1. THE CLIMATE IS EXTREME
The most popular time to visit Qatar is from mid-October to mid-March. This time of year has a lovely spring climate with temperatures ranging from about 20 to 28°C. Most of the year is extremely hot with little to no precipitation.
2. LANGUAGE
As much as the official language of Qatar is Arabic, English is spoken by a large part of the population, especially those who work in tourism.
3. TIPPING
The amount you tip in Qatar will depend on where you are and what type of services you're buying. As a general rule, expect to tip around 10% of the bill. If you get exceptionally good service, say thank you with a tip closer to 15-20%.
4. INCREDIBLY MULTICULTURAL
Qatar is a truly multi-cultural society with people, languages, and cuisines from all over the world coming together under the overarching Arab-Muslim identity of Qatar. Doha has a rich cultural calendar with dozens of cultural troupes coming to the city from across the globe every year.
5. PLAN AND RESEARCH
Plan and Research Before you set off on your adventure, take the time to thoroughly plan and research your destination. Familiarize yourself with the local culture, attractions, and customs.
6. SAFETY
Qatar is a very safe country to travel to. Its crime rates are low, including violent crimes that are extremely rare, especially towards foreigners.
7. RAMADAN IN QATAR
You’re not allowed to eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public during this time. It’s illegal.
This doesn’t mean you yourself have to fast, although I always felt weird eating or drinking in front of anyone who was observing Ramadan.
8. ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION
Alcohol isn't illegal in Qatar, but there is zero tolerance for drinking in public and being drunk in public is a crime. Local law and customs reflect the fact that Qatar is an Islamic country - therefore you should respect the rules at all times and ensure your actions do not offend.
Tourists and residents can consume alcohol in restaurants, bars, and certain licensed hotels without applying for a personal permit. However, in order to enter these places, you must show an identification, which is usually scanned and recorded at the entrance. If you do not carry it, you will be denied entry
9. VISA REQUIREMENTS AND PASSPORT VALIDITY
Ensure you check the visa requirements for your destination and apply in advance if necessary. Also, verify that your passport is valid for the entire duration of your trip, including any additional validity requirements imposed by certain countries.
10. EMERGENCY NUMBERS AND TERMS
Emergency Numbers
Police, Fire, Ambulance – 999.
Kahramaa – 991.
Internet Service – 111.
Traffic & Patrol Police Department – 4890666.
Hamad Hospital – +974 4392111.
General Post Office – +974 4466000
Emergency Terms
Hospital – mustashfaa
Police station – markaz al shurta
Help me – saa danee
Medicine – dawa
Doctor – duktuur
I am sick – ana mareed
I lost my passport – faqadat jawazee