Travelling to Doha?
Are you planning on travelling to Doha for work? Get to know the capital of Qatar better in this comprehensive guide for business travellers.
Founded in the 1820s, Doha is a city that defies its youth. Once a thriving pearl diving hub on the country’s eastern coast overlooking the Persian Gulf, the nation’s capital has rapidly evolved, thanks in no small part to the region’s significant oil and gas reserves. Now, over 80% of the population resides in the city and its suburbs, and the once-humble fishing village has evolved into a bustling metropolis: a glittering pearl amid the desert sands.
Doha has forged a reputation as a hotbed of opulence and wealth. It boasts some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, including the iconic Burj Doha, high-end shopping malls, and Michelin-star restaurants. But scratch beneath the Instagrammable veneer and you’ll find a thriving economy bolstered by the Qatari government’s ambitious plans for the future, as outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030.
For business travellers, Doha is a city awash with opportunities. Besides being a strategic location for those looking to tap into the markets of the Middle East, the government is proactive in promoting business, including implementing favorable policies, tax incentives, and streamlined regulations. It’s no accident that Qatar was named the 5th wealthiest country by GDP in the world in 2024.
In this comprehensive guide to Doha for business travellers, we delve deeper into navigating the city’s unique corporate landscape, offer our top tips for getting around, and pick out our top 3 things to see or do to make your trip unforgettable.
Doha Fact File
The emblem of Doha features two crossed swords to represent pride, honour, power, courage, and strength, and a dhow – a traditional wooden, motor-powered ship from Qatar’s history.
Languages
Arabic, English (widely used)
Currency
Qatari Riyal (QR)
Avg. Temperatures
Qatar has a desert climate with two distinct seasons: Hot Summer and Mild Winter, with Autumn and Spring in between.
Hot Summer (Jun-Aug) = 34.5°C (94°F) – Expect highs of up to 40°C
Autumn (Sep-Nov) = 28.8°C (84°F)
Mild Winter (Dec-Feb) = 17.2°C (63°F)
Spring (Mar-May) = 26.5°C (79.7°F)
Getting To Doha
By Air
The main airport in Doha is Hamad International Airport (HIA), situated approximately 8 miles (13km) from the city centre. It’s a modern and luxurious facility, known for its world-class facilities, duty-free shopping, and unique architectural design. It’s the hub for the country’s national carrier, Qatar Airways, and handles most international flights to and from Doha.
By Road
Qatar boasts a well-developed road network for those wanting to drive to and from the city from within the country. Dukhan Highway connects Doha to the west of the country, leading to the Dukhan oil fields and the western coastal areas, while the Al Shamal Road takes drivers to and from Doha from the northern coast. Be wary that some routes involve driving through desert areas, which may require careful navigation.
By Rail
While Doha does not possess any long-distance train services, there are several inter-city bus routes that travellers can use. The Karwa Bus is operated by an authority called Mowasalat and connects Doha to other cities across the country. If you choose to travel by bus, make sure to purchase a Karwa Smartcard – essential for using public transportation in the region.
Business Culture & Etiquette
Doha is a rapidly developing city with a unique blend of traditional Qatari culture and modern cosmopolitan influences. Understanding the local business etiquette and cultural nuances is essential for successful business interactions.
Qatari business culture places a strong emphasis on building strong relationships and it’s crucial to establish trust and rapport before diving into business discussions. Adhering to formal business etiquette, especially in initial meetings, is essential. Dressing conservatively and avoiding overly casual attire is recommended. Modesty is highly valued in Qatari culture. It’s therefore important to dress modestly, especially for women, and avoid public displays of affection.
Exchanging business cards at the beginning of meetings is a common practice and hosts will usually offer tea or coffee as a show of hospitality. While directness is valued in Qatari business, it’s important to balance it with politeness and respect. Avoid aggressive or confrontational negotiation tactics. However, it is important to note that the population of Doha is overwhelmingly composed of expatriates, with Qatari nationals forming a minority.
Here are a few of our other top business etiquette and culture tips:
- During Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, it’s customary to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
- Friday is the holy day in Islam, and many businesses may be closed or have reduced hours.
Crime & Safety
Doha is considered to be an extremely safe city with a low crime rate, ranking as the 3rd safest city in the world in the Crime Index 2024 report by Numbeo (with a rating of just 16.1 out of 100). This is largely due to Qatar’s strong law enforcement system and the strict penalties they apply to criminal offences, including capital punishment for severe crimes such as murder or drug trafficking.
Indeed, Qatar has a strict zero-tolerance policy towards drugs and possession can lead to severe consequences. It is vitally important to check with the Qatari authorities before bringing any medication into the country, especially as some medications that are legal in other countries may be considered controlled substances in Qatar.
It is also important to consider the extreme weather conditions, particularly in the summer months when temperatures can reach 40°C. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-coloured clothing to keep cool and protect your head from the sun with a hat or cap. Make sure to stay hydrated by carrying a bottle of water with you at all times and avoid sugary drinks and caffeine which can dehydrate you further.
Here are a few of our other top safety tips:
- In Doha, the emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance services is 999.
- Be mindful of dressing modestly and avoid any public displays of affection.
Getting Around Doha
Taxis
Doha offers a reliable taxi service, primarily operated by Karwa. These taxis are easily recognisable by their turquoise colour and are metered, ensuring fair pricing. You can book a taxi through the Karwa app. This allows you to track your taxi’s arrival, pay digitally, and even rate your driver. Services usually run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and larger taxis are available to book for families or group travellers.
Doha Metro
The Doha Metro is an efficient rapid transit system that serves the Doha Metropolitan Area. Opened in May 2019 to manage the influx of travellers for the FIFA World Cup 2022, the metro is a great way to get around the city, especially during peak hours when traffic can be heavy. The driverless trains run on three lines: Red, Green, and Gold, each one serving different parts of the city. Despite the majority of the lines running underground, every station is air-conditioned to prevent the effects of the heat and humidity.
Car Rental
Renting a car in Doha is a convenient way to explore the city and its surroundings. Several car rental companies operate in Doha, including international providers such as Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Sixt alongside local rentals such as Al Muftah Rent a Car and Doha National Rent a Car. You will need a valid international driving permit (IDP) to rent a car in Qatar. Some rental companies may also require an additional local driving permit, which can be obtained from specific traffic departments.
Top 3 Things To See Or Do In Doha
If you find yourself with a bit of free time on your business trip, Doha is a city with a rich history and offers plenty to see and do. Here are our top 3 recommendations…
1. Souq Waqif
This traditional market is a must-visit for anyone exploring Doha. Over the years it has been beautifully restored to reflect the character of its past. Narrow winding alleys showcase traditional Qatari architecture, including mud-brick buildings and structures held together by wooden beams. In the day, market sellers trade ancestral handicrafts and spices while performances involving falconry and camel races are commonplace. Come nighttime, the market comes alive with lights and the smells of local cuisine with local cafes and restaurants often staying open until late.
2. Doha Corniche
The Doha Corniche is a stunning waterfront promenade that stretches for seven kilometres along the crescent-shaped Doha Bay. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf. From the harbour, visitors can see traditional dhows, used for fishing and pearl diving, set sail against the stunning panoramic backdrop of the city’s skyline, including the West Bay skyscrapers. Keep an eye out for one of the various public art installations that mark the waterside too.
3. Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)
The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) is a stunning architectural masterpiece designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei. Located on a peninsula jutting into the Arabian Gulf, the museum houses an extensive collection of Islamic art spanning over 1,400 years. The museum’s collection includes a diverse range of artefacts, from intricate calligraphy and stunning ceramics to exquisite textiles, including the stunning “Hanging Garden of Paradise” tapestry. Marvel at Islamic calligraphy, admire the delicate beauty of Persian miniatures and explore the rich history of Islamic metalwork, all in one place. Beyond its impressive collection, the museum’s architecture itself is a work of art. The building’s sleek design, with its stark geometric patterns, is the perfect compliment to the beauty of the art within.
Doha is Rapidly Evolving and Awash with Opportunities
For business travellers seeking lucrative opportunities and unique cultural experiences, Doha should be top of the list of cities to visit.
You can expect a warm and hospitable welcome in Doha, with Qatari culture placing a strong emphasis on building relationships and rapport before diving into business discussions. The city itself offers a wealth of business opportunities across various sectors, including energy, finance and technology. Indeed, the government’s ambitious economic diversification plans have further fueled growth and development.
Beyond business, Doha offers a captivating blend of traditional and modern culture. Visitors can explore the historic Souq Waqif, marvel at the stunning architecture of the Museum of Islamic Art, or relax on the beautiful Doha Corniche. Plus, the city’s traditional culinary scene, with its diverse range of international and local restaurants, is sure to appeal to every palate.
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