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Travel and entry requirements

Visa requirements.

Before booking your flight with Qatar Airways, we recommend that you check the latest information on passport, visa, health, and customs requirements to ensure you have the required documents at the time of travel.

Visas and other requirements

Before booking your flight with Qatar Airways, we recommend that you check the latest information on country/region travel restrictions as well as passport, visa, health and customs requirements.

This information is provided by Qatar Airways as a courtesy. Although it is updated regularly, please check back frequently as travel conditions can change. It is recommended that you verify travel and entry requirements through independent inquiries before your trip. 

Visitors entering Qatar may be required to obtain visitor health insurance as part of the visa application process.

For more information on how to get visitor health insurance, please visit  Ministry of Public Health - Mandatory Health Insurance Scheme (moph.gov.qa)  or the visitQatar visa details .

Passengers should check for up-to-date information published by relevant authorities and governments of their departure and destination country before travelling. Find out more through the links below:

International Air Transport Association (IATA) World Health Organisation Centers for Disease Control and Prevention United Nations World Tourism Organisation

Stay up to date on the latest worldwide airport and flight operations. 

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Is it safe to travel to Qatar right now? Latest travel advice

Qatar has been key to negotiations between israel, hamas and the west. here’s what you need to know about visiting this arab nation, including foreign office advice.

Q atar became the first Middle Eastern country to host the Fifa World Cup in 2022, putting it on the tourist map for those who might be looking for an alternative to the UAE. Like its regional neighbour, there is awe-inspiring architecture to gawk at and traditional souks selling herbs and spices, but the Arabic nation is also a centre for traditional and modern art. Among the highlights are the Museum of Islamic Art and Mathaf (the Arab Museum of Modern Art), both of which are in the capital, Doha.

Since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began, Qatar has also become an important regional mediator, despite the fact that it doesn’t border the countries involved. Here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: Mina District at Old Doha Port, Qatar (Alamy)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Qatar?

The UK Foreign Office (FCDO) does not currently have any travel advisories about Qatar . However, the FCDO says that terrorism in the country can’t be ruled out, and busy areas such as hotels, shopping centres and beaches could be targets.

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You should also be aware of local laws and customs, as well as actions that might cause offence. For example, public displays of intimacy could lead to arrest, while both men and women should dress modestly. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public, as well as swearing, playing music or dancing would be considered offensive.

Has Qatar been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Qatar does not border Israel, so it’s not directly affected by the conflict with Hamas. However, Qatar does have close ties with Hamas and has been an important regional mediator — it was key in the negotiations that secured the release of two American hostages held by Hamas.

Is it safe to travel to Qatar right now?

The high-profile death of British travel industry executive Marc Bennett in 2019 raised questions over whether it’s safe to travel to the country. However, there’s no reason not to travel to Qatar right now. The Arab nation is considered a safe place to visit and crime levels are also generally low.

What are Qatar’s entry requirements?

Those using a full British passport to travel to Qatar for tourism can get a free 30-day visa waiver on arrival. You can extend this through the Qatar Ministry of Interior. However, you will need a confirmed return or onward ticket, and your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the day you arrive.

If you’re travelling on a non-standard British passport, such as one from a British Overseas Territory, you will need a visa. You will also need a visa if you’re visiting the country for another reason.

Is Qatar safe for female travellers?

Qatar is generally considered safe for female travellers. However, you should still take care when walking or travelling alone, especially at night. You should also use reputable taxi firms.

The FCDO says that personal attacks, including sexual assault and rape, are relatively rare but they do happen. However, local laws mean that the burden of proof rests heavily on the victim. If they cannot prove that the sex was non-consensual, it may lead to their prosecution.

Those who have been sexually assaulted are advised to call the British Embassy on +974 4496 2000 for advice. It has also provided written guidance for victims of rape or sexual assault in Qatar.

Is Qatar safe for LGBT travellers?

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar. Same-sex relationships can lead to imprisonment or the death penalty.

• Best hotels in Qatar • Best things to do in Qatar

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Inspired to visit Qatar but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from BA Holidays and Expedia .

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Advice for all destinations.

Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccinations and malaria risk

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

• How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

• food and water safety
• accident prevention
• avoiding insect bites
• preventing and treating animal bites
• respiratory hygiene
• hand hygiene

Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

• Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: none.
• Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Tetanus.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Hepatitis B; Rabies.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 9 months or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission .

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
• Malaria not normally present unless the illness was contracted abroad.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

• The 'News' section on this page will advise if significant case increases or outbreaks have occurred in this country.

Prior to travel, you should:

• Check the latest government guidance on the FCDO Foreign travel advice and country specific pages for travel to this country and the rules for entering the UK on return.
• Ensure you are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination.
• You can check this in the FAQ's.
• If you are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 you should carefully  consider your travel plans  and consider seeking medical advice prior to making any decisions.

For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

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Travel to Qatar From the UK - COVID & Visa Requirements

Qatar attracts more and more tourists from all over the planet with its combination of modernity and Arabic tradition. But this year, the country gets even more attention from Western interests since it will host one of the biggest sporting events in the world: the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Specifically for citizens from the United Kingdom, where football is one of the most popular sports, it is a special time to visit this small state.

However, before you go, it’s important to check all the requirements for entry to Qatar. From COVID-19 regulations to visas for Qatar , we got you covered. But rest assured, British travelers will not have many issues visiting Qatar for the World Cup or simply for a holiday.

Where is Qatar?

For many UK passport holders, traveling to Qatar is a unique experience. In part, that is due to Qatar's location halfway around the world. Qatar is the smallest country hosting the World Cup since its foundation. Located on the west side of the Persian Gulf, it is connected to Saudi Arabia by land. There are just under three million people living in Qatar, mostly in or around Doha, the capital .

All you need to know about traveling to Qatar for the 2022 FIFA World Cup

The FIFA World Cup will take place in Qatar from November 1st, 2022 until January 23rd, 2023 . It’s the first time that a country in the Middle East hosts the sporting event and a great opportunity for UK citizens who love football, to travel to this destination.

Hamad International Airport in Doha is the main way to enter the country. The matches will take place in Doha, Al Wakrah, and Al Khor. All cities are relatively close to each other, with no distance of more than 60km. You can also consider renting a car with an international driving permit, to visit the stadiums.

Since the event is coming up soon, it is recommended to book your accommodation as soon as possible, as many hotels and guesthouses are filling up quickly. If you can’t find a place to stay in Doha, it may be easier to find accommodation in Al Wakrah or Al Khor.

Now that you've got your tickets, learn more about the entry requirements for Qatar as a UK citizen!

Qatar entry requirements for UK nationals

For those who will visit Qatar during the 2022 FIFA World Cup , there are some special requirements, such as applying for the Hayya Pass . The event is an excellent opportunity to see the most interesting cities in the country to watch different matches. It is easy to travel from one city to another in Qatar, since the territory is small.

Qatar Ehteraz pre-entry registration

Many countries around the world have specific pre-travel registration systems in place for arriving and departing passengers in order to protect public health and limit the spread of COVID-19, including Qatar. The Ehteraz pre-registration is a declaration on the public health website of Qatar, that helps the government monitor health risks in the country.

It is not mandatory anymore for Hayya cardholders to download the Ehteraz app, but it is still recommended as it gives the most up-to-date info about the Coronavirus in Qatar.

How to obtain the Hayya Card for Qatar as a UK national

One of the local authorities' requirements during this time is to apply for a Hayya Card on the specific Qatar government website. This is a personalized document required not just for every single person attending FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 matches, but also for any tourist visiting the country during this period. The card will permit Qatar entry, as well as stadium access and free public transportation (underground and bus).

Visa requirements for Qatar for UK citizens

UK citizens are eligible for a Qatar visa on arrival . This Qatar visa is valid for 30 days , but if you need a 30 day-extension is possible. You receive it upon arrival at Doha’s airport, with no need to apply for a visa in advance at the Qatar embassy in the UK.

The requirements for a visa waiver are a passport (the passport validity needs to be at least six months with two blank visa pages), airline online booking form, and proof of funds to cover the duration of stay. In any case, it’s always a good idea to confirm with the airline that boarding will be permitted under these conditions.

COVID-19 regulations in Qatar

As a UK citizen, entering Qatar under COVID-19 isn't a problem. Having been removed from the red list, citizens from the UK have fewer restrictions.

The United Kingdom is currently classified as a green country by Qatar, which means British travelers will have to follow standard health measures. You are not required to do a PCR test or show a vaccination certificate to travel to Qatar. There are no quarantine requirements.

More questions or need travel advice?

If you need any further information about travel to Qatar from UK territory, during the FIFA World Cup or beyond, do not hesitate to contact the iVisa customer service experts, online or via email: [email protected] . They are available 24/7 to assist you with visas, your Ehteraz applications, or travel advice for another destination country.

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• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/practical-info/visas

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Qatar Travel Tips: 19 Useful Things to Know Before You Visit Doha

Considering a stopover in Doha or planning your first visit to Qatar for the FIFA World Cup? This list of 19 incredibly useful Qatar travel tips covers everything from dress code and rules for couples, to budgeting, and how to move around the city.

In many respects, Qatar is a closed book.

Before I decided to sign up for a layover in Doha , I knew very little about this tiny oil-rich Islamic country in the Persian Gulf. Like many travellers before me, it was precisely this sense of the ‘unknown’ that lured me to visit Doha – that, and the promise of fragrant souqs, harbours crowded with dhow boats and men parading the streets with falcons perched on their wrists instead of Rolex watches.

What is it like to travel in the richest country in the world per capita, where more than 85% of the local population are expats or migrant workers?

Most people’s experience of Qatar will be like mine: A somewhat superficial brush with a small but socially complex country on an extended layover. For practical reasons, Qatar is a great place to break up a long flight (the trip from Australia to Georgia , for example).

Even if your visit is fleeting (heck, even if you’re not planning to leave the airport), there are certain things you should know about Qatar in advance to make your experience in this beautiful Middle Eastern nation smoother and more enjoyable.

From what to wear, to which day of the week to avoid and a few sure-fire tips to save money, here are 19 incredibly useful Qatar travel tips to help you prepare for your visit.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Doha Quick Links

• Find cheap flights to Doha: Use Skyscanner to find the best price on Doha flights. Remember you may have to book direct through Qatar Airways if you want to take advantage of the free stopover.
• Do you need a visa for Qatar? Qatar offers visa-free entry for citizens of more than 80 countries Check to see if you need a Qatar visa on iVisa .
• Do you need proof on onward travel? Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel and/or a hotel reservation.
• Insure your trip: HeyMondo is my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.
• Stay connected: Set up an Airalo eSIM for Qatar before you leave home and hit the ground running when you arrive in Doha.
• How to get from Doha Airport to the city: Take the newly constructed metro or organise a private hotel transfer from Hamad International Airport (recommended if you’re arriving late at night or early in the morning).
• Doha car hire: Keen to explore more of Qatar? Use Discover Cars to find the best price on a rental car in Doha.
• On a short layover? This Doha transit tour starting and ending at the airport is a great way to see the city when you have limited time.
• 5 essentials to pack for Doha: Universal travel adapter ; an insulated water bottle and LifeStraw (Qatar is one place you definitely want to stay hydrated!); a travel scarf with hidden pocket (handy for visiting mosques or covering up in the sun); sun protection gear – including a wide-brim hat and sunglasses at a minimum; a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Qatar .

Watch my Doha travel video

19 practical qatar travel tips, 1. a qatar airways stopover is the easiest way to organise your doha visit.

If you want a taste of Doha, you can squeeze a lot into a 24 or 48-hour layover .

In an effort to encourage more people to travel with the national carrier and break-up their journey in Doha, Qatar’s tourism board introduced a program to incentivise extended layovers. Booked through Qatar Airways , a stopover can take a lot of the hassle out of organising a trip.

It works like this: Choose your airfares to and from Doha (they must be with Qatar Airways, and you must leave a minimum gap of 12 hours between flights). You’ll then be eligible for a ‘free stopover’ of 1-4 nights. Benefits include a heavy discount on a selection of 4 and 5-star hotels , and a free transit visa (if you need one).

If your stopover is shorter (6-12 hours), you can opt for a discounted Doha transit tour instead.

2. The climate is extreme, so time your visit wisely

Remember when Qatar was first named host country for the 2022 FIFA World Cup? Most newscasters’ first reaction was to point to the absolute unsuitability of the climate for outdoor sports.

Qatar has a desert climate – hot and dry are the imperative words here. But that doesn’t mean it’s sweltering year-round.

Cool season (December through February) is mild, with temperatures averaging 14-25 Celsius most days. Desert gusts are tempered, skies are clear, and rainfall is minimal, giving Doha a spring-like atmosphere. This is by the far the best time to visit Qatar (and for the record, this is when the World Cup will take place, too).

With that in mind, Qatar is certainly not a place you want to visit in the peak summer months. May through September is much warmer, with max temperatures hovering around the low 40s. July, traditionally the hottest month of the year, should be avoided at all costs. It’s not unusual for the mercury to soar to 43 Celsius in June, July and August.

You should also consider whether your visit will coincide with the Holy Month of Ramadan . Qatar is an Islamic nation, and majority of people observe the 30 days of fasting and prayer. Under Sharia Law, it is illegal to eat or drink in public in Doha during Ramadan. Most cafes and restaurants close during the day, while shops, museums and the souq all observe restricted hours.

Other rules, such as dress code , are more strictly enforced during the Holy Month.

3. Doha is surprisingly affordable

The official currency in Qatar is the Qatari riyal (QAR) . Like in neighbouring Oman , it’s relatively easy to make your money stretch further. We drew up a rough budget and withdrew cash on our first day in Doha (ATMs, by the way, are ubiquitous, and most venues accept payment by credit card). This was one of the rare times we over-estimated our spend and had to change most our riyals back into USD at the airport.

In the end, we spent around 40 USD per person per day on food and transport in Doha. That was enough to cover three solid meals, a few trips on the metro, and tickets for the Museum of Islamic Arts.

Food portions are huge, so you can easily save money by sharing meals. The metro is cheaper than taking a taxi (more on that later), and you can save even more cash by avoiding ticketed attractions (our biggest expense by far, aside from accommodation, was museums).

4. Tipping is customary, but not mandatory

There are no hard and fast rules about tipping in Qatar – but it is increasingly expected in Doha, especially from tourists.

If you’re happy with the service, it is considered polite to offer waiters and other staff a small gratuity. Generally speaking, 10-15% is acceptable for restaurants, cafes and bars, while you should aim to tip your taxi driver or gas station attendant 5-10 QAR.

5. Doha shuts down on Friday mornings

Friday prayers, or Salat al-Jumu’ah , are an obligatory religious ritual in Qatar. Walking around on a Friday morning, Doha can feel like a ghost town as most people are busy attending mosque.

Restaurants, cafes and museums don’t open until 1pm or 2pm on Fridays . Two of the city’s most popular attractions, the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif, are both closed on Friday mornings. If your Qatar layover falls on a Friday, keep in mind that you’ll have to structure your itinerary around these restricted hours.

Also bear in mind that the Doha metro doesn’t start running until 2pm on Fridays.

6. There is a dress code when you visit Doha

Much like rules for couples, there seems to be tension between official policy and public consensus when it comes to the dress code in Doha.

From my observations, locals and expats in Doha tend to dress modestly in their daily life. Long, loose-fitting clothing seems to be the preferred style. As Qatar is a Muslim country, tourists are generally expected to cover their shoulders and knees at a minimum (although I did see a few short skirts and spaghetti tops on the street during my visit).

Showing too much skin in public places is frowned upon. Swimsuits are only allowed in hotel pool areas or on private beaches , and are forbidden on public beaches.

The rules are of course a lot stricter if you’re visiting a mosque or religious site . You won’t be permitted entry to a mosque unless you’re covered up and wearing a scarf over your hair (women). It surprised me to learn that you might be denied entry to the Museum of Islamic Art if your shoulders and knees aren’t covered. This is the only place I’m aware of that imposes such restrictions.

The dress code at the airport is more liberal, but I still recommend carrying a light cardigan and wearing long pants if you’re transiting through Doha and want to feel more comfortable.

The consequences for donning inappropriate attire range from awkward stares from locals through to be removed from a venue by security or even being fined by police. Dress codes are more strictly enforced during Ramadan. Needless to say, small towns and rural areas are more conservative, so you should always dress modestly outside Doha .

7. Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken

Being a former British protectorate, English is widely spoken in Qatar. Arabic is the nation’s official language for daily use, but when it comes to business, trade and official procedures, English is the go-to.

You’ll find that most Qataris speak English, especially those who work in tourism. We had no issues getting around with English only.

8. It’s perfectly safe to visit Doha as a (solo) woman

Provided you dress appropriately and avoid certain behaviours such as drinking in public (more on that later), Doha is a perfectly safe place for solo female travellers .

Crime rates are very low in Doha across the board, which is why it’s constantly ranked among the top 3 safest cities in the world . Streets are well-lit at night, and apart from the odd overexcited taxi driver, there’s not really a ‘hassle culture’ in Doha. You won’t be approached in the souq, for instance.

One thing you should be aware of is ‘men-only’ establishments – tea houses and restaurants that are closed off to Qatari ladies and foreign women alike (this should be pretty obvious if there’s only dudes around). Most public spaces are of course mixed, but some restaurants and cafes have special ‘family areas’ for women and children. The Doha metro has family carriages if you want to sit with other females.

Here are more tips for visiting Doha as a solo female traveller .

9. There are particular rules for couples

If you’re travelling to Qatar as a couple, there are particular local laws and social customs to be aware of.

Until recently, unmarried couples were prohibited from sharing a hotel room. This rule seems to have been relaxed in recent years, at least for foreign tourists. According to recent reports, it still applies to Qatari couples and expats living in the country.

This was our experience: We booked a hotel room in Doha under my husband’s name. Despite having different surnames in our passports, we weren’t asked to explain the nature of our relationship. We were married at the time (this was actually our honeymoon), so we weren’t particularly concerned – I had a copy of our marriage certificate ready to show if needed.

If this is something you’re worried about, try sticking to international hotel chains (for example, the InterContinental) or just email your accommodation in advance to double check the house policy.

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar, but it’s not unusual for men (for example, business travellers) to share a hotel room. See here for more information and advice about queer travel in the Middle East .

Public displays of affection (including hand-holding) are illegal in Qatar.

10. Some hostels are single-gender

If you’re booking a hostel in Doha, make sure you check whether it’s gender-separated . Some hostels only offer men’s dorms (for example, Casper Hostel ), while T Ladies Hostel is female-only. To make things confusing, the policy isn’t always obvious at first.

Q Hostel offers both men’s and women’s dorms – but no hostel in Qatar offers mixed dorms. Couples, therefore, may be better off upgrading to a mid-range hotel.

A final note on accommodation in Doha: Airbnb is legal in Qatar and can be an affordable alternative to a hotel. You can find some beautiful self-contained apartments with sea views around The Pearl, and simpler private rooms near the souq.

11. Qatar is incredibly multicultural

Another thing that surprised me about Qatar is that 85.7% of the population is made up of expats . India, Bangladesh and Nepal are the top three countries represented.

As a visitor, you feel Qatar’s cultural diversity on several levels. Firstly, the plurality of faces on the street is obvious and gives Doha a cosmopolitan feel. Travellers also benefit from an incredibly rich food scene , including some great Indian and Yemeni restaurants.

But you can’t ignore the fact that many of these workers are low-paid (or unpaid) labourers . As far as I know, forced labour isn’t directly related to the tourism industry in Qatar, but it’s still something to keep in mind when you’re visiting Doha.

The ILO is a great resource for information on this topic.

12. Qatari culture is relatively accessible

Gulf nations like the United Arab Emirates are known for flashy developments and high-rise buildings. But Qatar is a little closer to Oman in terms of local culture. Downtown Doha is quite modern, but it’s clear that the government has gone to great lengths to ensure preservation of local culture in the architecture.

Despite the fact that it’s reconstructed, Souq Waqif still appears true to style. The Falcon Market is the perfect place to experience one of Qatar’s most beloved local customs, falconry. 

My advice is to skip the shiny shopping malls and stick to traditional markets.

13. Doha is home to one of the world’s most sustainable city districts

One of the first things that strikes you about Doha is how new and polished everything feels. There are grungy corners, yes – but for the most part, even the oldest parts of the city (including the souq) have been entirely reconstructed.

This has pros and cons. On the downside, Doha lacks the gritty charm and ‘rustic authenticity’ of Muscat , for example.

On the plus side, when you re-build a city from scratch, the only limit is your imagination. In the case of Msheireb, one of Doha’s oldest districts, planners envisaged a futuristic, sustainable city when they went about revitalising the area.

Msheireb Downtown combines traditional Qatari design with green technology. The district has the highest concentration of LEED-Certified buildings in the world . Streets are laid out to catch the Gulf breeze and shade walking routes and windows, limiting the need for air conditioning.

The whole area is solar powered and planted out with native flora. Massive underground car parks have been installed to limit traffic and encourage people to walk or cycle.

Pretty neat, huh?

14. Qatar is a tea-drinking nation

Skip the water, skip the booze: Grab a tea instead.

Tea is ubiquitous in Doha, and enjoying a cuppa or two (or three) at a local cafe or chai house is a must-do for every visitor. In the mornings, you can find groups of men sitting around playing dominoes and sipping short glasses of bubbly, brick-coloured karak tea .

Karak was introduced to Qatar by Indian and Pakistani expats in the 1950s. A version of Masala Chai, karak is a heady brew of tea, milk, sugar and spices boiled low and slow for maximum flavour. The traditional Qatari version contains only cardamom , but cinnamon, cloves or ginger may also be added.

A cup of karak typically costs 1-4 QAR depending on the establishment.

15. You should avoid drinking tap water (and alcohol)

Qatar isn’t a dry country, but alcohol is strictly regulated . Booze served in hotels is subject to a ‘sin tax’ and expensive as a result. If you’re serious about saving money, avoid drinking.

There is conflicting information online, but the general consensus is that you shouldn’t drink the tap water in Doha. Drinking fountains around mosques and on the Corniche should also be avoided, particularly if you have a sensitive stomach.

Apart from being a terrible blight on the environment, there are also concerns over imported bottled water in Qatar containing higher than normal levels of arsenic. The easiest solution is to carry a Steripen or LifeStraw and purify your own water .

16. It takes a ridiculously long time to cross the street

Walking around Doha can be a strange experience. First of all, pavements are usually deserted (especially in the middle of the day) as most people opt to drive.

One peculiarity we noticed is the time it takes to cross the street. Every intersection is fitted with lights and pedestrian crossings in a bid to control heavy traffic in the inner-city. These run on a ‘smart system’ that uses sensors to detect cars and direct flows.

As a result, it’s not uncommon to have to wait 10 minutes or more to cross the street in Doha. But wait you must – drivers are unpredictable, speeding is common, and jaywalkers face fines of up to $140.

17. There are construction sites everywhere!

Like many other Middle Eastern countries in the Gulf Region, parts of Qatar and especially Doha do feel like one big construction site.

New power plants, expressways, stadiums and apartment blocks are mushrooming in every corner of the city, and this does mean that some streets are dusty and noisy as a result. Take care when you’re walking around Doha, and if you’re a particularly light sleeper, it might be worth checking if your accommodation is close to a worksite.

18. Metro is the best way to get around

If you prefer not to walk, you can always take an Uber . But the most cost-effective way to move around Doha is using the city’s relatively new underground metro system.

Completed in May 2019, it’s one of the fastest driverless trains in the world. Departures are frequent, it’s very easy to navigate, and most major tourist attractions (including the Corniche, the museum and Katara Cultural Centre) have dedicated ultra-modern stations.

Best of all, a one-way metro fare costs just 2 QAR . Single tickets can be bought from machines inside the stations – no cards or top-ups necessary.

There are three metro lines: The north-south red line (handy for getting to Katara Cultural Village), and the east-west gold and blue lines. Running hours are still being negotiated, but at the time of writing, the metro runs from 6am until 11pm Saturday to Wednesday, from 6am until midnight on Thursdays, and from 2pm until midnight on Fridays.

In December 2019, the metro expanded to include a stop at Doha’s international airport , making this an efficient way to get into the city when you first arrive in Qatar.

19. You need a car to explore beyond the city

Public transport within Doha is efficient and affordable. But if you want to explore beyond the city centre, you’re going to need a car.

Here, you have two options: Either hire your own wheels and self-drive – the easiest way to explore on. your own terms – or join an accompanied tour . A day tour is the best way to go if you have limited time in Doha and you want to see something specific (such as the Inland Sea or Zakreet).

If you have more time and want the freedom to seek out far-flung sand dunes and coastal fishing villages, consider renting a car at Hamad International Airport . All major companies are represented. I suggest using Discover Cars to find the best price on a rental for your dates and requirements.

Qatar is a signatory of the United Nations convention and thus it is a legal requirement for all foreigners to present a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) when hiring a car. Driving in Qatar is fairly straightforward, but for safety reasons, it’s best to limit your driving to daylight hours.

Where to stay in Doha

We stayed at Saraya Corniche for 2 nights during our Doha stopover. Our room was comfortable but a little dated – however, we really loved the central location walking distance from the waterfront and souq.

If we had our time again, we would choose either the InterContinental or Souq Waqif Boutique Hotel . The latter is set right in the heart of the souq and features roomier, more luxe suites than Saraya.

If you’re on a shorter layover and you prefer to stay near the airport, Oryx Transit Hotel is the top choice.

What are your top Qatar travel tips? Leave your advice in the comments below.

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Exercise normal precautions in Qatar.

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https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2024/05/13/should-we-be-worried-about-the-new-covid-19-variant-2/

Should we be worried about the new COVID-19 variant?

With the recent emergence of a new group of COVID-19 variants, known collectively as FLiRT, some people are asking about how these new strains compare to other variants. The unofficial nickname was inspired by the names of the mutations in the genetic code of the variants. They descend from JN.1, which had variant BA.2.86 as a parent.

What have we seen so far?

One of the FLiRT variants, KP.2, caused around 25% of new sequenced cases in the US over the last 2 weeks of April, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

As of April 2024, in the UK, the circulating variants are a mix of JN.1 sublinages , several of which appear to be increasing in prevalence. KP.2 is one of the variants identified in the UK. We will continue to monitor these variants as the situation evolves.

UKHSA is continuing to monitor data relating to new variants both in the UK and internationally, assessing their severity and the ongoing effectiveness of vaccines. There is no change to the wider public health advice at this time.

It is important to note that we will need more data to draw any conclusions about the effect of these mutations on transmissibility and severity of the variant. In this blog post we’ll outline what we know so far and what action we are taking.

It’s normal for viruses to mutate and change, and more widely we’re still getting to grips with how the healthcare system responds to the ebb and flow of seasonal cases. As more data becomes available on this variant, we’ll have a better understanding of how it interacts with our immune systems and how to optimise our protection and as well as actions we can take to keep the most vulnerable safe and live our lives as normally as possible.

If people become unwell, and are unsure if they have COVID-19, what should they do?

If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as COVID-19, and you have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to go to work or carry out normal activities, you should avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay at home if possible.

For those of us who absolutely can’t stay at home, our  Living with COVID guidance  is unchanged, and outlines how to prevent transmission to others.

Why should people come forward for their vaccine?

Vaccines remain our best defence against severe disease and hospitalisation from flu and COVID-19. That’s why we’re asking over-75s, those who have a weakened immune system, and anyone living in a care home for older adults, to come forward for their spring vaccination.

What surveillance systems are in place?

We publish the latest surveillance data for COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses weekly, to the  UKHSA data dashboard . We’re also getting vital data from those who are admitted to hospital with symptoms, and we are utilising genome sequencing to understand which variants people are most vulnerable to.

There are also specific surveillance programmes in place, where small sample groups are tested regularly. These allow us to monitor trends in the wider community.

Hospital is where we will see the more severe cases, and we will be monitoring the numbers of people attending with COVID-19 symptoms very carefully. This will help us understand the growth rate and transmission potential of the new variant.

We continue to collaborate globally with health organisations in other countries, the  World Health Organisation  and initiatives such as the  Global Influenza Surveillance & Response System (GISAID)  to ensure that we have the most current data.

What is the UKHSA doing to tackle the new variant?

When a new variant appears on our radar, at the initial stages it is often quite difficult to know whether the mutations provide any advantages to the virus. Genetic mutations happen all the time, and in some cases have been known to make a virus less transmissible or cause a milder reaction in people.

At these early stages our scientists at the  Vaccine Development and Evaluation Centre (VDEC)  are busy growing a stock of the JN.1 variant in our high containment facilities, so that we can begin testing.

At the same time, scientists in our COVID-19 Vaccine Unit work hand in glove with vaccine developers to get samples of new, as yet unlicensed, vaccines to assess whether they will give better protection against the virus.

Vaccinations for flu and COVID-19 help to keep vulnerable people out of hospital and carrying on with their day-to-day lives, as well as reducing pressure on our NHS. If you’re eligible for the jabs, please don’t hesitate, book your vaccine today .

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The Webby Awards

Highlights from the 28th annual webby awards.

23rd Annual Webby Awards

Entry deadline: december 20, 2020.

Last night was the 28th Annual Webby Awards, hosted by Amber Ruffin! It was an unforgettable night, a fitting toast to the Internet’s most cutting-edge teams and creators who took One Giant Leap to create something unparalleled.

It was a night to remember—from a toast to Internet fave and visionary creative Keke Palmer , Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ heartfelt moment with Ina Garten , a show of gratitude Shannon Sharpe , a remarkable homage to Kara Swisher’s lifetime of groundbreaking reporting, and a celebration of Jerrod Carmichael’s brilliant comedic performance. Amber Ruffin broke out in song to bid farewell to the digital moments that make us all cringe.

Plus, special appearances from President and CEO of the NAACP Derrick Johnson, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Laverne Cox, Madison Tevlin, Grimace, Oliver and James Phelps, and more!

We’ve rounded up a few special moments below—get a closer look into the show at winners.webbyawards.com ! Follow @TheWebbyAwards everywhere to catch up on all the fun and keep the celebrations going by using #Webbys.

Relive the best moments from the Internet's biggest night! Follow @TheWebbyAwards everywhere for the full recap.

The loved and lauded Keke Palmer accepted a Webby Special Achievement Award for her one-of-a-kind, vibrant, presence online, and for blending digital innovation and artistry to empower Black communities. With her trademark charm, she left the audience with “I’m Blessed to Do This.”

Watch Keke’s Speech

After sharing a touching moment with presenter Ina Garten , the iconic Julia Louis-Dreyfus accepted the 2024 Webby Podcast of the Year Award for her poignant podcast, “Wiser Than Me.” Her words were, ”Listen to Old Women, Motherf*ckers.”

Watch Julia’s Speech

For platforming crucial cultural and social dialogues through his podcast, “Club Shay Shay”—plus his advocacy for racial equality and early detection in health— Shannon Sharpe accepted the 2024 Webby Advocate of the Year Award , presented by President and CEO of the NAACP Derrick Johnson . His 5-Word Speech? “God is Great. Thank You.”

Watch Shannon’s Speech

In an unforgettable moment, the room came to a hush as Kara Swisher took the stage to accept the 2024 Webby Lifetime Achievement Award from legendary journalist Maggie Haberman . It was a fitting tribute to her life’s work of breaking the toughest stories across business and tech. Her 5 Words? “I Ain’t Done, Tech Bros.”

Watch Kara’s Speech

Multi-talented comedian and storyteller Jerrod Carmichael accepted the Webby Outstanding Comedic Performance Award from comedian and actor Lil Rel Howery, for his fresh, witty and raw work in his documentary series, the “Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show.” In typical Jerrod fashion, his 5 Words were, “Risk Everything Every Time. Thanks.”

Watch Jerrod’s Speech

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer took the stage to accept a Webby Award from Amanda Litman , Co-Founder & Co-Executive director of Run for Something, for expertly wielding social media to empower women through her campaign, “Governor Barbie.” Even in a moment dedicated to her, she used it to inspire women everywhere to break stereotypes—”Wear Pink. Get Shit Done.”

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A deeply reflective and spiritual series, “The Laverne Cox Show,” was honored with a Webby for spotlighting intimate conversations about life and sharing wisdom from people of all walks of life. Laverne Cox graced the Webby stage once again to accept the award from Chase Strangio, Deputy Director for Transgender Justice with ACLU’s LGBT & HIV Project, saying, “Healing Collective Trauma: Necessary, Possible.”

Watch Laverne’s Moment

Madison Tevlin , Canadian actress, digital creator, and face of the instant viral video, “Down Syndrome is the Least Interesting Thing About Me,” accepted her Webby for the campaign in a moving exchange with Canadian model and fellow creator, Coco Rocha . Her message? “It’s fun proving people wrong.”

Watch Madison’s Speech  

At a time when life-saving reproductive resources are under attack, the film “Plan C” documents the creative loopholes advocates have found to provide radical access to abortion pills. Following remarks on the urgency of this work from Webby President Claire Graves , Meena Harris , CEO of Phenomenal Media and the Reductress , presented the Director of the film, Tracy Droz Tragos, and Plan C Co-Founder, Francine Coeytaux, with the movie’s Webby Award for creatively using social media for advocacy. She called the audience to action, saying “It Feels Like A Revolution. (Available in All 50 States).”

Watch the Inspiring Moment

Last night was also dedicated to celebrating the wonderful and near-addictive apps that we all use and love. Nilay Patel, Editor-in-Chief of The Verge and co-host of The Vergecast, honored Webby People’s Voice Winners Threads, Letterboxd and The New York Times Connections Game in a special onstage moment.

Watch the Moment

Head to winners.webbyawards.com for a full recap of the night! For a peek into the behind-the-scenes action, follow @TheWebbyAwards on Instagram , X/Twitter , TikTok and YouTube !

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