FAQs

The Indian population in Qatar is now estimated at about 720,000 which means Indians live in Qatar in greater numbers than any other expatriate community. It turns out that roughly 1.8 to 2 million of Qatar’s population are from Asian countries, making up around 65–70% of the total population — the majority being from South Asia. Since most of Qatar’s population is made up of people from other countries, Indians shape both its population and its economy. Indians: The largest expatriate group in Qatar The Indian community has long played a foundational and essential role in Qatar’s workforce and economic development, along with other key expatriate communities such as Filipinos, Bangladeshis, and Nepalese. People from India began moving to Qatar several decades back because of work available in construction, oil and gas, transport, hospitality, healthcare and professional areas. Nowadays, Indians are found working in many different areas of Qatari society such as in manual work, as well as senior administrative and executive roles. A big number of Indians living in Qatar come from southern India, mainly from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. While most Indian expats come from southern states, people from northern and western India are also present in Qatar. Why are there so many Indians in Qatar? There are several reasons for the strong Indian presence in Qatar: The country is able to offer many economic opportunities owing to its natural gas and oil. Increased growth in both infrastructure and industries has raised the need for labor and professionals and India has solved this problem consistently. India and Qatar have built strong connectivity in many fields of diplomacy and economy since 1973. High-profile visits help improve areas such as energy, trade, investment and the support given to Indian communities living in Qatar. In recent times, Qatar has made it easier for foreigners to get visas, so that citizens of India and 89 other nations can stay in Qatar without a visa for a short period. The result is better mobility and more chances for people to work or travel for a while. The Indian role in Qatari society Indians in Qatar have become a full and active part of the community. Schools, cultural events, places of worship and businesses from India are strongly represented in Doha and many other cities. Most people in the community act based on the rule of law, are hard-working and get along with each other. During the FIFA World Cup 2022, Indian workers were important in handling logistics, welcoming people and moving them around. The government and the local people valued and gave proper appreciation to what the Indian community did. While Indian workers contribute significantly to the Qatari economy, especially in infrastructure and service sectors, many also face challenges such as long hours, limited legal recourse, or difficult working conditions. In response, Qatar has introduced several labor reforms since 2020 aimed at improving wages, mobility rights, and protection standards for foreign workers. Conclusion All in all, about 720,000 Indians are currently living in Qatar, making them the biggest group of expats there. Qatari society has Indians as an important part of its community, helping to build the nation and make it stable. As a result of peaceful relations and close ties with India, the Indian community in Qatar keeps prospering.

Yes, you can find many people in Qatar using English in daily life as it is spoken by a large number of people. Even though Arabic is the official language here, English is used widely in business, schools, hospitals, hotels and government areas. A multicultural society with English as a Lingua Franca Residents of Qatar come from about 150 nationalities such as those from India, the Philippines, Nepal, the United Kingdom, the United States, Egypt and others. Since not everyone in the population speaks Arabic, English has become the easiest language for everyone to use. If you visit Qatar for a holiday, as an expatriate or for business, you’ll find that English is widely spoken — especially among hotel staff, office workers, and shopkeepers. However, fluency can vary, and some service workers such as taxi drivers or laborers may only speak basic English. English in education and business English plays a major role in the Qatari education system. English is the main language used for teaching in both private and international schools and public schools bring in English from the early stages of a child’s education. Most of the classes at Qatar University, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar and Georgetown University in Qatar are taught in English. Moreover, the workplaces in Qatar generally operate using the English language. Multinational firms and government organizations usually either have their meetings, emails and official papers in English or use languages that are also bilingual in English. Government and public services While Arabic is the official language in government institutions, English is commonly used alongside it, especially for services involving expats. As an example, bilingual signboards are regular at hospitals, banks, airports and malls and announcements are often in Arabic and English. What about learning Arabic? Often, people living in Qatar find it hard to practice Arabic because English is so commonly used in daily life. However, learning basic Arabic phrases is still helpful, especially when dealing with government offices, older locals, or living outside city centers — and it’s seen as a sign of respect for local culture. In most daily situations, people can easily communicate in English even without considerable practice in Arabic. Conclusion All in all, English is spoken and understood by many in Qatar. While you won’t face much difficulty communicating in English, especially in cities, learning a few Arabic expressions can enhance your social interactions, ease certain bureaucratic processes, and show cultural respect. Because Qatar has a diverse population and a strong service-based economy, English is widely spoken and used throughout the country. Language should not worry you if you plan to visit or settle in Qatar, since widespread English is spoken throughout the country.

If you might be moving to Qatar for a longer period, thoughts about safety and how you will live are probably major factors. Expats often say that Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world, especially in the Middle East, safest countries for working and living. Even so, just like everywhere else, it has its own unique issues to face. Safety in Qatar: Exceptional and well-maintained Qatar is known for its very low crime rates worldwide. People seldom encounter violent crimes, theft and pickpocketing are not common. A lot of expats tell us that they feel safe being out alone at night in even the busiest cities. Law enforcement is reliable, but visitors should be aware that penalties for violations — including minor legal or financial issues — can be severe. In places where the public is, you will see guards who ensure your safety but don’t disturb you. Even though these are not always noticeable, they keep the city well-organized. Unlike some neighboring nations, Qatar remains stable and protests are extremely rare due to strict laws governing public assembly and expression. Because of the stable and safe environment, expats can travel and speak freely in accordance with the local laws. Living conditions: Comfortable and modern Renowned infrastructure: The country has spent much money on high-quality housing, hospitals, roads and services for the public. The services provided by public and private hospitals are advanced and can be accessed by most people. Large expat community: people from different backgrounds make up the majority of Qatar’s population. Because of this, a place is born for people from many cultures to share peacefully. Although being a conservative country, Qatar is relatively more open than some neighboring states, though public behavior and dress codes remain governed by conservative norms. It is allowed to eat at restaurants during the times of prayer, visit cinemas and explore various international foods and shows. Work environment in Qatar Many employment opportunities are available in oil and gas, learning, healthcare, construction and hospitality. You usually won’t have to pay tax on your salary and most places offer housing and health insurance. Labor laws have improved in Qatar: for example, the country has changed its sponsorship system to help many employees. While Qatar has reformed its labor laws, many low-paid workers still report issues such as late wages, unsafe conditions, or lack of legal support. It's crucial to verify your employer and employment contract before relocating. Things to keep in mind Temperatures of over 45°C (113°F) during summer make it hard to be outdoors in the hottest months. Road accidents are very common and this is often caused by excessive speed or recklessness when drivers are behind the wheel. Make sure to wear a seatbelt and drive in a safe manner. Adhering to the local culture and traditions is necessary even though Qatar is considered safe. Keep your clothes appropriate when outdoors and try not to kiss in public. Final Verdict: Is Qatar safe for expats? Yes — Qatar is considered very safe and stable for people working and living in the region. No matter if you are on a night walk, going to work or hanging out with your family, you don’t have to worry about safety. Although people face some difficulties like the heat and the odd problem with employers, they still say life here is safe, relaxing and enjoyable. Thanks to good leadership, modern infrastructure and different cultural groups, Qatar is one of the most attractive countries for people and families looking for a good and secure life outside their own countries.

Travelers regularly find that Qatar Airways combines modern technologies, excellent service and comfort in all the cabin classes. They are consistently praised by passengers worldwide—no matter if their ticket was for Economy, Business or First Class. You’ll find below an honest and detailed description of the Qatar Airways flight experience, with input from real passengers. Exceptional service and hospitality Qatar Airways is often praised for its dedication to great customer experience. Many passengers say they find cabin crew attentive, friendly and professional. Once you get on board, the team works hard to make everyone feel comfortable. Passengers traveling Business Class receive a signature lime-mint lemonade, along with hot towels before the airplane departs. Employees often have good memories of the small things which makes your ride all the more memorable. Comfortable seating and modern aircraft The airline operates a modern aircraft range such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner which are both quiet and smooth on flights. Qatar Airways’ Economy Class is generally more spacious and comfortable than average, especially on newer aircraft such as the A350, Business and First Class have lie-flat beds, luxurious bedding and private suites, depending on the airplane used. Many have said they liked how comfortable the seat was and how quiet the engine was on their flights from New York to Doha or Chicago to India. Another passenger found that their 13-hour trip was surprisingly calm because of the Airbus A350–900’s comfortable features. Outstanding in-flight dining Many passengers confirm that eating onboard Qatar Airways is one of the best parts of flying with them. No matter if you have an Economy or Business Class seat, the food served is always hot, beautifully arranged and usually better than you’d expect. Airline passengers can request vegetarian or certain religious meals and the airline honors these requests if they are arranged in advance. Gourmet meals on board help passengers enjoy a wide variety of possibilities, including different brands of cheese, sweet pastries, alcohol and other notable items such as smoked salmon and good Cognac. Top-notch in-flight entertainment You can watch movies, TV series, listen to music and play games when using the Oryx One entertainment system, including the most recent releases from around the world. A number of travelers say the system functions well with no glitches on older aircraft. World-class airport and transit experience There is something special about travelling through Hamad International Airport in Doha. Passengers find the airport has the latest technology, a good cleaning service, free Wi-Fi, luxury spaces and great duty-free shops. Most people find Doha transit clear and simple, even when their layover takes a long time. Lounge access is complimentary for Business and First Class passengers, while Economy passengers can purchase entry based on availability and fare class. Long-layover travelers may also explore stopover tours depending on eligibility. In some cases, Economy passengers may be allowed access to certain premium lounges for a fee, subject to availability and fare class, dine well, take a break in comfortable rest areas and have a shower, making Doha Qatar Airport a better experience overall. Surprise upgrades and personal touches Surprise upgrades are rare and typically reserved for Privilege Club members, elite frequent flyers, or during specific promotional periods. Qatar Airways proves its dedication to providing superb hospitality by offering Generosity gift sets and extra services. These are usually given during special promotions or to frequent flyers, not all passengers. Final thoughts Some passengers have noted occasional delays in meal service or older aircraft being used on short-haul routes. However, these experiences are uncommon and are usually well-managed by the airline’s attentive staff. Regardless of whether your trip is long or short, commercial or tourist, Qatar Airways is recognized for its comfort, good service and reliability. From supportive and kind staff to great meals and easy transits in Doha, the airline makes every passenger feel like they’re getting a top-class experience.

Getting sent out of Qatar is usually a permanent and serious issue. On certain occasions, leaving Qatar after being deported can be possible — but this depends on the reason for the deportation, who issued it and if you have any bans against your return. The steps you should follow if you are planning to return to Qatar are explained here. Understand the type of deportation There are three main types of deportation from Qatar, and each has different consequences: A. Judicial deportation (Court-Ordered) A court gives this sentence if it decides you must leave the country due to crimes such as theft, drugs or visa fraud. When you are deported by the Court of Justice, the travel ban stays in place permanently. Usually, you will be denied permission to visit Qatar again using any kind of visa. B. Administrative deportation (By Ministry or Immigration Authorities) This usually results from visa violations, overstaying, or labor law breaches. You may be banned for a specific number of years (commonly 2 to 5 years). After the ban period, reentry may be possible, but is not guaranteed. C. Sponsor-initiated deportation (Kafeel/Sponsor Decision) Previously, if your sponsor or employer was the reason for your deportation, you could go back on their approval. While the No Objection Certificate (NOC) is no longer required for job transfers under Qatar’s updated labor law, individuals with a deportation record—especially sponsor-initiated deportations—may still need an NOC or written approval from the former sponsor to return. This depends on the Ministry of Interior's discretion. When you have an NOC, Qatar might allow you to renew your residency under a different employer. Subject to Ministry of Labour approval and employer eligibility. When can you try to return? Should your deportation not be permanent, because it was for immigration or employment reasons, you may be able to reapply after a wait of 1 to 5 years. According to the labor reforms introduced in 2020, workers who voluntarily leave Qatar can return without a waiting period or the need for an NOC, provided there is no ban or unresolved legal case against them. Yet, even after leaving, returning to Qatar may not be straightforward due to immigration records and system flags. Steps you can take to return to Qatar Contact the Qatari Embassy or Ministry of Interior to get information about your ban. If your case permits, inquire in writing whether a return is a legal option. You need an NOC if your sponsor caused your deportation and the ban is not for life. Use a new job offer or sponsor to help you with the visa application and case review. You may need to show proof and supporting information such as employment or legal documentation, when asked. It is advisable to obtain a police clearance certificate, collect all documentation relating to the deportation (such as the deportation order or case file), and have a new sponsor formally apply through the Ministry of Interior. Legal consultation is highly recommended to navigate the process effectively and reduce the risk of rejection. Important reminders Qatar officials do not have to allow a foreigner who is deported to return. It is up to you to prove you should be allowed to return and not the authorities who must prove you should not be let back. Even after a temporary ban expires, re-entry is not guaranteed. Immigration systems may still flag individuals with prior deportation records, and final approval is at the discretion of the Ministry of Interior. Final thoughts If you are deported, whether you can get a second chance to enter Qatar is determined by your deportation reason, the type of ban and if approvals like an NOC can be earned. Getting advice from legal experts or the embassy is your best choice to learn about your own case. Though getting back may be permitted for people, it usually takes patience, thorough documentation and a supportive new sponsor.

Qatar stands out in the Middle East as a country filled with chances for business people and investors. Qatar’s strong economy, ideal geographic position and helpful business rules make it a great place to launch a business. Yet, we wonder: what is the best type of business for Qatar? The type you should choose depends on how much you want to spend and what your aims are. However, here are some places that are really taking off right now. Import and trading business (For those with capital) When you invest a large amount, importation can offer great returns. Rising demand for imported livestock and food occurs every year around Eid Al Adha. Because Qatar has a shortage of domestic food and manufacturing goods, importing them brings in a lot of profit for international firms. Don’t forget that with bigger contracts comes bigger payment delays. Be prepared with enough financial support and wait for success. Service-based businesses (Low investment option) If you’re starting with minimal capital, service businesses are your best bet. Examples include: Cleaning services Delivery services Maintenance and handyman work Digital marketing or freelance design Language or tutoring services These businesses require less upfront investment and allow you to generate cash flow quickly, especially if you’re offering something in high demand. Food and beverage industry Residents, expatriates, and visitors in Qatar are all drawn to the country’s diverse food scene. A niche restaurant, cafe or catering business (for vegan, Indian, Filipino, fast food or healthy eating) can do well if you pick the right place and promote your business. There is growing demand for food delivery platforms and cloud kitchens, especially among the young urban population. Tourism and hospitality With major international events like the FIFA World Cup 2022 and cultural festivals, Qatar’s tourism sector is booming. You could consider: Boutique hotels or guest houses Tour guide services Event planning and management Technology and IT services Qatar is investing in digital transformation, so there is rising demand for: Web and mobile app development Cybersecurity services IT consulting Cloud solutions This sector is ideal if you have technical expertise and want to cater to businesses upgrading their digital infrastructure. Education and training Many people require tutoring, training in vocations and instruction in English and Arabic languages. Having experience in education helps make the sector extremely fulfilling. Logistics and transportation Qatar’s position means it serves as a trading center for the Gulf. E-commerce’s rise has made freight forwarding, warehousing and local delivery services more needed than ever. Key success factors To succeed in Qatar’s business environment, you'll need: A great accountant to manage finances effectively A skilled PRO (Public Relations Officer) fluent in Arabic, English, and Hindi A market-savvy marketer who can convert leads into real business These three roles are critical to navigating local regulations, building relationships, and growing your business. Final thoughts Which business you start in Qatar will depend on what you have and know. Importing items, operating a business or developing an advantage in tech or tourism all depends on good market research and good support from locals. Following the right plan, Qatar is an active and valuable place for doing business.

For many first-time visitors, arriving in Doha, Qatar feels like stepping into another world—a place where modern luxury meets traditional culture, and where appearances can sometimes be deceiving. A futuristic skyline with a surprising reality From far away, the skyline in Doha is impressive. The shimmering glass towers make it look like something out of a science fiction movie. A lot of travelers say that it is similar to Manhattan or Tokyo and they are full of surprises for what's to come. After they arrive, many visitors see that several of these buildings are close to places that seem very empty, with relatively few passersby. As a result, there are spots in the city that feel very peaceful but also emptily quiet. Unique urban landscape Quite another thing that surprises people is how consistent the architecture is. Buildings in many areas are often painted beige or sand to fit in with their desert surroundings. Almost every corner is marked by a mosque and you’ll find many roadways lined with palm trees but only a few places for pedestrians to cross. Because Doha is a car-centric city, many visitors find it unusual that walking is not common. Cultural norms and dress code The cultural contrast can be significant depending on where you're from. Visitors often note: Men and women dressed in white and black, respectively. The idea that modest acts and ways of dressing are very important in public situations. Keep PDA to a minimum, because it could make visitors from freer cultures uncomfortable. On Fridays, many shops close and streets near mosques are briefly blocked during noon prayers. Cars, climate, and customer service Luxury is easy to see in everyday Doha life. You’ll see many Land Cruisers and upmarket cars, but while high-end SUVs are commonly seen, mid-range cars and modern public transport like the Doha Metro are also accessible and increasingly used, though walking remains uncommon. Customer service quality can vary between establishments—some offer premium hospitality, while others may seem more transactional. And since the hot summer weather can be tough to handle outside, many people end up living much of their lives in air-conditioned cars and buildings. Food and daily life Many Arabic and South Asian restaurants are easier to find for guests in Qatar than traditional cuisine. Turkish, Indian and definitely Kerala cuisine are very popular and easy to find. Doha welcomes newcomers with the unexpected—the combination of glossy skyscrapers and traditional city life, culture that’s not the same as in the West and a mix of wilderness and concrete that reveals the region’s development. It’s an experience you won’t forget, though it’s a fascinating experience that may feel unfamiliar or overwhelming at first, but leaves a lasting impression.

How much you spend each month in Doha relies on how you live, the type of housing and what you purchase. Rent is one of the biggest influences on your budget and is also the highest living cost in the city. Housing costs in Doha Rent prices in Doha vary significantly based on location and size. For example: The average rent for an unfurnished studio apartment is between 4,000 and 5,000 QAR per month. You can find three-bedroom villas in Al Gharafa which are not far from Doha, for about 11,000 QAR. The price of rent in areas such as West Bay can be more than twice or triple the normal rates, from a minimum of 10,000 QAR to over 20,000 when considering furnished or luxurious places. While most expats in Qatar rent their homes, foreigners can now buy property in designated areas such as The Pearl, Lusail and West Bay Lagoon, often with residency benefits. Utilities, groceries, and daily expenses Aside from housing, other expenses in Doha are generally reasonable: Almost all rentals are equipped with electricity, water and AC which can cost between 500 and 1,000 QAR per month. With no taxes on goods, dining and groceries are generally more affordable in Qatar. People may spend anywhere between 1,500 and 2,500 QAR in a month. Getting around: Buses and trains are inexpensive, but keeping a car in Doha (the norm for locals) involves about 1,000 QAR a month for fuel, insurance and maintenance. If you go out for meals or enjoy social events, pick a budget between 1,000 and 2,000 QAR. Estimated total monthly cost Depending on lifestyle, many single people in Doha might pay around 10,000 to 15,000 QAR on basic costs every month. Economic housing helps some people maintain a comfortably low budget, but those who prefer luxury tend to spend a lot more. Can you save money in Doha? Yes, with a salary of 20,000–22,000 QAR, many individuals can save between 5,000 to 10,000 QAR monthly, depending on lifestyle and housing costs. Many people choose Doha for a few years, partly because they can save more since they don’t have to pay income tax. Final thoughts Although rent is high, Doha allows you to earn your salary tax-free, manage on a little money and explore fabulous new places and buildings. If you follow a budget, it’s easy to cover your expenses and put a lot of your money aside.

The answer to whether Qatar is very conservative depends on what you see as conservative. Qatar holds strongly to its Islamic ways yet demonstrates much more openness in many aspects—particularly when compared to certain nearby Gulf countries. Religion and cultural diversity According to the Qatari Constitution, the state religion is Islam. Still, Qatar allows people of any faith to exercise freedom of worship. As well as mosques, cities in Doha also feature Catholic, Greek Orthodox and Anglican churches. Although residents are not allowed to try to convert others, they may still bring in religious books or items of their choice for personal use. Religious publications are regulated by the government, mainly in the public sphere. Laws allow personal expressions of faith, as long as these expressions are legal. Because of this, Qatar is more open than Saudi Arabia which does not permit the construction of non-Islamic places of worship. Social norms and public behavior Although Qatar is able to adjust more than some, it still keeps a lot of conservative traditions. It’s not respectful to kiss in public or wear very little clothing and drinking is seen as improper outside your house. You can buy alcohol, but you can find it only at licensed bars in hotels, restaurants and clubs. Expat women are not bound by law to use the abaya or hijab. Since many are fasting, Ramadan encourages people to avoid eating and drinking in public during the day. Education and international influence Many international schools in Qatar provide American, British or International Baccalaureate curricula to students. Such schools prepare pupils for top universities in Europe and the U.S. which fits with Qatar’s aim of being a global center. Modern development After hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Qatar is changing very rapidly. The importance of the Doha Metro, new sports stadiums, luxury shopping malls and the Hamad International Airport show the country’s drive toward progress. Final verdict Being conservative is normal in Qatar, especially in public actions and laws. Yet, Qatar is also known for being one of the most tolerant and varied countries among its neighbors. Because of cultural understanding, study abroad programs and quick advancement, Qatar is balancing its old traditions with a new modern way of life.

A lot of people who plan to visit Qatar end up facing more time than usual in receiving their visa permits. As a result, travel plans may not work as planned and lead to frustration. If you realize why sometimes visa applications in Qatar are delayed, you can plan and manage your expectations accordingly. This guide explains, in detail, the principal factors that lead to delayed visas in Qatar. Increased visa demand Qatar has seen impressive growth in business, tourism, and as a big event city, largely thanks to global happenings such as the FIFA World Cup 2022. The rising numbers of international tourists have made the Ministry of Interior and embassies receive many more visa application forms from all over. The more applications that are received, the slower it takes to finish processing them all. Heavy travel seasons and popular events cause more demand, which means passengers often have to wait for a long time. Do not be surprised if the process takes longer since people visit the office at the same time. Incomplete or incorrect documentation One of the most common causes of visa delays is submitting applications with incomplete or incorrect documents. Forgetting essential papers like your passport copy, photos, confirmation of booked rooms, or tickets could slow down the process. If forms are not completed correctly or clearly, verification must be done again. More often than not, applicants need to present further information or supporting documents, making the process take longer. This can be avoided by checking the requirements again and making sure you follow the instructions directly. Verification and security checks Qatar’s immigration authorities conduct thorough background checks on all visa applicants to ensure security and compliance. The process includes checking records on crimes, job history, and additional personal information. Nationalities or applicants with certain backgrounds may have to wait longer for scrutiny of their applications. While security is very important, it can sometimes mean that the processing takes longer than what was estimated. Sponsor or employer approval delays For work visas, family visit visas, or other sponsored categories, the sponsor’s role is crucial. Before an employer or a close family member can sponsor someone to enter Qatar, they must provide complete documentation and obtain necessary permissions. If sponsors are late in sending over necessary documents or approvals, processing the visa comes to a halt. There are times when government personnel ask for additional investigations of sponsors, which makes the process slower. Embassy or consulate processing times If applying through a Qatari embassy or consulate abroad, the processing speed can vary widely. While some embassies process a lot of applications, others work with fewer and can have smaller teams. There can be a delay in processing applications if there are local celebrations, travels by staff, or technical issues. It’s important to check the embassy or consulate website for the details on the timeline. Technical or system issues Occasionally, visa application systems experience technical problems. There may be times when the online portals go down or have problems, making it difficult to use. Both differences in data and system faults need manual correction and can delay the appraisal. Keep patience and keep checking the status of your application at intervals. COVID-19 related restrictions While most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, occasional policy changes or health alerts can still cause delays in rare cases, especially for travelers from regions facing public health concerns.