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Moving to Qatar | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Doha, Qatar

Moving to Qatar

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Sep 22, 2023

Summary: Expats and digital nomads move to Qatar for its high quality of life, excellent job opportunities, and low cost of living. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Qatar are Doha, Al Khor, and Al Wakrah. People looking for a place to live in Qatar can search online for rental properties, contact real estate agents, or look for accommodation through their employer.

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What do I need to know before moving to Qatar?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Qatar, they said:

"Qatar is a rapidly developing country with a unique culture and customs. Expats should be aware that Qatar is a Muslim country and that Islamic laws and customs are strictly enforced. Expats should also be aware that Qatar has a hot and humid climate, with temperatures reaching up to 50°C in the summer months. It is important to dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions. Expats should also be aware that Qatar has a strict visa system and that they will need to obtain a valid visa before entering the country. Additionally, expats should be aware that English is widely spoken in Qatar, but Arabic is the official language. Finally, expats should be aware that Qatar has a high cost of living and that they should budget accordingly," commented one expat who made the move to Qatar.

How do I find a place to live in Qatar?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Qatar can be a daunting task. The best way to start is by researching the different areas of Qatar and deciding which one best suits your needs. You can find information about the different areas online, or by speaking to people who have lived in Qatar. Once you have narrowed down your search, you can start looking for rental properties. There are a variety of websites that list rental properties in Qatar, such as Qatar Living, Qatar Property Finder, and Qatar Rental. Additionally, you can contact real estate agents in Qatar who can help you find a suitable property. Finally, you can also look for rental properties in newspapers and magazines," replied a member in Qatar.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Qatar?

"Expat homes and apartments in Qatar tend to be modern and luxurious, with high-end amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and spas. Many expat homes and apartments also feature large balconies and terraces, offering stunning views of the city skyline. Expat homes and apartments in Qatar are typically well-equipped with modern appliances and furniture, and often come with housekeeping services," remarked one expat who made the move to Qatar.

What is the average cost of housing in Qatar?

If you are thinking about moving to Qatar, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Qatar is generally quite high, with the average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the capital city of Doha ranging from around 10,000 to 15,000 Qatari Riyals per month. Prices for larger apartments and villas can be significantly higher," explained one expat living in Qatar.

Should I buy or rent a home in Qatar?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Qatar, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Qatar can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and real estate market. However, it is important to consider the cost of buying a home in Qatar, as well as the cost of living in the country. Renting a home in Qatar can be a more affordable option, and it can also provide more flexibility if you are not sure how long you will be living in the country. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Qatar should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," remarked one expat in Qatar.

What should I pack when moving to Qatar?

We asked people living in Qatar to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Qatar, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing that will keep you cool in the hot, humid climate. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also essential for protecting yourself from the sun. Additionally, it is important to bring items that will help you adjust to the culture, such as modest clothing and a headscarf for women. It is also a good idea to bring a few items from home to make your new home feel more comfortable. Finally, make sure to bring any necessary documents, such as your passport and visa," explained one expat living in Qatar.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Qatar?

We asked people in Qatar if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be respectful of Qatar's culture and customs when visiting the country. It is important to dress modestly, especially for women, and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local laws and customs, such as not drinking alcohol in public or eating during the day during Ramadan. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious sites and to avoid taking photographs without permission. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid using offensive language or gestures," said one expat in Qatar.

"Yes, when I turned and suddenly saw a women covered in an abaya and I nearly screamed. It took me some time to get used to the women in black," said one expat who made the move to Doha.

"I have a habit of calling everyone 'Darling', it didn't sit right with one of my English students..a high ranking officer in the army," explained one expat living in Doha, Qatar.

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Why do people move to Qatar?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Qatar, they responded:

"Qatar is an attractive destination for expats due to its high standard of living, excellent job opportunities, and tax-free salaries. The country also offers a safe and secure environment, with low crime rates and a strong infrastructure. Additionally, Qatar is home to a diverse and vibrant culture, with a wide range of activities and attractions to explore. The country also boasts a modern and efficient transportation system, making it easy to get around. Finally, Qatar is a great place to raise a family, with excellent education and healthcare systems," wrote one expat living in Qatar.

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How are healthcare services Qatar?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Qatar, they replied:

"Qatar offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. The public healthcare system in Qatar is managed by the Ministry of Public Health, and is available to all citizens and residents of Qatar. The public healthcare system is of a high quality, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents in Qatar have access to the public healthcare system, and can use it for both primary and specialist care. Expats in Qatar can use the public healthcare system by registering with a local health center and obtaining a health card. The health card allows expats to access the public healthcare system, and receive subsidized healthcare services," said one expat living in Qatar.

"Do not worry if your company does not provide insurance. National Health in Qatar is beyond compare. It costs QR100 for a year. When you go private they quite often refer you to National Health system as they have the best facilities. Only draw back is queuing even when you have an appointment," offered one expat living in Doha.

What are medical services in Qatar like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Qatar, they replied:

"Qatar offers a wide range of medical services to its citizens and residents. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics that provide quality healthcare services. Qatar also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized treatments and services. The country also has a number of private medical facilities that offer a range of medical services. Qatar also has a number of medical research centers that are dedicated to researching and developing new treatments and technologies. In addition, Qatar has a number of medical insurance companies that provide coverage for medical expenses," commented one expat living in Qatar.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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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SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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Doha, Qatar

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

Contribute to Qatar Network Contribute
Help others in Qatar by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Qatar.

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