Qatar is home to the third-largest natural gas and oil reserves globally and boasts the highest per capita income in the world.
Climate in Qatar
During the hottest summer months, temperatures can soar up to 48°C/50°C. People generally avoid going outdoors between 10 am and 3 pm. With air conditioning in homes and workplaces, the heat is manageable indoors.
For Newcomers to Qatar
People in Qatar are generally friendly and tolerant. The large expatriate community means you’ll easily find others from similar backgrounds.
Housing
Typically, the recruiting company will provide housing or offer a housing allowance (HRA). Finding accommodation is usually straightforward, though rental costs in Doha tend to be higher.
Education
Education in Qatar is overseen by the Supreme Education Council and the Ministry of Education. In addition to numerous Arabic schools, many institutions cater to expatriates, offering curricula such as British, American, International Baccalaureate, Indian, and Pakistani syllabi.
Healthcare
Hamad Medical Corporation is the country’s main healthcare provider, but there are many other hospitals available. Healthcare standards are high, and hospitals are generally very clean. Doctors come from various countries, providing diverse expertise.
Employment in Qatar
Qatar’s development has opened many job opportunities, and positions are often obtained through online applications. Expatriates working in Qatar are issued a Work Residence Permit (RP), usually for one or two years, sponsored by the company or individual employing them.
Leave
The workweek in Qatar begins on Sunday. Working hours are typically eight hours per day from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday as the weekend. During Ramadan, working hours are reduced to 5-6 hours, depending on whether you are in the public or private sector.
National Sports Day (celebrated on February 12) and Qatar National Day (December 18) are public holidays, with events and activities taking place across the country.
Rules and Regulations in Qatar
As in other GCC countries, Qatar imposes general restrictions on weapons, drugs, and pork products. Alcohol consumption is regulated and available only in licensed hotel restaurants and bars, and it cannot be imported. Some medications also require a prescription to be brought into Qatar.
Arriving in Qatar
Qatar is well connected by air internationally. Hamad International Airport (HIA), the country’s only international airport, opened in 2014 and has consistently ranked among the world’s top airports, placing fourth in 2019 and being the best in the Middle East for five consecutive years.
