Qatar Quick Guide

Qatar Travel Guide is an excellent guide to all the things to do in Qatar. Qatar is an Arabic peninsular Arab state whose geography includes a long Persian (Persian) Gulf coastline and arid semi-desert sand desert. Also on this coast is Doha, the capital, which is recognized for its extravagant futuristic skyscrapers, modernized architecture and other ultramodern architectural designs inspired by early Islamic design. Doha's stadium, Al-Gabel, is one of the largest in the world. The mall carries the largest mall in Qatar and at a height more than seven hundred feet. The restaurant at the mall sells the largest variety of food in the Arab world, including exclusive Al-Joula kebabs, chicken liver, lamb, vegetarians and all other types of food that can be found only in Qatar.

Doha has a very cosmopolitan outlook on life. Unlike many other Middle Eastern nations, where both men and women drive and shop together in harmony, in Qatar both sexes dress separately. There are no cafes or restaurants for men to wait at and women drive only. However, it is interesting to note that in certain areas of Doha, such as Jumeirah Beach or at the edge of the Mall in Doha City, women are treated to men's clubs and they even sing and dance in them. This attitude toward gender roles is not felt in other areas.

The people of Qatar are very friendly and although you will notice that the majority of them are either Saudi or UAE citizens, there are some Burmese, Indian, Chinese and Cypriot who call this part of the Middle East their home. Most of the local population are Sunnis but there are also a small Christian and Jewish minority. The country enjoys a moderate mix of religious belief and practice. This allows people from all walks of life to experience a worshipful atmosphere free from the strict codes of the Islamic religion. It also makes for a more tolerant experience while touring the beautiful city.

Qatar offers a great deal of activities for tourists of all ages and this makes for a great holiday experience. Whether you are planning a family holiday with the entire family or simply an individual tour with just one or two friends, you will find the perfect place for your trip on a Qatar travel guide. The following is a brief description of some of the things you will find enjoyable during your stay in Qatar.

When you plan an extended stay in Qatar, you will most likely want to take in a bit of the culture of this oil rich country. A Qatar tour guide can help you discover this fascinating area of the planet. You will find it interesting to learn that much of the country was destroyed during the war between Iraq and Kuwait. Although it has come back to life, the history of this area is very intriguing.

Diving is one of the most popular sports available in Qatar. There are several beautiful wrecks off the shores of the country that you can dive into and enjoy a unique underwater experience. Diving will provide you with the opportunity to view the sea life and coral reefs and will allow you to learn more about the underwater ecosystem of the area.

Shopping in Qatar is considered to be extravagant and this is not a surprise. Most of the shopping experience in Qatar revolves around shopping and the purchase of goods and products. Tourists from all over the world travel to Qatar to enjoy high quality shopping in this bustling city. Shopping in Qatar does require a bit of research and knowledge but once you have found your way around the city you will enjoy the shopping experience. You will find most shops have a shop inside the four-star hotels. However, you may need to venture out of these hotels to enjoy some of the specialty shops.

If you have never visited any part of the Middle East before, then a visit to Qatar will be a great learning experience for you. This country has everything available to tourists and most of the things that you would find in any other part of the world. A Qatar travel guide will take you through the country and educate you on its history and culture. From the shopping experience to diving to traveling there are endless opportunities to enjoy a fantastic holiday. Take a look at the benefits of a good travel guide before you travel to Qatar.

What vaccinations do I need?

Up to date information for vaccinations before you travel to Qatar are available from the NHS Fit for Travel website.

Is it safe to travel?

Best time to visit?

The best time to visit Qatar is from December to February when the temperatures are mild with average highs ranging between 22°C (72°F) and 25°C (77°F). January is the coolest month with temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 22°C (72°F).

Do I need a Visa?

Nationals of United Kingdom do not require prior visa arrangements and can obtain a visa waiver upon arrival in Qatar. Qatar tourist visa is not required for citizens of United Kingdom for a stay up to 30 days. Good to go if the term of your stay in Qatar is less than 30 days.

See which forms you may need for entry into Qatar.

What currency do i need?

The official currency of Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (QAR). If you're looking to transfer or spend money in Qatar you can grab amazing Qatari Riyal deals via Wise.com (GBP to QAR).

What about the wildlife?

Animals in Qatar include Asiatic jackals, Cape hares, caracals, desert hedgehogs, red foxes, sand cats, striped hyenas, arabian sand gazelles, Wagner's gerbils, and Arabian wolves. Introduced species include the dromedary and the arabian oryx.

What is the traditional food?

Arabic food? Qatari cuisine is made up of traditional Arab cuisine. Machbūs, a meal consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables, is the national dish in Qatar. Seafood and dates are staple food items in the country.

What Languages are spoken?

Arabic is an Afro-Asiatic language spoken in several countries in parts of Asia and Africa. Arabic is the official language in Qatar You can learn some basic Arabic before you travel to Qatar and really impress the locals!

How much do you tip?

The currency in Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (Most Resteraunts in Qatar include a service charge with the bill. However, the people providing the service usually don't receive it. Therefore, it's appreciated to tip about 10-15% in restaurants. If dining in hotels, it is not necessary to tip, but it's a nice gesture.).

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Useful Numbers

  • Police: 999
  • Ambulance: 999
  • Fire: 999
  • UK Embassy: +974 4496 2000

Time Difference

The GMT time difference is 2 hours

Travel Apps

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Learn Arabic

Learn some Arabic before your trip to Qatar


Qatar Guidebook

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