Qatar

Safety and security

Emergency Phone Numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 999 for police.
• Dial 999 for ambulance.
• Dial 6693-3999, 6693-3108, or 6693-3919 for the domestic violence hotline.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad. They use simpler methods of attack, like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. 

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Safety Tips

• Always practice personal security measures.
• Keep a low profile.
• Stay aware of your surroundings and local events.
• Stay alert in tourist locations.
• Monitor local media broadcasts and consular messages.
• Vary travel routes and times when possible.
• Be extra vigilant when frequenting banks or ATMs.

High-risk Areas to Avoid

• Large crowds and demonstrations in case of unrest.
• Labor or migrant work camps located outside of cities and major industrial areas, which may be highly congested and not conform to general physical and hygiene standards.

Crime

• The crime rate in Qatar is generally low. Incidents of violence and petty theft are rare but do occur. There is a large police presence throughout the country.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Victims of Crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 999 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +974-4496-6000.

Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Provide information on how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. (The embassy does not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys).
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence

Sexual relations outside of marriage are illegal in Qatar and subject to criminal prosecution. You could face arrest, fines, imprisonment, and deportation.  

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault in Qatar are strongly encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy immediately at +974-4496-6000, prior to contacting the local authorities.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are strongly urged to contact the embassy immediately at +974-4496-6000, prior to contacting the local authorities.
• Victims may also seek medical care through Hamad Hospital emergency room at 16060, or +974-4439-5777 if you are calling from abroad.

Technology Use Abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world.  Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Drones, laser pointers, and photography equipment with telescopic lenses are illegal.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism Safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders may be unable to reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure Travel

Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Marine Hazards

• Risks from jellyfish, coral, stonefish, and sea urchins exist. Follow warnings and avoid unmarked beaches.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws.

• If you break a local law, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. This detention can sometimes last for an extended period of time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Qatar, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 
• Criminal penalties for certain offenses are much harsher than those in the United States.

Alcohol and Illegal Drugs

• Alcohol-related offenses, including public intoxication, can result in severe penalties such as arrest, heavy fines, imprisonment, or deportation. Qatar maintains a zero-tolerance policy against drinking and driving.
• Possession, use, or distribution of illegal drugs can result in long jail sentences and steep fines.

Photography and Obscene Language Laws

• Photographing people in Qatar is illegal without permission.
• Incidents involving obscene language, gestures, or insulting comments often result in arrest, imprisonment, or fines.

Arrest Notification

Qatari authorities do not routinely notify the U.S. embassy of a U.S. citizen’s arrest.

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. 
• For more serious crimes, Qatari authorities may not allow U.S. embassy officials to visit until the initial interrogation is completed.
• If arrested—regardless of the charge—you may spend one to two nights in jail before a hearing takes place. 
• Once arrested, only the Qatari Public Prosecution and courts have the authority to grant a release.
• Review the U.S. embassy webpage for further information.

Reasons for Arrest

Qatari police sometimes arrest U.S. citizens without providing access to legal counsel. You could be arrested for being a:

• Potential witness to a crime. This includes traffic accidents involving injuries, slander, traffic arguments, etc.
• Relative of a suspect
• Criminal suspect

Detention Conditions

Detainees in Qatar are often unable to get their prescribed or over-the-counter medications. Detainees may also miss out on emergency and routine medical care.

• Review the Code of Federal Regulations

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-Based Travelers

Religion is a very sensitive issue in Qatar. Treat any discussions on religion with care and caution.

• The law provides a prison sentence of up to seven years for defaming, desecrating, or committing blasphemy against Islam, Christianity, or Judaism.  
• Public worship by non-Islamic faiths and atheism are illegal and subject to prosecution.
• Proselytizing is against the law. Attempts to covert a member of another religion or attempting to “share your faith” can be considered “proselytizing.”  Penalties can include deportation or imprisonment.
• You may import religious material for personal use. However, bringing religious materials into the country for proselytizing purposes is prohibited.
• Charitable activities, both religious and non-religious, must be approved in advance by the Regulatory Authority for Charitable Affairs.

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and Lesbian Travelers

Same-sex sexual relations between men are illegal, even if consensual. Penalties include lashing, lengthy prison sentences, and deportation.

• There is no law criminalizing same-sex sexual relations between women, though cultural norms are conservative.
• It is illegal for businesses or people to sell or distribute rainbow-colored merchandise. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Qatar prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities. However, the law is not enforced well.  

• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure.
• Social acceptance around disability is not as common as in the United States.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women Travelers 

Unaccompanied expatriate women may be verbally or physically harassed.

• Show respect for Islamic culture by not wearing sleeveless shirts, halter-tops, or shorts. Only wear athletic clothing in public when engaged in sports activities.
• Review our information for Women Travelers, Marriage, and Victims of Crime.

Human Rights

Significant human rights issues include credible reports of:

• Arbitrary arrest and detention
• Serious restrictions on freedom of expression, freedom of worship, and media freedom, including censorship
• The prohibition of independent trade unions and significant or systematic restrictions on workers’ freedom of association

The government has taken limited credible steps to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses.

Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Journalists

Journalists, including independent content creators and vloggers, need specific visas and permissions to use photography and videography equipment, or to conduct interviews or reporting within Qatar.

• The Qatari constitution provides for freedom of expression, including for members of the press and other media, but the government has limited these rights.
• It is illegal to photograph people in Qatar without their permission.
• Review our Information for Journalists.

Health

Health Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Qatar Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
  
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency Phone Numbers

• Dial 999 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance Services

• Ambulance services are widely available. 

Medical Payments and Insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is free for Qatari citizens, but not for non-citizen residents or tourists. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility. Payments are expected upon discharge from the hospital, and credit cards are accepted.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Qatar.
• Most care providers overseas expect immediate payment for health services.
• Credit card payment is available.
• Private and public hospitals often need payment upon discharge.   
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

Yellow fever: A certificate proving yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers aged nine months or above coming from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. You may also need proof of vaccination for certain visa applications.  

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare Facilities

Health facilities are available in Doha and the surrounding area. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. The embassy does not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Hospitals and doctors require payment upon discharge.  
• Before agreeing to any medical care, travelers should gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures.  
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are available in Doha.
• Hospital-based care is primarily available through government institutions.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism.  Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Qatar.  

• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications. 
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Qatar.  
• Although Qatar has many elective or cosmetic surgery facilities, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Qatar, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified. 

If you are traveling to Qatar for medical purposes, you need the proper “medical” visa. Check the Government of Qatar’s website for more information.

Prescription Medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Some U.S. medications are unavailable or restricted in Qatar. This includes stimulants, strong pain medications, and some medications used by HIV positive patients.
• Check with the Qatari customs authority to ensure the medication is legal in Qatar.
• Sexual intercourse outside of marriage is illegal in Qatar.  As such, pregnant women must present a marriage certificate to receive prenatal care at medical facilities in Qatar.  
• Unmarried pregnant women should consult the U.S. embassy prior to pursuing prenatal care in Qatar.
• Contraceptives are available over the counter with no prescription required.
• Emergency contraceptives are not available. Ple

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Water Quality and Food Safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air Quality

Air quality is poor in Qatar, with frequent dust and particle pollution. Doha air can be unhealthy, especially for people with lung disease or other sensitive groups, such as the elderly or children.

Members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Qatar.  
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• Information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance can be found on the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety

Traffic accidents are one of the leading causes of death in Qatar.  The extensive use of roundabouts, numerous road construction projects, and high-speed driving can be challenging.  

• In rural areas, poor lighting, wandering camels, and roads without shoulders create hazards. 
• If you are in an accident without a license, any insurance may be held invalid, and you could be left with extensive bills and legal charges.

In Case of an Accident

• Avoid arguments over traffic incidents. Qatari citizens who feel insulted may file a police complaint, which could result in your arrest and overnight detention.  
• Drivers are liable for people injured in a traffic accident. Local police have held U.S. citizens overnight while assessing the extent of injuries.
• Follow police guidance in any automobile accidents.

Road Dangers

• Lack of lane markings and directional signage
• Aggressive driving of motorcycles or mopeds sharing space with cars
• Lack of road maintenance resulting in large, deep potholes or other physical hazards near roads
• Narrow roads and roads without a breakdown lane or shoulder
• Vehicles not yielding to pedestrians, even in marked pedestrian areas
• Fast or reckless public transit drivers
• Large numbers of bicycles sharing space with vehicles and pedestrians
• Aggressive drivers expect slower drivers to keep to the right lane
• Tailgating and headlight-flashing to signal a driver to move over, with infrequent use of horns.

Traffic Laws

Holders of a U.S. issued driver’s license can drive in Qatar for two weeks, but most car rental agencies require an International Driving Permit.

• The legal minimum driving age is 18. 
• It is required by law to carry a fire extinguisher in your vehicle. It is recommended to carry spare tires, fuel, and tools.
• You can apply for a three-month temporary license. 
• International Driving Permits are valid in Qatar for six months from the date of arrival.  
• Resident expatriates should apply for a full Qatari license.
• If you are caught operating a vehicle without a valid license, penalties can be severe. For more information, review the Qatari Traffic Services website.

Traffic Fines

Traffic offenses are easily captured via well-placed cameras across the country.

• Fines can be expensive.  
• Unpaid traffic fines can result in an exit ban until paid. 
• Traffic signals are strictly followed. Speed cameras and cameras at traffic lights are very common. Drivers receive tickets for infractions detected by cameras.

Public and Commercial Transportation

You should use regulated taxi services rather than public buses.

• Qatar Rail: The Doha Metro is safe, modern, and inexpensive.
• Mowasalat Public Bus: Laborers and construction workers predominantly use this mode of public transportation.  
• Visit the website of Qatar’s national tourist office and its national authority responsible for road safety, the General Directorate of Traffic.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation Safety Oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  The FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) due to risks to civil aviation operating within or nearby Qatar. For more information U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices for the most up to date information on current FAA warnings.

Maritime Travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Qatar should check the following: 

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

The government has invested significantly in infrastructure to mitigate weather impacts, including advanced cooling systems, improved drainage, and early warning systems.

• Extreme heat waves: Qatar experiences some of the world’s highest temperatures, regularly exceeding 45C (113F) in summer months. Heat indices can reach dangerous levels due to high humidity along the coast.
• Dust storms and sandstorms (Shamal winds): These occur year-round but are most common from March to July and November to December. The “Shamal” (northwesterly winds) can often create severe dust storms that reduce visibility to near zero and disrupt transportation.
• Flash flooding: These are rare and occur most commonly between October to April. Qatar receives minimal annual rainfall (averaging 75mm). However, intense, heavy rain can cause flash flooding due to limited drainage infrastructure and impermeable desert surfaces. 
• Coastal fog: Dense fog can form along coastal areas during cooler months when humidity is high, particularly December to February.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates