Moving to Qatar is a big decision. Find out more about this beautiful country and what life is like.
If you’ve decided to make the move to Qatar as an individual or as a family, you might have some questions about the country, its people and the way of life. Let’s take a look at Qatar and the life you could live here.
Where is Qatar located?
Qatar or the State of Qatar is located in western Asia. It's in the Persian Gulf and shares its border with Saudi Arabia. As an Islamic country, it wields significant power and is a noteworthy player in world of politics and world economics.
Is Qatar Safe?
As one of the safest countries in the world, Qatar offers true Arabian hospitality. The majority of Qatar’s population are expatriates from across the world.
What’s there to do in Qatar?
Qatar offers a smorgasbord of activities. From arts and culture to adventure, family fun, shopping and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The city of Doha is a mix of old and new, with towering skyscrapers and historical sites dating back centuries. There are a large number of museums and galleries to explore and there is a rich cultural heritage with many luxurious treats.
What’s the weather like?
The heat can reach pretty high degrees in summer. This coupled with the humidity can make being outdoors during the day rather difficult. The hot season is from May to October and during these months you’ll rely heavily on your air conditioner. The cooler months are from December to February.
What do people wear?
The heat means you can’t wear too much, but you also have to dress modestly in public as Qatar is an Islamic country. It’s advisable for women to cover their shoulders and avoid wearing short skirts or shorts. For men, shorts and vests are not really acceptable. In the winter months, pack a jersey or sweater with a hoodie as it does tend to get cold at night.
The traditional Qatari dress is called The Thobe. It’s a white garment worn over long white trousers. Men wear a headdress and women wear the abaya or the Shayla. As an expat, you don’t have to wear this traditional gear.
What are the rules and regulations of the country?
It is very important to respect the community and the culture of the country as well as the local laws and customs. As an Islamic country, there are big penalties for doing certain things here. Some things may be perfectly fine and legal in your country, but not necessarily in Qatar. These include public intimacy like kissing and holding hands. Before coming to Qatar, you must familiarize yourself with these rules, so make sure you read up.
Can I use my foreign driving license in Qatar?
Doha is a driving city and as such, you will need to have an international Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car for the short or long term. Simply get in touch with our friendly consultants. They’ll give you all the information you need about travelling around Doha and ensure that you rent the right car for your needs.
What’s the cost of living like in Qatar?
The cost of living greatly depends on the type of lifestyle you lead. However, it is certainly one of the more expensive regions in the Middle East. As 90% of food in Qatar is imported, this can be pricey. Similarly, accommodation is expensive as this is an affluent country. That being said, the salaries are high and with no personal income tax to pay, you will have more to spend. If you are living the lifestyle of the average western expat, you can expect the cost of living to be what you would see in Europe. Although utilities cost significantly less as they are largely subsidised, food and drinks will be more expensive.
There are many positives to living and working in Qatar. Find out more about the
places you can visit easily here.
Sources:
expatica.com/qa/moving/about/cost-of-living-in-qatar-71067/
https://www.visitqatar.qa/en/things-to-do