The Pearl-Qatar

Entry requirements vary by passport. Check the requirements for your specific passport on the Qatar page at Yoogo.

Entry requirements vary by passport. Check the requirements for your specific passport on the Qatar page at Yoogo.

Qatar uses the Qatari Riyal (QAR), which is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops across Doha, though it is worth carrying some cash for smaller stalls and traditional markets.

Qatar consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, with very low rates of violent crime and petty theft. The country has a well-funded police presence and a robust legal system, and tourists can move around Doha and other areas with a high degree of confidence.

The Doha Metro operates three lines connecting Hamad International Airport to the city centre and major attractions, and is the quickest and cheapest way to navigate the capital. Ride-hailing apps, metered taxis operated by Karwa, and intercity buses run by Mowasalat cover destinations beyond the metro network, including day trips to Al Wakrah and Al Khor.

The most comfortable period for a visit is November through April, when temperatures range from roughly 17°C to 28°C and outdoor sightseeing is pleasant. Summer months from June to September bring extreme heat, often exceeding 40°C, which makes extended time outdoors difficult, though indoor attractions and air-conditioned venues remain fully accessible year-round.

Arabic is the official language of Qatar. English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, shopping centres, and tourist sites, and signage throughout Doha is displayed in both Arabic and English, making it straightforward for English-speaking visitors to navigate.

There are no mandatory vaccinations for most travellers entering Qatar, though those arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission are required to show proof of yellow fever vaccination. It is advisable to ensure routine vaccinations such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are up to date before travel.

Tipping is not obligatory in Qatar, and many hotels and restaurants add a service charge to the bill automatically. Leaving a small gratuity of around 10% at restaurants, or rounding up a taxi fare, is appreciated as a gesture of good service but is never expected.

International eSIM providers such as Airalo offer data-only plans for Qatar starting from a few US dollars, which can be purchased and installed before departure. Local SIM cards from Ooredoo and Vodafone Qatar are also available at Hamad International Airport on arrival and offer competitive data packages for tourists.