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Updated by Joanna James on Mar 16, 2024
Headline for Tips when travelling to Qatar – a prospective traveller’s way forward
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Joanna James Joanna James
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Tips when travelling to Qatar – a prospective traveller’s way forward

Regardless of where you want to be based in Qatar, there remain certain fundamentals that any prospective visitor to the country must make note of. Stated below are some points.

1

Scheduling a trip

Before you begin packing your bags for a trip to Qatar, do check as to whether the country of your origin falls within the 80 nations whose nationals will not require a visa in advance. The visa-on-arrival system which is applicable for periods ranging from 1 to 3 months ought to be considered and the easiest way to get around this is to inquire from your travel agent as to whether you will be entitled to this benefit. With such information at your disposal, making travel plans will be as easy 1,2,3.

2

Mingling with the locals

Perhaps the best means of achieving this is to learn the local language which is used by the Qatari people and that being Arabic. However, should this be not to your liking, then English will prove to be more than sufficient as with increased numbers of ex-pats living in and around Qatar, the thought of making conversation will not leave you with sweaty palms or a stuttering tongue.

3

Dress code

To offer some advice is that being modestly attired would go to great lengths in one showing respect to local customs and beliefs, especially when going sightseeing. Clothing items that reach above your knees are strictly prohibited with the sole exception being that if you are thinking of unwinding by your hotel's pool such as for instance, Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli, then you do have the license to forgo norms and customs.

4

Beverages

The cardinal rule is that you cannot be seen bringing any alcoholic beverage into the country but you are offered the leeway of making purchases at the Duty-Free. With the recent government taxes, the option of having a sip of your favourite beverage from the hotel bar can be easily crossed out.

5

Transport

Taxis and Ubers serve as the most cost-effective way of getting about within major cities in Qatar and can get you to your preferred destination in under half an hour. (applies to commute from the airport to any of the 5-star hotels in Doha or nearby city hotel) Also, airport taxi services are primarily state-owned and fares can be relatively high when compared with other facilities.

6

Where do you go?

The more relevant question would be as to "where can't you go in Qatar?" For instance, the nation's capital provides a wide spectrum of sublime destinations that the discerning globetrotter will find quite helpful and enjoyable. As a starting point, delve into the area's passion and love for the arts at the Museum of Islamic Art which houses the world's largest collection of Islamic art before trotting off to the Souq Waqif to sample a dose of local spices and brightly-coloured garments, all neatly nestled within a marketplace that lives and breathes 'tradition.' Hard to miss is the picturesque Corniche which is an outstanding area to catch a glimpse of the Doha Bay and its bustling port which is found towards the north of this waterfront promenade. Thereafter, if you are in the mood for coffee, consider spending time at the Halul Coffeehouse and reminiscing the brilliance and pageantry which best describes Qatar.a