As a UAE resident, I thought I had a good grasp of what to expect when visiting Doha.
However, there were a few surprises that I wish I had known beforehand.
If you’re planning a trip to this vibrant city, here are ten things to keep in mind to make your visit smoother and more enjoyable!
1. Free Stopover Opportunities
Did you know that you can technically enjoy a stopover in Doha for free? Thanks to Qatar Airways’ stopover program, if you have at least 12 hours between flights, you can be eligible for a complimentary stay of 1 to 4 nights. Talk about an unexpected bonus! Instead of spending hours in an airport chair, why not explore the city?
2. Choosing the Right Taxi
When it comes to getting around, stick with Karwa or Uber. While Uber tends to be cheaper, Karwa offers complimentary Wi-Fi in their vehicles—perfect for those who want to catch up on messages. A quick heads-up: Ubers can’t pick you up from the airport, so you’ll need to queue at the taxi rank. Don’t worry, though; their service is super efficient, and you can pay by card, making it a breeze.
3. Leave the Alcohol Behind
If you enjoy a glass of wine or a cold beer, be aware that alcohol cannot be brought into Qatar. If you try to sneak it in, they’ll flag it and confiscate it at arrivals. So, unless you’re planning to start a secret speakeasy, just leave the booze at home.
4. Adjusting to the Work Week
In Qatar, the workweek runs from Sunday to Thursday, so plan your meetings and social events accordingly. If you’re thinking of using the metro on Friday, remember that it only operates from 2 PM. Friday is a day of rest, so you might want to take a leisurely morning instead!
5. Dress Modestly
While Doha is a modern city, it’s essential to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture. Keep your outfits chic yet conservative, particularly when visiting religious sites or traditional areas. Think of it as an opportunity to showcase your best modest fashion!
6. Weather Warnings
Brace yourself for the heat! From June to September, temperatures can soar to a blistering 40-50°C. Staying hydrated and avoiding midday sun is crucial. If you find yourself melting, remember that you’re not alone—everyone feels like they’ve walked into an oven!
7. Currency and Power Plugs
The currency in Qatar is the Qatari riyal, but don’t worry if you have dollars or euros; they’re widely accepted too. Also, a quick note for your electronics: Qatar uses 3-pin UK plugs, so bring along an adapter if you want to charge your devices without drama.
8. Navigating the City
Doha boasts a metro and buses, making it fairly easy to get around. However, walking isn’t always practical, especially in the sweltering heat, and jaywalking is illegal. So, if you see a crosswalk, use it! Your sanity and safety will thank you.
9. A Safe Haven for Women
For my fellow female travelers, you’ll be pleased to know that Qatar is incredibly safe. It’s one of the safest cities, much like Dubai, with many women-only areas. You can explore without constantly looking over your shoulder, which is a refreshing change!
10. Petrol vs. Water
Here’s a fun fact: petrol in Qatar is cheaper than water! Yes, you read that right. So, if you ever find yourself parched and considering filling up a water bottle with petrol, maybe think twice—although your car would appreciate the gesture!
Overall, Doha is an exciting city with plenty to offer, and knowing these tips will help you navigate it like a pro. Embrace the culture, stay hydrated, and most importantly, enjoy your time in this beautiful country!
