Qatar: Top Things you need to know before traveling

Top Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Qatar

Qatar: Top Things you need to know before traveling. The Persian Gulf peninsula of Qatar is a popular tourist destination with lots of things to see and do. Not familiar with Qatar but interested in learning more about a vacation there? Many of you may be curious about the World Cup since it will be held in November 2022.

How Friendly Are the Locals?

The people of Qatar are renowned for their warmth and are always glad to welcome visitors and show them around. Visitors are expected to be accommodating and helpful while also respecting and following local traditions. Therefore, you’ll be alright if you do your research before your trip and abide by the key dos and don’ts.

Customs And Culture: Do’s and Don’ts

The most important part of our “Things to Know” guide for Qatar is undoubtedly the “dos and don’ts” section. Buckle up because you have a lot to learn before your vacation. To ensure that you don’t forget anything, keep this close to hand while traveling.

• No PDA: Any hugging, kissing, or anything physical in public with the opposite sex is not allowed in Qatar and can get you fined or banned. Holding hands and a cheek peck is okay if it’s between husband and wife, however.
• Dress modestly: Non-Muslim women aren’t required to cover themselves with a hijab or niqaab, but you’ll have to cover yourself before entering a mosque. Even though you don’t necessarily need to cover yourself in public, men and women alike are still expected to dress modestly (no short, no crop tops – having shoulders exposed is a no-no). As for bikinis (but nothing teeny tiny), best to save them for the hotel pool only as public beaches have the same dress etiquette as other public spaces.
• Same-sex relationships are illegal in Qatar.
• Tipping: If there’s no service fee added to the bill, then a 10% tip is appropriate.
• While some bars and clubs allow for drinking, drinking alcohol in public is illegal in Qatar.

Gestures to avoid. A number of physical gestures are considered very offensive in Qatar and can result in a fine or worse, so make sure to take note of these:

• DON’T do the thumbs up sign. – While this is a casual greeting in Western culture, it is considered very rude in Qatar.
• Don’t cross your legs – especially when sitting in front of someone older or higher up.
• Don’t use one finger to gesture – Use your hand’s palm as an alternative. Aside from being extremely impolite.

Top Trending Things to Do in Qatar

From world-class shopping malls to museums and mangroves, a trip to Qatar is filled with wonders. Here are some of the top trending things to do for your trip:

• Al Thakira mangroves: Two hours away from Doha is this beautiful region of mangroves and other wildlife in Al Khor.
• Museum of Islamic Art in Doha: This gorgeous museum holds one of the largest collections of Islamic art in the world. You can also get some of the best views of the city’s skyline from the museum grounds
• Hit the beach:  Qatar is a great place to explore the gorgeous beaches that stretch along the peninsula. Try Al Maroona and Fuwairit Beach for beautiful views, and Katara Beach for water sports that the entire family will love.

How Safe Is It in Qatar?

Traveling in Qatar is generally secure as long as you abide by the laws and customs of the country.

Know that Qatar has a low crime rate and that you’ll be safe if you stick to the main areas and don’t venture out alone at night, even though there are still reports of pickpockets in some areas (you might want to watch your bags and don’t bring out anything flashy if you’re in a large crowded space).

Local Eats and Drink

A trip to Qatar will undoubtedly entice your taste buds with its delectable rice meals with meat and fresh vegetables, fragrant coffee and tea, and abundance of spices. When visiting Qatar, try some of the following foods and beverages:

• Waraq enab: Traditional stuffed grape leaves that come as a great side dish.
• Machboos: Spiced rice with just about any type of meat (camel, cow, lamb, chicken).
• Kousa Mahsi: Stuffed zucchinis with red sauce.
• Saloona: A stew made with a spicy broth and a bunch of local veggies.
• Karak chai: A strong tea

While Qatar is a new player on the global travel scene, a trip here won’t disappoint. There’s plenty of amazing experiences to be had, food to eat, and things to learn. Arrive with an open mind and be welcomed by the unique sights and sounds of this beautiful region.

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