Living in Qatar

Professionals and their families from all over the world are relocating to Qatar, one of the world's wealthiest countries. There are an abundance of employment opportunities in construction, oil and gas, making Qatar a multicultural and wealthy country.

Hukoomi is the Qatar Government web-portal, and contains the necessary information and services you need to live, work or stay in Qatar. Here are a few of the key facts you need to know about moving to and living in Qatar.

Visa requirements

• For people who wish to bring their family to reside in Qatar, a Family Residence Visa is required from the Ministry of Interior. You will be required to provide your employment contract, sponsor I.D. and supporting documents as well as completing a medical test in your home country. The necessary information can be found on the Hukoomi website. The forms must be completed in Arabic so you may need support from your sponsor, or a translator to assist. There is also a visa issuance fee to be paid.
• Male expatriates can sponsor certain family members to enter the country provided that their salary is more than QR10, 000. The prospective sponsor must have their residence visa prior to starting the residence procedures for family members. A male expatriate can sponsor his wife; children; stepchildren; and dependent parents but there are slightly different criteria for each. 

Essential information

• Religion: Local laws reflect the fact that Qatar is an Islamic country and you should respect local traditions, customs, and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas.
• Language: Arabic is the official language of Qatar. English is widely spoken and, reflecting the multi-cultural nature of the country, many other languages are spoken.
• Currency: The currency in Qatar is Qatari Riyal. The currency code is QAR (sometimes abbreviated to QR), and the currency symbol is ﷼. It is divided into 100 dirham.
• Climate: Qatar has a hot and dry desert climate, with low rainfall, and very high temperatures in summer (June to September). Winter months are cooler with occasional rainfall usually in sudden but heavy bursts and storms.
• Healthcare: Qatar has a well-resourced state health care system, Hamad Medical Corporation. Emergency treatment in hospital is generally free but follow up treatment may be charged. 
• Transport: Public transport is available but for a busy and populated city such as Doha, the transport available doesn't necessarily meet the needs of the increasing population and can be in high demand. Mowasalat is the state transport system in Qatar providing taxis, bus services and private hire vehicles but there are currently no railways in Qatar. It is possible to apply for a driving license if you have a private vehicle in Qatar. Find out more about applying for a driving license on the Hukoomi website.