A Guide To Doha And Things You Need To Know

Doha is a town that is developing at a fast pace. As new residential areas, business districts, shopping centers, hotels, cultural and sports venues, parks, tourist attractions, etc are being built, many areas of this desert city are currently huge construction sites. Doha is also preparing to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, for which the nation will build 12 eco-friendly stadiums, some of which will host up to 80,000 people. For all those people who will be traveling to Doha for the first time, this will serve as a guide to Doha and things you need to know when you travel to the place from Qatar E Visa Online. 

No matter where you travel, it's important to follow local customs and regulations. There are a few things you should know prior to your first trip to Doha to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. This article will work as a Doha Travel guide as it contains all the necessary things one should know before you plan a trip to Doha, Qatar. 

OVERVIEW:

1. Doha Travel Tips
2. Doha, Qatar Travel Restrictions
3. Reasons to Visit Doha
4. Frequently Asked Questions
5. Conclusion

DOHA TRAVEL TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Doha has become a magnetic tourist destination as it is the center of one of Asia's most competitive economies, scheduled to host the football World Cup in 2022, and continuously adding new wonders to its spectacular skyline. Here are some tips that will help you when you will be planning your trip:

Extreme Climate in Doha

Doha is not a place that you can visit in peak summer. July, the hottest month of the year in Qatar can, at all times, be avoided. The best time to visit Doha is during December-February as the temperature is mild throughout these months giving a spring-like atmosphere. Also, keep in mind that Doha is an Islamic city so they have strict rules during Ramadan (No drinking and eating in public) and cafes are usually closed during the daytime. So plan your trip accordingly.

The Dress Code

Doha is a Muslim city, and both Qataris and foreigners have a certain expectation of the dress code. Local women in Qatar wear abayas and men wear long sleeves, ankle-long white thawbs everywhere. For foreigners, the common rule is to dress modestly and not expose too much skin in public places. Rules when visiting a Mosque are stricter so carry a scarf or wearing long sleeves while visiting a Mosque.

Ramadan

If you're planning to visit the city during Ramadan, there are few things that you need to keep in mind. Eating and Drinking is not allowed in public places so most of the cafes and restaurants are closed during the day time. So only a few restaurants/cafes are open during the day time when it comes to eating during Ramadan. 

Transport in Doha

When it comes to transport, Car is the king there. You can also take Uber for getting around in Doha but it is expensive so the best option is taking the underground metro or local taxi which are cost-effective. Walking is a struggle there since it is not pedestrian-friendly.

Daytime 

When the temperature is high during the summertime, the day time in Doha feels like a Ghost town. You won't see people on the streets. Although, during the night is when the city comes alive. Streets, Bazaars, Shops are full of life and you can enjoy the nightlife.

READ ALSO: Qatar Visa Policy

DOHA, QATAR TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS

It is important to note that you should not break the law of the State/Country at any point in time before making a trip to any destination. It will be better to stay updated on the basic laws in the area you are planning to visit or live in. Here are a few Doha, Qatar travel restrictions and important laws enforced in the State of Qatar and you should respect these customs and traditions especially during the time of Ramadan if you plan to visit religious areas:

• Alcohol Restrictions: There are strict rules against alcohol consumption. Alcohol is not available in regular cafes, shops, bars, or restaurants but you have alcohol in hotel bars and restaurants. 
• Dress Code: There are some rules and regulations regarding the dress code that should be followed, especially during Ramadan. It is to be followed by both, Qataris and foreigners. The basic rule is that shoulders and knees should be covered and try not to show too much skin in public places. These rules are for both genders. Religious places are stricter so make sure you're properly dressed while visiting them.
• Ramadan Rules- If you're visiting Doha during Ramadan then you need to know that it is illegal to eat and drink in a public place from sunrise to sunset. 
• Rules for Couples- Public displays of affection are illegal in Qatar.
• Photography and Filming- Photography and Filming are not allowed in some places so it's better to seek permission before doing so. Due to cultural sensitivities, be aware of filming in Religious, Military, and Construction Sites.

READ ALSO: Qatar travel guide

WHAT ARE THE REASONS TO VISIT DOHA

• The city has some amazing Museums and Art Galleries and keeps cultural and art fans occupied for days. The museum of Islamic Art is the gem of Doha. 
• It is also famous for International, Cultural, and Sports Events. Annual Superbike Grand Prix, film festivals are some major events there and it will be hosting World Cup 2022.
• Doha offers Plenty of outdoor activities like Camel Rides in the Desert, Riding a Quad Bike, Sandboarding, and Dune Bashing that people enjoy. 
• It is also famous for having some of the finest shopping malls in the Middle East. Villagio Mall is the biggest mall in the city. Souq Waqif is an old Bedouin bazaar and is one of the most famous tourist attractions.

READ ALSO: Places you must not miss in Qatar

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. Are journalists allowed to take pictures in Doha?

If you’re a journalist and visiting Doha for a work purpose then you need to take permission from the Qatar News Agency (QNA) to film or photograph on sites as part of your work.

Q. Can we travel to Doha during Covid-19?

No. Currently, only Qatari nationals and residents are allowed to enter Qatar.

Q. Doha is in which Country?

Doha is in Qatar and also its capital

CONCLUSION

Now that you have a guide to Doha and things you need to know before planning a trip to Doha, you can plan all your activities now efficiently.

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