Qatar Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of government personnel on March 2. Advisory summary was updated. Reconsider travel to Qatar due to risk of armed conflict. Advisory summary On March 2, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave Qatar due to threat of armed conflict. U.S. Citizens should complete the Crisis Intake Form to let the U.S. Embas...

🇬🇧 UK Foreign Office (FCDO)

Information about additional commercial flights departing Doha ('Warnings and insurance’ page).

🚨 Emergency Numbers

ℹ️ Qatar uses a single universal emergency number (999) for all services. English-speaking operators available. Qatar Tourism Police: +974-4800-7777.

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Hamad General Hospital is the main public hospital. Sidra Medicine and Aspetar are world-class specialized hospitals. English is widely spoken at all medical facilities.

Insurance: Travel insurance recommended. Healthcare costs are significant. Hamad Medical Corporation provides emergency care regardless of insurance.

💊 Medication Restrictions

Qatar has strict drug laws. Carry all medications in original packaging with prescriptions. Apply for prior approval for controlled substances at qatar.gov.qa before travel.

• Opioids / narcotics — RESTRICTED: Require prior approval from Qatar Ministry of Public Health. Carry original prescription and doctor's letter. Maximum 3-month supply.
• Cannabis / marijuana — BANNED: Strictly illegal. Zero tolerance. Possession can result in imprisonment and deportation.
• Benzodiazepines — RESTRICTED: Require documentation from prescribing physician. Carry in original packaging.
• Pseudoephedrine (in cold medicines) — RESTRICTED: Many common cold medications containing pseudoephedrine may be restricted. Check current list with Qatar Ministry of Public Health.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Not culturally required but appreciated. Restaurants: 10-15% if not included. Hotel staff: QAR 10-20 per service. Taxis: round up to nearest riyal.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Public displays of affection (kissing or cuddling in public can result in fines or arrest)
• Drinking alcohol outside licensed venues (hotels, licensed restaurants)
• Loud or disruptive behavior in public
• Disrespecting Islam, Qatar's ruling family, or government
• Same-sex public displays of affection