Welcome to Qatar 😊

Quick Facts About Qatar

Money and Finances

The currency of Qatar is Qatari Riyal (QAR). The denominations of coins are 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 dirhams, and the denominations of notes are 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 riyals.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in major cities and towns of Qatar, including Doha and other tourist destinations.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in Qatar, especially in major hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, but American Express may not be accepted everywhere.

Internet and Phones

Qatar has a fast and reliable internet network with average speeds of 50 Mbps for uploads and 80 Mbps for downloads. However, there are reports of government interference in internet use, with certain websites and social media platforms being blocked.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The two major telco companies in Qatar are Ooredoo and Vodafone. A mobile phone plan with sufficient data and calling minutes can cost around QAR 200 ($55) per month. There are no known sim compatibility issues.

Dialling to Qatar

To call Qatar from another country, dial +974 followed by the local phone number. Phone numbers in Qatar have 8 digits and the area code for Doha, the capital city, is 974-4.

Transport Around Qatar

Air Travel

Qatar has one major international airport, Hamad International Airport, located in the capital city of Doha.

Train Travel

Qatar does not have an inter-city train network.

Metro / Local Trains

Qatar has a relatively new metro system, Doha Metro, which serves major areas in the capital city.

Buses

Qatar has an extensive bus network operated by Mowasalat (Karwa). A bus ticket within Doha costs around 2 QAR and the journey time can vary depending on traffic.

Rideshare

Rideshare companies such as Uber and Careem operate in Qatar, with an average fare of around 20 QAR for a 10 km journey.

Driving by Car

Driving is relatively easy in Qatar, with well-maintained roads and highways. The usual speed limit is 120 km/hour on highways and 60-80 km/hour on local roads. Qatar follows right-hand drive.

Local Customs

In Qatar, tipping is not expected, but is appreciated in places like restaurants and hotels. The traditional greeting is a handshake, and it is common for men to greet each other with a kiss on the cheek. It is important to dress modestly and conservatively in public, especially for women. When speaking with strangers, it is important to be polite and avoid controversial topics. Men and women usually do not address each other directly, but rather through a male intermediary or with a simple nod of the head.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The healthcare system in Qatar is considered to be of high quality with modern facilities and highly skilled medical professionals. Citizens and residents are required to have health insurance, which is provided by both public and private sectors. Costs for a visit to the doctor can range from QAR 100-300 (~USD 27-82) depending on the facility.

COVID Situation

Qatar has implemented strict measures to control the spread of COVID-19, including closure of non-essential businesses and mandatory face mask wearing. As of September 2021, the vaccination rate in Qatar has exceeded 75% of the eligible population, and the number of daily new cases is relatively low.

Common Health Risks

Some common health risks in Qatar include heat stroke, dehydration, and respiratory infections due to the hot and humid climate. Visitors should also be cautious of food and water safety, as diarrhea and other gastrointestinal illnesses are common. Mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever and chikungunya, are also a risk in certain areas.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption is heavily regulated in Qatar. It is illegal to drink alcohol in public or drive under the influence. Non-Muslim residents can apply for a permit to purchase alcohol from licensed stores, while tourists are only allowed alcohol in licensed hotel restaurants and bars.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use is strictly prohibited in Qatar, and offenders can face severe penalties including imprisonment and deportation for non-citizens. Even soft drugs such as cannabis are illegal, and there is zero tolerance for drug-related offenses.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Adultery and pre-marital sex are considered illegal and can result in imprisonment, flogging, or deportation.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar and can result in imprisonment or fines. Same-sex relationships are not recognized, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples can lead to arrest.

Firearms / Guns

The use and possession of firearms is strictly regulated in Qatar, and only licensed individuals are allowed to own guns. It is illegal to bring firearms into the country without prior permission, and violators can face severe penalties including imprisonment and fines.