50 Tips and Hacks Before You Travel to Qatar from India (Before You Travel)

1. Visa Requirements: Ensure you have your tourist visa for Qatar. Verify the process well in advance as requirements may change.
2. Check Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Qatar.
3. Book Your Flights Early: Early booking can help you get cheaper tickets and more options for your preferred travel dates.
4. Currency Exchange: Exchange Indian Rupees (INR) for Qatari Riyals (QAR) before you travel to avoid high exchange rates at the airport.
5. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage coverage.
6. Understand Qatar's Culture: Qatar is a conservative Muslim country. Familiarize yourself with local customs, dress codes, and behavior expectations.
7. Weather Considerations: Qatar can get extremely hot, especially in the summer. Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
8. Packing Essentials: Include lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses for hot weather, and modest clothing for cultural sensitivity.
9. Vaccinations and Health: Check if any vaccinations are required or recommended before traveling to Qatar and make sure to carry any necessary medications.
10. Travel Adapter: Qatar uses Type G plugs, so make sure to bring a suitable travel adapter for your electronic devices.
11. Food Preferences: If you have specific dietary preferences, such as vegetarian or vegan, plan your meals in advance, as food may vary based on culture.
12. Airport Transfer: Pre-book airport transfers from the airport to your hotel to avoid the hassle of finding a taxi after arrival.
13. Hotel Reservation: Make hotel reservations in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.
14. Plan Your Itinerary: Research the must-visit places in Qatar such as the Museum of Islamic Art, Souq Waqif, and the Pearl-Qatar, and plan your sightseeing activities.
15. Emergency Contact Numbers: Save the contact information for your embassy or consulate in Qatar in case of emergencies.
16. Language Basics: While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases may be helpful.
17. SIM Card and Internet: Consider purchasing a local SIM card for cheaper data and communication services upon arrival.
18. Pack Snacks: Carry a few snacks for the journey as well as for the airport, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
19. Check for Layovers: If your flight has a layover, check the airport facilities and lounges available, especially if it's a long wait.
20. Check Baggage Allowance: Ensure your baggage complies with your airline's weight and size restrictions to avoid extra charges.
21. Avoid Last-Minute Booking: Last-minute bookings can be expensive, so try to plan and finalize your arrangements early.
22. Download Helpful Apps: Download travel apps like Google Maps, translation apps, and ride-hailing apps (like Uber or Karwa) for ease of navigation.
23. Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank about your travel to Qatar to avoid issues with international transactions and ATM withdrawals.
24. Money Saving Tips: Qatar is known for being an expensive destination, so look for discounts or promotions on accommodations and attractions before you travel.
25. Time Zone Adjustment: Qatar follows Arabian Standard Time (GMT+3). Adjust your watch or devices to the local time zone before departure.
26. Local Etiquette: Avoid public displays of affection, and be respectful of Qatar's conservative values, especially during Ramadan.
27. Buy Travel Essentials Before Departure: Items such as sunscreen, medication, and toiletries may be more expensive in Qatar.
28. Check Local Laws: Qatar has strict laws regarding alcohol consumption, drugs, and public behavior. Be aware of these laws before your trip.
29. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if traveling during the hot summer months, as Qatar's climate can cause dehydration quickly.
30. Pack a Hat and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun by packing a hat and sunglasses for outdoor activities.
31. Check Qatar Airways Offers: If flying with Qatar Airways, look for special deals and discounts available for your travel dates.
32. Keep Copies of Important Documents: Always carry photocopies of your passport, visa, flight tickets, and hotel reservation in case of emergencies.
33. Travel-Friendly Apps: Use apps like XE for currency conversion, Google Translate for language translation, and TripAdvisor for reviews on places to visit.
34. Plan for Jet Lag: If traveling long hours, plan your sleep schedule to reduce jet lag. Rest and hydrate well during your flight.
35. Know the Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially in public spaces. Avoid short skirts, shorts, or revealing tops when outside hotels and beaches.
36. Qatar’s Public Transport: Familiarize yourself with the Doha Metro, which offers an easy way to get around the city at an affordable price.
37. Book Tours in Advance: Some popular attractions may require advance booking or have limited entry during peak seasons.
38. Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Save money and the environment by carrying a refillable water bottle with you.
39. Pre-arrange an Airport Lounge: Many airports have lounges that you can book ahead to relax before departure or on arrival.
40. Check Airline Policies for Special Requests: If you need assistance, like wheelchair access or special meal requests, contact the airline well in advance.
41. Set Budget: Set a budget for your trip to Qatar and plan your spending to avoid overspending in an expensive destination.
42. Research Tipping Practices: While tipping is not mandatory, it is appreciated for good service, especially in restaurants and taxis.
43. Create an Emergency Plan: In case of any travel disruptions or emergencies, have a backup plan for accommodation or transport.
44. Use WhatsApp for Communication: Many people in Qatar use WhatsApp for quick communication, so make sure to have it installed on your phone.
45. Pack Light: Travel with only the essentials to avoid high baggage fees and make it easier to navigate airports and hotels.
46. Know the Public Holidays: Research public holidays in Qatar, such as Qatar National Day, to avoid any disruptions in services or attractions.
47. Avoid Littering: Qatar has strict laws about cleanliness. Dispose of trash properly and avoid littering in public places.
48. Bring a Travel Pillow: Long flights can be uncomfortable, so a travel pillow can help you sleep better and arrive refreshed.
49. Know the Legal Drinking Age: The legal drinking age in Qatar is 21, and alcohol can only be consumed in licensed hotels, bars, and private clubs.
50. Understand the Local Time for Prayer: Qatar follows the Islamic tradition of daily prayers, and businesses often close briefly during prayer times.