Qatar

It only began issuing tourist visas in 1989, but after a slow start Qatar has begun to reap the benefits of its new openness. Visitors are welcomed to a land of glitzy new hotels, towering sand dunes, ancient rock carvings and distinctive architecture.

Top Accommodation

Top Restaurants

For half the year, the climate across the plains of Qatar is pretty unforgiving. During summer (May to September), temperatures generally average 35°C (95°F), but it's not uncommon for the mercury to rise to 50°C (122°F). The 90% humidity that comes with this time of year sags over the peninsular like a bad hangover and frequent sandstorms are an added irritation. During winter months (December-February) there's the odd shower but the days are mild and pleasant and evenings are cool. Throughout the year, but especially in spring, Qatar is subject to sandstorms; rainstorms can also hit the country in December and January, causing road closures.

Transport

Getting around

Qatar's small, serviceable airport is in the south-eastern section of Doha. Qatar does not have a bus or service-taxi system, so regular taxis and rented cars are your only options for getting to and from the airport and around the country. You can rent a car on most foreign licences; driving can be a little hairy, but you should be able to get a decent car in Doha or at the airport for around 30.00 a day.

Getting there and away

One of four part-owners of Gulf Air (along with Abu Dhabi, Bahrain and Oman), Qatar also has its own national carrier, Qatar Airways. If you fly either of these airlines you can get to Doha from anywhere in the Gulf, most of Asia, as well as from New York, Europe and a number of cities in India and Pakistan. There are also occasional flights from Bangkok, Cairo, Melbourne and Nairobi. The added competition has not made a dent in the high cost of airfares; flights between Qatar and New York are particularly expensive. There's no departure tax from Doha. Qatar has no bus or taxi service to neighbouring Saudi Arabia, but you can cross over the border in your own car if you have a valid visa.

Health & Legal Requirements

Visas overview

Everyone except nationals of other Gulf States needs a visa to enter Qatar. Visas are obtainable at the airport for many nationalities for 50.00. Embassies and large hotels within the country can sponsor visas. Israeli passport holders are not allowed in Qatar.