Qatar

All travelers entering Qatar must present a valid passport. Below is a guide to entry requirements:

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of over 80 countries can enter Qatar without a visa for short stays (up to 30 or 90 days, depending on nationality) with a valid passport:

• United States
• Canada
• United Kingdom
• European Union (Schengen Area countries)
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Japan
• South Korea
• Singapore

Visa Required

Citizens of countries that are not on the visa-exempt list must obtain a visa before traveling to Qatar. Visas can be applied for online or at a Qatari embassy or consulate.

Note: Visa policies may change, so it's essential to check the latest entry requirements before travel.

Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman, can enter Qatar using their national ID cards. For all other travelers, a valid passport is required to enter Qatar.

Toll Roads in Qatar

Currently, there are no toll roads in Qatar. However, Qatar has a modern and well-maintained road network, especially in and around Doha, the capital city. Most highways and roads are free to use.

Driving Tips in Qatar:

• Right-Hand Driving: Qatar follows right-hand traffic rules.
• Seat Belts: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
• Speed Limits: Speed limits vary between 60 km/h in urban areas and 120 km/h on highways.
• Road Conditions: Roads are generally in excellent condition, but be mindful of sudden sandstorms that may affect visibility and driving conditions.

Weather in Qatar

Qatar has a desert climate, with extremely hot summers and mild winters. The country experiences very little rainfall, mostly during the winter months.

Summer (May to September)

Summers in Qatar are extremely hot, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F), and humidity can also be high along the coast.

Winter (December to February)

Winters are mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is the best time to visit Qatar, as the weather is pleasant and comfortable.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The winter season (December to February) is the most pleasant time to visit Qatar.
• Stay Hydrated: During the summer months, it's essential to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during midday, and wear light, breathable clothing.
• Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the intense desert sun.

Currency in Qatar

The official currency of Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (QAR), abbreviated as QAR and symbolized as ر.ق.

Banknotes and Coins

Qatari Riyal banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 QAR. Coins are issued in 25 and 50 dirhams.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are widely available in Qatar, especially in Doha. ATMs are also easily accessible in cities and towns, allowing you to withdraw QAR using international credit or debit cards.

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Qatar, including at hotels, restaurants, malls, and major stores. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Travel Tips

• Notify Your Bank: Let your bank know about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage in Qatar.
• Carry Cash: It is helpful to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller towns or markets.
• Currency Conversion Fees: Be mindful of currency conversion fees when using your card abroad.