Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Qatar
Welcome digital nomads! If you're planning your next move and considering Qatar as your next destination, you're in for a treat. This Middle Eastern country is known for its modern cities, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife. Here are seven cities and towns in Qatar that are perfect for digital nomads.
Doha
Doha, the capital city, is a must-visit for digital nomads. With its modern infrastructure and high-speed internet, you'll have no trouble staying connected. Doha is home to the Museum of Islamic Art, which showcases more than 1,400 years of Islamic art from around the world. The Katara Cultural Village is another must-visit, featuring traditional Qatari architecture, art galleries, and a beautiful amphitheater.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $1,200 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $150. A moderate dinner for one person at a restaurant with a drink costs around $30.
Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Friday Market at the Traditional Souk Waqif. Here you can find local handicrafts, spices, and textiles. Try the traditional Qatari dish, Machboos, which is made with rice, meat, and saffron.
Where to Stay & Eat: Consider staying in the West Bay area, which is home to many furnished apartments and is close to popular restaurants like India Palace and Noodle House.
Al Khor
Al Khor is a charming coastal town located north of Doha. Digital nomads will love the peaceful atmosphere and affordable cost of living. Al Khor Fort is a must-visit, offering stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. For nature lovers, the Al Khor Coast Nature Reserve is a must-visit, home to various bird species and beautiful mangrove forests.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe neighborhood costs around $800 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $120. A moderate dinner for one person at a restaurant with a drink costs around $20.
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the beautiful Fuwairit Beach, located just a short drive from Al Khor. Here you can relax, swim, and sunbathe in peace.
Where to Stay & Eat: Consider staying in the Al Khor Corniche area, which is close to many affordable restaurants like Al Fajr and Al Safliya.
Al Wakrah
Al Wakrah is a historic port town located south of Doha. Digital nomads will love the relaxed atmosphere and affordable cost of living. Al Wakrah Souk is a must-visit, offering traditional Qatari handicrafts and delicious street food. For nature lovers, the Al Wakrah Corniche is a beautiful place to take a walk and enjoy the sea view.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe neighborhood costs around $900 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $140. A moderate dinner for one person at a restaurant with a drink costs around $25.
Nomad Tip: Don't miss the traditional Qatari boats at the Al Wakrah Harbour. Take a tour and learn about the history of pearl diving in Qatar.
Where to Stay & Eat: Consider staying in the Al Wakrah Corniche area, which is home to many affordable restaurants like Al Dheeb and Al Aseel.
Mesaieed
Mesaieed is a small industrial town located east of Doha. Digital nomads will love the peaceful atmosphere and low cost of living. Mesaieed Park is a must-visit, offering beautiful green spaces, a playground, and a small lake. For nature lovers, the Mesaieed Beach is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the sea view.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe neighborhood costs around $600 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $100. A moderate dinner for one person at a restaurant with a drink costs around $15.
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the beautiful Sealine Beach, located just a short drive from Mesaieed. Here you can relax, swim, and enjoy the beautiful dunes.
Where to Stay & Eat: Consider staying in the Mesaieed Industrial Area, which is home to many affordable accommodations and restaurants like Al Madina and Al Wakrah.
Al Rayyan
Al Rayyan is a historic town located west of Doha. Digital nomads will love the peaceful atmosphere and affordable cost of living. Al Rayyan Park is a must-visit, offering beautiful green spaces, a playground, and a lake. For history lovers, the Al Rayyan Fort is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into Qatar's rich history.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe neighborhood costs around $900 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $130. A moderate dinner for one person at a restaurant with a drink costs around $25.
Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Al Jasra Handicraft Market, located in the historic Al Jasra area. Here you can find traditional Qatari handicrafts and delicious street food.
Where to Stay & Eat: Consider staying in the Al Rayyan Industrial Area, which is home to many affordable accommodations and restaurants like Al Mawaj and Al Majlis.
Umm Al Houl
Umm Al Houl is a beautiful coastal town located north of Doha. Digital nomads will love the peaceful atmosphere and affordable cost of living. Umm Al Houl Park is a must-visit, offering beautiful green spaces, a playground, and a lake. For nature lovers, the Umm Al Houl Beach is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the sea view.
Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe neighborhood costs around $1,000 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $160. A moderate dinner for one person at a restaurant with a drink costs around $30.
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the beautiful Al Thakira Mangroves, located just a short drive from Umm Al Houl. Here you can explore the beautiful mangrove forests and spot various bird species.
Where to Stay & Eat: Consider staying in the Umm Al Houl Corniche area, which is home to many affordable accommodations and restaurants like Al Khor Al Aqar and Al Fayrooz.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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