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Living in Qatar: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Qatar | Expat Exchange
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Doha, Qatar

Living in Qatar

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 09, 2024

Summary: The population of Qatar is approximately 2.7 million people. The largest cities in Qatar are Doha, Al Wakrah, Al Khor, Umm Salal Muhammad, and Al Rayyan. Expats love living in Qatar for its modern infrastructure, excellent healthcare system, and low crime rate. People describe life in Qatar as luxurious, comfortable, and safe. Qatari cuisine is a mix of Middle Eastern and Indian flavors. Popular dishes include machboos (spiced rice with meat), harees (wheat porridge with meat), and balaleet (sweet vermicelli with egg). The cons of living in Qatar include the hot and humid climate, the lack of nightlife, and the restrictions on alcohol. The average cost of living for an expat is around $2,000 to $3,000 per month. This includes rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and entertainment.

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What do I need to know about living in Qatar?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Qatar, they said:

"Before retiring in Qatar, expats should be aware of the country's strict laws and regulations. It is important to research the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in Qatar, as it is generally higher than in other countries. Additionally, expats should be aware of the climate in Qatar, as it can be very hot and humid during the summer months. Finally, expats should ensure that they have the necessary visas and permits to retire in Qatar," explained one expat living in Qatar.

"If you move to the Middle East learn to chill out. Nothing happens quickly. If you ask for something to be done find out when. Their sense of time is really very different from what we are use to in North America. Yah, Yah, Yah does not mean anytime soon," said one expat in Doha.

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How do I meet people in Qatar?

When we asked people living in Qatar about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Qatar often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, book clubs, and language classes. These activities provide a great way to meet people and make friends. Expats can also meet people by attending events such as concerts, art exhibitions, and festivals. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals in Qatar," remarked one expat who made the move to Qatar.

"There are just too many to list. I joined one of the many Dive Clubs they offer and learned to scuba. I did 40 dives," explained one expat living in Doha, Qatar.

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What is life like in Qatar?

When we asked people living in Qatar what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Qatar can be quite comfortable. The country offers a wide range of modern amenities, including excellent healthcare, reliable transportation, and a variety of entertainment options. Expats and digital nomads can also benefit from Qatar's low tax rates and generous expat packages. The country is also home to a diverse population, making it easy to find people from all over the world to connect with. Additionally, Qatar is a safe and secure place to live, with a low crime rate and a strong commitment to protecting the rights of its citizens," wrote a member in Qatar.

"At that time, the open air markets were wonderful. I don't know if they still exist. Shopping was probably the most popular thing people did for entertainment. There were also many "club" activities which required membership of some sort," commented one expat who made the move to Doha.

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Is there a lot of crime in Qatar?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Qatar is generally considered to be a safe country with low levels of crime. However, there have been reports of petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft in some areas. The government has taken steps to reduce crime, such as increasing police presence in public areas and introducing tougher penalties for certain offences. Additionally, expats are advised to take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings," wrote a member in Qatar.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Qatar accepting of differences?

"I thought Doha was quite accepting of the diversity of people who lived and worked there," said one expat in Doha.

"Qatar is a diverse country, with a population made up of people from many different backgrounds and cultures. Qataris are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a long history of welcoming people from all over the world. Qatar is also home to a large expatriate population, and the government has taken steps to ensure that all residents are treated equally and with respect," said one expat who made the move to Qatar.

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What are the schools in Qatar like?

"The Education City in Qatar is home to some of the best international and bilingual schools in the country. The Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development runs several of these schools, including the Qatar Academy, the Qatar Leadership Academy, and the Qatar Science and Technology Park. The Qatar Academy is a K-12 school that offers a rigorous international curriculum and a variety of extracurricular activities. The Qatar Leadership Academy is a K-12 school that focuses on developing leadership skills and preparing students for college and beyond. The Qatar Science and Technology Park is a research and development center that offers a variety of programs and activities for students of all ages. Additionally, the Doha British School is a K-12 school that offers a British-style curriculum and a variety of extracurricular activities. The Doha College is a K-12 school that offers a British-style curriculum and a variety of extracurricular activities. Finally, the International School of London Qatar is a K-12 school that offers an international curriculum and a variety of extracurricular activities. All of these schools provide a high-quality education and a variety of extracurricular activities for students of all ages," commented one expat when asked about in Qatar.

"The fees are hig, but it's worth it because the teachers are fantastic and give so much time to the children. This is the best school in Doha - at least that's what we think," explained one expat in Doha, Qatar with kids at Compass International School.

Is the cost of living in Qatar high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Qatar, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Qatar is generally considered to be high, with the cost of basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation being significantly higher than in many other countries. The cost of luxury items such as cars, electronics, and clothing is also quite high. Additionally, the cost of entertainment and leisure activities can be quite expensive, as Qatar is known for its high-end restaurants, shopping malls, and other attractions," said one expat in Qatar.

"The cost of living in Qatar is generally high, with prices for goods and services being higher than in many other countries. The capital city of Doha is the most expensive place to live in Qatar, with prices for goods and services being higher than in other parts of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Qatar is around $1,500 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost around $2,000 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Qatar can cost around $20 USD per person," mentioned one expat inQatar.

What type of recreational facilities are in Qatar?

When we asked people living in Qatar about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Qatar offers a wide variety of recreational facilities for its residents to enjoy. These include public parks, beaches, and sports facilities such as golf courses, tennis courts, and swimming pools. There are also a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and theatres. Shopping malls, cinemas, and restaurants are also popular recreational activities in Qatar. Additionally, Qatar is home to a number of natural attractions, such as the desert, mountains, and wildlife reserves," mentioned one expat inQatar.

What is the weather like in Qatar?

"The weather in Qatar is generally hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from mild to very hot. During the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 50°C (122°F). The winter months are milder, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is rare in Qatar, with most of the country receiving less than 100mm (4 inches) of rain per year," wrote one expat living in Qatar.

Are there good restaurants in Qatar?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Qatar is La Veranda, located in the heart of Doha. This Italian restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, from classic Italian favorites to modern interpretations of traditional recipes. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner. La Veranda is known for its friendly and attentive service, making it a great choice for a night out. https://www.laverandadoha.com/ Another popular restaurant in Qatar is the Spice Market, located in the Souq Waqif. This restaurant serves up a variety of Indian and Middle Eastern dishes, from curries to kebabs. The restaurant also has a great selection of vegetarian options, making it a great choice for those looking for a meat-free meal. The restaurant is known for its friendly and attentive service, making it a great spot for a night out. https://www.spicemarketqatar.com/," mentioned an expat living in Qatar.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Qatar?

"People living in Qatar typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores. There are also many traditional souqs, or markets, where people can purchase fresh produce, spices, and other items. Additionally, there are many malls and shopping centers throughout Qatar, offering a wide variety of stores and services," remarked one expat in Qatar.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Qatar?

"In order to visit Qatar, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, and a passport-sized photograph. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Qatar, foreign nationals must obtain a residence permit. The process of applying for a residence permit involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of employment or sponsorship. Additional documents may be required depending on the purpose of the residency," commented one expat who moved to Qatar.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Qatar?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Qatar can be expensive. The cost of medical care is generally higher than in other countries, and health insurance premiums can be costly. However, the government of Qatar provides free healthcare to all citizens, and there are a number of private health insurance plans available for expatriates. Additionally, the government has implemented a number of initiatives to make healthcare more affordable and accessible for all residents," mentioned an expat living in Qatar.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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