The augmented reality game for mobile phones has become a popular pastime for a large number of residents in Qatar, who troop to public parks, malls, the Doha Corniche and other places to play the game and "catch" Pokémons.
However, in view of the risks involved, Qatar's Communications Regulatory Authority recently alerted consumers to exercise caution while using apps such as Pokémon Go that use location services and personal data.
The warning came in the backdrop of players in many countries venturing into dangerous and prohibited places in their quest to capture the virtual creatures.
Responding to the warning, Pokémon Go groups feel players should look to catch more "virtual creatures" at safe and appropriate locations, it is learnt.
One of the groups, Pokémon Go Qatar, said they have been reminding members of the "same concerns presented by CRA.” “We applaud the CRA for stepping up to show the concerns of citizens,” the group’s Facebook administrator said.
Another group, FilipiKnows, stressed that Pokémon Go should be played responsibly and at the right place, such as the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) Park, for example.

Filipino expats join other players at the MIA Park.

Meanwhile, players of various nationalities gathered in the trampoline area of MIA Park to socialise and play, "catching" Pokémons around the park.
“More than 500 people attended our first meet-up held at the Museum of Islamic Art Park from 8pm to 11pm on Thursday,” Pokémon Go Players founder Carlo Yan told Gulf Times, noting that those playing the game are of different ages.
Yan said the players enjoyed catching virtual creatures, taking pictures and making new friends as they walked around MIA Park.
Many of the attendees had the opportunity to take pictures and selfies with a giant "Pokémon Ball", an item in the game used for catching creatures.
A "cosplayer", who portrayed a popular Pokémon character and member of Team Rockets, also showed up at the venue to entertain the group.
“Players were surprised to see her while they were busy catching some Pokémons,” added Yan, who is also the founder of FilipiKnows.
Rjay Elico, the group’s tech support expert, helped enthusiasts and new players in installing the game on their iOS and Android smartphones.
He said attendees on Thursday looked forward to the next meet-up in August as they expected more fun-filled activities during the summer.
Pokemon Go Qatar, which also holds gatherings for players, is planning an activity next week.
The group’s Facebook administrator told Gulf Times that the game has encouraged a lot of residents to walk more despite the searing temperature.
The person said people are motivated to go outside, especially introverts who spend most of their time indoors. “Now, they have a reason to leave the house.”
“The hot weather also doesn't stop our members from playing the game,” the administrator stressed.