Qatar Travel Guide

First-time visitor guide to Qatar

 

About Me

Having spent nearly half of my life overseas, I’ve explored 18 countries across four continents. Traveling has never been just about ticking destinations off a list—it’s about the experiences, the people, and the cultures I’ve encountered along the way. Every journey adds a new chapter, shaping who I am as a person and as a blogger.

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Qatar Travel Guide

Language

Arabic (official language), widely spoken English.

Currency

Qatari Riyal (QAR); 1 USD ≈ 3.65 QAR (2025).

Capital

Doha, a modern city known for its luxury shopping, cultural heritage, and impressive skyline.

Power Plugs

Type C / D / G

 

Religious

Islam

Safety

Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and strict laws ensuring security for locals and visitors.

Climate

Qatar has a desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities.

Apps

Avas Ride and Uber

 

Overview

Qatar is a thriving Middle Eastern destination, offering a mix of traditional Arabian culture and modern luxury. Qatar follows GMT +3 time.

 

Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in public places.

 

In Qatar, dress codes are relaxed, but visitors should respect local culture by wearing modest clothing. 

 

Both men and women are advised to cover their shoulders and knees in public.

 

The Qatari Riyal (QAR) is fixed to the US Dollar at an exchange rate of 3.64 QAR per 1 USD.

 

Whether you’re visiting for business, a stopover, or a holiday to Qatar, there’s plenty to see and do.

 

As a global airline hub, Qatar is well-connected with major flights to Doha from all around the world. 

 

Flying to Qatar is seamless, with most international travelers arriving at Qatar Doha Airport (Hamad International Airport – DOH), ranked as one of the best airports globally. 

 

If you have a layover, there are hotel options inside Doha Airport for a comfortable stopover experience.

 

For those wondering what to see in Doha, you can explore futuristic skyscrapers, cultural attractions, and desert landscapes. 

 

Souq Waqif, built on Doha’s old trading market, blends history with modern city life. Its mud-brick buildings and winding alleys take you back in time, making it a must-visit spot for shopping, dining, and local culture.

 

Souq Waqif is a favorite spot to relax with friends, especially at night. Open late, it offers roadside cafés serving Arabic coffee, fresh juices, and shisha.

 

During Ramadan, visitors should avoid eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect for those fasting.  However, hotels still serve guests in designated areas away from public view.

 

The World Health Organization states that 99% of Qatar has access to safe tap water. However, bottled water is widely preferred, with many local and international brands available.

 

The standard voltage in Qatar is 240V with a frequency of 50Hz, using the same plug points as the UK.

 

Qatar’s blend of tradition and modernity makes it a unique travel destination.

Best Flight Deals to Qatar

Find the best flight to Doha on Skyscanner Qatar and start planning your trip!

Visa Information for Qatar

Qatar offers a flexible visa policy, making it easy for travelers to enter.

 

Visa-free entry is available for citizens of over 101 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most European nations.

 

Nationals of eligible countries can get a visa waiver on arrival in Qatar by presenting a valid passport (with at least three months’ validity) and a confirmed onward or return ticket.

 

Travelers from India, Pakistan, Thailand, and Iran must book a hotel through Discover Qatar before traveling to get a visa on arrival.

 

For travelers needing a visa, you can apply for a Qatar visit visa or check your status using Qatar visa checking services online.

 

Qatar transit visa allows layover passengers to explore the country for up to 96 hours, making it ideal for stopovers.

 

For up-to-date Qatar entry requirements, check the Qatar visa application page.

Using eSIM for Internet, Calls, and Travel in Qatar

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Stay connected hassle-free in Qatar with an eSIM from eSIMX—no physical SIM needed, just instant activation and seamless coverage!

Transportation

The Doha Metro is modern, fast, and budget-friendly.

 

It has three lines—Red, Green, and Gold—that meet at Msheireb Station.

 

The metro makes it easy to reach key areas like Hamad International Airport, West Bay, Education City, and Al Wakrah.

 

Doha has three tram lines that make getting around easier. The Msheireb Tram is free to ride and connects all of Msheireb Downtown Doha on a 2 km loop.

 

Karwa taxis are available throughout the city, offering a safe, reliable, and budget-friendly way to travel. You can hail one on the street or book a ride through the Karwa Taxi app.

 

Doha Bus offers a hop-on hop-off service, allowing you to explore the city’s top attractions at your own pace. With a 24-hour ticket, you can visit iconic landmarks such as Souq Waqif, the National Museum of Qatar, and Katara Cultural Village.

 

🚆 Need to book trains, buses, or flights? Check out the best deals here.

Book Your Tickets & Find the Best Deals for Qatar

Safety in Qatar

Qatar is one of the safest destinations, but visitors should take note of the following:

  • Respect local laws and customs, including dress codes.
  • Alcohol consumption is restricted, permitted only in licensed venues.
  • Avoid public displays of affection, as Qatar has strict public behavior regulations.
  • Emergency services can be reached at 999.

Best Time to Visit Qatar

Qatar has a desert climate with year-round sunshine, hot summers, and mild winters.

 

Temperatures range from 17°C in January to 36°C in July, with summer highs often exceeding 40°C.

 

The best time to visit Qatar is during the cooler months (November–March), when you can enjoy outdoor activities comfortably.

 

  • Winter (December–February): Best for desert safaris, sightseeing, and cultural experiences.
  • Spring (March–May): Warm and pleasant for beaches and water sports.
  • Summer (June–August): Extremely hot, but great for indoor activities like shopping malls and museums.
  • Autumn (September–November): Good for exploring Doha attractions before the peak season begins.

Things to Do in Qatar

From bustling markets to desert adventures, here are the top things to do in Qatar Doha:

Doha Attractions

  • Visit the Museum of Islamic Art, showcasing centuries of Islamic heritage.
  • Wander through Souq Waqif, a traditional market filled with spices, textiles, and handicrafts.
  • Take a dhow cruise along the Corniche for breathtaking Doha skyline views.
  • Explore the Katara Cultural Village, a hub for art, music, and local culture.
  • Discover the National Museum of Qatar, designed by Jean Nouvel, inspired by a desert rose.

Outdoor & Desert Experiences

  • Go dune bashing and camel riding in the desert.
  • Visit the Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid), a UNESCO-listed natural wonder.
  • Try sandboarding and quad biking for an adrenaline-filled adventure.

Beaches & Islands

  • Relax at Banana Island Resort, a luxury getaway just off Doha’s coast.
  • Visit Fuwairit Beach, popular for kite surfing and relaxation.
  • Explore The Pearl-Qatar, a man-made island with luxury hotels and dining.

Bucket List Locations

  • Doha: Explore the city’s modern skyline and traditional souks.
  • The Pearl-Qatar: A luxurious island filled with beaches, restaurants, and marinas.
  • Souq Waqif: The best place for shopping, dining, and experiencing Qatari culture.
  • Katara Cultural Village: A center for art, music, and exhibitions.
  • Inland Sea: A breathtaking desert-meets-ocean landscape near the Saudi border.
  • Aspire Park: A green oasis in the middle of the city.
  • Lusail City: Qatar’s newest futuristic development, home to major sports and entertainment venues.

Qatar Transit & Doha Airport Hotels

  • If you’re flying to Doha and have a long layover, you can take advantage of the Qatar transit visa, which allows travelers to explore the country for up to 96 hours.

    • Doha Hamad Airport Hotel (Oryx Airport Hotel): Located inside the transit area, perfect for short stays.
    • Other Qatar Airport Hotels: Several airport hotels in Doha offer luxurious stays near the terminal.

Posts

My latest blog posts about Qatar!

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