Capital: Doha
Population: 2.8 million (2021) (23rd)
Rank in territory: (166th)
Currency: Qatari Riyal
Currency to US$: approx 0.27
Rank in GDP: 59th (198 billion USD)
Electric socket: 240V (50Hz) three prong plug (type D and G)
Safety
Qatar is generally considered a safe country for residents and visitors. The crime rate is low, and violent crime is rare. In general, Qatar has strict laws and regulations regarding public behaviour and decency. Individuals who do not adhere to these standards can face legal consequences, including deportation. Just be aware of and respect cultural and social norms of Qatar to avoid any legal or social issues. Women should dress modestly and be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to use reputable transportation options, due to safety concerns such as potential harassment or assault. And always, we recommend to travel insured!
Language
Arabic – It's relatively easy to get by in English, especially in tourist areas and in the business world. However, it would be nice to learn some Arabic phrases.
Religion
Islam (65%), Christianity (15%), Hinduism (5%), others/none (15%)
Regions and cities
Qatar can be classified as one-city country as 90% of the population lives in its capital city, Doha. Nevertheless, Qatar has 8 municipalities:
- Doha, Al Rayyan, Al Wakrah, Al Khor, Al Daayen, Umm Salal, Al-Shahaniya, and Al Sheehaniya.
- Doha is the most populous city in Qatar
- Al Wakrah is known for its beautiful beaches and historical sites
- Al Khor is a coastal city with a rich history in the pearl trade
Visa
Visitors from many countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Hamad International Airport for a stay of up to 90 days, while others may require a visa in advance through Hayya Card. The visa on arrival can be obtained by presenting a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months and a confirmed onward or return ticket. See more details here.
Click here to see the countries eligible for up to 90 days visa on arrival and visa valid for 180 days from the date of issuanceAntigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Austria, Bahamas, Belgium, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Seychelles, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine
Click here to see the countries eligible for up to 30 days visa on arrival and visa valid for 30 days from the date of issuanceAndorra, Australia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bolivia, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Falkland Islands, French Guiana, Georgia, Guyana, Hong Kong, China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Japan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Macau, Macedonia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Suriname, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Vatican City, Venezuela
Click here to see the countries eligible for Qatar-Oman joint tourist visa valid for 30 days, for multiple entry to both countries and is extendable for an additional 30 days for a fee Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States, Vatican City