Travel Facts

US State Dept Travel Advisory

The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Qatar. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html

Passport/Visa Requirements

US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 2 blank pages in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.

US Embassy/Consulate

[974] 4496-6000; US Embassy Doha, 22nd February Street, Al Luqta District, PO Box 2399, Doha, Qatar; PasDoha@state.gov; https://qa.usembassy.gov/

Telephone Code

974

Local Emergency Phone

999

Vaccinations

See WHO recommendations

http://www.who.int/

Climate

Arid; mild, pleasant winters; very hot, humid summers

Currency (Code)

Qatari rials (QAR)

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)

240 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): G

Major Languages

Arabic, English commonly used as a second language

Major Religions

Muslim 65.2%, Christian 13.7%, Hindu 15.9%, Buddhist 3.8%, folk religion <.1%, Jewish <.1%

Time Difference

UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

Potable Water

Opt for bottled water

International Driving Permit

Suggested

Road Driving Side

Right

Tourist Destinations

Doha (includes Museum of Islamic Art, the Corniche, Doha Fort, National Museum, Golden Mosque); Al Jassasiya Carvings; Al Wakra Museum; Katara Cultural Village

Major Sports

Soccer, cricket, golf, tennis, horse racing

Cultural Practices

Not all Arab men and women will shake hands with those of the opposite sex; wait to see if they extend their hands first.

Tipping Guidelines

A service charge of 10% is usually added to hotel and restaurant bills, in which case tipping is not necessary, although for exceptional service many people add a bit extra. If there is no service charge, a 10-15% tip is appreciated. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but it is polite to round up the fare.

Souvenirs

Pashminas, decorated Korans, incense burners, frankincense, ceremonial swords, dullah and kahwa coffee cups, halawa candy, dried dates

Traditional Cuisine

Machboos — a rice dish made with a variety of aromatic spices that produce a smoky taste and served with vegetables and lamb or chicken

Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.

World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.

US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.

To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)

How to get help in an emergency? 
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444


Page last updated: Wednesday, October 05, 2022