It is located on the Arabian Peninsula on the Arabian Gulf. For centuries, Qatar was largely populated by Bedouin tribes and a few fishing villages, which changed when oil was first discovered in the Dukhan Field in 1940, transforming its economy from pearling, fishing and trade to one of the wealthiest nations in the world.
How to get to Qatar
You can get to Qatar by air, road, or sea
You can fly into Hamad International Airport (DOH) where you can choose from more than 50 international airlines. The airport is the home of Qatar Airways, and offers high-end dining to global cuisine in vibrant food courts, and retail offerings ranging from essential travel needs to world-class luxury brands.
You can enter Qatar by road through its only land border with Saudi Arabia at the Abu Samra border – which is about one hour away from Doha.
You can visit Doha by cruise ship or yacht. International cruise lines, such as MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, TUI Mein Schiff, Emerald and Silversea enter at Doha Port, while yachts can dock directly in The Pearl or at Lusail Marina.
Entry Requirements
Nationalities from 102 countries can enter Qatar visa-free. All others can apply for an e-visa using the Hayya platform online.
The “Hayya” platform is a comprehensive digital service that serves visitors and residents alike. It is available through the website and the mobile app and offers a variety of services, such as e-visa applications for different visa categories, including Tourist Visa (A1) and GCC Resident Visa (A2). You can also pre-register vehicles, facilitating smoother entry through the Abu Samra border.
Check to make sure you have completed all the entry requirements, including obtaining a visa if necessary. Fast-track entry can be pre-registered on Hayya.
Language
While Arabic is the official language of Qatar, English is commonly spoken at all public places.
Attire and Public Display
The dress code in Qatar is relaxed, but visitors (men as well as women) are expected to show respect for local culture by avoiding excessively revealing clothing in public. It is recommended for men and women to ensure shoulders and knees are covered. As in all Middle Eastern countries, showing intimacy and overt affection in public is frowned upon.
When to Visit Qatar
Qatar has a desert climate with year-round sunshine, with extreme temperatures during summer (sometimes reaching highs of 40°C+) and mild winters. Average monthly temperatures range from 17°C in January to 36°C in July.
Friday timings
All business and commercial activities shut down during Friday prayers in the morning (between 10am -12pm). Most shops remain closed on Fridays while malls open in the afternoon.
Electric supply
The standard voltage is 240 V and plug points are the same as in the UK. To use electric appliances made for 100 V – 127 V (as is in the US, Canada and most South American countries), you will need a voltage converter or a combined power plug adapter/voltage converter.
Drinking water
The WHO (World Health Organization) estimates 99% of Qatar has access to drinkable tap water. However, bottled water is widely consumed with plenty of local and imported brands available.
Getting around Qatar
You can rent a car or limo, hail a cab, take the metro, public buses and trams, explore the area on a bike or scooter, or discover walking routes around the city.
Things to do in Qatar you shouldn’t miss!
From its rich history and vibrant culture to the exhilarating thrills of the desert and relaxing on serene beaches, Qatar is brimming with incredible activities and attractions for everyone.
Purple Island
Al Khor Island, also known as Jazirat bin Ghanim or Purple Island, is an island famous for its natural beauty, exotic flora and fauna, and is ideal for a day trip for the whole family.
Khor Al Adaid – The Inland Sea
The Inland Sea is a landlocked lagoon surrounded by picture-perfect sand dunes. This enchanting destination is where three majestic sand dunes converge with the sea and boasts a unique blend of wildlife and vegetation unseen elsewhere in the region.
The Doha Corniche
The Corniche is a seven kilometer stretch of gorgeous promenade overlooking the serene waterfront. With a crescent shaped walkway around the Doha Bay, it offers restaurants, clubs, parks, cultural attractions and the best views of the city’s modern skyline.
Qatar has something to offer for everyone, from shopping, relaxing, beaches, art & culture, to dining and romantic getaways.
While free WIFI facilities are available at the Hamad International Airport and most public places including shopping malls, restaurants and parks, the easiest way to stay connected while visiting is with the free eSIM from Red Bull MOBILE.
Download the Red Bull Mobile Data App to avoid expensive roaming fees and stay connected with your family and friends or for your business needs.
eSIMs also allow for more flexible mobile plans, as users can switch carriers or plans without needing to physically swap SIM cards. This can be especially useful for international travel, as users can switch to a local carrier or data plan without needing to purchase a new SIM card.
How do you get an eSIM?
With an eSIM you do not need to physically swap out SIM cards to stay connected to the internet and avoid expensive roaming charges.
Simply download the Red Bull MOBILE Data app, choose your data plan for your destination, and follow the instructions on how to activate the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM data plan. Your device will prompt you to set up your eSIM, which typically involves selecting a mobile plan and confirming your activation. Once your account is activated you are ready to connect to the world without any basic or roaming fees. You will be able to email, chat, set up video conferencing and use your social media accounts. Connecting with your family and friends around the globe is instantaneous.
You don’t have to switch out SIM cards, just switch to your eSIM plan for data on your device while traveling and when you get back you just switch to your regular SIM card.
Are there more advantages to an eSIM other than traveling around the globe?
One of the many advantages of an eSIMs is that it can support multiple profiles, allowing you to use different carriers or plans on the same device. This can be useful if you travel frequently or have different needs for different situations. You could use it to separate your business account
from your personal account for emails and phone calls by switching between those profiles. Please note, you can only use one profile at a time.
Another advantage of an eSIM is that you can access the Red Bull MOBILE Data app wherever you are. So if your travel plans change or you decide to go to a new country simply log in to the app, and choose a new destination and bundle, and you are all set!
Do all devices support eSIM?
Not all devices support eSIM, so you should check if your device is compatible with eSIM technology. You can usually find this information in the device specifications under Settings.
iOS devices: Go to Settings > Mobile Data or Cellular Data, if you have the Add Mobile Plan or Add Data Plan option, your iPhone supports eSIM.
Supported devices include iPhone XS, XR and newer models
Android devices: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager. If you have the “Add mobile plan” option, your smartphone supports eSIM.
The majority of newer Android smartphones are supported including the Samsung Galaxy S20 or newer models, Google Pixel 3 or newer models, Huawei P40 and many more.
It’s worth noting that the exact steps to use an eSIM may vary slightly depending on your device and mobile carrier. So, it’s always a good idea to refer to the specific instructions provided by your carrier and device manufacturer.
Here are some tips on how to avoid expensive fees with eSIM for traveling:
Turn off automatic app updates: To avoid unnecessary data usage, turn off automatic app updates on your phone. This can be done in your phone’s settings.
Turn off background data: Many apps use data in the background even when you’re not actively using them. To avoid unnecessary data usage, turn off background data for apps that you don’t need.
Use a data monitoring app: Download a data monitoring app that can help you keep track of your data usage. This can help you avoid exceeding your data plan and incurring additional fees.
By following these tips, you can avoid expensive fees with eSIM for traveling and stay connected without breaking the bank.
