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Discover key insights and insider advice for an unforgettable trip to Qatar. Get ready to explore this luxurious travel destination with these 5 things you should know before you visit Qatar.
The word Qatar often suggests a booming economy, soccer, and pearls. Yet it is much more than that. While these associations are true, Qatar has become a popular tourist destination on the Arabian Peninsula, tempting travelers with its ever-growing art collection, delectable cuisine, and friendly natives.
Sound intriguing? If you’re itching to explore what the Middle East offers, here are 5 things you should know before visiting Qatar.
What is There to Do in Qatar?
Qatar boasts a formidable art presence, showcasing works by artistic powerhouses such as Jeff Koons, Damien Hirst, and Takashi Murakami, to name but a few. Its capital has become a mecca for housing cultural institutions such as the National Islamic Museum of Art, the Arab Museum of Modern Art, and the Museum of Islamic Art. In addition to fostering education and expanding knowledge about Qatari culture, intercultural events in Doha are often organized.
Skyline of Doha, Qatar as seen from the Museum of Islamic Art. Photo by Florian Wehde on Unsplash
Souq Waqif is the main marketplace bustling with life and brimming with history. Located in the heart of Doha, tourists flock here to glimpse the Bedouin’s heritage. Feel transported to Venice as you stroll through the majestic Villaggio Mall. Or, escape to Banana Island to venture beyond the city’s skyline and pass the time snorkeling in unbelievably blue waters.
How Safe is Qatar?
For solo jet-setters, safety is a top-tier priority. Luckily, Qatar has a stellar reputation for being the most secure Middle Eastern Country. According to Numbeo, Qatar ranks an impressive 84.01 on the Safety Index for another year. As Qatar is an Islamic nation, Sharia law is the main legislation. Derived from the Quran, the laws are founded on teachings, and many will resort to guidance from practicing scholars without an appropriate answer.
Regardless of gender, there are specific rules and laws that visitors will be expected to follow.
But, as with any country, there are incidences of crime. Visitors should heed their intuition, and if internal alarm bells begin to ring, they should remove themselves from a particular situation. Don’t veer far from the trodden path, stick to well-lit areas, and keep flashy belongings out of sight.
Qatari locals are often quite hospitable and amenable to foreigners visiting their country. However, curiosity must be coupled with respect for the local culture, which we’ll discuss further in the article.
How to Become a Local—Quickly
Visiting an unknown territory often means following the authentic lifestyle: sampling traditional cuisines or partaking in local customs. When in Rome!
Tea houses abound in Qatar and are a typical breakfast ritual. Karak chai is the ultimate blend of sweet and savory. It consists of condensed milk, fennel, ginger, saffron, cardamom, and sugar and is the perfect way to start a day.
High-profile Michelin-star restaurants are ubiquitous, offering a world-class culinary experience. Traditional dishes are equally tantalizing, with each aromatic bite bringing you closer to the culture.
Find local restaurants where you can enjoy the local cuisine, such as this one in Souq Waqif. Photo by hasan zaidi via iStock by Getty Images
Madrooba
The hearty and nourishing concoction of Madrooba has been known to comfort the most particular palettes. A rice porridge that can be eaten throughout the day combines spices with tender meat.
Madrooba is a local specialty ideal for anytime of the day, including breakfast. Photo by Waqar Hussain via iStock by Getty Images
Machboos
Hailed as Qatar’s national dish, Machboos will be widely available in many locales. Its smoky taste is a true labor of love, as the meat is often marinated for hours. This flavorsome rice dish holds an important place in the hearts of many.
Machboos is a popular meat and rice in Qatar. Photo by Waqar Hussain via iStock by Getty Images
It is important to note that travelers won’t be able to wash down these culinary delights with an alcoholic beverage. While it is not prohibited, it is fiercely regulated and is banned for consumption in the public eye. Nevertheless, it will be available on hotel premises.
The Importance of Timing When Traveling
Visions of splaying out on a beach in Qatar? Consider revisiting those thoughts once after reading this.
Timing is, in fact, everything when planning a trip to the Middle East. The summer season runs from June to September, with temperatures reaching 41° Celsius (almost 106°F). Blistering and dry weather can ironically put a damper on holiday activities, which is why many consider the winter months. Between November and March, conditions are more suitable for exploration, ranging from 10 to 21° Celsius (50 to 70° F).
Creating an indoor itinerary is advisable if travelers intend to visit during this scorching period. Qataris have reached an expert level of heat avoidance and will be able to offer some tips on how to handle it. Air Con will be easily accessible in indoor environments.
Another aspect to consider is whether your travel dates coincide with Ramadan. Under Sharia Law, people will observe 30 days of strict fasting and prayer. During the holy month of Ramadan, public eating, drinking, smoking, and even chewing gum are severely frowned upon. As a traveler, you will not be obligated to partake. However, visiting during the ninth month of the Lunar Islamic Calendar requires respectful navigation during this period. Many restaurants shut their doors during the day, as do some hotels.
Recognition of Culture and Respect
Before setting off on your trip, it is wise to familiarise yourself with Qatar’s customs, traditions, and laws. A foreign country implies unknown and distinct rules to follow and observe. Qataris are quite welcoming of visitors but require equal respect in return.
While tourists don’t have to wear traditional attire, they should dress modestly during a visit. Photo by 3yephotography via iStock by Getty Images
Dress Code
In contrast to other Islamic regions, Qatar—Doha in particular—is refreshingly less restrictive. While there is no existing stern dress code for tourists, modest dress and garments are expected. Female tourists are not obliged to wear an abaya or hijab. Ensuring that bare shoulders and knees are covered for both men and women is a mark of cultural respect and understanding. Wearing discreet clothing in areas of worship and areas heavily populated by locals will help you feel more at ease.
Stay Away From PDA
Some love it, some despise it. Wherever you land on the PDA continuum, Qatar is quite clear on its stance – do not engage in it. Excessive and flagrant displays of affection could saddle you with a sanction or overnight stay in a holding cell. Privacy is sacred and should remain within the boundaries of one’s home, according to the Qatari way of life.
Disrespectful Signs
Certain gesticulations have disrespectful connotations in Qatar. To avoid misinterpretations, take a look at the following:
The thumbs-up is seen as an obscene gesture, as is beckoning someone with fingers. Instead, use an open-palm gesture to get someone’s attention. Shaking hands with a member of the opposite sex is often seen as disrespectful, and crossed legs with an upturned foot is the height of insult to a Qatari.
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Ready to set off on your Middle Eastern adventure? With these 5 tips in mind, you’re ready for a world-class trip in a world-class location!
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