qatar travel report

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Qatar Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Qatar. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Global Measles May 28, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Qatar.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Qatar. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Qatar.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are sometimes found in Qatar.

Rabies is also present in some terrestrial wildlife species.

If rabies exposures occur while in Qatar, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

• Scientists do not fully understand how the MERS virus spreads
• May spread from to others when an infected person coughs or sneezes
• May spread to people from camels.

Middle East Respiratory virus syndrome (MERS)

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Qatar, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Qatar. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Qatar include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Qatar’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Qatar may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Qatar, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Qatar for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Qatar travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: June 5, 2024 06:24 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, qatar - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Qatar

Back to top

Regional conflicts

Conflicts in the Middle East and the Gulf region could affect Qatar. Regional tensions can flare up at any time, resulting in an unpredictable and volatile security situation.

• Monitor the security situation
• Follow the instructions of local authorities

There is a constant terrorist threat throughout the Arabian Peninsula. Reports of planned terrorist attacks occasionally emerge. Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Qatar.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

The crime rate is low and violence is rare. However, credit card fraud does take place. Ensure that personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Women’s safety

Although rare, women travellers may be subject to some forms of harassment, verbal abuse, or physical assaults. Local authorities’ response to reports of sexual violence may differ substantially from the Canadian context. Foreign women have been detained and accused of extramarital sex after reporting sexual assault. 

• Avoid travelling alone after dark
• Be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances
• If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to the nearest Government of Canada office

Advice for women travellers

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. 

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Desert excursions

Desert excursions can be hazardous. Off-road driving should only be undertaken in a convoy of four-wheel drive vehicles with an experienced guide.

If engaging in desert expeditions or trekking:

• never do so alone
• always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• travel in a 4 x 4 vehicle
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• avoid venturing off marked trails
• ensure that you're properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• carry sufficient water supply and pay attention to the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, both of which can be fatal
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back
• obtain detailed information on each activity before setting out

Road safety

Road conditions.

Road conditions can vary greatly throughout the country. While the roads in Doha are generally in good condition, they are often over-crowded and commonly under construction. Outside of Doha, poorly lit roads and wandering livestock may pose a risk. Roads can be muddy during the winter rain season.  

Driving safety

Traffic drives on the right. 

Accidents causing fatalities are common and one of Qatar's leading causes of death. Drivers don't generally drive safely. They often drive at excessive speeds, are extremely aggressive and reckless. They don't respect traffic laws. 

In case of an accident:

• move the vehicle to the nearest parking area if you can so do safely; you can be fined for blocking traffic 
• call 999 and wait for the police to arrive

Leaving the scene is considered a criminal offence.

Public transportation

A public bus system is available, though, it runs limited routes. 

Officially marked taxis are metered. 

• Use officially marked taxis only
• Negotiate fares in advance, or insist that the driver use the meter
• Avoid taking shared taxis
• Never enter a cab if it already has one or more passengers

Private car services

Ridesharing application and limousine services are available and a popular method of transportation. 

• Be vigilant when travelling in a private car
• Take note of the driver and vehicles' information

Marine transportation

Iran and the United Arab Emirates both claim sovereignty over the islands of:

Some vessels entering these areas have been reported detained. 

Exercise caution if travelling by sea in the Gulf. Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships have also occurred in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Qatari authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Qatar.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required Business visa: not required Student visa: required Work permit: required Residence permit: required

Visas – Qatar Tourism

Residence and work permits

You must have both a residence and work permit to work in Qatar. To receive these permits, you must be sponsored by an employer.

While most employees are free to leave and enter Qatar, the employer controls the issuance of exit permits for essential employees. The employer may designate up to 5% of its employees as “essential.” If you are identified as an “essential employee”, you must obtain your employer's permission to exit Qatar, even for personal or emergency travel. 

In the event of a contract or employment dispute, Qatari authorities refer to the Arabic language of a contract.

Entry bans 

You could be denied entry into Qatar if your passport bore an Israeli visa, an Israeli border stamp or an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel. 

Local authorities may prevent you from leaving Qatar if you have incurred loans and debts with a Qatari institution. You must be free of loans and debts to leave the country. 

Similarly, a pending legal proceeding may cause authorities to issue a travel ban that would prevent you from leaving Qatar.

Health insurance

You must obtain a health insurance policy recognised by the Qatari Ministry of Public Health to enter Qatar. You can find the list of recognised insurance providers and purchase the insurance policy online.

• Mandatory Health Insurance Scheme  – Ministry of Public Health of Qatar
• List of registered insurance providers – Ministry of Public Health of Qatar
• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre

* It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) have been reported in this destination. The risk to travellers is low; MERS is primarily spread through contact with camels or camel-based products (raw milk, meat, urine). It can also spread through close contact, such as when caring for an infected person. 

Avoid contact with animals (especially camels), camel-based products, and wash your hands frequently.

Prevention of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)

MERS symptoms range from mild and flu-like to more severe pneumonia-like symptoms, and can result in death.

There is no vaccine or medication that protects against MERS.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is very good in Qatar. 

The country has a strong public healthcare system. Private institutions are also accessible and provide good healthcare. 

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Qatari and Canadian criminal law systems are significantly different. Laws, penalties and legal procedures may vary.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Legal process

Suspects and witnesses to incidents may be detained with limited or no access to legal counsel or consular officials for 3-5 days. 

Qatari officials may issue a travel ban pending the resolution of the case. These processes can last up to several years.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines and lengthy jail sentences. 

The consumption of alcohol in public is illegal. Avoid drinking alcohol outside licensed premises.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Qatari law criminalizes sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could also be discriminated against or detained based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Those convicted can face up to ten years in prison.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Qatar.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

Religious proselytism

Religious proselytism is illegal. 

Avoid engaging in religious activities that contradict or challenge Islamic teachings and values. This includes preaching, possessing, or distributing religious literature or material.

Dress and behaviour

Qatar customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs.

Public displays of affection, including holding hands and kissing, is not well socially accepted.

Foreign female travellers are not typically expected to wear head covers. However, revealing clothing is considered inappropriate.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions 
• seek permission from locals before photographing them

Common law partnership is illegal in Qatar. Men and women are not permitted to share a home unless they are legally married or are related to one another.

If you marry a Qatari citizen, the Qatari government may inform you that you have lost your Canadian citizenship. Foreign governments don't have the authority to strip you of your Canadian citizenship. If this occurs, contact the nearest Canadian government office as soon as possible.

Sexual relations outside of marriage are a criminal offence.

Marriage outside Canada

Qatar family law is different from Canadian family law. Decisions are based on Islamic law.

Children of a Qatari father automatically acquire Qatari citizenship at birth. They must enter and leave the country on a Qatari passport. 

If you are involved in a custody dispute in Qatar, consult a Qatari lawyer for advice and assistance regarding your own specific situation.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Qatar.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Qatar by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Qatar to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Other illegal activities

The following activities are illegal in Qatar and punishable by heavy fines or jail time: 

• photographing government buildings and military installations
• littering in public spaces and common areas of public buildings
• trafficking or eating pork
• issuing bounced checks 
• engaging in prostitution
• possessing pornographic material
• spitting in public places, including on beaches
• cutting, uprooting, burning and damaging trees, shrubs, and weeds, as well as stripping them of their leaves or bark

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Qatar.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Qatar, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

Identification

Local authorities may ask you to show identification at any time.

• Carry photo identification at all times.
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa or residence permit in a safe place, in case they are lost or confiscated.

You can drive in Qatar with your Canadian driver's license for up to 7 days.

You must carry an international driving permit if you plan to drive beyond 7 days in the country. New residents may use an International driving permit for a maximum of six months. In that period, you can convert it into a valid Qatari driving licence.

Driving laws are severe in Qatar. Local authorities strictly enforce them.

The country has a zero tolerance policy for drinking and driving.

International Driving Permit

The currency is the Qatar riyal (QAR). Credit cards are widely accepted.

If you are carrying more than QAR50,000, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must complete a declaration form when you enter or leave the country.

Items to be declared include, but are not limited to:

• currency, the Qatari riyal and foreign currencies
• travellers cheques, money orders and cheques
• precious metals
• precious stones

You can expect fines, imprisonment or seizure of such funds if you fail to comply with these rules.

High levels of humidity and severe heat occur from June to September.

Dust storms

Sand and dust storms pose a risk as they reduce visibility and can cause respiratory illness. These storms can also disrupt air travel and road traffic. 

Drought and flooding

Qatar has been facing a water crisis in recent years, leading to drought and desertification. While infrequent, torrential rains and heavy flooding also occur in coastal areas. 

In the event of flooding:

• avoid the affected area
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• follow the instructions of local authorities

The rainy season extends from December to January. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons

Local services

Dial 999 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Doha and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

All you need to know about Qatar: tips from an expat

Aug 5, 2022 • 7 min read

Get the most out of your trip to Qatar with these tips from an expat who lives there © Sven Hansche / Shutterstock

I’m a year into my second stretch of calling Doha home. So I’ve learned a thing or two about living in the desert state of Qatar .

When I first lived here 20 years ago, nobody had even heard of this remarkable little country. Today, cruise ships hug the shoreline, and visitors flock here from around the globe. Yet some travelers arrive unprepared.

Knowing some background information before your visit will help you make the most of your trip to this country on the Arabian Peninsula . From coping with the heat and taking the super-modern metro to seeing amazing art and getting to know the Qataris, here are my top tips that will help you get the most out of your visit to Qatar.

Timing your visit to Qatar is crucial

Qatar’s “season” runs from October to May. These months are the best time to visit , when most events and exhibitions take place and when the temperatures are pleasant enough to walk around outside.

Qatar is a desert country, and it gets hot. Like, really hot. Summer temperatures easily reach 50ºC (122ºF) – in the shade. While you can expect everything from your rental car to the malls and even some bus stops to be air conditioned, you might still get uncomfortable bouncing between them. 

Decide to travel – or not – during Ramadan

The ninth month of the lunar Islamic calendar, the holy month of Ramadan is when Muslims fast between sunrise and sunset. During Ramadan, it is frowned upon to eat, drink, smoke or even chew gum in public during daylight hours. While Qataris are tolerant of non-Muslim visitors, almost all restaurants are closed during the day (hotels offer the few exceptions). Visiting Qatar during Ramadan means your travel plans have to be more flexible, but you’ll get the chance to experience festivities such as the daily sunset cannon being set off, the pretty lantern decorations around town and the nightly iftar, the breaking of the fast after sunset that’s a joyous event in private homes and restaurants.

Take care to dress appropriately

Qatar is a Muslim country, and while Qataris are tolerant – especially of visitors – it’s a sign of respect to dress modestly. It’s not a problem to wear a bikini at hotel beaches and pools, but it’s respectful for men and women to cover their shoulders and wear clothes that reach to the knee when walking around elsewhere, especially in areas where you will encounter many locals, such as in Souq Waqif .

Hop on the Doha Metro

While much of Doha’s center around Souq Waqif and Msheireb is walkable in the cooler months, the easiest and most comfortable way to get around is on the Doha Metro . This modern, clean and expansive system takes you to all the busy hubs within Doha and its surroundings, including the airport and the towns of Al Wakrah and Lusail.

Understand the local etiquette

From avoiding eating with your left hand to coffee taken with cardamom and the various styles of traditional dress, Arab culture can be a new experience for those from outside the Muslim world. To learn about etiquette and practices directly from Qataris, visit Embrace Doha for experiences that will teach you about the cultural ins and outs here.

Don’t let preconceptions scare you away

Even before they visit, many travelers have an opinion about Qatar – but it’s essential to arrive with an open mind and experience it for yourself. While rules, customs and laws might differ from where you live, Qatar has been changing a lot in recent years. When I returned to live in Qatar again after a 15-year absence, I barely recognized the place. A rise in international visitors has spurred the country to continue to work toward more changes.

Solo female traveler visiting Qatar? No worries

Many consider Qatar the safest country in the world – and as a woman living here, I have never felt threatened. (Of course, it takes only one bad experience to change your view on that, but the same holds for every country in the world.) In Qatar, I usually forget to lock my front door and my car, and even leave my handbag in my shopping cart. You should use common sense as you would anywhere – and expect to feel safe and welcome. 

Try the favorite local breakfast

Since Qatar is one of the world’s richest countries, celebrity-chef restaurants abound throughout the capital. Yet travelers visiting Qatar on a budget can still find delicious low-cost meals, such as the local favorite breakfast of karak and chapati. A tea made with condensed milk, cardamon, ginger, saffron and sugar, karak is spicy as well as sweet, while chapati is a flatbread served usually with honey or cheese (or both!). You can try these two staples in most simple-looking cafeterias, at food stalls in parks or in Katara village. You’ll know where to find them by the hungry locals queuing up to order.

Learn more about the importance of the beloved national bird

The falcon is Qatar’s national bird, and they are so revered that they are allowed on flights and even get their own seat. Doha has a falcon hospital as well as a falcon market ; on your visit, stop at Souq Waqif to have a closer look at these gorgeous birds. While you’re there, don’t miss the camels and thoroughbred Arabian horses that are stabled right in the city center. 

Qatar is an art hub of the Middle East

Qatar is more than luxury shopping and such prestigious sports events as the 2022 FIFA World Cup: it’s quickly becoming a heavyweight on the Middle Eastern art scene, too. In Hamad International Airport alone, you can see more than a dozen installations by such internationally famous artists as KAWS, Urs Fischer and Jean-Michel Othoneil. Head into the desert at Zekreet to see the stunning East–West / West–East by Richard Serra, or visit the enormous Miraculous Journey by Damien Hirst. Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art is world-class, while pockets of street art complement the capital’s high-culture offerings. 

Relax in a park

Most of Qatar’s landscapes are beige and sandy – so take a break from the desert hues at a green park in Doha. My favorite is MIA Park behind the Museum of Islamic Art, which bends around a bay and is full of small food trucks that sell karak , chapati and other goodies. MIA Park not only has fabulous mature trees and grass perfect for picnicking, but also offers superb views across the skyline, with picturesque wooden dhows (traditional boats) moored nearby. 

Don’t miss out on the desert

It is easy to keep busy in Doha, yet you can’t leave Qatar without experiencing the desert . As you off-road over sand dunes in a 4WD vehicle to, watch flamingos, camp under the clear skies of the “inland sea” of Khor Al Adaid and slide down the horseshoe-shaped Singing Dunes, you’ll discover how the desert lies at the literal heart of Qatar – and the figurative one of its people. 

Search out Qatar’s history

Bedouin have long lived around the Arabian deserts, but the culture’s nomadic lifestyle means that most places in this region don’t have any ancient structures. Yet Qatar has few historic surprises, such as the petroglyphs at Al Jassasiya and the Unesco-listed Al Zubarah Fort , both well worth a visit.

Plan where to have a drink

It’s possible to stave off the heat with a cool beer in Qatar – but you’ll need to plan ahead. You cannot import alcohol into Qatar from duty-free shops or buy anything but non-alcoholic beer from the grocery store, nor are you allowed to drink alcohol in public places. Alcohol is available in Qatar only on licensed premises, such as larger hotels and hotel restaurants. Most hotels have superb bars, comfortable beer gardens or outdoor restaurants where you can sit back with a glass or two.

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Visiting Qatar: The Complete Guide (2024)

Doha Guides Team regularly reviews this article to ensure the content is up-to-date and accurate. The last editorial review and update were on 06 February 2024.

The State of Qatar offers experiences combining old and new, traditional and modern. The country’s tourism sector is undergoing rapid development with milestone achievements in various sectors.

Qatar is also an important business hub, particularly for its robust oil and gas industry. Many trade shows and business conferences take place in Doha throughout the year.

In 2019 Qatar witnessed a huge leap in visitor arrivals with 2.1 million visitors, a double-digit growth compared to 2018. This article explains the types of visas, when to visit, public transport, local attractions, and other important things to consider before visiting Qatar.

Visiting Qatar: Types of Visas

Hamad international airport, qatar airways, cruise tourism, qatar weather, where to stay in qatar, public transportation, places to visit in qatar, how to dress while in qatar, qatar currency, working hours in qatar, faq on visiting qatar.

Did You Know? Thanks to Qatar’s strategic location at the crossroads of East and West, 80% of the world’s population is within a 6-hour flight from Qatar, and more than two-thirds can enter Qatar visa-free.

Qatar offers several visa options for visitors. Here are the common types of visit visa options:

Gateway to Qatar

Qatar is centrally located globally, close to Europe, Africa, and Asia. Flights from around the world touch down at Qatar’s Hamad International Airport daily, making Qatar the perfect place for layovers and visits.

Doha, the capital city of Qatar, is modern and rapidly developing, with much construction underway. It is home to most of the country’s best museums and examples of cultural heritage. 

Qatar connects to various destinations worldwide, making it an extremely busy transit spot. In fact, Hamad International Airport (HIA) has fast become the global gateway for overseas travellers. Opened in April 2014, the state-of-the-art airport is conveniently located just south of Doha city.

HIA is certified as a 5 Star Airport by Skytrax and was ranked the Best Airport in the World at the 2021 and 2022 Skytrax World Airport Awards. The airport currently serves more than 30 million passengers annually and is undergoing further expansion to support more than 50 million.

Qatar Airways, the award-winning national carrier, is certified as a 5-Star Airline for its airport and onboard product and staff service quality.

The Qatar Airways network connects Doha with more than 150 popular destinations worldwide, including most major cities throughout the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australasia & North, and South America.

Cruise tourism brings over 100 thousand visitors annually to Qatar, enabling them to enjoy the many landmarks that are mere minutes from Doha Port. The peak season runs from October to May, allowing visitors to enjoy the country’s pleasant winter weather during that time.

Qatar has two major seasons: Summer and Winter. May to September can be considered summer, while December to February is the cooler season. March to April and October to November are the transition months.

Summer temperatures are routinely 50°C during the day and often more than 40°C at night. It’s important to wear sunblock, cover yourself and drink plenty of water when going outside during the day.

During cooler months (December to February), the temperatures average between 14°C and 25°C on most days.

Since most of the attractions are within a couple of hours distance from Doha, you do not have to stay at different hotels during your Qatar vacation.

Doha has the presence of almost all major hotel chains in the world. You can choose from a range of Qatar hotels from TripAdvisor .

Doha’s city centre is just 15 minutes drive from the airport by car. To get from HIA to the city, you can take Airport Taxis available at Arrivals Terminal or request your hotel to arrange a private hotel transfer. It is possible to rent a car at the airport or at the hotels. An international driving license is required for visitors to drive in Qatar.

For travelling around the city, you can use the official taxi network called Karwa Taxi or pre-book a taxi using mobile apps like Uber or Careem . Even though Qatar has a network of public buses, they are not recommended for first-time visitors as their frequency is not guaranteed.

Another option would be to use the newly constructed Doha Metro. You can read our complete guide to Doha Metro here: Doha Metro Map, Stations, Timings, Ticket Prices

Qatar has a long list of interesting places to visit. Some of the more popular attractions include:

• National Museum of Qatar
• Museum of Islamic Art
• Katara Cultural Village
• The Pearl Qatar
• Mall of Qatar, Place Vendome, and other shopping malls

You can see a comprehensive list of tourist places in Qatar here .

Since Qatar is an Islamic country, it is important to dress appropriately. Loose-fitting and modesty-covering clothing is the preferred style. Women are not required to wear the hijab or veil their heads in public.

Tourists are generally expected to cover their shoulders and knees at a minimum. Beachwear is acceptable at private beaches and swimming pools inside hotels.

The national currency of Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (QAR). One QAR is equivalent to 100 Dirhams. Qatar Banknotes are available in values of QAR 500, 200, 100, 50, 10, 5, and 1. Coins in circulation are 25 Dhs (QAR 0.25) and 50 Dhs (QAR 0.5).

Since Qatar Riyal is pegged to US Dollar, the value of USD 1 is around QAR 3.64. Banks and ATMs across the country take major international credit cards and debit cards.

• Normally, the work week in Qatar is from Sunday to Thursday.
• Government offices operate from 7 am to 2 pm.
• Private offices operate from 8 am to 4 pm, or 9 am to 5 pm.
• Shopping malls generally are open from 10 am to 10 pm and up to midnight on weekends.

Most shops and offices change their working hours during Ramadan . Visitors should refrain from eating and drinking in public, except in hotels, during the hours between sunrise and sunset.

Which is the best time to visit Qatar?

Is it safe to visit qatar, can you drink alcohol in qatar, is qatar expensive to visit, how many days would i need to visit qatar, related articles.

• Qatar Visa On Arrival: Complete Guide
• Transit Passengers Guide To HIA
• How To Do Ehteraz Pre-Arrival Registration
• Doha Metro Map, Stations, Timings, and Ticket Prices
• Carrying Medicines To Qatar: Things To Know
• Check Qatar Visa Status And Validity
• How Much Cash and Gold Can Your Bring To Qatar

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9 thoughts on “Visiting Qatar: The Complete Guide (2024)”

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Hi, I am planning to transit to travel to Thailand through Qatar in September. I want to take the opportunity to explore Doha. So I plan to have a 20-hour lay-over In Doha. I have a valid UK, US and Schengen Visa, My question is do I need to apply for a Qatar Tourist Visa or a Transit Visa to be able to explore Doha City? Thanks in anticipation of your response/

Hi, my query is after my passport renewal I need to update new passport number on my QID. How can I do it? Only my company PRO can do it or I can also do it?

Hi Saddam, Please see this: https://www.dohaguides.com/change-passport-number-in-qatar-id/

Is to possible to change or extend tourist visa to work visa.?

Hi Shibla, In some cases, if your work visa is approved, you may be allowed to change your visa type without leaving the country. There will be an additional fee. Note that this may not be possible in all cases.

Hello. We arrive in Qatar at DOH November 24 at 6 AM. Are we allowed to leave the airport and visit the area for 8-10 hours that day? Thank you in advance for your reply.

Hi Robert, Due to the World Cup, the visa-on-arrival service (or any kind of tourist visa) is unavailable during that period. As per the current rule, you need a Hayya Card to visit Qatar from 1 November, and it is only available for those with a match ticket. There is still five weeks to go before your travel date. So please check back after a few weeks in case the rules change.

Greetings. can you please send me a paper map of Doha? Thanks a lot! Have a nice day!

Hi Reuven, If you are in Qatar, you can buy a paper map from any book store or supermarket. If you are outside Qatar, you can buy on Amazon. Good day to you.

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Travel tips

Qatar is a destination that offers novel, authentic experiences.  Here are some tips that will help better navigate the local culture and fully enjoy your time in Qatar.

Attitudes towards dress in Qatar are 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 generally recommended for men and women to ensure their shoulders and knees are covered.

This is widely expected at Souq Waqif and other traditional markets.

The Qatari riyal is the only currency used in the country and can be obtained through ATMs which are widely available in malls, hotels and around Doha. The Qatari Riyal (QR) is pegged against the US Dollar at QAR 3.64

Currency Import regulations

When bringing local currency (Qatar Riyal-QAR) and all other foreign currencies amounts equal to or higher than QAR 50,000 must be declared on arrival. This includes jewelry, precious metals or stones valued at QAR 50,000 or higher.

Customs regulations

To read about customs regulations in Qatar and other related information, click here .

Disabled access

• The Accessible Qatar smartphone app provides information about accessibility and facilities at different public and touristic venues across the country.
• Ooredoo Qatar has partnered with Wheel the World  to offer accessible tourist experiences to differently abled visitors.
• In case of emergency, following specialised services are accessible for the deaf:
• Call 992 using the 3G camera on your computer or cell phone;
• Send an SMS to 992 clearly stating your problem and what service you need (ambulance, fire rescue, police), as well as your name, address, and any details;
• Send an e-mail to  992@moi.gov.qa  (it may take some time before you receive a response)

Drinking water

The World Health Organization estimates that 99% of Qatar has access to drinkable tap water. However, bottled water is widely consumed in Qatar with plenty of local and imported brands widely available.

Electric supply

The standard voltage is 240 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. Plug points are the same as in the UK. To use electric appliances made for the range of 100 V - 127 V (as is in the US, Canada and most South American countries), one needs a voltage converter or a combined power plug adapter/voltage converter.

Emergency telephone numbers

Police, Fire, Ambulance: 

Traffic & Patrol Police Department:

Embassies & Consulates

Doha is home to over 100 foreign embassies and a consulate. These are open for business from Sunday to Thursday and closed on Friday and Saturday, as well as all public holidays of both Qatar and the embassy's home country.

Friday timings

All business and commercial activity shuts down during Friday prayers in the morning (around 10am -12pm).  Several shops remain closed on Fridays while malls open in the afternoon on Fridays.

Qatari ladies will  not  shake hands with men, and many men will not shake a lady’s hand as a gesture of respect.

Healthcare facilities

In case of emergency, visitors can go to Hamad General Hospital’s network of hospitals and healthcare centers for care.

Internet Connectivity

Qatar is the world’s first country to introduce a commercial 5G network. Free WIFI facilities are available at the Hamad International Airport and most public places including shopping malls, restaurants and parks.

Islamic Holidays

Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the month-long period of fasting.  It is spent with family and friends, with much feasting, and goes on for three days, though shops and private businesses may reopen after one or two days.

The Hajj pilgrimage ends with Eid Al Adha , also known as the “feast of sacrifice” and continues for four days.

Home to around a hundred nationalities, Qatar is a melting pot of cultures with numerous languages being spoken. Being an Arab country, the official language is Arabic, but English is commonly spoken at all public places.

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Passengers arriving, departing or transiting through Hamad International Airport can avail Al Maha  personalised Meet & Greet Services at Hamad International Airport.

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As in all Middle Eastern countries, showing overt affection and intimacy in public is frowned upon.

During the Islamic month of Ramadan, visitors are expected to refrain from eating, drinking and smoking in public places during the daylight hours out of respect to those who are fasting.  Hotels continue to cater to guests by opening restaurants that are out of the public’s view.

Qatar is a Muslim country and Islam plays an integral role in daily life. Prayers take place five times per day: at dawn (Fajr), around midday (Duhr), in mid-afternoon (A'asr), at sunset (Maghrib) and about two hours after sunset (‘Esha). The exact timing varies each day according to the sun's position.

Qatar has been ranked first in terms of safety and security, according  Numbeo  Crime Index 2020, the world’s largest database of user contributed data on cities and countries.

Smoking is prohibited in all public spaces including museums, sports clubs, shopping malls and restaurants. Violators can be subject to fines between QAR 1000-3000.

Passengers transiting through Doha can take advantage of Qatar’s unmatched stopover program to explore the destination. The +Qatar program offers great deals at 4- and 5- Star hotels.

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The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) regulates the telecommunications, information technology, and postal sectors, as well as access to digital media. Ensuring balancing consumers’ rights and telecom Service Providers’ obligations is a top priority for CRA. If you have inquiries or complaints against telecom Service Providers, you can contact us through:

· Hotline 103, or +97444069938 from overseas · Email: consumervoice@cra.gov.qa · Complaint Form:  https://www.cra.gov.qa/en/Services/Consumers-Complaints · Social media: @craqatar · Mobile App: “Arsel” on Google Play and App Store For more information please visit CRA’s website: www.cra.gov.qa

Most hospitality outlets in Qatar include a service charge in the bill. However, a tip of 10-15% as a gesture of satisfaction is appreciated. It is advisable to carry cash for tipping.

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Conceived of in 2012 The Year of Culture  is an initiative by Qatar Museums. Taking place with another country, the year-long cultural exchange programme invites people to explore a new culture, through a variety of exhibitions, festivals, competitions and events.

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India’s Travel Sector Has Recovered, But International Is Still a Pain Point

Bulbul Dhawan , Skift

July 4th, 2024 at 12:01 AM EDT

India is cementing its position as a significant source market for travel across the world. However, on its own turf, all is not well.

Bulbul Dhawan

India’s travel and tourism sector has recovered significantly, according to a new report from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), but international travel spend in India continues to remain below pre-Covid levels. 

The WTTC report revealed:

• The travel and tourism sector’s contribution to Indian GDP stood at INR 19.13 trillion ($230 billion) in 2023, nearly 10% increase over 2019 levels. 
• Employment in the industry increased 8% to 43 million. 
• Domestic tourist spending was INR 14.64 trillion ($175 billion) last year, up 15% from pre-Covid levels. 
• International visitor spending was over 14% behind the 2019 levels. 

Key Role of Domestic Tourism

Consulting firm McKinsey and Company had earlier projected that India will become the fourth-largest domestic travel market in terms of spending by 2030.

Online travel agency EaseMyTrip co-founder Rikant Pittie agreed with the WTTC report. He said, “Domestic travel and the tourism sector, in recent times, has become the backbone of India’s economic growth, especially with the government’s focus on promoting India as an equivalent to a global destination.”

According to recent data from aviation analytics firm OAG, India is now the third-largest domestic aviation market, after the U.S. and China. India’s domestic air passenger traffic in 2023-24 also surpassed pre-Covid levels , 

Earlier this year, Hyatt Hotels CEO Mark Hoplamazian also spoke about his company’s focus on India, specifically its domestic travelers. “The country’s leisure travel market is primarily driven by Indians traveling within India and discovering the country,” he said .

“The Indian market started seeing a rebound since the end of last year with the leisure hotel segment leading the way. Especially post Covid, India inbound became the buzzword. Indian travelers also started finding India more appealing due to the joint effect of increased marketing efforts and high international airfares,” said Arindam C Bahel, general manager of The Fern Brentwood Resort, Mussoorie. 

2024 Outlook for Tourism in India

According to the WTTC report, the tourism industry in India is projected to be ahead of 2019 by the end of this year across four metrics: Contribution to Indian economy, employment, domestic visitor spending, and international visitor spending.

It estimates that:

• The sector will contribute almost INR 21.15 trillion ($253 billion) to India’s GDP in 2024. 
• Jobs in the industry will increase by 2.45 million this year, equaling one in 11 jobs in India. 
• International visitor spending will grow more than 17%. 
• Domestic visitor spending will increase by nearly 10%.

There are risks to these projections, however: During the peak domestic travel period in summer, a record number of travelers left due to the heatwave in North India . The extreme weather condition also led to a nearly 40% decline in sale of inbound flights in May from April 2024.

Pain Points

Despite these strong projections from WTTC, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts managing director Ajay Bakaya has shared a different perspective. 

“2023 was a phenomenal year. Our domestic tourists went up everywhere we were operating. We have seen changes in 2024. We had a really good first quarter from January to March, and April witnessed reasonable growth. But we have some places that have seen a decline in May and June. It could be the elections, but the results were far below expectations and budgets,” he said, adding that he hopes for it to be a short-term blip. 

Bakaya also shared that while the overall tourism sector in India has been performing well, the picture is not so favorable for hill stations. “All across Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, tourism this year has been below 2022 and 2023 levels. The reason is that our outbound travel is now healthier and stronger due to more options, easier visas, and more economical flights.” 

He believes that in the long-term hill stations will go back to pre-Covid levels of reasonable business, but won’t witness a booming business. Goa, he explained, is also not seeing the growth that it should as probably the top tourism destination in India. “So, the picture is very good and very positive, but it is not all hunky dory. We’ll have some challenges before we scale the peak,” he said. 

Meanwhile, international inbound is lagging. And India has slashed its global tourism promotion budget by 97% .

Bakaya said, “We’re all pinning our hopes on what happens starting October 2024 (the inbound tourism season in India), but so far we have seen very little inbound travel. It has been disappointing.”

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Tags: domestic tourism , easemytrip , Hyatt Hotels , india , india outbound , india travel , international tourism , international travel , mark hoplamazian , sarovar hotels , tourism , Travel industry , Travel Trends , wttc

Photo credit: According to the WTTC report, the tourism industry in India will be ahead of 2019 by the end of 2024. Godson Bright / Pexels

Qatar Airways Group Celebrates a Record-breaking Net Profit of QAR6.1 Billion (US$1.7 Billion) for the 2023/24 Financial Year

The Group reports the strongest financial performance in its 27-year history, with a total revenue of QAR81 billion (US$22.2 billion) and annual profits 39 per cent higher than the previous year

Total revenue increased by QAR4.7 billion (US$1.3 billion) – up six per cent, marking a significant improvement in the Group’s EBITDA, which grew by QAR1.2 billion (US$0.3 billion)

Qatar Airways passenger loads also surged to more than 40 million – an increase of 26 per cent over last year, as the airline continues to rebound from the recent challenges facing the global travel industry

Doha, Qatar – Qatar Airways Group has today reported the strongest financial performance in its 27-year history, announcing record profits of QAR6.1 billion (US$1.7 billion) in its Annual Report for the 2023/24 financial year.

The multiple award-winning airline group reported historic net profits of QAR6.1 billion (US$1.7 billion) during the 2023/24 fiscal, with a total revenue of QAR81 billion (US$22.2 billion), representing an increase of QAR4.7 billion (US$1.3 billion) – up six per cent compared to last year.

The Group generated a strong EBITDA margin of 24 per cent at QAR19.1 billion (US$5.2 billion), around QAR1.2 billion (US$0.3 billion) higher than the previous year, reflecting the business’s continued focus on customer experience, innovation, digitalisation and sustainability, resulting in streamlined, agile and fit-for-purpose operations across all areas.

This has created a strong platform for the future of the Group’s airline business which carried more than 40 million passengers during the 2023/24 fiscal, an increase of 26 per cent over the previous year.

As a result, passenger revenue increased by 19 per cent, with a capacity increase of 21 per cent driven by the airline’s highest-ever load factor of 83 per cent, offering a sustainable upsurge in market share.

Minister of State for Energy and Qatar Airways Group Chairman, His Excellency Engr. Saad Bin Sharida Al-Kaabi, said: “This latest remarkable annual performance demonstrates Qatar Airways Group’s flexibility and resilience in successfully navigating a constantly evolving global travel industry, and indicates a strong and sustained rebound from the challenges faced by the sector in recent years.”

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “These very strong financials are a testament to the ambition and clear direction that has informed the Qatar Airways Group’s progress throughout the 2023/24 financial year.

“Our continued focus on profitability, efficiency and customer experience have been underpinned by a strategic programme of network growth and fleet expansion, resulting in the highest revenues and profit margins in the history of the airline. We also cemented our undisputed role as a key industry leader, maintaining our position as the airline of choice for millions of passengers worldwide.

“This incredible achievement is in no small part thanks to the collective endeavour of the entire Qatar Airways Group family who have worked tirelessly to achieve such stellar results. We must now use this as a foundation on which to build our continued success.”

As it celebrates its milestone 20 th year of operation in 2024, Qatar Airways Cargo maintained its position as the world’s leading air cargo carrier, forging ahead with a strategic focus on digitalisation, sustainability and growth contributing towards an increase in Cargo’s market share to 7.1 per cent in 2023/24, up by 0.04 per cent compared to previous financial year.

Qatar Executive (QE) has continued to deliver a solid business performance in a highly competitive market operating as the only business jet brand owned and fully integrated with a commercial airline. With consistent growth over the 2023/24 fiscal year, QE saw an increase in commercial charter revenue of more than 17 per cent, with a rise in flying hours of over 21 per cent illustrating its strong customer growth, particularly in Europe, the US and Asia.

Our investment in Qatar Airways’ loyalty programme Privilege Club yielded significant results during 2023/24, with membership increasing by more than 26 per cent. Member engagement also reached record levels with Avios collection growing at over 50 per cent, while Avios spend has grown by 75 per cent, in a year that witnessed the launch of key partnerships in India, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, in addition to the exciting new products in our home market.

Qatar Airways’ network grew to more than 170 destinations in 2023/24, adding Al Ula, Neom and Tabuk, in Saudi Arabia; Lyon and Toulouse, France; Medan, Indonesia; and Trabzon, Turkey throughout the year.

This is in addition to the resumption of operations to 14 destinations, including Bahrain, Bahrain; Birmingham, UK; Beijing, Chengdu and Chongqing, China; Davao, Philippines; Tokyo Haneda and Osaka, Japan; Marrakesh, Morocco; Nice, France; Penang, Malaysia; Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE; and Yanbu, Saudi Arabia.

The Group’s Commercial team played an instrumental role in bolstering our competitive position, innovating to exceed customer demand, growing revenue and market share, and ensuring the Qatar Airways Group name is synonymous with excellence – evident through airline being awarded the ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’ at the 2023 World Airline Awards managed by Skytrax.

As part of the Group’s ongoing strategic approach to building deeper, more meaningful relationships with global audiences, the brand also solidified its leadership position in the social media landscape during 2023/24. As a result, the Group is now the world’s number one airline across social channels – with more than 47 million combined followers, and is the number one followed airline in the world on Facebook, YouTube and TikTok.

  Qatar Airways Group also made significant strides in expanding its global sponsorship portfolio during 2023/24. Major highlights include the Group’s inaugural partnership as the Global Airline Partner of Formula 1®; becoming Official Global Airline Partner of top tier Italian football team, FC Internazionale Milano (Inter); renewing its existing partnership with FIFA until 2030; partnering with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) cricket team in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Group’s role as Official Strategic Partner for Expo 2023 Doha, which significantly raised the global profile of this landmark event on the global stage.

Please see the Qatar Airways Group - Annual Report 2023-2024 here:

Please see the Qatar Airways Group - Consolidated Financial Statement here:

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About Qatar Airways

A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways won the ‘World’s Best Airline’ for the unprecedented eighth time at the 2024 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax. Qatar Airways has been the World’s Best Airline in 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2024. The airline continues to be synonymous with excellence, also taking home, ‘World's Best Business Class’, ‘World's Best Business Class Airline Lounge’, and ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’. As leaders in industry innovation and digital adoption, Qatar Airways was also recently voted the 'World’s Best Airline Website' by World Travel Tech Awards.

Qatar Airways was the first Airline in the Middle East to be certified to the highest level of IATA’s Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) programme, based on recognised environmental management system principles (such as ISO 14001). As an inaugural signatory to the Buckingham Palace Declaration in March 2016, Qatar Airways became the first airline globally to be certified to the industry standard for the prevention of illegal wildlife trafficking in aviation.

Qatar Airways currently flies to over 170 destinations worldwide, connecting through its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport, the ‘World’s Best Airport’, as voted by Skytrax in 2021, 2022, and 2024. In 2024, Hamad International Airport also received the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ accolade for 10 consecutive years, as well as ‘World’s Best Airport Shopping’ for the second year in a row.

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Help! Qatar Airways Denied Us Boarding Because of a Broken Link.

A woman and her Chinese-born son were set to return to China for the first time since the pandemic, but their airline would not let them fly without filling out a health form they could not access.

By Seth Kugel

Dear Tripped Up,

I am a single American mother living in Jordan and working for the United Nations. In September 2019, I adopted my then 5-year-old son from China, and promised him we would return to visit his country every year. But the pandemic broke out. When China finally reopened to tourists in 2023, we got visas and booked a July flight to Beijing via Doha on Qatar Airways, paying about $1,400 total. My now 9-year-old had worked hard to maintain his language and was excited, but nervous. At that time, the Chinese government required passengers to fill out a “Health Declaration Form” in advance or upon arrival. The link on the Qatar Airways website was broken, but I confirmed online and with friends who had recently traveled to China that I could fill it out upon arrival. At the airport, Qatar Airways disagreed, and when I once again couldn’t get the form to work, we were denied boarding. My son collapsed on the airport floor, sobbing. I rebooked for the next day, and we flew to Beijing via Istanbul on Royal Jordanian and China Southern for $1,882. Neither airline requested to see the QR code showing my form had been approved: All passengers upon arrival were made to fill out new forms. Qatar Airways mostly refunded the tickets — we received $1,185 — but refused to admit it was wrong. Considering the more expensive last-minute flight and other costs (such as rebooking domestic flights and trains in China) we are out about $930. I believe the airline should provide a flight voucher that compensates us for that amount. Can you help? Elizabeth, Amman, Jordan

Dear Elizabeth,

Your run-in with the complex world of international travel documentation was especially devastating because of the emotional stakes this trip represented for your family. But confusion over documentation leads to denied boarding “thousands of times a day,” said Max Tremaine, the chief executive of Sherpa , a company that maintains a database of international entrance requirements for travelers.

Not to excuse Qatar Airways for what I will charitably call a vigorous over-enforcement of the rules, but those frontline airline workers facing long lines at check-in can have a difficult task, making snap judgments on whether travelers have sufficient documents or not.

Countries all have their own entry rules depending on the passports that travelers hold and where they are coming from, and airlines are fined when they mistakenly allow people to fly. The decision may be straightforward when their customers are an American family with valid passports headed direct from New York to London for a week’s vacation. But travel can be complicated — consider, say, when a Dutch banker is on his way to Bangladesh via Cairo or an Australian trapeze artist with a one-way ticket heads to a performance in Kyrgyzstan through Frankfurt.The pandemic only complicated this complicated system. In your situation, your itinerary had you going through Qatar Airways’ hub in Doha, meaning those behind you in line in Jordan were probably headed to dozens of countries, all with their own rules.

In its responses to your complaints, Qatar Airways cited information from Timatic, a system many international airlines use to track the ever-changing entry and departure rules. One email response read: “At the time of your travel, a QR code for China was mandatory before boarding the flight, and also as per Chinese regulations.”

When I contacted the airline, I got a similar answer in a statement from Craig Thomas, Qatar’s vice president for sales in the Americas. “Passengers traveling to China were required to complete an Online China Customs Health e-Declaration prior to boarding the aircraft,” he wrote, noting that local entry requirements are “often complicated” and that the airline is “committed to assisting our passengers in navigating any issues that may arise.”

But Qatar is incorrect about what Timatic was advising at the time. Timatic is run by the International Air Transport Association, a trade organization better known as I.A.T.A. The group’s assistant director who runs Timatic from the Netherlands, Mahir Sahin, sent me the actual information Qatar Airways’ staff would have been relying on in July 2023:

“Passengers must complete an ‘Exit/Entry Health Declaration Form’ and present a QR code before departure or upon arrival.”

The “or upon arrival” bit applied to your situation, as you discovered on your second itinerary. When I asked Qatar Airways about this apparent oversight on their part and asked if it would change their decision not to reimburse you with the requested credit, they did not respond.

But airlines often act extra carefully around such matters, as they are wary of those government fines if they fly passengers without proper documentation. Timatic holds no official status, said Mr. Sahin. The airline is ultimately responsible.

Mr. Sahin explained an agent’s thinking at the check-in counter: “The agent who is checking you in does not know whether everything that you enter will be accepted by the government.”

Airlines at times still resort to risk management,” he said, “making judgment calls on boarding a passenger, especially in cases where government rules and regulations leave room for interpretation.”

But there are precautions you and other travelers can take to reduce their risk.

International documentation requirements differ, so it is worth reading the country’s own policies as well as the U.S. State Department’s recommendations.

But the best strategy, said Mr. Sahin, is to use the same source that supplies the airline their information on entry requirements. Many international carriers provide online resources powered by data from Timatic (or other suppliers like Sherpa) that allow passengers to read what they read. (Qatar Airways’ Travel Requirements page uses Timatic data.)

You can also check the databases on your own, using this rather awkward but perfectly functional page for Timatic, and this more user-friendly but not necessarily as detailed one for Sherpa.

At the end of the day, though, as you discovered, there is still room for airline agents to interpret, and sometimes misinterpret, the rules. This is especially true when you are connecting through an airline’s hub to a third country and the agent may be unfamiliar with that destination’s immigration procedures.

Even that American family heading to London can theoretically be required to prove they’ve arranged accommodations, according to the British government . Timatic doesn’t mention that in its directives to airlines, and it is, for most travelers, unlikely to happen.

But when Timatic does mention a requirement, travelers should take it seriously even if they find conflicting information elsewhere.

I received an email from a California woman who was denied boarding by Avianca for a trip from Los Angeles via San Salvador and Bogotá, Colombia, to La Paz, Bolivia. In Los Angeles, an Avianca worker did not let her board, telling the traveler she needed passport photos and a copy of recent bank statements. She countered that there is no mention of this requirement on the State Department’s page on entry requirements for Bolivia . But that was the wrong place to look. If she had consulted Avianca’s Timatic-supplied page on travel requirements, she would have seen a requirement passengers must have a passport photo and be able to provide “proof of funds” upon arrival, and “these could be bank statements.”

She rebooked for the next day, got photos and dutifully printed out the bank statements. But you know how the story goes: Bolivian officials asked for neither.

If you need advice about a best-laid travel plan that went awry, send an email to [email protected] .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation.

Seth Kugel is the columnist for “ Tripped Up ,” an advice column that helps readers navigate the often confusing world of travel. More about Seth Kugel

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