Known as the State of Qatar, Qatar is a small but wealthy country located on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula in West Asia, bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south, with the rest of its territory surrounded by the Persian Gulf. The country is known for its vast reserves of natural gas and oil, which have fuelled rapid economic growth and development. It is one of the richest countries in the world per capita and has invested heavily in infrastructure, education, and cultural projects; transforming itself into a regional hub for business, tourism, and sports, notably hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2022.
Its capital, Doha, is the largest city of Qatar, and the economic, political, and cultural centre of the country. Located on the coast of the Persian Gulf, Doha features a striking skyline filled with modern skyscrapers and luxury hotels. The city blends traditional Islamic architecture and culture with contemporary design and urban development. It is home to important institutions such as Qatar University, the Museum of Islamic Art, and Education City, a hub for international universities. The city has rapidly expanded with significant investments in transportation, such as the Doha Metro, and is a key player in the Gulf region for commerce, diplomacy, and culture.
UTC+3.
Extreme heat, flash floods, droughts and sandstorms, though earthquakes and tsunamis can happen.
For traffic offences;
Qatar uses a demerit point system where certain driving offences result in points being added to a driver's record, with severe penalties for accumulating too many, including license suspension and travel bans until fines are paid. Fines can be paid through the Metrash2 app, the MOI website (Ministry of Interior website), or at physical traffic department offices and service centres.
Tourists are required to declare certain items upon entry into Qatar. Failure to do so can lead to fines or confiscation of goods. These items include:
Qatar has stringent laws regarding privacy and cybercrime. Individuals found guilty of breaching personal privacy using technology (such as taking or sharing photos, audio, or video recordings without consent) shall face up to three years in jail and/or a fine of up to QR 100,000 (~£20,492).
The official language of Qatar is Arabic, but English, Persian and Urdu are also spoken.
Since Qatar is in a desert climate, the country experiences scorching summers and mild winters. If travelling during summer, focus your trip on indoor attractions like museums and malls, and spending time outdoors during early mornings and evenings.
Vehicles in Qatar drive on the right, and overtake on the left. The minimum driving age is 18, where the minimum renting age is usually 21, though can vary by car category and rental company. Some companies may only let drivers aged 25 or more to drive 'premium' or luxury cars, and a 'underage driver fee' may apply to drivers under 25. UK drivers generally need the 1968 version of an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their UK driving licence to drive in Qatar.
When driving outside Doha or in desert/dusty areas, watch for unusual hazards (e.g. camels crossing roads and sand/dust storms). Be careful and use defensive driving against aggressive drivers in traffic (sudden lane changes, speeding etc.). And for parking, there are paid parking zones in places like mall and hotels. Be mindful of rules to avoid fines.
Super (97 octane), premium (91 octane) and diesel are common. Most petrol stations are WOQOD-branded (the state-run fuel company), which thay can be found along highways, in cities like Doha, Al Wakrah, Lusail, and near shopping malls or industrial areas. Most fuel stations are self-service, but attendants are often available to help. Cash is widely accepted, but most stations accept cards where some may also accept mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.), especially in cities like Doha. And finally, most petrol stations also offer car washes (manual or automatic), tyre air filling stations (usually free), mini-markets/shops (like Sidra convenience stores), and prayer rooms and clean restrooms.
Zero tolerance. Even minimal alcohol can lead to serious penalties.
Mandatory for driver and all passengers.
Children under 10 must use an approved child car seat or booster seat, with children under 4 needing a dedicated child restraint system.