As a tour guide in Doha, I meet countless first-time visitors who arrive with little idea of what to expect. Many come underprepared—and almost everything they encounter turns into a pleasant surprise: the heat of summer, the opening hours of local markets, which neighborhoods are best for staying in Doha, what’s appropriate to wear in museums and mosques, even whether or not to tip in restaurants.
Over the years, part of my job has been to absorb these questions, challenges, and little cultural shocks, so that travelers can simply enjoy their time. And after guiding so many people through their first Doha experience, I’ve collected the kind of practical Qatar travel tips I wish every visitor had known before stepping off the plane.
So if you like to be prepared—and you’d prefer to save yourself money, time, and stress—this guide is for you. Here are 16 things you should know before traveling to Doha, Qatar.
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1. Plan your Doha trip based on the month you’ll be visiting
Before you do anything else, remember: your entire Doha experience will revolve around the month you visit. The weather here is remarkably predictable—pleasantly warm winters from November to April, and extremely hot summers from May to October. Locals joke that we have “summer, and hotter summer,” but in reality, the difference between the dry, mild winter months and the humid summer heat is dramatic. Unlike many places with four distinct seasons, Qatar essentially has just two.
Visiting during the high season (November to April) is ideal. The temperatures are mild, humidity is low, and outdoor sightseeing, walking tours, and exploring Doha’s neighborhoods are much more enjoyable.
Summer months (May through September) are extremely hot and humid, but that doesn’t mean you have to cancel your trip. You’ll just need to plan differently: schedule more indoor activities during the day, explore Doha and its surroundings with early morning or evening tours, choose hotels with indoor pools and facilities, and stay well hydrated.
For a detailed breakdown of weather by month and tips for planning your activities, check our month-by-month guide to Doha’s weather
2. Pack light, breathable clothing and dress modestly at cultural sites.
When it comes time to pack your suitcase for Doha, think of comfort, modesty, and climate.
Even if it feels warm outside, locals often treat winter (November-March) as “cool,” so short skirts or strappy tops can make you stand out. For example, in museums, shorts must reach the knee—my own 16-year-old traveler had to adjust his! Basically, cover your shoulders and knees, and you’ll feel comfortable, fit in, and avoid awkward looks.
Here’s what I always tell my guests:
- Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Even if you’re mostly touring by car, you’ll do plenty of exploring on foot—souqs, museums, the Corniche.
- Clothing: Light, breathable fabrics work best. The dress code is generally modest—cover shoulders and knees when visiting cultural sites like mosques or traditional areas. Women may also want to bring a scarf to cover their head if planning to enter the mosque. (The Grand mosque , Katara mosque and Pearl Mosque provide you with attire before entering)
- What to skip: Shorts are not the best choice for city sightseeing. Opt for lightweight pants or long skirts instead especially while visiting malls, museums, or cultural sites in Doha.
- Seasonal tips:
- Winter (Jan–Feb): Doha can surprise you with cooler evenings and even chilly winds, so pack a light jacket or extra layer—you won’t have summer heat all year round.
- Summer (May–Sept): The heat is intense, so an umbrella for shade, cap and light-colored clothing are lifesavers.
- Essentials: water bottle (hydration is key), sunscreen, and a universal power adaptor so your devices stay charged.
Pack with these basics in mind, and you’ll feel comfortable and well-prepared no matter when you come.
3. Qatar Isn’t a Budget-Friendly Destination—But It’s value for money
One of the first questions travelers ask me is: “How much money do I need for Doha?” The answer depends on your travel style, but here’s a realistic breakdown so you can budget without surprises.
- Hotels: Prices vary dramatically depending on your travel dates and neighborhood. A mid-range hotel usually starts around 400-500 Qar (100-150 USD) per night including breakfast , while luxury resorts can easily go higher, roughly 900-1000 Qar (250-300 usd) per night including breakfast . Booking in advance, especially for winter months, can save you a lot.
- Meals: You’ll find options for every budget.
Fast-casual restaurants: 10–15 USD per meal for 2 people
Standard sit-down restaurants: 30-40 USD for meal for 2 people
Hotel restaurants: from 200 QAR (55 USD) per person without drinks (Fine dining or Michelin-star: much higher, depending on the venue)
Alcohol is available only in licensed venues, and prices are steep—a draft beer, glass of wine, or cocktail can easily cost 10–20 USD. Look out for happy hours if you plan to drink. - Tours & Activities: A private city tour or desert safari is one of the bigger expenses, but many travelers consider it “value for money” because it covers transport, guiding, and unique experiences you won’t get on your own. On average allocate 250-300 usd per 4h private tour for up to 4 people.
- Transportation: The metro is affordable and reliable, single metro fare is 2 QAR (0.55 USD) while taxis and ride-hailing apps are reasonably priced compared to many capitals. Budget 5–10 USD per ride within the city.
- Museums & Attractions: Entrance fees are generally affordable, with many museums charging 13-15 USD. Most of the cultural attractions and outdoor landmarks are free.
4. In Doha, local currency (Qatari Riyal) is not strictly necessary
In Doha credit and debit cards are widely accepted almost everywhere—from shopping malls and museums to taxis and even small cafés. It’s entirely possible to spend your whole trip without ever touching cash. That being said, I always recommend carrying a small amount of local currency (Qatari Riyal, QAR) for convenience. Cash can come in handy for tipping, or at traditional markets for small purchases.
The exchange rate is stable and straightforward. If you’re exchanging US dollars, the rate is fixed at 1 USD = 3.64 QAR. For other major currencies, you’ll also find fair rates. You can easily withdraw cash from ATMs or exchange money at the airport and central areas of the city without worrying about being shortchanged.
In short: cards will cover 95% of your trip, but a little Riyal in your pocket is always a smart idea.
5. Don’t rush through Doha
One of the most common regrets I hear from travelers is that they didn’t give themselves enough time in Doha. Many plan just a single day, only to realize too late how much there is to do. While it’s true that you can see a good deal of Doha’s ‘must-sees’ in a day, if you want to feel the city, you’ll need more time at each area – from old traditional markets, to world-class museums, scenic walking paths along the Corniche, modern shopping malls, and unique neighborhoods that all show a different sides of the city.
If you’re on a short layover, don’t worry—you can still make the most of your stop with a Doha Layover Tour, which is designed to make you experience Doha as much as possible in just a few hours. But if your schedule allows, do yourself a favor and stay longer. Even just 2–3 days in Doha gives you enough time to enjoy the cultural sites at a comfortable pace, discover the food scene, and even add a short desert adventure outside the city.
If you are planning a holiday in Qatar , 5 days and 4 nights gives you enough time to see all the main attractions and areas outside of Doha without being rushed.
In other words: think beyond the quick stopover—Doha deserves it.
6. Download essential travel apps before you land in Doha
A few apps can make your time in Doha much smoother—download them before you arrive so you’re ready to go.
- Getting around:
The Karwa and Uber apps are the most reliable ways to book rides. Karwa gives you options ranging from economy taxis to limousines and 7-seaters, all with clear pricing. Uber works seamlessly too, especially if you’re already familiar with it. - Navigation:
Google Maps works well in Doha and is a must for finding your way around neighborhoods, attractions, and restaurants. - Dining & discounts:
If you like deals, the Entertainer app is popular for buy-one-get-one offers on dining and activities. A tourist version costs about QR 120, though some hotels and partners offer it free. - Food delivery:
Prefer staying in your hotel? Snoonu, Talabat, and Rafeeq are the go-to food delivery apps in Qatar, with plenty of choices from fast food to fine dining.
7. Choose your hotel based on what you want to do in Doha
If you can’t decide which hotel to pick in Doha, the first question to ask yourself is: what do you want to do during your stay? Doha isn’t a big city, but the area you choose will shape your experience—whether you’re here for culture, relaxation, shopping, or a mix of everything.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular areas to help you decide:
1. Souq Waqif / Msheireb Downtown – Doha’s cultural and historical center
It’s perfect for first-time visitors, senior travelers, or those on short stays and layovers who want something central, walkable, and full of local atmosphere.
From Souq Waqif, you’re just 15-20 minutes from both the airport and the port, making it a practical choice for travelers with limited time. Explore local dining, markets, and museums on foot, or just soak in the lively streets.
Popular hotels in this neighbourhood: DoubleTree by Hilton Old Town, Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli, Park Hyatt, Al Najada, Al Wadi – MGallery. For a resort-style experience in the city center, I highly recommend Sharq Village, which combines proximity to attractions with a relaxing retreat vibe.
2. West Bay – Modern, Central, and Polished
Looking for a quiet, contemporary area still close to cultural highlights? West Bay is about 5 km from Souq Waqif and perfectly positioned between the Old Town and The Pearl-Qatar. This area offers a more cosmopolitan atmosphere with easy access to the Corniche, Katara Cultural Village, and museums.
It’s ideal for couples or travelers who want a balance of sightseeing and relaxation, with hotels offering pools, beach access, and scenic evening walks along the waterfront.
Popular hotels in West Bay : Hilton Doha, Four Seasons Doha, Pullman Doha West Bay, City Centre Rotana, Wyndham West Bay.
3. The Pearl-Qatar – Luxury, Waterfront, and Romantic
Porto Arabia, Pearl Qatar
If you’re asking “Which area in Doha would you recommend to stay for couples or those seeking a luxury escape, The Pearl-Qatar is unmatched. This man-made island is designed for waterfront living, with hotels offering pools, beach access, stylish dining, and evening promenades.
It’s perfect for travelers who want romantic walks, shopping, and upscale restaurants just steps from their stay.
Popular hotels: The Ritz-Carlton Doha, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, St Regis Marsa Arabia
Here’s the detailed guide on where to stay in Doha, Qatar
8. You don’t have to book your airport transfer in advance
One question I often get is whether you should pre-book an airport transfer from Hamad International Airport. The short answer: you don’t have to.
Taxis are available 24/7 at the airport, and the system is straightforward. Simply follow the “Taxis” signs in the terminal, where you’ll find a designated area with licensed Karwa taxis. (local taxi operator) There’s even a taxi coordinator on hand to help assign the type of car you need—economy, sedan, or larger vehicle.
quick tips to keep in mind:
- Stick with licensed Karwa taxis for safety and peace of mind. Avoid unlicensed offers from drivers just outside the terminal.
- Payment options: You can pay by credit/debit card or in cash (Qatari Riyals).
Learn more about how to get from hamad international airport to Doha city here
9. Use taxi apps or the metro to move around Doha efficiently
One thing to consider – Doha is not a fully walkable city, so you’ll usually use the metro or a taxi to reach the area and then walk around locally. For short rides or convenience, apps like Karwa and Uber are the easiest way to catch a taxi.
Here’s a practical guide to moving around in Doha:
- Metro: Clean, safe, and very affordable—QR 2 (USD 0.5) per ride. Connects the central neighborhoods and major sites like Souq Waqif, Msheireb Downtown, Katara Cultural Village, and more. You’ll need a rechargeable travel card (QR 10 / USD 3) available at every metro station, and attendants are nearby if you need help.
- Taxi Apps: Karwa and Uber are reliable, offering upfront pricing. Taxis are especially useful in summer months.
- Walking: Once you reach a neighborhood, walking is the best way to explore streets, souqs, and promenades. Trams are also available in certain neighbourhoods—but plan your walks according to the weather. Doha gets extremely hot from April to October.
- Bikes & Electric Scooters: On the Corniche and waterfront promenades, you can also rent bikes or electric scooters—fun for short distances and scenic routes.
10. Don’t worry about language—English works in most places.
Around 90% of Qatar’s population are expatriates, and English is widely spoken across hotels, restaurants, shops, taxis, and tourist attractions. Menus and road signs are both in English and Arabic.
Whether you need directions, assistance, or recommendations, you can confidently ask in English. Locals are used to travelers and happy to help, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re unsure about something.
11. The Tap water is not drinkable in Doha
Qatar’s water source is desalinated water from the sea and if you have an option its always better to purchase drinkable water from the nearby supermarket.
Qatar is one of the countries that doesn’t have any water springs, rivers, or lakes. Bottled water is affordable 2-3 qar per bottle.
12. Explore Doha at the Right Time of Day
Many first-time visitors wander around in the afternoon and wonder why the streets seem deserted but in reality, Doha’s social life starts late.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Daytime: Work hours in Doha generally end around 5 pm, so the city feels quieter during the day. If you prefer a peaceful, uncrowded experience for sightseeing or photography, mornings are ideal. For example, Souq Waqif in the morning hours operates between 7 am and till 12 in the afternoon, making it perfect for an early visit.
- Keep in mind that Friday mornings before prayers can affect opening hours—some places may be closed until the afternoon.
- Evening: From around 6–7 pm, locals start coming out for shopping, dining, and socializing. Dinner is typically later than in many countries, and restaurants stay open until midnight or even 1–2 am. Evening exploration lets you experience the lively side of Doha, with bustling streets, lit-up architecture, and vibrant city life.
- Winter crowds: If you’re visiting in winter (November-April), cruise ships might arrive in the morning, bringing large groups of tourists. To avoid crowds at popular sites, try early morning (before 10 am) or late evening (6 pm onwards) visits
13. Take at least one day trip outside the city
If your schedule allows, don’t limit yourself to the city—Qatar is more than just visiting Doha.
One thing many travelers miss is a trip into the desert. Even a half-day desert safari can be unforgettable, but if you have time, consider an overnight stay in the desert for a truly immersive experience.
From dune bashing to camp stays— see all our Desert Safari packages
If you’re a culture enthusiast, head to Qatar’s western region. There you can witness camel racing, explore smaller towns, and see fascinating landmarks like Richard Serra’s sculptures in the desert
And its worth noting that Traveling with a knowledgeable Qatari guide (rather than just following standard routes) adds depth, stories, and local insights you wouldn’t get otherwise.
culture, nature, and stunning landscapes — experience it on our Qatar West Coast tour
14. Understand the tipping culture
As a tour guide in Doha, I can admit that “Should I tip in Doha?” is one of the most frequently asked questions from my travelers. The simple answer: tipping is not mandatory, but it’s highly appreciated in most service industries. Unlike in some countries, salaries in Qatar do not depend on tips, so what you give is entirely up to you—and it won’t affect the quality of service.
Here’s a practical guide:
- Restaurants: 10 QAR (3usd) is sufficient for casual or mid-range meals. Tip only if you’re happy with the service
- Hotels: For luggage helpers, 5–10 QAR is a nice gesture.
- Taxis: Most drivers refuse tips, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.
- Other services: For guides or exceptional service, tip as you feel comfortable. There’s no strict rule—think of it as a token of thanks rather than an obligation.
Currency: Tips in USD are usually accepted, as many staff can exchange them locally
💡 Practical takeaway: A simple 10 QAR tip in most everyday situations is enough. If the service isn’t satisfactory, it’s perfectly fine to skip tipping. The key principle in Doha is: tip when you’re happy with the service, not because you feel you have to.
15. Learn basic cultural norms
Qatar is a modern, safe, and welcoming country, but like any destination, it has cultural norms that are important to follow, so little awareness goes a long way
Here are the key points I always share with travelers:
- Photography: Avoid taking photos of people’s faces without permission. As of 2025, capturing someone’s face and uploading it to social media can lead to hefty fines, so always ask before taking photos.
- Handshakes: as a visitor don’t initiate a handshake —if they wish to greet you, they will extend their hand first. This applies generally as a mark of respect in social situations.
- Littering: Keep Doha clean. Dispose of trash properly; littering is taken seriously and can result in fines.
16. Stay aware of safety tips while in Qatar and follow the local laws
Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world, and most travelers feel very comfortable exploring on their own. Tourist scams are rare here, but there’s one thing I always warn my guests about: taxi drivers offering to act as tour guides.
It might sound convenient when a driver says, “I’ll show you around,” but guiding without a government license is strictly prohibited in Qatar. If the police notice, you could unintentionally end up in a difficult situation. Apart from that, the service is usually low-quality—you’ll miss out on the cultural context, history, and hidden gems that make the city special.
For a worry-free and enriching experience, it’s always best to book with an authorized guide. That way, you get the stories, the local knowledge, and peace of mind that everything is done properly.
