Is it permissible to wear the niqab in Gulf countries and take it off upon returning home due to the harassment faced by women who wear niqab there, while adhering to the long hijab? And is it permissible to wear it while abroad to avoid appearing unusual in a male-dominated society?

Covering the face is obligatory according to Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal. It is also the correct view within the Shafi'i madhhab and held by a group of Hanafis and Malikis when there is a fear of fitna (temptation/strife). It is permissible to remove the niqab upon arriving in a country where authorities cause hardship and harassment to the woman wearing the niqab and her family, provided that modesty and concealment are maintained, a concealing jilbab is worn, the head is covered, and no adornment that attracts attention is displayed.