How to Get from Hamad International Airport to Doha City?

Landing in a new city is always a little bit confusing. One of the first questions you might ask is: What are the ways to go to Doha from the airport?   

This Doha Airport guide includes up-to-date information about getting from Hamad International Airport to the city center and other essential travel tips. 

As someone living in Qatar and hosting travelers daily as a tour guide in Doha, I’ve noticed a common pattern: many people find themselves searching the night before their flight, trying to figure out how things work at Doha Airport.

Since there still isn’t a lot of practical, traveler-friendly information online about arriving at or departing from Hamad International Airport, I decided to put everything together in one place. 

This Doha Airport guide is designed to help anyone flying into or out of Qatar. I’ll walk you through the basics—from airport transportation options (including how to book a reliable private transfer), getting local currency, finding taxi, and more. 

Arriving in Doha: What to Know Before You Leave the Airport

If your flight is landing at Hamad International Airport in Doha, here’s what you can expect upon arrival. Many international flights arrive in the late afternoon or evening (between around 16:00  -18:00) , so while the airport is fully operational 24/7, it can be quite busy during those peak hours.  

Can I get a visa on arrival at Doha’s Hamad International Airport?

Before you exit the airport, make sure you’ve checked your visa requirements for Qatar. Many nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival, but others may need to apply in advance. The most reliable and up-to-date information is available on Visit Qatar website. Even if you’re planning to come out during a layover, you’ll still need to go through customs and immigration, which can take up to an hour depending on the queue.

Can I exchange money or withdraw cash at Doha Airport?

In Doha, local currency (Qatari Riyal or QAR) is not strictly necessary for most travelers. You might end up spending your entire trip to Doha without needing a local cash,  Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including in taxis, shops, and even local eateries. That said, it’s always a good idea to have a small amount of cash on hand just in case—especially for tipping or small purchases in the local market – Souq Waqif 

There are multiple currency exchange counters and ATMs located in the arrivals terminal. You can get local currency from the ATM or at the exchange counters near to the baggage collection area.  Unlike many other destinations, exchange rates are consistent across Doha, including at the airport.

For example , If you’re exchanging USD, you’ll typically get a fixed rate of 3.64 QAR per 1 USD. For other currencies, rates are stable and fair, so feel free to exchange or withdraw  your money at the airport without worry. 

Is the Al Maha Service Advertised on the Qatar Airways Website Worth it?

Al Maha is a premium meet-and-greet service for passengers looking for a more personalized and luxurious airport experience. From the moment you arrive at Hamad International Airport, a representative assists with check-in, fast-track immigration, and baggage handling. You’ll be escorted through the airport all the way to your gate—making transit smoother, faster, and more efficient. You’ll be sipping coffee while they handle the paperwork.

Hamad International is big but easy to navigate, so if you’re a seasoned traveler, you might not need it. But this service can be especially handy if you want to skip the lines and save time, or if you’re traveling with children, elderly family members, or just want to start your vacation stress-free. It’s also great for travelers who are unfamiliar with the airport or face a language barrier. Frequent flyers sometimes get it for free, but it’s available for purchase and particularly helpful during peak times

What is the best way to get from Hamad International Airport to Doha city center?

If you’re flying into Qatar’s Hamad International Airport (HIA), there are three reliable options for getting to Doha city centre:  

(1) Metro

The most budget-friendly option is the Doha Metro, which connects the airport with many central neighborhoods. The metro can take you directly to major attractions of Doha, such as Souq Waqif and Katara Cultural Village. When you pass through the customs gate and enter the arrivals hall, head to the left and you’ll notice the metro sign. The Doha Metro Red Line runs directly from HIA to the city. It’s clean, safe, and extremely affordable (QR2/USD 0.5 per ride). 

You’ll need a metro travel card (QR10/USD3), which you can purchase at metro station from the self-service machine, There is always a metro attendant nearby to assist with any questions you might have. A Day Pass is also available if you’re planning to move around a lot. 

Souqs & Dunes Tip – If you’re on a layover in Doha and planning to explore the city by yourself, here’s something important to know: Hamad International Airport does not offer luggage storage. That means you’ll need to carry your bags with you if you have any. In case you are planning to move around in the city, Mall of Qatar and Medina Centrale at Pearl-Qatar has baggage storage facilities. 

(2) Taxi – The Most Popular Option

A taxi is perfectly fine for getting to Doha city centre. Taxis are available 24/7. Once you exit the customs gate, just follow the “Taxi” sign to your left.

(3) Pre-organized Private Airport Transfer

If you’re travelling with kids, in a group, and/or have a lot of luggage, or simply looking for a more comfortable option, consider arranging a private airport transfer through your hotel or tour company.

Doha Airport Taxi Guide: What to Expect

Since taxis are the most popular way to get from Hamad International Airport to Doha’s city center, let’s break down some of the most frequently asked questions in the section below. 

What types of taxis are available at Doha Airport?

Only Karwa, Qatar’s official taxi company, has traditionally been allowed to pick up passengers from Hamad International Airport (HIA). Karwa taxis are government-owned, safe, and available 24/7. They’re easy to spot thanks to their turquoise color.

As of June 2025, Uber is also permitted to pick up passengers from the airport—but note that only the Uber Black/XL option is currently available, so Karwa may still be the more affordable choice. You can request an airport pickup through the Uber app. Once your ride is booked, head to the exit of the East Car Park in the short-term parking building. Just follow the Uber-branded signs throughout the terminal to reach the designated pickup zone

Do I need to pre-book a taxi from Doha Airport?

You don’t need any pre-booking from Hamad International Airport. Cabs are easily available from the airport for 24/7. Simply follow the sign for taxis 

Where do I catch a taxi at Hamad International Airport?

Follow the Taxi sign in the terminal; taxis are parked in a designated area. You won’t have to catch a taxi yourself—there will be a taxi coordinator on hand at the taxi zone to assist you and assign the type of car you need. 

Can I get a taxi or car at Doha Airport for a group or extra luggage?

XL Airport cars that fit up to 6 passengers are also available on the for a little bit extra. They’re perfect for families, groups, or travelers with larger bags. 

How much is a taxi from Doha Airport to the city?

All taxis from the airport are metered. They are clearly signposted and fairly well regulated. Here’s a rough idea of taxi fares from airport to different parts of Doha: 

• • West Bay / Corniche: QR 40–60 (approx. USD 11–16)

• • Souq Waqif / Msheireb Downtown: QR 50–60 (approx. USD 13–16)

• • The Pearl / Lusail: QR 70–90 (approx. USD 19–24)

• • Airport hotels / Old Airport: QR 30–40 (approx. USD 8–11)

• • Katara or Grand Hyatt: QR 60–75 (approx. USD 16–20) 

Note: Base fare for taxi is QR 25–40 (approx. USD 6.85–11.00) depending on the time of day. Then the meter kicks in.

Can I pay for taxis in Doha with a credit card or cash only? 

You can pay Karwa taxis with either credit/debit card or cash in Qatari Riyals. Still, it’s wise to exchange/withdraw about QR 100 (usd 25-30) on arrival—enough for a ride and a quick snack, just in case the card machine doesn’t work. 

How long does it take to get from Doha Airport to the city center?

Depending on traffic, here’s what to expect:

• • Souq Waqif, Msheireb: 15–20 mins

• • West Bay, Katara: 20–30 mins

• • The Pearl, Lusail: 30–40 mins

Doha traffic is generally manageable, especially outside peak hours.

Are taxis available at Doha Airport late at night? 

If your flight lands in the middle of the night, there’s no need to worry—taxis are available 24/7 at Hamad International Airport, so you can easily get to your destination. However, if you are on a stopover and looking to make the most of your layover and experience Doha at night, we offer a special Midnight Layover Tour with airport pick up and drop off.  

This late night tour lets you explore the city’s key landmarks when it’s beautifully lit and quiet. Whether you want to visit the Corniche, old town, or take in the views from Katara, our tour is the perfect way to stretch your legs, see the sights, and make your layover memorable.  

Should I book a private airport transfer in Doha?  

If you are looking for an even more hassle-free experience, opt for Private Car Hire from the Airport. This option is slightly more expensive than regular taxi service, but it’s more comfortable.

When you land in Doha, your driver will be there to meet you in the arrivals terminal and assist with luggage. If your flight is delayed, they will wait. If you need to make any pit stops on the way to your hotel, you can. Otherwise, the driver will take you directly to your door. Travel time to the city center by car is around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. 

Available options include premium sedans, 8-seater minivans, 14-seater minivans, 18-seater minibuses, or larger buses.

With out private airport transfer , the price is locked in at the time of booking, so you never have to worry about meters. Payment is made online (in Qatari riyals). 

Ideal for:

• • Senior travelers

• • Families with children

• • Groups

• • Or anyone who just wants to skip the hassle and enjoy a more comfortable arrival experience.

 

To inquire about your private airport transfer, simply fill in the form below and let us know : Date/Time of arrival, N of travelers, N of luggage