Qatar is one of the best places to visit if you want an authentic experience of the Middle East. In fact, its hosting traditions go back to the Middle Ages, as it continues to maintain high standards of hospitality. Also, if you are visiting for the first time, you must not miss the Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
The centuries-old culture and the spirit of the locals, along with the best of modern amenities, will offer you a unique experience that you will find nowhere else. Food, culture, social life, religion – you name it, Qatar has it all.
However, if you are visiting Qatar for the first time, there are some travel tips you must follow. To learn more, continue reading.
Qatar Travel Tips for First-Timers
The following are some essential travel tips you need to understand if you are visiting Qatar for the first time:
1. Best Time to Visit
Qatar is present in a desert. So, obviously, if you are not used to intense heat, it is better to avoid summer months. For instance, temperatures during summer can easily reach 50ºC (122ºF). Although you will get every necessity available, it can still be uncomfortable to deal with the heat.
Rather, visit the place from October to May. Also, most events and festivals take place during these months. Moreover, the temperature is more pleasant during these months. Furthermore, it is also easy during these months to walk outside in the sun.
2. Be Flexible During Ramadan
Ramadan happens during the ninth month of the lunar Islamic calendar. Basically, during these months, practicing Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Hence, it is not appropriate to eat, smoke, drink, or even chew in public.
Therefore, in most places, you will find restaurants closed. As a result, make sure to keep your plans flexible if you are visiting during the Ramadan month.
However, you can experience many festivities after sunset as people perform iftar as they break their fast.
3. How to Dress?
Although there are no strict dress laws in Qatar, dressing modestly is preferred by all. In fact, dressing appropriately is a sign of respect. For instance, while you go out, cover your shoulders and knees (whether you are a man or a woman).
Although you can dress boldly at hotel beaches or pools, it is not recommended in public. Hence, when you are present in an area where you encounter many locals, make sure your dress is modest and appropriate.
4. Use the Metro
Apart from booking a cab or renting a vehicle, consider using public transport like the metro. By doing so, you can get from one place to another faster and cheaply. Basically, with the help of the metro system, you can visit all the busy hubs within Doha and its surrounding areas.
However, if you want a luxurious experience, you can book a private jet charter in Qatar.
5. Dining Etiquette
When you are eating out in public, make sure to comply with the dining etiquette of the local areas. For example, always eat or pass food with your right hand. Hence, if you follow this tradition, you can impress the locals.
It is better to understand the cultural etiquette of the Middle East if you want to avoid frowns and impress the Qatari locals.
6. Have an Open Mind
When you visit Qatar, it is essential to have an open mind as you are experiencing a unique country with unique traditions and cultures. In fact, it is not right to have an opinion about Qatar before you even visit the country and mix it with the locals.
7. Do Not Miss the Bird Spotters
Falconry is an ancient practice, and it plays a major role in the history of Qatar. Here, the Bedouins (bird handlers) train their birds to hunt and follow their commands.
If you want to check out these amazing birds, you can visit the Falcon Souq. Also, you can even check out the Annual Qatar Falcory Festival if you are visiting Qatar in January.
So, When Are You Visiting?
If you want a unique Middle-Eastern experience, Qatar is one of the best places to visit. Hence, when you are visiting Qatar, make sure to have an open mind and respect the local traditions. The best time to visit is from October to May.
Do you want to add more information as travel tips for first-timers in Qatar? Please share them in the comments section below.
