Group trips to Qatar

Qatar is in the Arabian Standard Time (AST) zone, which is 3 hours ahead of GMT. Qatar does not observe daylight saving time. If it's 12pm in the UK, it will be 3pm in Qatar. If it's 12pm on the US East Coast, it will be 8pm in Qatar.

The currency used in Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (QAR). As of the latest rates:

• 1 GBP is approximately 4.65 QAR
• 1 USD is around 3.64 QAR
• 1 EUR is about 3.97 QAR

You can exchange your currency at banks, currency exchange offices, or at the airport upon arrival. Always check for the most current rates before you exchange your money.

In Qatar, you can pay using credit cards, debit cards, and cash. Credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors or more traditional markets where cards might not be accepted. ATMs are easy to find in cities, and they dispense Qatari Riyal. Make sure to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.

Tipping in Qatar isn't mandatory, but it's appreciated for good service. In restaurants, leaving a tip of 10 to 15 percent is common if service isn't included in the bill. For hotel staff like porters or housekeeping, you might consider giving a small tip, usually around 5 to 10 Qatari Riyals. Taxi drivers don't usually expect tips, but rounding up the fare is a nice gesture. Always check your bill, as some places include a service charge.

In Qatar, buying a local SIM card is a great idea to stay connected. The main providers are Ooredoo and Vodafone, offering various data plans. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces, but having a local SIM ensures you stay online while exploring. Plus, a local SIM can be more cost-effective for data usage compared to international roaming. Make sure your phone is unlocked to use a new SIM card.

In Qatar, the official language is Arabic. However, English is widely spoken and understood, especially in urban areas and within the business community. Here are some useful Arabic expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: Salaam
• Thank you: Shukran
• Yes: Na'am
• No: La
• Please: Min fadlak (to a male) / Min fadlik (to a female)

In Qatar, the plug type used is the British-style Type G, which has three rectangular prongs in a triangular pattern. The voltage is 240V, and the frequency is 50Hz. If your devices use a different plug type, we suggest bringing a universal adapter to ensure you can charge your electronics without any issues.

The main religion in Qatar is Islam, with the majority of the population being Sunni Muslims. When visiting Qatar, especially during religious occasions, it’s important to dress modestly out of respect for local customs. Women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders, arms, and knees. Men should avoid wearing shorts in public. Important religious holidays include:

• Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset
• Eid al-Fitr, a festive celebration marking the end of Ramadan

When packing your backpack for a trip to Qatar, it's important to consider the hot climate and cultural norms. Here's a guide to help you pack:

• Clothing
  • Lightweight, breathable shirts
  • Long pants or skirts for modesty
  • A light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings
  • Swimwear for hotel pools or private beaches
• Shoes
  • Comfortable sandals
  • Closed-toe shoes for city exploration
  • Flip-flops for the beach
• Accessories and Technology
  • Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat
  • Power bank for charging devices
  • Camera or smartphone for photos
• Toiletries and Medication
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Basic toiletries like toothpaste and shampoo
  • Travel medications like pain relievers and antihistamines

Remember, Qatar is a conservative country, so dress modestly, especially in public places.

The weather in Qatar is generally hot and arid, with slight variations depending on the time of year.

• Summer (June to September): Extremely hot with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Not the best time to visit due to the heat.
• Winter (December to February): Much milder and more pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 24°C (75°F). This is the best time to visit for comfortable weather.
• Spring and Fall (March to May, October to November): Warm but more bearable than summer, with temperatures around 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).

For the most comfortable experience, aim to travel in the winter months.