Travel Guide to Qatar

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Location

Qatar is a peninsula in the Arabian Gulf with its only land border in the south with Saudi Arabia.

Shopping

You will find everything you need in the capital city Doha. There are large shopping complexes as well as small market stalls (souqs) where the art of haggling is expected! Great buys are clothes, perfumes, fabrics, rugs and carpets.

Geography

A very hot and dry climate has sculpted the desert landscapes of the country. It is a small state just 150 miles long by 100 miles at the widest point. Bordered on 3 sides by the Arabian Gulf, you are never far from the coast wherever you explore.

History

Qatar has been the host to an important port going back many centuries. Fishing and pearl trading have always been important and in more recent times oil and gas as well as an up and coming tourism trade.

The Al-Thani family began its rule of Qatar in the 18th century and are still in power today.

The country has been transformed and modernised in recent years increasing the nation’s wealth as well as an interest in tourism. This was accelerated when the present Emir, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, came to power in 1995.

Climate

	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Av Temp (F)	66	66	73	74	75	93	95	93	90	84	75	68
Av Temp(C)	19	19	23	26	31	34	35	34	32	29	24	20
Sunshine Hours	8	8	8	9	10	11	11	11	10	10	9	9
Rain (inches)	1	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1

Basic Information

Language
Arabic is the official language although English is also widely spoken and understood.

Currency
The official currency is the Qatari Riyal (QR), which divides into 100 Dirhams. The Riyal exchange rate is pegged to the US Dollar at QR 3.65.

Electricity
240 volts AC 50 Hz.

Banks
Opening hours Sat-Thur 8am-12pm.

Driving
Driving is on the right. Roads are in good condition. Taxis and limousines are widely available.

Time difference
GMT +3 hours.

Tipping and local customs
Tipping is discretionary, but 10% is sometimes added in restaurants and is an acceptable amount for any other tip.

Alcohol is permitted for non-Muslims in licensed premises of hotels, sports facilities such as the golf club and exhibition venues. Outdoor events catered for by hotels or clubs are also allowed to serve alcohol. However, it is strictly forbidden for individuals to bring it into Qatar.

Alcohol is not served in many restaurants during the holy month of Ramadan.

Water
Bottled mineral water is recommended.

Visas
Visa are currently required for Irish passport holders, but this may be purchased on entry. The fee for this is QR55 (approx 10 Euros). You should check this at www.moi.gov.qa. Six months valid passport is required.

Tourist info
www.experienceqatar.com

What makes it so special?
Qatar is a great alternative to anyone considering Dubai as it offers all the wonders Dubai has to offer, but is less commercially developed at the moment. The desserts are stunning, the service great and the coastline beautiful. The year round sunshine and daytime temperatures make it an ideal destination any time of the year.

Where to visit?
Shopping in Doha markets as well as main complexes.

A stroll along the Corniche is a must during your stay. This 4 mile stretch of coastline runs parallel to the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf and is used by walkers and runners. It offers a relaxing environment for family picnics and a nearby park for children.

A trip to the inland sea (and a swim), in the middle of the desert, on a desert safari is an essential trip during your stay. The mysterious shifting sand dunes are an unforgettable site.

Visit the many Forts and Castles dotted around the state giving you an insight into the history of the country with its key importance in the Gulf region.

Palm Tree Island is only a 10 minute boat trip from the Corniche and offers family fun with swimming, water sports and restaurants.

Most popular tours?
Doha City Tour
Desert Safari – half day exploring the dunes in a 4 wheel drive as well as the inland sea and sand skiing
Overnight Desert Safari – extend your excursion with an overnight stay in a camp dining traditional Arabian style around a camp fire
Night Dhow cruising