Qatar Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Qatar
Important: This guide provides essential relocation information for individuals and families moving to the State of Qatar. Known for its rapid development, safety, world-class infrastructure, tax-free income, and multicultural expat community, Qatar is a major destination for professionals in engineering, aviation, construction, healthcare, finance, education and hospitality. Immigration and residency processes evolve, so always verify with official Qatari sources before relocating.
Home To Home Relocations supports clients across Toronto, the GTA and Ontario with international moves to Qatar, including export packing, container shipping, customs coordination and final delivery to cities like Doha, Al Wakrah, Al Khor, Lusail and Al Rayyan.
1. Before You Move to Qatar
1.1 Visa Types & Residency
Most newcomers enter Qatar on a work visa sponsored by an employer. After arrival, your sponsor completes the Qatar Residence Permit (RP), which is required for living, working and accessing services.
- Work Visa – employer-sponsored; most common pathway
- Family Residence Visa – for spouses, children and dependents
- Investor / Business Visa – for company owners or registered investors
- Student Visa – for higher education institutions in Qatar
- GCC Resident Permits – special categories for GCC residents
1.2 Working in Qatar
Key industries include energy, construction, aviation, engineering, healthcare, IT, logistics, hospitality and education. Employers typically handle:
- Work visa issuance
- Medical examination & biometrics
- Residence Permit (RP) processing
1.3 Housing & Accommodation
Housing is modern and varied, from high-rise apartments in Doha to villas in gated compounds. Typical rental requirements include:
- Passport and visa copy
- Residence Permit (or application receipt)
- Security deposit (often 1 month)
- Post-dated cheques or online payment agreement
1.4 Banking & Finances
The currency is the Qatari Riyal (QAR). To open a bank account, the following is typically required:
- Residence Permit (RP)
- Passport copy
- Employer’s salary certificate
1.5 Healthcare & Insurance
Qatar provides excellent healthcare through both public and private systems. Health insurance is now mandatory, and many employers provide private coverage.
1.6 Documents You Should Prepare Before Moving
- Passport with sufficient validity
- Attested educational certificates
- Employment contract
- Birth/marriage certificates (attested)
- Police clearance certificate, if requested
2. Your First Weeks in Qatar
2.1 Medical Tests & Biometrics
Residency applicants undergo a medical fitness test and fingerprinting before their Residence Permit is finalized.
2.2 Residence Permit (RP)
The RP is your legal identification in Qatar. It is required for banking, SIM cards, utilities, employment and sponsoring family.
2.3 Setting Up Phone, Internet & Utilities
- SIM cards (Ooredoo, Vodafone) require your RP or passport
- Utilities depend on your landlord or building management
- Many compounds include utilities in the rent
2.4 Opening a Bank Account
Once the RP is issued, you can open a local bank account for salary deposits and payments.
3. Qatar at a Glance
3.1 Geography & Regions
Qatar is a peninsula in the Arabian Gulf, with Doha as its capital. Notable areas include Lusail (a new smart city), The Pearl, Education City, Al Wakrah and Al Khor.
3.2 Politics & Economy
Qatar is a monarchy known for its strong energy sector, ambitious infrastructure projects, global investments and growing tourism initiatives.
3.3 Climate & Weather
Qatar has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. Outdoor activities are most enjoyable from November to March.
4. Why Many Canadians Choose Qatar
- Tax-free salaries
- Modern infrastructure and global-standard services
- High safety and low crime rates
- Strong expat communities
- Excellent travel access across the Middle East, Europe and Asia
5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life
Life in Qatar blends modern luxury with traditional culture. Daily living considerations include:
- Annual rent (often paid in multiple cheques)
- Electricity, water and cooling (some included in rent)
- School fees (international schools can be expensive)
- Health insurance top-up, if needed
- Transportation (many expats drive)
6. Transportation & Getting Around
6.1 Public Transport
Qatar offers:
- Doha Metro – modern, fast and efficient
- KARWA buses
- Taxis and ride-hailing services (Uber, Careem)
6.2 Driving in Qatar
Qatar drives on the right-hand side. Many expatriates convert their home-country licence after receiving the RP.
6.3 Air Travel
Hamad International Airport is one of the world’s best, offering excellent connectivity worldwide.
7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit
7.1 Everyday Culture
- Qatar is a Muslim country with deep cultural traditions
- Respect for dress codes in public places is recommended
- English is widely spoken in business and daily life
- Family, hospitality and community values are central
7.2 Popular Cities & Attractions
- Doha: Corniche, Souq Waqif, Museum of Islamic Art
- Lusail: Futuristic city with new developments
- The Pearl: Waterfront living and dining
- Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid): Desert–sea landscape
- Katara Cultural Village: Arts, events and performances