FAQs

Qatar is a country rich in culinary heritage, offering a variety of traditional dishes that reflect its deep-rooted culture and love for bold, aromatic flavors. Among these, Machboos stands out as the most iconic and widely cherished national dish. Machboos: This traditional rice-based dish is packed with flavor, combining spiced rice with a variety of meats such as chicken, lamb, or fish. It’s slow-cooked with a fragrant blend of cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, dried lemon (loomi), and other regional spices, making it rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Saloona: Meat and vegetable broth that is comforting and healthy. Usually served with rice, saloona is made with chicken mostly but can be made with any kind of meat or even vegetables.  Madhruba: A savory porridge made by slow-cooking wheat or bananas with meat and spices, commonly eaten during Ramadan. Luqaimat: Dough made from flour, sugar, milk, saffron and deep fried into a dessert is loved during festive and celebration seasons with a drizzle of honey or sweet syrup.  Ghuzi: Ideal for big gatherings, Ghuzi is a whole roasted lamb served with rice, nuts, vegetables and more. Shawarm‌a: Marinat‌ed chicken or beef, slow-‌roast‌ed and wrapped in Arabic bread. A popu‌lar and conveni‌ent street food is served with garl‌ic sauce and pickles‌. While not originally Qatari, shawarma is one of the most popular street foods in Qatar today. Ha‌rees: A smooth wheat porr‌idge, prep‌ared with chick‌en or lamb and subtl‌y spiced. This rich dish is common‌ly enjoyed duri‌ng Ramadan for its comfor‌ting textu‌re. Ba‌lalee‌t: Sweet vermic‌elli, flav‌ored with sugar‌, cardamom‌, saffron, and rose water‌. Served toppe‌d with a thin omelet‌, this dessert offers a uniq‌ue combina‌tion of sweet and savory eleme‌nts. While Qatar offers a wide range of traditional dishes, Machboos stands out as the most iconic and widely loved meal.

Yes, Doha is generally safe for night walks alone; it is reasonably safe for single travelers most of the time. Crime is not something that the Qatari population usually has to worry about, and there is a strong security force that makes Qatar safe among the world's cities. Many residents and tourists - even single female travelers - tend to feel completely safe in Doha even around late hours. A traveler who has spent three years in Qatar said he/she goes alone to places in deserts, beaches, or city attractions, including Banana Island, without fear; she said she was always conscious of safety. Friendly locals, lit streets, and a peaceful atmosphere contribute to the overall sense of security.  However, Doha is generally safe, so travelers must: Stick to populated areas during night hours. Be aware of local customs and cultural norms. Secure belongings, as you would anywhere. All in all, Doha is welcoming and safe for all travelers. Whether basking in the glory of its modern skyline, strolling down the waterfront promenade, or quietly meandering through side streets, you can enjoy the travel experience without encumbrance.

Yes, flying to Doha is generally very safe in 2025. According to updated travel advisories from international authorities, including the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and U.S. Department of State, there are no major safety concerns currently affecting travel to Qatar. The country maintains a low crime rate, strict law enforcement, and robust public security measures, making it one of the safest destinations in the Middle East. Key safety highlights: Low crime environment: Violent crime is rare, and petty crime such as pickpocketing is uncommon but still warrants basic vigilance. Secure infrastructure: Hamad International Airport in Doha continues to be ranked among the world’s safest and most efficient airports, with advanced technology and excellent passenger services. Health & hygiene: Qatar upholds strict hygiene and health protocols in public spaces, especially at major transport hubs. Traveler tips: Stay informed: Check for the latest travel guidelines, especially regarding entry rules, eVisa policies, or health declarations via Qatar’s official government or immigration websites. Respect local laws and customs: Qatar has conservative cultural norms. Avoid public displays of affection, dress modestly in public, and refrain from consuming alcohol outside licensed venues. Stay connected: Ensure you have travel insurance and keep copies of your passport, eVisa, and local emergency contacts in case of any issues.

While the Qatar eVisa is a convenient and efficient option for international travelers, there are a few potential disadvantages that applicants should be aware of before relying solely on this method of entry: Website glitches and processing delays Although the Qatar eVisa platform is officially managed and generally reliable, users may sometimes encounter: Technical issues during application submission Delays in approval, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays These could affect last-minute travel plans, especially if travelers wait too close to their departure date to apply. Dependence on technology Since the eVisa is an electronic document, travelers must: Access it via smartphone or print a hard copy Be prepared for scenarios without internet (e.g., poor Wi-Fi at airports or mobile failure) Without proper preparation, this can lead to unnecessary delays at immigration checkpoints. Short validity period Most Qatar eVisas are valid for up to 30 days with limited extensions. This makes them ideal for: Short business trips Tourism But not suitable for long-term stays, work visas, or family sponsorships. For such purposes, a different visa type must be applied for through embassies or sponsors. Cybersecurity and scam risks While the official Qatar Immigration Service website is secure, travelers should: Be cautious of third-party websites that impersonate official platforms Avoid sharing personal data on unverified portals Phishing attempts and fake visa sites are an increasing concern in the digital space. Despite these drawbacks, the Qatar eVisa remains a highly useful option for short-term visitors. As long as travelers apply early, use the official channels, and keep both digital and printed copies, the process is generally smooth and hassle-free.

When you're traveling to Qatar, it is important to be mindful of customs restrictions diligently to prevent legal implications. Here are some items that are prohibited or restricted: Alcohol and drugs: It is illegal to bring alcohol into Qatar, where the country denies its use except in certain licensed venues. Drugs, whether recreational or certain prescription ones, are illegal and can bring serious punishments for carrying banned substances. Pork: Pork or anything made from pork is not immune from prohibition, for pork and anything related to pork is haram in Islam. Pornographic and objectionable materials: Censorship: Nothing could be more of an imposition than the form of pornography or obscenity or anything contrary to the values of Islam. Religious and political censorship: The censorship would apply to all the materials that criticize Qatar or Islam or any other religion, as well as those that advocate political dissent. E-cigarettes and vapes: Certain e-cigarettes and vapes may also be prohibited or require permission in this regard; therefore, inquiry should be made as to those rules before bringing them in. Weapons and firearms: Weapons, explosives, or even toy guns are prohibited except by permission of the government. If you’re also considering traveling to Qatar, make sure to apply for an e-Visa in advance through the Qatar Immigration Service website to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry.  

Do I Need a Hotel Booking for a Visa on Arrival to Qatar? Yes, in many cases, you do need a hotel booking when applying for a visa on arrival to Qatar, but the requirement may vary depending on your nationality and residency status. General requirements For eligible nationalities: Travelers from countries eligible for a visa on arrival are often required to show: A confirmed hotel reservation for the duration of their stay A return or onward ticket A passport valid for at least six months If you are staying with friends or family, proof of accommodation (such as an invitation letter or residential address details) may also be accepted, depending on immigration officer discretion. For GCC residents: Travelers holding valid Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) residence permits can obtain a visa on arrival, but may be required to present: A copy of their residence permit Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking or sponsor details Profession listed in the approved categories (as determined by Qatari immigration) Best practices for travelers Book your hotel in advance, especially if you intend to apply for a visa on arrival, to avoid complications or delays at Hamad International Airport. Use recognized hotel platforms or the Discover Qatar website if transiting with Qatar Airways, which may offer bundled packages that satisfy visa requirements. Check with your airline before departure, as many carriers verify visa eligibility and accommodation before allowing boarding. If you are unsure about your eligibility or would like to secure entry ahead of time, apply for a Qatar e-Visa online through the Qatar Immigration Service. It’s fast, convenient, and ideal for avoiding any last-minute issues at immigration.

Qatar has updated its visa-on-arrival policy to streamline access for international visitors, promoting tourism and simplifying entry for eligible nationalities. Here are the key updates to the on-arrival visa rules as of 2025: For passport holders from eligible countries Citizens of over 95 countries are eligible for a visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival. For most of these countries, travelers receive a 30-day single-entry visa on arrival, which can often be extended for another 30 days. Requirements typically include: A passport valid for at least six months A confirmed return or onward ticket Proof of hotel reservation or accommodation in Qatar For GCC residents Residents of GCC countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and UAE) are eligible for a visa on arrival, provided: Their residence permit is valid for at least 6 months They hold a profession approved by the Qatari Ministry of Interior This visa is valid for 30 days, with the option to extend it for an additional 60 days (in two 30-day increments).  Important notes No prior visa application is required for eligible travelers; they can simply proceed to the immigration counter upon arrival. Visa fees vary depending on nationality but are often waived for many visitors. It is always advisable to check the latest list of eligible countries and conditions on the official Visit Qatar or Ministry of Interior website before traveling, as visa rules may change. If you're planning to visit Qatar, and you're not eligible for a visa on arrival, you can apply for a Qatar e-Visa online through the official Qatar Immigration Service portal. The process is simple and allows you to secure entry before travel, ensuring a smooth arrival and worry-free experience at Hamad International Airport. Let me know if you’d like a country-specific eligibility list or a visual breakdown of visa durations and extensions.

Documents submitted for visa application must be accurate and up to date to avoid rejection of the visa application. The Qatar eVisa can be applied for online through the official website of the Qatar Immigration Service. Fill in the online form, submit documents for processing, make an online payment, and receive an email regarding your eVisa standing after a few days.  After application processing, the visa approval status of your Qatar visa can be checked by the following means:  An email confirmation will automatically be sent regarding the visa approval with details of the visa if it is approved. Online visa portal: Applicants can check their visa status on the Qatar Immigration Service website portal by entering their application reference number.  SMS Update (If applicable): Some applicants may receive an SMS notification that their visa has been approved.  Confirmation by employer/sponsor: Your employer can check the status of a work visa, and your sponsor can confirm the status of a family visa through Qatar’s immigration system. How to apply for a Qatar e-visa: Qatar e-visa applications may be lodged on the website of the Qatar Immigration Service. This is a fairly simple process: 1. Fill in the e-visa application form available online. 2. Upload the required documents. 3. Pay the visa fee. 4. The approved e-visa will arrive in your email within a few days. In case of an approved visa, be sure to print a copy and carry it with you when traveling to Qatar. Always check your visa details (name, validity, and conditions) to head off any travel issues.  Upon rejection of your visa application, check for the reasons given, rectify if possible, and reapply with better documentation if warranted.  

In case the Qatar visa is denied, you are normally informed through an email or an online visa portal where the application was made. But knowing the reasons for rejection can help address the issue and increase the chances of getting a visa approval on subsequent applications. Some common reasons for rejection of a Qatar visa: Incomplete or inaccurate documentation: Immediate rejection can be the result of any missing or misplaced information in the application. Always check your passport information, sponsor information, or any other supporting documents before applying. Expired or invalid passport: A passport must be an internationally recognized travel document and should be valid for not less than six months from the date of scheduled travel. A damaged passport or a passport with missing pages may also lead to rejection. Overstays or other previous violations of visa: If you have ever overstayed in the State of Qatar or in any other part of the GCC, your application may be rejected on these grounds. The immigration authorities monitor the history of any visa violations. Security matters or blacklisting: Certain nationalities may find that former travel infractions or security matters may cause rejection. If you find yourself blacklisted, it can be nearly impossible to achieve approval unless you get an engagement from a legal entity.  Problems related to the sponsor of Relevant visas (Work or Family): In case you are applying for a work visa, then the employer must obtain all legal requirements. Any legal issue concerning the sponsor's company (investigation, registration problems, etc.) may lead to visa denial. Medical or health-related concerns: If you do not pass the medical test, principally for infectious diseases, e.g., tuberculosis or HIV, this may be a ground for rejection. Doctors might prescribe medicines or treatment, and you may reapply. Underproof of financial (For tourist visas): A Qatar tourist visa requires proof of financial strength. If the bank account details and records indicate less money, then the chances of visa denial are possible. Make sure to have every document in place and up to date before applying to avoid rejection of the visa. The application for Qatar eVisa can be processed using the Qatar Immigration Service website. Fill out the form, submit the documents, pay online, and receive your visa by email within a few days. In case your visa gets rejected, check the reason, correct the problems, and possibly reapply with better documents.

Whether you need a transit visa for Qatar depends on the length of your layover, your nationality, and whether you plan to leave the airport. No transit visa is required if you remain within the transit zone of Hamad International Airport (HIA) and your layover is less than 24 hours. Most travelers on connecting flights do not need any visa as long as they don’t exit the airport. If your layover is between 5 and 96 hours, and you're flying with Qatar Airways, you may be eligible for a free Qatar transit visa. This must be pre-arranged through the Qatar Airways booking system or the Discover Qatar website. It allows you to exit the airport and explore Doha briefly during your stopover. If you plan to stay longer than 96 hours, you must apply for a standard tourist visa in advance. Visa on arrival is available for citizens of over 95 countries, including U.S., UK, EU, and GCC nations, as long as their passport is valid for at least 6 months and they hold a confirmed return or onward ticket. For those not eligible for visa-free entry, the Qatar e-visa is available online via the official Qatar Immigration Service website. This option is suitable for travelers with long layovers who want to leave the airport but do not qualify for free transit or visa-on-arrival. You can also inquire about eligibility or assistance with obtaining a transit visa at the Discover Qatar Transit Desk inside Hamad International Airport.