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/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
974
Local Emergency Phone
999
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Qatar: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, anthrax, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.
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, September 27, 2023
