Planning to Travel to Qatar for the first time ? Here are several things to know before traveling to Doha.
Are you planning a trip to Qatar? Don't let the research overwhelm you. We're here to make your experience in Doha easy and enjoyable. Here are our travel tips for Doha, Qatar - from cultural and social expectations to things you need to know before you go. With these tips, you can be confident in your preparations for an unforgettable trip to Doha. Enjoy!
All opinions expressed here are honest, based on our personal experience of traveling and living
in Qatar
If you are thinking to take a tour in Qatar, please also check Things to consider before booking your tour in Doha
Is it safe to travel to Qatar ?
Qatar is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers! As a community of expats living in Doha, we can confidently say that it is safe to travel to Qatar, no matter the time of day it is.
Doha is a small, calm city with a cosmopolitan population. You'll find people from around the world. It's a great place to explore and get to know the culture and people.
However, If you decide to venture out of Doha, it's better to have someone to accompany you for easier navigation.
Is English spoken in Qatar ?
As a traveler, you won't have to worry about language barriers - English is widely spoken in Doha! Many of the street signs, menus, and other written materials are available in both Arabic and English, making it easy to get around.
Doha is also a very cosmopolitan city, with many people from Southeast Asia and Western countries. This means you won't have to worry about feeling alone or out of place. With its friendly locals and English-speaking environment, Doha is an easy destination for travelers to navigate.
The best time to visit Qatar, Doha
When planning your trip to Doha, it's important to consider the time of year you are traveling to ensure the best experience! Doha is known for its extreme summers with temperatures that can soar above 40°C (above 100°F) and high humidity levels.
We learned this the hard way when we first arrived in Qatar in early October. The weather forecast showed 27-28°C (82°F), which doesn’t seem too bad if you’re used to temperatures in Europe. But as soon as we got off the plane, we were hit by the Middle Eastern humidity and regretting that we hadn’t done enough research on the climate.
Take the time to research the temperature and humidity levels before you travel to Doha to better prepare yourself for the climate and heat. With the right expectations and preparation, you can make the most of your trip and enjoy all that Doha has to offer.
If you looking for the perfect time to visit Doha and enjoy the great outdoors Look no further than November to March! These months are similar to Western May and June, making them a great time to explore the city.
However, bear in mind that temperatures can drop quite low in January and February, so if you plan to travel during those months, don’t forget to pack some warm clothes for evening.
April and October are also considered cooler months, making them ideal for going out in the evenings, but not suitable for lingering outdoors during the day.
From May to the end of September, temperatures can reach sweltering heights and humidity can be unbearable. If you’re planning a trip during these months, make sure to adjust your expectations and be prepared to limit your outdoor activities in favor of indoor attractions such as museums, cafes and air conditioned cars.
One more thing to consider is the month of Ramadan. eating and drinking options are limited during the day in Ramadan, as almost all public places are closed. To make the most of your sightseeing during that month, head to the West Bay or Pearl Qatar area to find cafes that are open during the day.
What should I wear in Doha ?
Qatar is a modern country and does not enforce a dress code for travelers, nor are there any punishments, However, it is recommended to cover up your knees and shoulders as a sign of respect, as this may help to avoid unwanted attention and access to certain cultural spots, such as museums.
When traveling to Qatar, remember that the dress code is not something to be feared, but rather something to be embraced as a form of respect for local customs. By following the dress code, you will be better able to appreciate the culture and customs of the country.
Drinking Alcohol in Qatar
You can Enjoy a drink in the bars and restaurants of five star hotels and private beach areas!
However, be aware that bringing any alcohol into Qatar is strictly prohibited. This includes alcohol purchased in duty-free or anywhere else. Airport security carefully scans every bag and confiscates any alcohol they find.
The Best Area to Stay in Doha, Qatar
There is no shortage of hotels in Doha , especially luxurious hotels, but deciding where to stay in Doha can be frustrating. We are sure you would love to stay in an interesting location handy to shops, restaurants where you experience the sights and sounds of the city!
While choosing the best place to stay in Doha , consider West bay and Souq Waqif. Based on your interests, you may prefer to stay closer to one of these landmarks.
If you're a traveler looking for views and modern city vibes, then West Bay in Doha is the perfect destination for you. Here, the skyline is full of skyscrapers and you can enjoy the view of the Persian Gulf and the beautiful Corniche area. The evenings here are especially magical when the skyscrapers light up. If you're looking for a hotel with private beach access, then consider staying at the Hilton Doha or Sheraton Grand Hotel.
If you're looking for an authentic Arabic experience and want to be close to traditional areas, you can consider staying near Souq Waqif. will you be within walking distance of the Museum of Islamic Art and the stunning MIA Park.
Note : Traditional Market tends to get busy and noisy in the evenings , so if you are looking for calm and quiet space, we would recommend to choose the hotel little bit away from the market area.
