Is Qatar Safe for Tourists in 2024? (Solo & Family Travel Guide) (2024)

If you think Qatar is just a desert, think again! Sure, there’s plenty of sand and a dry climate, but you’ll also find stunning modern skyscrapers, incredible architecture, rich art and history, and a vibrant, safe atmosphere.

To make the most of your visit, you need to know when to go, the must-see sights, and the best ways to get around—all while staying safe. We’ve got the details to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Qatar.

Is Qatar Safe?

Ask any expat in Qatar to describe life there, and “safe” is sure to be one of the words. Qatar is ranked the safest country in the Middle East and 21st globally, according to the 2023 Global Peace Index from the Institute of Economics and Peace.

Qatar made a big splash as the first Middle Eastern country to host the FIFA World Cup in 2022. Since then, it’s been making a name for itself on the global stage. In 2023, Qatar saw a record-breaking 4.05 million international visitors!

With recent conflicts between Israel and Hamas, you might wonder if Qatar has been affected. The good news is that Qatar doesn’t border Israel and isn’t directly impacted by the conflict. While it does play a role as a regional mediator, this doesn’t affect its status as a safe travel destination. Crime levels are low, making Qatar a secure and welcoming place for tourists.

• International travel advisories: Level 1, practice normal precautions
• Crime rating: Very low, 15.39
• Most common crime that affects tourists: Petty crimes
• Public transportation safety: Safe and budget-friendly
• Road safety: Roads are well-maintained but the road rules are often disobeyed
• Beach safety: The coast is generally safe to swim
• Safety walking alone during the day: Very safe
• Safety walking alone during the night: Very safe
• Common natural disasters: Sand storms and floods
• Carbon monoxide poisoning: No recent incidents
• Police presence: Strong police presence
• Medical care quality: One of the best globally
• Tap water: Safe to drink, but some may prefer bottled water due to taste preferences
• Best time to visit: Shoulder months (April/May and September/October)

Travel Advisory for Qatar

International travel advisories give Qatar the green light. The US, UK, Canada, and Australia rate it as Level 1—the safest level—advising only normal precautions.

However, New Zealand’s advisory notes the general threat of terrorism across the Arabian Peninsula. Although Qatar hasn’t experienced attacks, the possibility can’t be ruled out, so they recommend increased caution (Level 2).

Here’s a rundown of safety tips from international advisories:

• Potential targets for terrorist attacks include government buildings, schools, places of worship, airports, public transport hubs, restaurants, shopping centers, hotels, and tourist sites frequented by foreigners
• Protests may happen and can turn violent or disrupt traffic and public transport
• Qatar has a low crime rate, but credit card fraud, pickpocketing, and bag snatching can occur
• Public displays of affection, like holding hands or kissing, are socially frowned upon
• Foreign women are not required to wear head covers, but revealing clothing is inappropriate
• Unaccompanied women should be cautious, especially at night, to avoid harassment
• Off-road driving should only be done in a convoy with four-wheel-drive vehicles and an experienced guide
• Doha’s roads are generally good, but those outside the city may be poorly lit and have wandering livestock
• Drivers often don’t adhere to safe driving practices
• Exercise caution when traveling by sea in the Gulf, as pirate attacks and armed robberies have occurred
• Prepare for extreme heat from June to September, with temperatures exceeding 122°F(50˚C) and the possibility of flash flooding

A Comprehensive Look at Qatar Crime Rates

Qatar has a very low crime rating of 15.39, ranking third globally for its minimal crime presence, according to Numbeo.

In 2020, the courts in Qatar handled a total of 3,380 criminal cases. Among these, 901 were related to traffic violations, 207 to drugs and alcohol offenses, and 68 to computer crimes.

When it comes to violent crimes like assault and armed robbery, Qatar scores a mere 10 on Numbeo, indicating a very low presence. Walking alone in Qatar, whether during the day or night, is deemed safe, with safety ratings of 87.13 and 81.63, respectively.

Qatar has an overall safety score of 84.61. This places Qatar at the top of the Numbeo global peace chart, out of 142 countries evaluated. Remarkably, Qatar has held this prestigious title for five consecutive years.

Source: Numbeo, 2024 data based on 366 contributors.

Personal Crime in Qatar

According to Numbeo, personal crimes are exceedingly rare in Qatar. But hey, even in the safest places, it’s smart to keep your wits about you. Stick to well-lit areas, steer clear of lonely spots, and if your gut tells you something’s off, trust it!

Your respect for Qatar’s culture plays a big role, too. Dressing respectfully is a must. Being openly LGBTQ+ isn’t the norm here, and neither are public displays of affection. You want to blend in, not stand out, so keep it respectful.

Property Crime in Qatar

Qatar has a very low presence of property crimes, thanks to its effective law enforcement and locals who respect the rule of law.

Pickpocketing, home break-ins, or car thefts are not really prevalent here, even in the bustling capital of Doha. Still, we don’t recommend tossing your common sense out the window, as all it takes is one bad apple to spoil the barrel.

You might encounter people asking for money near supermarkets or mosques, but they’re not the aggressive type. If they approach you, offering food is a kind gesture. When visiting the tourist hotspots, double-check your change and avoid paying for service upfront to dodge potential scams.

Police Presence in Qatar

In Qatar, you’ll find police units keeping watchful eyes all over the country—tourist spots, roads, and public gatherings. There’s also a special squad just for tourists—the Tourism Police Unit. These officers speak multiple languages and are there to make sure your trip goes without a hitch.

When it comes to corruption, there’s not much to worry about. The locals trust their police force, and so should you. But hey, keep it legal! The police want to maintain that peace for the locals as they do for visitors.

Public Transportation Safety in Qatar

Public transportation in Qatar is safe, budget-friendly, and modern.

The Doha Metro runs every few minutes from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday to Wednesday, until midnight on Thursday and Saturday, and from 2 p.m. to midnight on Friday. During special events, hours are usually extended. A standard Qatar Rail travel card costs 10 QAR ($2.74) and can be topped up at metro stations or through the Qatar Rail app (Android/ iOS) with a minimum of 5 QAR ($1.37). Keep an eye on your belongings while traveling.

The bus system, also known as Karwa, connects Doha with towns beyond the city limits, though buses are a bit slow due to speed limits on highways. For bus travel, you’ll need a Karwa Smart Card, costing 10 QAR ($2.74) for two journeys within 24 hours. These cards can be purchased at vending machines at the airport, bus stations, malls, and partner merchants. Stay cautious while waiting at less crowded transit stations.

Qatar’s main taxi company is Karwa taxis—turquoise, clean, affordable, and strictly metered. Airport rides start at 25 QAR ($6.86), and within Doha, fares begin at QR4 ($1.10). Payment can be made with cash, a card, or the Karwa app (Android/ iOS). Even cheaper and more convenient are ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem, with rides costing less than in most developed countries, thanks to low fuel prices. Stick to the reputable, licensed companies. Enjoy the ride!

Road Safety in Qatar

The roads in Qatar are excellent—and they’re painted blue! Yes, Qatar is the first country in the world to introduce blue roads. This initiative by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) helped reduce asphalt temperatures by 27-36°F (15-20°C).

If you’re a confident driver, driving a car is a very flexible way to explore Qatar. However, be prepared for some stress along with the flexibility. Local drivers tend to speed, tailgate, and often skip using turn signals, so stay alert and drive defensively.

Medical Care Quality in Qatar

Qatar has been ranked among the top 20 countries with the best healthcare in the world for four consecutive years, according to the Numbeo Healthcare Index.

Here are some of the top hospitals in Qatar:

• Al Emadi Hospital, Doha: +974 4477 6444
• Doha Clinic Hospital, Doha: +974 4438 4333
• Naseem Al Rabeeh Medical Centre, Doha: +974 4465 2121
• Aster Hospital, Doha: +974 4444 0499
• Al Ahmadani Medical Centre, Doha: +974 4435 4400 / +974 4435 4455
• Turkish Hospital, Doha: +974 4499 2444
• Al-Khor Hospital, Doha: +974 4474 5555
• Al Wakra Hospital, Al Wakrah: +974 4011 4444
• The International Medical Centre, Doha: +974 4488 4292
• The Cuban Hospital, Zekreet: +974 4015 7777
• Al-Ahli Hospital, Doha: +974 4489 8888

As of 2023, visitors to Qatar must have health insurance—a visitor visa won’t be granted without it. The insurance must be from national companies registered with the Ministry of Public Health or international companies approved by the ministry. You can choose one from the official link provided.

Key services covered by this policy include:

• Emergency medical treatment up to QAR 150,000
• Emergency medical assistance up to QAR 35,000, including emergency ambulance transportation within Qatar and, if necessary, medical evacuation to the visitor’s home country

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in Qatar?

Yes, Qatar is generally a safe place for solo travelers. In 2024, Doha was ranked as the second-best destination for solo visitors, right after Tokyo.

However, safety isn’t a free pass to be reckless. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:

• Stick to well-lit areas
• Keep an eye on your belongings and surroundings
• Stay at hostels where you can meet fellow solo travelers and plan fun outings together
• Avoid renting a car if you’re not an experienced driver
• Don’t venture into the desert alone; always go with a tour guide
• Respect the local dress code, as religion is significant in Qatar

Is It Safe to Travel to Qatar as a Family?

Qatar is very safe for a family-friendly holiday.

There’s so much to see and do, so plan well! You can make a splash at Meryal Aquapark or visit the world of Angry Birds at Doha Festival City. You can also take the family dune bashing and camel riding or visit the green spaces of Al Khor Park—where you find a zoo and a range of activities from miniature golf to basketball.

One important consideration for your family trip to Qatar is the weather. During peak summer, the heat can be quite intense, especially for young children. Spring may be the optimal time for a family vacation. The weather is milder, and humidity is lower, creating more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.

The safe and efficient public transport system can easily zip you and your family from point A to point B, but you can also rent a car, so you won’t have to constantly rely on buses, trains, and taxis.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in Qatar

Qatar is generally safe when it comes to natural disasters. At most, you might encounter some dust storms or flooding, but with a little preparation, you can easily dodge them.

Dust Storms

Dust storms, or haboobs, mainly hit Qatar during the warmer months, from May to September. They’re most common in the late afternoon or early evening when the temperatures soar and winds pick up.

These storms can sweep across the whole country, but rural and open areas with less vegetation are more exposed than urban spots with more buildings.

Dust storms can affect visibility and air quality, and even cause respiratory issues. They can disrupt transportation and outdoor plans since the visibility can drop drastically. If you see a dust storm coming, it’s best to stay indoors, and close windows and doors to keep the dust out. If you must go outside, wearing a mask and glasses will help protect you from the airborne particles.

Flooding

Flooding in Qatar usually occurs during the cooler months, from November to April.

Flooding is mainly caused by heavy rains that the ground can’t absorb. Qatar’s arid environment has limited natural drainage, and the sandy, rocky soil doesn’t soak up water well. Urban areas add to the problem, as paved surfaces prevent water from seeping into the ground.

Flooding can impact different parts of Qatar, from Doha to wadis (dry riverbeds or valleys). However, thanks to accurate weather forecasts, you can easily avoid heavy rainfall periods. Just keep an eye on the Weather Channel and plan your trip accordingly to ensure your vacation stays flood-free.

Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Qatar

Before you book your Qatar vacation, make sure to check if the rooms have carbon monoxide detectors. These handy devices work like smoke alarms—they alert you when carbon monoxide is present, giving you time to react before you feel any effects.

So, what is carbon monoxide, and why should tourists be wary?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a sneaky, invisible gas with no smell that can escape from malfunctioning or badly ventilated appliances like stoves, AC units, and heaters. When these appliances leak CO, it drastically cuts down the oxygen in your blood and critical organs like your heart and brain.

At first, you might just feel tired and get headaches, but if you’re exposed for too long, you could start to vomit, pass out, or worse—poisoning can be fatal. Sadly, this has happened in popular vacation spots like the Bahamas, Colombia, and Mexico.

While Qatar hasn’t had tourist CO incidents, back in 2017, Hamad Medical Corporation’s Emergency Departments treated 70 to 100 patients each month for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Our advice would be to get yourself a portable CO detector. They’re cheap, easy to pack, and add an extra layer of safety, especially if the hotel doesn’t have them installed. And if your room does have one, that’s double the protection for you!

Serenity by the Shore: The Safety of Qatar Beaches

Qatar’s beaches are generally safe havens for beach lovers. The popular ones boast an on-site ambulance, first aiders, vigilant lifeguards, marine patrols, search and rescue squads, and security teams during peak tourist times.

Here are the best beaches in Qatar:

• Sealine Beach
• Inland Sea (Khor al Adaid)
• Al Maroona Beach
• Fuwairit Beach
• Umm Bab Beach
• Katara Beach
• Simaisma Beach

Some beaches in Qatar raise warning flags to keep everyone in the loop about water conditions:

• 🟢 Green flag: Safe to swim
• 🟡 Yellow flag: Keep an eye out for moderate surf and currents
• 🟥 Single red flag: Strong currents, better to stay on the sand
• 🟥🟥 Double red flags: Danger zone, the beach is off-limits
• 🟥🟡 Red and yellow flag: The area is lifeguard-patrolled
• ⬛⬜ Black and white quartered flag: Surfing zone, no swimming allowed
• 🟡⚫ Yellow flag with black ball: No surfboards or watercraft permitted
• 🟣 Purple flag: Watch out for dangerous marine life
• 🟠 Orange windsock flag: Offshore winds, keep inflatables onshore
• 🟥⬜ Red and white quartered flag: Emergency evacuation

When it comes to sea creatures, watch out for jellyfish, sea snakes, stonefish, and stingrays. The Persian Gulf also houses a variety of sharks, but attacks are exceedingly rare here.

Before you hit the waves, remember to:

• Choose lifeguarded beaches
• Stick to designated swimming areas
• Stay close to the shore
• Avoid swimming during weather changes
• Steer clear of strong currents
• Keep a close eye on the kids
• Jet ski responsibly to prevent accidents
• Bring sunscreen, snacks, and cash
• Leave valuables at home
• Save drinks for post-swim relaxation
• Skip dawn and dusk swims when sharks are active
• Swim in groups for added safety

Qatar Weather Patterns: What to Expect

Qatar has a desert climate, meaning super mild winters and scorching, sunny summers. Rain is rare and shows up in quick but sometimes intense bursts between December and April.

You’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine here, with over 3,400 hours of it each year.

If you’re visiting in winter, pack light clothes for the daytime, but toss in a sweater and a jacket for those cooler evenings, plus a scarf to handle the wind. For the summer, go for lightweight outfits made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen, and don’t forget a scarf.

The Weather in Doha

In Doha, temperatures swing from a cool 57°F (14°C) to a scorching 107°F (42°C) throughout the year.

The hot season hits from May to September, where daily highs often top 100°F (38°C). This stretch is also when Doha feels its muggiest. July is the hottest month, with highs of 106°F (41°C), and August has the most humid days, with 26.1 days of muggy weather.

The cooler season spans from December to March, with daily highs staying below 78°F (26°C). This is also when Doha gets a break from the humidity. January is the coldest month, with highs of 71°F (22°C), and February is the least warm month, with only 0.8 muggy days.

From September to March, Doha enjoys a cloud-free stretch. October is the clearest month, with around 88% clear skies on average. The cloudier season covers the rest of the year, with August being the cloudiest, yet still only 45% cloudy.

Rain in Doha is rare. March sees “the most” rain, averaging as little as 0.4 inches (10 mm), while July is practically bone-dry with 0.0 inches (0 mm).

Winds pick up from November to April, averaging over 9.3 mph (15 km/h). February is the windiest month, with speeds of 10.9 mph (18 km/h). The calm period takes over the rest of the year, with September being the calmest at 7.6 mph (12 km/h).

Lastly, Doha’s water temperature ranges from warm to toasty. From June to October, the water stays above 88°F (31°C), peaking in August at 93°F (34°C). February offers the coolest dip, with an average water temperature of 67°F (19°C).

Monthly Average Temperatures in Qatar

Source: WeatherSpark, 2024 data

When Is the Best Time to Visit Qatar?

The best time to visit Qatar is during the shoulder months of April, May, September, and October. These months fall between Qatar’s cool, tourist-packed, pricy winters and its unbearably hot summers when the streets empty out.

April and May are perfect for lounging on the beach or by the pool. As Ramadan comes to a close, the bars reopen so you can lounge by the coast with a co*cktail in hand or visit the lively festivities along Doha’s Corniche. In May, winter events like the Emir GCC Camels Race Final wrap up. In the fall, besides sightseeing and seaside fun, you can dive into the cultural scene with events like the Ajyal Film Festival and the Qatar International Art Festival.

Since these are shoulder months, you’ll also benefit from budget-friendly deals on hotels, tours, and flights.

How to Stay Safe in Qatar

• Keep an eye out for scams targeting tourists, like overcharging
• Keep your belongings secure and use a money belt or keep important items in a secure, zippered bag
• Keep an eye on the news and steer clear of big crowds and protests
• Respect local customs and avoid topics or actions that might offend
• Ensure you’re up-to-date on routine vaccinations recommended for travel to Qatar, such as measles, hepatitis A and B
• Yellow fever vaccination might be required if you’re arriving from an affected country
• Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day
• Fight off those annoying bugs with some mosquito repellent
• Be cautious when crossing the street as a pedestrian
• Only drink alcohol in licensed spots
• No public intoxication allowed
• During the holy month of Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect for those who are fasting
• Feel free to wear a bikini in hotels and resorts, but cover your shoulders and knees anywhere else
• Use your right hand for eating and greeting
• Respect the call to prayer and keep quiet during prayer times
• Keep public displays of affection low-key
• Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are strictly prohibited in Qatar
• Tap water is safe, but bottled water is available if that’s what you prefer
• If you need to travel with certain medications, it’s a good idea to bring a note from your doctor to ensure smooth passage through customs

Useful Apps/Sites to Enhance Your Experience

• Google Maps (iOS/Android): For smooth navigation
• Google Translate (iOS/Android): For easy communication with locals
• Sila (iOS/Android): To plan your journeys via metro, bus, taxi, and tram
• Qatar Rail (iOS/Android): A standalone metro app
• Karwa Taxi (iOS)/Android): A standalone taxi app
• Mowasalat (iOS/Android): A standalone bus app
• Baqaala (iOS/Android): To order pantry essentials
• Talabat (iOS/Android): For food restaurant delivery, pharmaceutical products, and more
• Uber and Careem: For ride-sharing services
• Qatar Events: To stay in the loop with Qatar’s hottest events
• QTickets: To purchase tickets for events

Emergency Numbers

• Police, Fire, Ambulance: 999
• General Electricity & Water Corporation: 911
• Traffic & Patrol Police Department: 4489 0666

Start Packing!

Qatar is still something of a hidden gem, so you won’t feel swamped by crowds—at least for now! But there’s more to think about than just sightseeing, so stay cool in the heat, be aware of your surroundings, and respect local customs.

Additionally, the oil-rich Gulf areas like Qatar, Oman, and Dubai aren’t typically budget-friendly, so plan wisely to keep your costs down. For example, it’s fine to splurge on a fancy dinner at a seaside restaurant, but don’t miss Souq Waqif for a variety of affordable eats—from authentic South Indian thalis to Korean fried chicken.

Accommodation and flight prices also spike during the cooler, busier months (November to February). Instead, aim for the shoulder months: September and October in the fall or April and May in the spring. You’ll get perfect weather and better deals.

And definitely take advantage of public transport. It’s safe, modern, and will get you wherever you need to go without breaking the bank.

Wishing you safe travels!