Practical Information: Doha

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Ooredoo and Vodafone are the two main mobile network operators in Qatar, offering comprehensive coverage across Doha and the rest of the country.

Purchasing a SIM

Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at Hamad International Airport or at various outlets in shopping malls.
To register and purchase a SIM card, present your original passport and your visa/entry stamp.
Both Ooredoo and Vodafone offer specific tourist SIM card packages. Consider Airalo for eSIMs or Solis Wi-Fi for portable devices.

Internet Access and Wi-Fi Availability

Internet access is widely available and often free in Doha. Complimentary Wi-Fi appears in most hotels, shopping malls, cafes, restaurants, and at Hamad International Airport.

Connectivity

Some public outdoor areas, like The Corniche and Souq Waqif, also offer public Wi-Fi access points.
Qatar boasts reliable 4G and increasingly widespread 5G network coverage, making for fast mobile data speeds across Doha.
Internet speeds generally support streaming and high-bandwidth applications.

Postal Services

Qatar Post, the national postal service, operates several post offices across Doha. You can send postcards, letters, and packages domestically and internationally.

Shipping

Most hotels can also assist with sending postcards.
Major international courier services like DHL, FedEx, and Aramex also have offices in Doha for faster and tracked international shipping.
For important documents or valuable items, courier services are highly recommended.

Language Barriers and Resources

The official language of Qatar is Arabic. English is very widely spoken throughout Doha, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls.

Ease of Communication

You will rarely encounter significant language barriers in most interactions as a tourist. Many signs are bilingual (Arabic and English).
A Translation app like Google Translate can be useful for obscure phrases or local menus. Download the Arabic offline pack for use without internet.
For a deeper dive into the language, consider Rosetta Stone.

Important Arabic Phrases

Basic Greetings & Courtesy

Hello: Marhaba (مرحبا)
Thank you: Shukran (شكرا)
Please: Min fadlak (male) / Min fadlik (female) (من فضلك)
Yes: Na'am (نعم)

Common Interactions

No: La (لا)
Excuse me/Sorry: Afwan (عفواً)
How much?: Kam hatha? (كم هذا؟)
Good morning: Sabah al-khair (صباح الخير)

Advice: Staying Connected

Local SIM cards are easy to obtain for mobile communication throughout your visit. Remember your passport for purchase.

Business Hours & Schedules

Understand typical operating hours and holiday impacts to plan your activities.

Shopping Malls

Generally open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Sat-Thu). Thursdays, some extend until midnight. Fridays, malls typically open later (after 1:00 PM/2:00 PM) and stay open until late evening.

Souqs Traditional Markets

Souq Waqif operates in two shifts: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and then reopens from 4:00 PM (or later) until 10:00 PM or midnight daily. Many shops close during the hot afternoon hours. Some smaller shops may remain closed on Friday mornings.

Banks & Government Offices

Banks: Generally open from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM, Sunday to Thursday. Some mall branches have extended hours. Government Offices: Operate Sunday to Thursday, 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM, closed Fridays and Saturdays.

Banking Hours and ATM Locations

Automated Teller Machines are widely available and convenient. You will find them at banks, inside shopping malls, major supermarkets, and at Hamad International Airport.

Accessing Funds

ATMs are plentiful for cash withdrawals.
Standard banking hours are Sunday to Thursday, 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM.
For foreign exchange, use exchange offices in malls or at the airport.

Religious and Public Holidays Affecting Services

Awareness of these dates is good, as they change business operations across the city.

Important Dates

Fridays: Many businesses close for Friday prayers, reopening in the afternoon. Public transport may have modified schedules.
Ramadan: Business hours reduce during daylight. Restaurants often open after sunset. Public eating/drinking/smoking is not permitted during fasting hours.
Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha: Major Islamic holidays with multi-day closures for public and private sectors. The city comes alive with festivities.

Additional Public Holidays & Seasonal Changes

Other Public Holidays

Qatar National Day (December 18): A public holiday with extensive celebrations, parades, and fireworks.
National Sports Day (Second Tuesday in February): A public holiday encouraging sports and wellness activities.
Business operations may close or reduce hours on these days.

Seasonal Closures and Limited Schedules

Some smaller shops, independent businesses, or tour operators might have reduced hours or close entirely during peak summer months (May to September).
This happens due to extreme heat and lower tourist numbers.
Always check in advance if you plan to visit a specific establishment during the summer.

Planning: Confirm Hours

Confirm opening hours, especially around public holidays or during the summer season, to ensure a smooth visit.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Cultural understanding promotes respectful and meaningful interactions.

Greeting Customs

A handshake is a common greeting between men. When greeting women, waiting for them to extend their hand first is advisable.

Polite Welcomes

A slight nod, a smile, or placing a hand over your heart is a respectful alternative if a handshake is not offered.
The traditional Arabic greeting is "Salam Alaikum" (Peace be upon you), with the reply "Wa Alaikum Salam."
Always use polite language and gestures in all interactions.

Appropriate Attire for Different Settings

Modest dress is recommended for both men and women in public spaces. This means clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Dress Code

Avoid overly revealing, tight, or sheer clothing in shopping malls, souqs, and public transport.
When visiting mosques, women must cover their hair, arms, and legs. Men should wear long trousers and shirts.
Abayas and headscarves are often available for women at major mosques. Remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall.

Dining and Tipping Practices

If eating with your hands (e.g., sharing a communal dish), always use your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean in Islamic culture.

Table Manners

Do not point the soles of your feet at others while sitting.
Accept hospitality, like Arabic coffee and dates, when offered. This displays welcome.
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Refer to Section 2.3 for detailed tipping guidelines (10-15% in restaurants, rounding up for taxis).

Photography Permissions and Restrictions

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, specifically women and children. Photographing someone without their consent is considered rude and disrespectful.

Consent & Discretion

Do not photograph government buildings, military installations, or the Amiri Diwan (Ruler's Palace). These areas often have "no photography" signs.
Be respectful and use discretion when taking photos in public spaces.
Prioritize people's privacy over photographic opportunities.

Taboos and Sensitive Topics

Cultural Sensitivities

Religion: Show deep respect for Islam, the state religion. Do not openly criticize religious practices or symbols.
Royal Family: Do not discuss or criticize the ruling family or the government.
Alcohol/Public Displays of Affection: Alcohol consumption in public spaces outside licensed venues is not permitted. Public displays of affection, even between married couples, are culturally sensitive and should be avoided.

Important Considerations

Same-Sex Relations: Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar. Public displays of same-sex affection are not tolerated.
Politics: Avoid engaging in political discussions.
Visitors are generally safe if discreet, but discretion is .

Gender Considerations and LGBTQ+ Information

Gender Norms

Qatar is a conservative society with traditional gender norms.
Women have significant rights and roles in society.
Public interactions between unmarried men and women are generally formal.

LGBTQ+ Travel

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar.
Visitors are advised to exercise discretion regarding their sexual orientation.
Avoid public displays of affection by same-sex couples, as these are not tolerated and could lead to legal issues.

Accessibility Information

Doha has made significant progress in making its infrastructure accessible for travelers with disabilities.

Infrastructure for Mobility Challenges

Many parts of Doha have been developed with accessibility as a consideration, aiming for ease of movement for all.

Accessible Features

Doha Metro: Fully accessible, with elevators at all stations, wide gates, and dedicated spaces for wheelchairs within trains.
Hamad International Airport: Designed with accessibility, wheelchairs upon request, accessible toilets, and priority services.
Newer Buildings/Malls: Most modern buildings, shopping malls, and hotels are wheelchair-friendly, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Accessible Attractions and Transportation

Many popular tourist spots and public transport options welcome visitors with mobility aids.

Navigation

Museums (MIA, NMoQ, Msheireb): All major museums are highly accessible, equipped with ramps, elevators, and wide corridors.
Katara Cultural Village: Generally accessible, though some older venues may have stairs. The Corniche is a smooth, flat promenade.
Karwa Taxis: Mowasalat offers some wheelchair-accessible taxis. Request these in advance via their app or by contacting them directly.

Services for Visual or Hearing Impairments

Support Systems

Doha Metro: Provides announcements in Arabic and English, tactile paving at stations, and clear visual signage.
Some museums may offer audio guides or tactile exhibits to enhance the experience for visitors with visual impairments.
Inquire at museum information desks regarding specific accessibility options.

Resources and Organizations

For detailed accessibility information on specific attractions or services, contact Qatar Tourism or the individual attractions directly before your visit.

Getting Information

Websites of major venues often have dedicated accessibility pages outlining their facilities and services.
Direct contact with service providers can clarify specific needs.
Plan routes considering accessible pathways.

Guidance: Confirm Details

Contact Qatar Tourism or attractions directly for specific accessibility details that suit your individual travel needs.

Practical Information