Doha City Guide

Food is diverse with local Qatari dishes and many international options. Vegetarian and vegan food is growing. Late-night dining is common in areas like Souq Waqif.

Nightlife centers on hotel bars and lounges due to alcohol restrictions. Shisha cafes are popular outside hotels.

Strong coffee culture with many specialty cafes and Arabic coffee traditions.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. Restaurants sometimes add service charges. Taxi and service tips are small but common.

Local SIMs from Ooredoo and Vodafone are sold at the airport and stores. eSIMs are available depending on provider and device. ID is required.

Doha is very clean with well-maintained streets and active waste management.

Many pharmacies, minimarts, and some clinics operate 24/7. Late-night food is widely available.

Supermarkets offer international products and fresh local goods at markets. Main stores include Carrefour, Lulu, Spinneys, Monoprix, and Al Meera.

Most places accept cards, but keep some cash for small shops or markets.

ATMs are common in airports, malls, and banks like Qatar National Bank and Commercial Bank. Fees on foreign cards vary.

Several international schools offer British, American, IB, and other curricula. English is the main teaching language, and bilingual options exist. Plan ahead for admissions.

The digital nomad scene is small but growing, with some meetups and online communities.

Large parks like Aspire and Oxygen Park offer shaded paths and green areas, great for outdoor activities.

Good running routes along The Corniche, Aspire Park, and The Pearl, with safe and shaded paths.

Several modern gyms and outdoor fitness options are available across the city.

Many courts in clubs and hotels with booking, rentals, and coaching.

Padel courts are increasingly common at sports clubs.

Several studios offer classes in various styles, with English-speaking instructors.

Martial arts classes in BJJ, Muay Thai, Karate, and Taekwondo, often with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing facilities; Qatar is desert terrain.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular with rentals and tours around The Pearl and mangroves.

No natural surfing spots due to calm Persian Gulf waters.

Diving available at coastal sites with reefs and wrecks. Good for beginners and advanced divers, best in cooler months.

Healthcare is high quality with public and private hospitals. Many staff speak English. OTC medicines are easy to find in pharmacies.

Tap water is treated and safe, but many prefer bottled water for taste.

Many parks and kid-friendly cafes. Attractions include KidZania, Gondolania Theme Park, and interactive museums.

LGBTQ+ rights are very restricted, with risks for public displays. No safe spaces.

Pet-friendliness is limited with strict regulations and few pet-friendly public places.