael performed at a successful concert in Qatar, making him the first openly gay musician to perform in Qatar. The Qatari government does not recognize same-sex marriage or civil partnerships, nor does it allow people in Qatar to campaign for LGBT rights. There is also prevailing cultural mores which view homosexuality and cross-dressing negatively. Male homosexuality is illegal in Qatar, with a punishment of up to three years in prison and a fine and the possibility of death penalty for Muslims under sharia law however, there are no known cases that the death penalty was enforced for homosexuality. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender ( LGBT) persons in Qatar face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBT residents. The death penalty is applicable only to Muslims, for extramarital sex regardless of the gender of the participants (no known cases that the death penalty was enforced for homosexuality).
