Qatar Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Museum of Islamic Art – Stunning architecture & global collection
- Souq Waqif – Traditional market with shops & eateries
- The Pearl-Qatar – Luxury marina and waterfront dining
- Katara Cultural Village – Arts center, galleries, and performances
- Desert & Inland Sea – Dune bashing and overnight camping
- Northern Qatar – Zekreet & film city landscapes
Best Hotels to Stay
Language & Culture
Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken. Qatari culture is influenced by Bedouin heritage and Islamic traditions. Modest dress, hospitality, and respect for local customs are essential.Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Doha Metro, buses, taxis, ride‑hailing apps
- Currency: Qatari Riyal (QAR)
- Food: Machboos, harees, shawarma, luqaimat, Arabic coffee
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| November – April | Cool and pleasant | Ideal for outdoor activities |
| May – October | Hot (40 °C+) | Best to stay indoors or at beach resorts |
Entry via Hamad International Airport (DOH)
Estimated Budget (for Two Travelers)
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | $800 – $1400 | Round trip from US/Europe |
| Accommodation | $700 – $1800 | Mid-range to luxury hotels |
| Dining | $250 – $500 | Local cafés and upscale dining |
| Transport | $150 – $300 | Metro, taxis, car rental |
| Activities | $200 – $600 | Museums, desert tours, cultural events |
Packing List Suggestions
- Passport & visa (visas issued online)
- Modest clothing for public, swimwear for resorts
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, light layers
- Comfortable shoes for walking and desert touring
20 Useful Arabic & English Phrases
| Arabic | English |
|---|---|
| Marhaba | Hello |
| Shukran | Thank you |
| Min fadlak | Please (m) |
| Min fadliki | Please (f) |
| Naam / La | Yes / No |
| Kam ath-thaman? | How much is it? |
| Ayna al-hammam? | Where is the bathroom? |
| La afham | I don’t understand |
| Hal tatakallam inglizi? | Do you speak English? |
| Ma’a salama | Goodbye |
| Sabaah al-khayr | Good morning |
| Masa’ al-khayr | Good evening |
| Ismi… | My name is… |
| Ana ghareeb | I’m a tourist |
| Ureed hatha | I want this |
| Mumkin sora? | Can I take a photo? |
| Ayna al-metro? | Where is the metro? |
| Bikam thaman al-rijal? | How much is the fare? |
| Afwan | Excuse me / You’re welcome |
| La mushkila | No problem |
Health & Safety
- Qatar is very safe; low crime rate
- Tap water is safe in most cities
- Emergency: 999 (police), 998 (ambulance)
- Dress conservatively in public places
- Travel insurance recommended
Festivals & Holidays
- Qatar National Day – December 18
- Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha
- Doha Film Festival – November
- Qatar MotoGP – March
- Qatar International Food Festival – February/March
