Visa Types

Post-Arrival Tips & Hacks for Settling in Qatar

50 Tips and Hacks After You Reach the Airport in Qatar (After You Travel)

  1. Follow Signs for Visa Processing: Once you arrive, follow the signs to the visa processing area and have your documents ready.
  2. Keep Your Passport Handy: Immigration will ask for your passport and visa. Ensure it’s easily accessible when queuing.
  3. Stay Calm in the Immigration Line: Immigration lines can be long. Stay patient and keep your documents ready for inspection.
  4. Use the Airport Wi-Fi: Hamad International Airport offers free Wi-Fi, which can be useful for checking directions or contacting someone.
  5. Get Local Currency at the Airport: If you haven’t already exchanged currency, there are exchange counters and ATMs at the airport.
  6. Download the Qatar Airways App: If flying with Qatar Airways, the app can help with flight updates and baggage tracking.
  7. Find Your Luggage: After passing immigration, head to the baggage claim area to collect your checked luggage.
  8. Use Qatar’s Airport Taxi Service: For convenience, use the official airport taxi service or book through a ride-hailing app like Uber.
  9. Activate Your Local SIM Card: If you purchased a SIM card at the airport, activate it as soon as possible to avoid roaming charges.
  10. Use the Lounge if You Have Access: If you have access to the airport lounge, enjoy the comfort and amenities while waiting for transportation.
  11. Ask for Help at the Information Desk: If you’re unsure about anything, ask for assistance at the airport information desk.
  12. Check for Lost Items: If you’ve lost something, head to the lost and found counter at the airport to inquire.
  13. Set Your Mobile Phone to Local Time: Adjust your phone’s clock to Qatar Standard Time (GMT+3) to stay on schedule.
  14. Use Currency Exchange for Small Amounts: If you need small amounts of Qatari Riyals, the airport currency exchange services are handy.
  15. Plan Your Journey from the Airport: Confirm your taxi or shuttle service to your hotel or destination before leaving the airport.
  16. Check the Airport’s Shopping Options: Hamad International has many duty-free shops, so explore the options for gifts and souvenirs.
  17. Stay Hydrated: Purchase a bottle of water from the airport shops to stay hydrated after your flight.
  18. Keep Your Important Documents in a Safe Place: Place your passport, boarding pass, and important documents in a secure place.
  19. Use the Lounge to Freshen Up: If you’re tired or jet-lagged, visit one of the airport lounges to freshen up and relax.
  20. Check Local Transportation Schedules: If you plan to take public transport, check schedules for the Doha Metro or buses.
  21. Know the Airport’s Taxi Fare to Your Destination: Ask the airport taxi service for an estimated fare to your hotel or location.
  22. Pre-book Tours and Excursions: Check if your hotel or a local tour operator offers excursions you can book at the airport.
  23. Seek Assistance for Special Needs: If you have any special needs, such as mobility assistance, inform the staff at the airport for help.
  24. Stay Connected with Family: Use the airport Wi-Fi or your local SIM card to notify family and friends of your safe arrival.
  25. Download Qatar Travel Apps: Apps like Qatar Navigation and Karwa can help you with transportation and directions around the city.
  26. Be Aware of Local Customs: Respect the local customs, especially related to dress codes and public behavior, once you leave the airport.
  27. Take Advantage of Airport Services: Services like baggage wrapping and luggage storage can be helpful for travelers who need extra assistance.
  28. Plan for Prayer Times: Be aware that prayer times may affect opening hours of certain services within the airport.
  29. Look for Duty-Free Deals: Explore the duty-free shops for luxury items like perfumes, electronics, and Qatari souvenirs.
  30. Review Your Hotel Reservation: Double-check your hotel booking to ensure everything is in order upon your arrival.
  31. Activate Your Credit Cards: Ensure that your international credit cards are activated and working for payments in Qatar.
  32. Learn the Local Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers in Qatar, such as police and ambulance.
  33. Check the Transportation Hub: If you need to use the Doha Metro or other transport, look for signs pointing to the transportation hub.
  34. Use Baggage Wrapping Services: If you have fragile items, consider using the baggage wrapping service available at the airport.
  35. Explore the Art Exhibits: Hamad International is known for its impressive art installations. Take some time to explore these works.
  36. Keep Local Maps Handy: Grab a map of Doha or Qatar at the airport to familiarize yourself with your surroundings.
  37. Locate Restrooms: Once you arrive, locate restrooms to freshen up after your flight.
  38. Respect the Smoking Zones: Smoking is not allowed everywhere in the airport. Use designated smoking areas.
  39. Enjoy Local Cuisine at the Airport: Sample Qatari food at one of the restaurants within the airport to get a taste of local flavors.
  40. Don’t Forget Your Baggage Claim Ticket: Keep your baggage claim ticket safe to ensure a smooth baggage collection process.
  41. Verify Airport Shuttle Details: If your hotel provides an airport shuttle, double-check its schedule or confirmation.
  42. Avoid Scams: Be cautious of unofficial taxi services or people offering assistance for a fee.
  43. Get a Local Map from Your Hotel: Your hotel may offer maps of Qatar and sightseeing tips, which will be useful once you exit the airport.
  44. Double-Check Hotel Amenities: Confirm your hotel's check-in time, facilities, and transportation options upon arrival.
  45. Stay Calm During Customs Checks: Be patient and cooperate with customs officers when passing through security checks.
  46. Use the Airport's Currency Exchange for Immediate Needs: If you need local currency for taxis or meals, use the currency exchange counters available at the airport.
  47. Be Ready for Your Health Check: If required, be ready for any health checks (like temperature screening) that may occur upon entry.
  48. Respect the Local Privacy Norms: Be mindful of not photographing or filming people in public spaces, as privacy norms are strict.
  49. Track Your Flight Updates: Keep an eye on your flight status and gate changes via the airport’s information boards or mobile apps.
  50. Enjoy the Luxurious Services: Hamad International Airport offers top-notch services. Make the most of the comfortable lounges, premium facilities, and modern amenities during your layover.