I’m a year into my second stretch of calling Doha home. So I’ve learned a thing or two about living in the desert state of Qatar.
When I first lived here 20 years ago, nobody had even heard of this remarkable little country. Today, cruise ships hug the shoreline, and visitors flock here from around the globe. Yet some travelers arrive unprepared.
Knowing some background information before your visit will help you make the most of your trip to this country on the Arabian Peninsula. From coping with the heat and taking the super-modern metro to seeing amazing art and getting to know the Qataris, here are my top tips that will help you get the most out of your visit to Qatar.
Timing your visit to Qatar is crucial
Qatar’s “season” runs from October to May. These months are the best time to visit, when most events and exhibitions take place and when the temperatures are pleasant enough to walk around outside.
Qatar is a desert country, and it gets hot. Like, really hot. Summer temperatures easily reach 50ºC (122ºF) – in the shade. While you can expect everything from your rental car to the malls and even some bus stops to be air conditioned, you might still get uncomfortable bouncing between them.
Decide to travel – or not – during Ramadan
The ninth month of the lunar Islamic calendar, the holy month of Ramadan is when Muslims fast between sunrise and sunset. During Ramadan, it is frowned upon to eat, drink, smoke or even chew gum in public during daylight hours. While Qataris are tolerant of non-Muslim visitors, almost all restaurants are closed during the day (hotels offer the few exceptions). Visiting Qatar during Ramadan means your travel plans have to be more flexible, but you’ll get the chance to experience festivities such as the daily sunset cannon being set off, the pretty lantern decorations around town and the nightly iftar, the breaking of the fast after sunset that’s a joyous event in private homes and restaurants.
Take care to dress appropriately
Qatar is a Muslim country, and while Qataris are tolerant – especially of visitors – it’s a sign of respect to dress modestly. It’s not a problem to wear a bikini at hotel beaches and pools, but it’s respectful for men and women to cover their shoulders and wear clothes that reach to…
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