Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Little provision has been made in Qatar for travellers with disabilities, although the new
resorts have tried to make accommodation wheelchair accessible. The corniche area of
Doha and the new malls are easily accessed, but many of the other sights and souqs are
not. No provision is made for the visually or hearing impaired.
VISAS
All nationalities need a visa to enter Qatar
Around 33 nationalities can obtain a two-week, single-entry visa on arrival.
Visit the government website (
www.moi.gov.qa
) and search the 'Visitor Gateway' section
to be sure of the latest information.
To avoid being turned back from a lengthy queue, fill out the application card (in piles on
top of the visa counter) before you reach the visa counter.
Payment is by credit card only.
You can buy an eCash card from QNB at the arrivals hall at Qatar International Airport
which acts as a credit card for the prepaid sum.
Multi-entry tourist and business visas are applied for through a Qatari embassy or consu-
late. Three passport-sized photos, an application form filled out in triplicate and a letter
from the hosting company is required. These visas are issued within 24 hours.
Visa extensions valid for two weeks can be obtained through your hotel or a travel agent.
Charges for overstaying are high.
WOMEN TRAVELLERS
Qatar is a safe place for women to travel and women can move about freely, without any
of the restrictions that are often experienced in other parts of the region. Harassment of
women is not looked upon kindly by officials. Dressing conservatively (especially cover-
ing shoulders and knees) is not only respectful of local sensibilities but brings less un-
wanted stares.
Getting There & Away
AIR
Doha International Airport
( 44 656 666;
www.dohaairport.com
) is 2.5km from the
city centre.
direct services from London to Doha, and several direct flights a week from Paris, Mu-
nich, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and from most cities in the Middle East. Qatar is also ser-
viced by several major airlines: British Airways flies direct from London to Doha daily,
KLM flies direct from Amsterdam, while Emirates flies to Doha from most major hubs
via Dubai. There is no airport departure tax.
