Qatar Holidays

How to reach Qatar

• Flight time: Direct flights to Qatar from the UK take from 6 hours 30 minutes to 7 hours 30 minutes, and are available from London, Manchester and Birmingham. Other airports offer flights via London or other European hubs and take a little longer.

• Transfer time: Once you arrive at Hamad International Airport, the best way to get into Doha city centre is either the new metro, which takes around 20 minutes to the West Bay area, or by taxi, taking approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on exactly where you're going and the traffic.

• Price: The metro costs QR2 (€0.40) for a single journey, while the average fare for a taxi from the airport to the city centre is around QR50–QR70 (about €10–€14).

Best time to visit Qatar

Qatar's desert climate guarantees plenty of sunshine, minimal rainfall and warm temperatures, although it can get seriously hot in the summer. Here's what you can expect throughout the year.

• Winter (November to March) is the best time for holidays to Qatar, with average daytime temperatures between 18°C and 26°C – perfect for sightseeing, outdoor activities and the beach. The number of visitors is also highest then, as are prices for hotels.

• Spring and autumn (April to May and October) are the shoulder seasons, warmer than winter but not as sweltering as the height of summer. Average daytime highs are 30°C to 35°C, so still pleasant enough for being outside and enjoying the beach, though even hotter days start in May. There are fewer tourists than in the peak months of winter, and better prices can be found.

• Summer (June to September) has the hottest weather, regularly well over 40°C. While this is the quietest time to visit – with some good deals to be found – be prepared for limited outdoor activities during much of the day, and staying inside in the air conditioning.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Arabic is Qatar's official language, but English is widely spoken, particularly in hotels, restaurants and shops. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can be a nice gesture and is appreciated, though.

• Local habits and customs: Qatar is a conservative country and it's important for visitors to be mindful of its cultural norms. Dress modestly in public places and away from the beach, and especially when visiting religious sites. When visiting places like mosques, men should avoid wearing shorts and vests, and women should cover their hair, shoulders and knees. Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum. Friday is the holy day, and many shops and businesses close during prayer times.

• Health and safety: Qatar is generally very safe, with a low crime rate. Tap water is safe in most parts of the country, but drinking bottled water is more common. Take care with the heat and the strong sun, and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Medical care is good but expensive, so it's essential to arrange travel insurance before your trip to cover any health emergencies.

• Currency: The currency in Qatar is the Qatari riyal (QR). ATMs are plentiful, and credit or debit cards are widely accepted, though some smaller shops and markets may prefer cash.

• Getting around: Doha's public transport system is modern and efficient, with a new metro system, a tram in Lusail, taxis, ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem, and buses. For short trips, walking is often a viable option, especially around tourist areas like the Corniche.

• Electricity and plug types: Qatar uses UK-style three-pin plugs on 240V, so UK travellers won't need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Qatar operates on Arabian Standard Time, which is 3 hours ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK visitors can get a tourist visa on arrival in Qatar for stays of up to 30 days. You'll also need proof of onward travel and your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Best things to do in Qatar

Qatar offers a fascinating blend of gleaming modern buildings in Doha, a rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches and the serene desert landscape. Here are some of the main things to do and see on holidays to Qatar.

The best districts

• The Corniche: Stretching along Doha's waterfront, the Corniche is a great place for a leisurely walk. The 7km promenade offers stunning views of the city's skyline with its iconic skyscrapers, and is a popular spot for joggers, cyclists and families.

• The Pearl: This man-made island offers upscale shopping areas, a diverse range of dining options, waterfront promenades and attractive coastal panoramas, including moored-up luxury yachts.

Historic monuments

• Al Zubarah Fort: Qatar's largest archaeological attraction, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient fort is located on the northwest coast and offers a glimpse into the country's history. There are remnants all around of a once-thriving pearl trading port.

• Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque: The largest mosque in Qatar, this is a must-see for anyone interested in the country's Islamic heritage. The mosque's grand structure and intricate detailing are awe-inspiring, and it's free to visit for non-Muslims outside prayer times.

Activities for families in Qatar

As well as the beach and pool, Qatar has a range of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures or indoor entertainment, there's plenty to do.

• Parks and gardens: Doha has a good number of green spaces packed with leisure opportunities for families. The largest park is Aspire Park, with playgrounds, picnic spots, a lake with paddle boats and picturesque views of the city skyline.

• Katara Cultural Village: Katara is a hub of cultural activities in Qatar, with art galleries, theatres and workshops hosting frequent exhibitions and performances.

• National Museum of Qatar: Housed in a particularly striking modern structure, this museum offers interactive exhibits that will captivate children and adults alike. Learn about Qatar's history, culture and transformation into a modern state. Outside the main building is the old palace of the ruler of Qatar, as well as a heritage garden of native plants.

• Museum of Islamic Art: One of Doha's best museums, the collection of Islamic art on display spans over 1,400 years and is the world's largest. Standing on its own man-made island, the building itself is an architectural marvel from IM Pei, who also designed the Louvre.

Free things to do in Qatar

Despite its reputation as a luxury destination, there are plenty of free things to do in Qatar.

• Souq Waqif: A trip to Qatar isn't complete without a visit to this vibrant traditional market. Wander through the maze-like alleys to browse the stalls selling spices, perfumes, textiles and local crafts, as well as visiting the Falcon Souq for an insight into the importance of falconry in Qatari culture.

• Events: Qatar hosts several free cultural events throughout the year. During the winter months, head to Katara Cultural Village for open-air concerts, art exhibitions and festivals, including the annual Ajyal Film Festival.

Wellness in Qatar

• Spas and thermal baths: Many of Qatar's five-star resorts and hotels – such as the Four Seasons and The St. Regis – feature luxurious spas offering a wide range of treatments, saunas, steam rooms and traditional hammams, all designed to offer the ultimate relaxation experience.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Desert safaris: One of the most popular activities in Qatar is a desert safari. Experience dune-bashing in a 4WD, sandboarding, or for a more relaxed adventure, try camel riding across the golden sands.

• Kayaking: Kayaking through the mangroves at Al Thakira offers a peaceful way to explore Qatar's unique coastal ecosystems, where you might spot a variety of marine life and birds.

• Camping: For a true desert experience, consider a trip to camp in the dunes near Khor Al Adaid, also known as the Inland Sea. Many operators offer luxury camping trips in traditional Bedouin tents, where you can enjoy relaxing by the water and the serene quiet of the desert.

Local dishes in Qatar

Qatar has plenty of delicious Middle Eastern dishes, fresh seafood from the coast and local specialities inspired by traditional Bedouin cooking. Here are some of the best choices to look for on your Qatar holidays.

Some typical dishes

• Machboos: Qatar's national dish, a rice dish similar to Biryani, is made with marinated chicken, lamb or fish, with a unique mix of spices.

• Harees: A dish of meat – often chicken or lamb – slow-cooked with wheat until the grains are soft and the mixture resembles a porridge.

Meat dishes

• Ghuzi: A whole roast lamb served on a bed of fragrant rice, garnished with nuts and dried fruit. This is a popular choice for celebrations and special occasions.

• Kofta: Spiced meatballs, usually made from minced lamb or beef, served with rice or bread.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Samak Mashwi: Grilled fish, freshly caught off the coast, is typically served with rice and a spicy tomato sauce.

• Shrimp Biryani: A fragrant and flavourful dish combining shrimps with spiced rice.

Street food

• Shwarma: One of the most popular street foods, Shwarma consists of meat (usually chicken or lamb) that's slow-cooked on a spit and served in flatbread with salad and garlic sauce.

• Falafel: Crunchy, deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, flavoured with herbs and spices. They're served either as they come or in wraps with salad and tahini sauce.

Sweets and desserts

• Luqaimat: Small doughnuts drizzled with date syrup, often served during Ramadan.

• Umm Ali: A rich, bread pudding-like dessert made with nuts and raisins, especially popular during festive times.

Local drinks

• Karak Chai: A strong, spiced tea with sugar, cardamom and condensed milk. It's the go-to drink for locals and visitors alike.

• Arabic Coffee (Qahwa): Coffee is an integral part of hospitality in Qatar. Served in small cups, usually alongside dates, this intense coffee is flavoured with spices such as cardamom, and can often be found in places like hotel lobbies.

• Fruit juices: Found at juice bars, cafés and local restaurants, the range of popular fresh juices includes orange, lemon and mint, or mixed cocktails.