Qatar consistently ranks among the safest countries for expats to live in. It has long been a destination of choice for expats from all walks of life, including first timers or beginners who like to gain experience to advance their career, skilled workers and professionals looking to take advantage of the country’s excellent pay and lucrative employment package, families looking for a better and quality life to raise their children.
Cost of Living in Qatar
Cost of living is relative and a matter of choice. One can get a simple loaf of bread which costs about QAR5 ($1.40) or choose a gourmet loaf for QAR20 ($5.50). Essential foodstuffs are price-controlled especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
Housing is particularly expensive in Qatar, but this can be circumvented by living in a flat apartment or shared accommodation. Rent and schooling are the 2 biggest costs you will have. Some residents are provided housing or accommodation by their sponsors/companies; if not, companies often compensate them with an allowance. This would perhaps be the biggest expense that you have to account for. You cannot have the same lifestyle as you had in your home country but it's tax free.
Fortunately, healthcare is fairly affordable, excellent and accessible. The country has government-supported public healthcare. The Hamad Health Card system is available to locals and expatriates alike. Qatar’s health card is issued at a cost of QAR100 (around $27). Private insurance is provided by most companies in Qatar to seek medical services outside of government-run facilities.
Expat families and children
Qatar is a really family-friendly country. Family is such an important part of life here and it means that life for families is easy. Wherever you go, malls, restaurants etc children are always welcomed which is lovely.
When it comes to schooling, some companies provide a schooling allowance as part of the expat package. Parents can also choose to enroll their children in private, independent or international schools, though the latter can be extremely costly.
Climate in Qatar
The inescapable heat and intense climate of Qatar can be startling. Summers often reach scorching temperatures. Expats should stay hydrated and avoid heatstroke.
Weekend activities vary in Winter and Summer. Summer, most families seek sanctuary in the malls or head home for the worst of the heat but in the Winter people tend to make the most of the weather, enjoying local parks and beaches.
Going out and things to do
With Doha’s numerous shopping centers and malls, you will be able to fulfill all your shopping needs, but maybe not all your wants. The popular Souq Waqif is a maze of shops that carry anything and everything from trinkets like Sheikh bobble heads and every type of camel souvenir, to spices, parakeets or hamsters, camping equipment, musical instruments and jewelry. They also have restaurants and cafes, but definitely try the outdoor kebab place and Arabic bread bakery for a cheap but fantastic meal.
In the cooler months, many expats spend their weekends out in the desert camping at Zikreet or the Inland Sea.
Popular sporting activities for residents in Doha include walking and jogging along the Corniche, swimming, water sports on weekends like dragon boating, kayaking and diving. There are communities that form a group or teams to play Badminton and Tennis. Most of them rent a place to play a game or tournament.
Expatriates enjoy the nightlife in Qatar too. There are some particular locations where one can enjoy clubbing or dancing at night time. You can imbibe in the comfort of your home, but to do so you have to purchase your alcohol at Qatar’s one and only liquor store, Qatar Distribution Company or QDC, which actually has a decent selection of wine, beer, spirits and mixers. In order to buy from QDC, you must have a QDC card which can only be obtained once you have your id and a letter of permission from the sponsoring employer.
More things to do and visit in Qatar: