Welcome to Qatar, a vibrant destination that seamlessly blends rich traditions with modern advancements. Nestled on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Qatar is known for its stunning skyline, luxurious shopping experiences, and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. From the bustling streets of Doha to the serene deserts and beautiful coastline, there's a wide array of experiences waiting for you.

Whether you're visiting for a short stopover, attending a business meeting, or embarking on a longer adventure, understanding the local customs and practical tips will significantly enhance your experience. Qatar has rapidly evolved into a global hub for business, tourism, and culture, especially following its successful hosting of major international events, including the FIFA World Cup 2022.

Arrival Experience: Hamad International Airport

Your journey starts at Hamad International Airport, often hailed as a mini-city and consistently ranked among the world's top airports. Beyond being a transit hub, the airport offers luxurious amenities, including spa services, diverse dining options, and children's play areas. Conveniently located just 20 minutes from downtown Doha, it sets the tone for a remarkable visit.

For a seamless arrival experience, consider booking the Al Maha Meet & Greet service. This premium service allows you to skip the lines and provides a touch of luxury right from the start.

Recent Enhancements at the Airport

As of 2025, Hamad International Airport has introduced more sustainable practices, including solar energy initiatives and improved waste management. Look out for the stunning art installations throughout the airport, showcasing both local and international artists.

Cultural Insights and Etiquette

Dress Code: Comfort Meets Respect

Qatar's atmosphere is laid-back yet demands respect for its cultural norms. It's advisable to dress modestly; ensure your shoulders and knees are covered while out in public. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended to stay comfortable in the warm climate. A light scarf or shawl is useful for women when entering mosques or more traditional sites.

Greetings: Embrace Local Customs

When greeting locals, be mindful that many Qatari women may not shake hands with men, and the same courtesy may apply the other way around. A friendly smile and nod can go a long way in establishing rapport. It’s also customary to say “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) when greeting someone.

Friday Significance

Fridays hold special importance in Qatar. Most shops close during prayer hours (10 AM to 12:30 PM), with some remaining closed for the entire day. Malls typically open later, so plan your shopping accordingly. Remember, the weekend in Qatar falls on Friday and Saturday.

Celebrating Islamic Holidays

Join in the joy during Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, marked by family gatherings, feasting, and fireworks. While some establishments may close briefly, the overall atmosphere is festive. Be sure to participate in community events if you have the chance!

Respecting Ramadan

During the holy month of Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public from dawn until sunset. Many hotels provide private dining areas for guests, and food delivery services are available to ensure you remain nourished. You can also find special iftar (breaking the fast) events at various venues.

Cultural Etiquette Tips

• Avoid pointing with your feet.
• Maintain a calm demeanor in public spaces.
• Always ask permission before photographing locals.
• Respect personal space at all times.

Currency and Tipping

Currency: Qatari Riyal

The local currency is the Qatari Riyal (QR), pegged to the US dollar at approximately 1 USD = QR 3.64. While many establishments accept credit cards, cash is preferred at some souqs. ATMs are widely available, so cash access is convenient.

Currency Declaration

If bringing in Qatari Riyals or any foreign currency equal to or exceeding QR 50,000, declare it upon entry. This includes valuable items such as jewelry or precious metals, making customs processes smoother.

Tipping Practices

Tipping is not customary in Qatar, but if you receive exceptional service, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated. In restaurants, rounding up the bill is also a common practice.

Safety, Security, and Accessibility

A Safe Destination

Qatar is one of the safest countries globally, ranked 3rd in 2025 with a Safety Index score of 84.6. It's recognized as the safest nation in the Middle East, making it a secure place for travelers.

Emergency Contacts

• Police, Fire, Ambulance: 999
• Traffic Issues: 4890666

Accessibility for All

If you have special accessibility needs, the Accessible Qatar app is an invaluable resource for locating wheelchair-friendly venues and facilities throughout the country. Many public transport systems and tourist sites are equipped with ramps and accessible restrooms.

In case of emergencies for the hearing impaired:

• Use a 3G camera to call 992.
• Send an SMS to 992 with your location and details of assistance needed.
• Email [email protected] (response times may vary).

Health and Utilities

Healthcare Services

For medical attention, Hamad General Hospital offers top-notch healthcare facilities and services. Additionally, several private clinics and hospitals are available throughout the country, ensuring quality care. Make sure to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Staying Hydrated

Tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is readily available. Given Qatar's high temperatures, ensure you stay hydrated, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors. Some handy tips include carrying a refillable water bottle and seeking shaded areas during peak sun hours.

Electrical Standards

Qatar operates on a voltage of 240 V and a frequency of 50 Hz, using UK-style Type G plugs. Visitors from regions with lower voltage should bring adapters or converters.

Connectivity Options

Tourists can purchase prepaid SIM cards from Ooredoo or Vodafone at the airport or in local stores. Affordable data packages enable you to stay connected effortlessly. Qatar has also expanded its 5G coverage, ensuring high-speed internet access across most urban areas.

Navigating the City

Driving and Riding

Qatar drives on the right-hand side. Rental cars are easy to find, and roads are well-maintained with clear signage. New traffic regulations have been implemented to enhance road safety, so familiarize yourself with local driving laws.

Taxi and Ride-Hailing Services

From Hamad International Airport, Karwa taxis are the official metered service, known for their reliability. Various ride-hailing apps also provide convenient, cashless options, making transportation easy. Always check for a fare estimate before getting in.

Public Transportation

The Doha Metro is an excellent choice for first-time visitors. Clean and air-conditioned, it connects the airport to downtown and major attractions. Affordable travel passes are available, making it easy to explore without the hassle of traffic.

Standard Card Fares:

• Single Journey: QR 2
• Day Pass: QR 6
• Weekly Pass: QR 40
• 30-Day MetroPass: QR 120
• Rechargeable Travel Card: QR 10

Goldclub Card Fares:

• Single Journey: QR 10 (QR 2 for Tram)
• Day Pass: QR 30
• Rechargeable Travel Card: QR 100

Travel Tips

• Download ride-hailing apps like Karwa, and the Qatar Rail app for real-time updates on metro and tram schedules.
• Keep small change handy for taxis if not using apps, though most accept digital payments.
• Consider using the Doha Bus service for sightseeing; it offers hop-on, hop-off options that cover major tourist attractions.

Shopping and Markets

Bargaining at Souq Waqif

Shopping at Souq Waqif is an experience not to be missed. Bargaining is expected, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices. A friendly greeting with “Salam” and a casual “Inshallah” can enhance your shopping experience. The souq is also a great place to try local delicacies and enjoy traditional Qatari coffee.

Luxury Shopping Malls

For a different shopping experience, visit luxury malls such as Villaggio, Doha Festival City, and Mall of Qatar. These venues offer a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, all in comfortable, air-conditioned environments. Many malls now feature international brands and local artisans, making it a vibrant shopping scene.

Connectivity and Language

Language Diversity

While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken due to the diverse expatriate population, making communication easier for travelers. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture.

Internet Access

Qatar leads in digital connectivity, having been the first country to launch commercial 5G. Free Wi-Fi is available in select public areas, though coverage may vary. Many cafes and restaurants also offer complimentary Wi-Fi.

Weather and Annual Events

Climate Overview

Prepare for warm, sunny weather year-round. Summers can be sweltering, often exceeding 40 °C, so sunscreen and hydration are crucial. Winters are mild, making them perfect for outdoor activities. If you plan to visit during summer, consider scheduling indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Key Holidays

• Qatar National Day: December 18
• Sports Day: Second Tuesday in February
• Eid Celebrations: Dates vary based on lunar observations, typically lasting three days.

Events and Activities

Qatar hosts a variety of events, from concerts to sports tournaments. Major events include the Qatar International Food Festival and the Doha Film Institute's annual film festival. Stay updated with apps like Qatar Events to ensure you don’t miss out on any happenings.

Alcohol Regulations and Local Laws

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol is strictly regulated in Qatar. It is permitted only in licensed hotels, bars, and private residences. Public intoxication or drinking outside these venues can lead to legal repercussions. Always carry ID when purchasing or consuming alcohol.

Legal Considerations

To respect local laws, avoid:

• Profanity or offensive gestures in public.
• Public intoxication or drinking outside licensed areas.
• Excessive public displays of affection.
• Photographing accidents or government buildings.
• Taking photos of individuals without consent, especially women and families.
• Eating or drinking in public during Ramadan daylight hours.

Useful Tips for Travelers

1. Local SIM Cards: Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for better connectivity and to avoid high roaming charges.

2. Cultural Sensitivity: Always be respectful of local customs, especially in religious sites.

3. Hydration: Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, and take advantage of water fountains in public areas where available.

4. Explore Beyond Doha: Consider day trips to nearby attractions like the Desert Safari or the Pearl-Qatar for a more comprehensive experience of Qatari culture and landscapes.

5. Plan Ahead: Check local event calendars before your trip to align your visit with any festivals or events that interest you.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll enjoy a memorable and culturally rich experience in Qatar. Safe travels!

Etihad Airways has achieved a historic milestone by carrying over 2 million passengers in a single month for the first time in its history, according to its August 2025 traffic statistics. This marks a 22 percent increase compared to August 2024, reflecting strong demand and efficient utilization of the airline’s expanding capacity.

In August alone, Etihad welcomed exactly 2.0 million guests, boosting its passenger load factor to 91 percent, up from 89 percent in the same month last year. This demonstrates the airline’s ability to fill seats effectively amid rising travel demand. Year-to-date, Etihad has carried 14.2 million passengers—a substantial 18 percent increase over the same period in 2024—with an average load factor of 88 percent.

Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves described August as a "landmark month," crediting the airline's success to the trust passengers place in its people and the exceptional service they provide daily. “This record performance, combined with 22 percent year-on-year growth and a 91 percent load factor, reflects the confidence travelers have in Etihad,” Neves said.

Supporting this growth is Etihad’s expanded operating fleet, which reached 112 aircraft, allowing the airline to serve 81 passenger destinations worldwide. Notably, August also saw the entry into service of Etihad’s new Airbus A321LR, a first for the region in bringing wide-body luxury features—such as First Class suites and lie-flat Business seats—to a narrow-body aircraft on medium-haul routes. This upgrade underscores Etihad's strategic focus on enhancing the passenger experience across its network.

The airline’s network continues to broaden with over 20 additional routes confirmed, as Etihad aims to connect more cities through its Abu Dhabi hub while promoting tourism and business in the emirate. Industry analysts see Etihad’s robust growth as a sign of resilience and expanding market share in a competitive Middle Eastern aviation landscape recovering from pandemic disruptions.

Etihad’s breakthrough August figures and year-to-date growth reflect strong travel demand recovery, fleet modernization, and product innovation that keeps pace with evolving passenger expectations. The airline’s success also exemplifies the region’s ongoing recovery as it capitalizes on its strategic geographic position linking multiple continents.

Pakistani low-cost carrier Fly Jinnah has launched direct non-stop flights between Dubai and Lahore, with operations commencing on October 29, 2025. The new service will operate twice weekly, every Wednesday and Sunday, connecting Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore with Dubai International Airport. This route makes Dubai the second UAE destination served by Fly Jinnah from Lahore, alongside Sharjah, offering travelers enhanced connectivity to two major UAE cities.

Fly Jinnah, a joint venture between Pakistan’s Lakson Group and the UAE’s Air Arabia Group, operates a modern fleet of six Airbus A320 aircraft. The airline emphasizes comfort and value, providing passengers with spacious economy-class legroom, an onboard menu, extra legroom seating options, free in-flight streaming through its “SkyTime” entertainment service, and a loyalty program called "Air Rewards" which allows passengers to earn and redeem points.

Besides the Dubai and Sharjah services, Fly Jinnah’s international network includes direct flights from Lahore to key Saudi Arabian cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, as well as connections to Bahrain. This expanding network places Fly Jinnah as a growing competitor in the region’s low-cost carrier market, catering primarily to the Pakistani diaspora and business travelers who seek affordable and reliable travel options between Pakistan and the Middle East.

The twice-weekly Dubai flights open new opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between Pakistan and the UAE. Bookings for these flights are available via Fly Jinnah’s official website, call centers, and authorized travel agencies, reinforcing the airline’s goal to facilitate smooth and accessible travel for its passengers.

Overall, Fly Jinnah’s launch of Dubai-Lahore flights complements its robust international route portfolio and demonstrates the airline’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the Gulf region while maintaining strong service standards and affordable pricing for travelers

American Airlines has disbursed $32 million in boarding pay to flight attendants between April and August 2025, marking a significant shift in how the Fort Worth-based carrier compensates its crew for ground duties. This new pay policy addresses long-standing inequities in flight attendant compensation by recognizing the value of time spent during boarding—a historically unpaid, yet highly demanding, part of their workday.

Traditionally, U.S. airlines, including American, only paid flight attendants for time spent in the air. Ground activities such as boarding, deplaning, and waiting between flights—often referred to as “sits”—were unpaid, creating financial challenges especially for junior staff handling multiple short-haul flights daily. To offset this, airlines increased base hourly rates, benefiting senior crew members who flew extended international routes, while newer attendants faced fragmented schedules and uncovered ground duties.

The new boarding pay policy at American Airlines pays flight attendants at 50% of their regular hourly flight rate for the time spent boarding passengers, starting from gate arrival until aircraft pushback. This change particularly benefits junior crew members with lower seniority who typically work short domestic segments. According to the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA), the boarding phase is among the most stressful and busiest times for crew, involving coordination, passenger interaction, and safety checks.

Industry context shows that American Airlines is part of a growing trend toward equitable ground compensation. Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and regional carrier SkyWest have also introduced boarding pay, reflecting a broader shift in the U.S. aviation sector to better align compensation with actual work performed. APFA has praised these moves but continues to push for more comprehensive pay reforms that include all ground duties such as deplaning, layovers, and airport tasks.

In addition to boarding pay, American Airlines and the APFA recently implemented a new rule addressing prolonged “sits”—periods on the ground exceeding two and a half hours without flying. Under the agreement, flight attendants earn pay for extended waits at a rate of one minute for every two minutes of additional ground time. Between April and May 2025, this provision compensated 18,000 attendants, offering critical financial relief and discouraging airline scheduling practices that could cause fatigue and inefficiency.

Labor experts suggest that while boarding pay increases operational costs, it also improves crew morale, motivation, and potentially enhances service quality during peak boarding periods. American Airlines benefits from a more engaged workforce and improved retention, particularly among newer employees. However, ongoing negotiations face challenges as airlines seek to balance these costs with potential adjustments to flying pay rates, which has raised concern among senior long-haul crew members worried about income loss.

Looking ahead, APFA advocates for extending paid compensation across all ground activities to fully acknowledge flight attendants’ comprehensive work efforts. Other carriers and unions are closely watching American Airlines’ experience as boarding pay may set a new industry standard for fairer, more transparent crew compensation in U.S. aviation.

This recent policy and union contract progress underline important steps toward improving working conditions and financial fairness for flight attendants amid increasing operational demands.

Etihad Airways has achieved a historic milestone in August 2025 by carrying more than 2 million passengers in a single month for the first time ever, marking a 22% year-on-year increase compared to August 2024. The airline reported a passenger load factor of 91%, up from 89% last year, underscoring strong demand and efficient use of capacity.

Etihad’s operating fleet expanded to 112 aircraft, serving 81 passenger destinations, with the introduction of the new Airbus A321LR that brings First Class suites and lie-flat Business seats to narrow-body medium-haul routes for the first time in the region. Year-to-date, the airline has carried 14.2 million passengers, an 18% rise from the same period in 2024, maintaining an 88% average load factor.

On the financial front, Etihad reported its strongest-ever half-year performance for the first six months of 2025. Profit after tax surged by 32% to AED 1.1 billion (USD 306 million) compared to the previous year, driven by robust demand, operational productivity, and improved yields in both passenger and cargo sectors.

Total revenue climbed 16% year-on-year, with passenger and cargo revenues growing 16% and 9%, respectively. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) rose 24% to AED 2.7 billion (USD 739 million), with the EBITDA margin improving to 20%, up one percentage point from 2024.

Etihad carried 10.2 million passengers in the first half of 2025, a 17% increase year-on-year, supported by a 14% rise in available seat kilometres (ASK) and an improved average load factor of 87%. In July, the airline surpassed the milestone of 20 million passengers over the previous 12 months, doubling its 2022 total and confirming its status as the fastest-growing airline in the region.

Fleet expansion continues with the delivery of its sixth Airbus A350, the return of a seventh A380, and a landmark order for 28 wide-body Boeing aircraft, reflecting strong long-term growth ambitions. July saw Etihad add five new jets including its first A321LR, marking the highest number of aircraft deliveries ever received in one month.

As of mid-2025, Etihad serves nearly 90 destinations worldwide, with 27 new routes launched or announced this year alone. This growth enhances Abu Dhabi’s position as a major global hub, increasing connectivity and attracting millions of visitors. Customer satisfaction also improved across airport services, onboard experience, and digital platforms, with the airline’s First Class Net Promoter Score consistently high at 80—among the best in the industry—while maintaining stable unit costs despite service upgrades.

CEO Antonoaldo Neves highlighted that this record-breaking month and half-year reflect the trust travelers place in Etihad’s people and their commitment to delivering extraordinary service. The airline's strategy focuses on sustainable expansion, investing in premium experiences, and connecting more travelers through Abu Dhabi, positioning the emirate as a vibrant destination for global visitors.

Additionally, Etihad hired over 1,700 new employees in the first half of 2025, including more than 100 pilots and 1,000 cabin crew, supporting its rapid growth and operational excellence.

These results mark a new era of growth, investment, and service leadership for Etihad Airways as it continues to set new standards in aviation, fueled by strategic fleet expansion, network growth, and a superb customer experience.

Emirates has once again strengthened its status as a global aviation leader after winning two prestigious accolades at the 2026 Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) Global Passenger Choice Awards. The Dubai-based carrier was honored with the titles of  World Class Airline 2026 and Best Global Entertainment, reflecting its continuous efforts to deliver exceptional customer service, cutting-edge products, and innovative passenger experiences across its network.

The results were announced during the APEX/IFSA Global EXPO held in Long Beach, California, one of the airline industry’s most anticipated annual gatherings.

The World Class Airline recognition is considered one of the highest distinctions in commercial aviation, reserved for airlines that excel in areas such as passenger safety, sustainability, health and well-being measures, service consistency, and global operations. The award is based on a comprehensive evaluation conducted by industry experts in collaboration with Yates and Partners, as well as verified passenger feedback collected through professional auditing of traveler reviews. This recognition places Emirates among the top global carriers that set benchmarks for excellence in airline standards.

In addition, Emirates’ victory in the category of Best Global Entertainment further underscores its long dominance in inflight entertainment. The airline’s award-winning ice system, regarded as one of the most advanced in the world, offers more than 6,500 channels of movies, TV shows, documentaries, music, podcasts, games, and even live sports broadcasts.

Available in multiple languages and updated regularly, the entertainment system has become a defining feature of the Emirates travel experience and a major differentiator for the brand. Passengers also benefit from high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity onboard, allowing them to stay connected throughout their journey, a feature increasingly demanded by today’s travelers.

The APEX Global Passenger Choice Awards are especially noteworthy in the aviation industry as they are based on real passenger experiences and independently audited evaluations rather than solely subjective jury decisions. Millions of travelers worldwide share ratings on nearly 600 airlines each year through TripIt®, feeding into the data that determines winners.

This combination of passenger feedback and independent verification ensures that the accolades reflect genuinely outstanding performance and consistency in airline operations.

For Emirates, these awards come at a time when the airline is actively expanding and modernizing its fleet while also upgrading its services in line with evolving customer expectations. Over the past year, Emirates has introduced retrofitted aircraft with refreshed cabins, including its latest Premium Economy class, offering a new level of comfort.

The airline has also expanded its culinary offerings, elevated beverage services across cabins, redesigned lounges, and strengthened its renowned multicultural crew training programs to deliver more personalized care on board.

Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, welcomed the honors, describing them as a testament to the carrier’s unwavering focus on delivering an unmatched customer journey from ground to sky. He highlighted the airline’s commitment not only to luxury and service innovation but also to sustainable aviation, noting Emirates’ steps toward investing in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, testing alternative fuels, and integrating environmentally conscious features in its products and ground operations.

The recognition also positions Emirates strongly against its global competitors, such as Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific, all of which are known for high service standards and premium offerings. By maintaining excellence in both overall travel experience and in-flight entertainment, Emirates consolidates its place as a benchmark airline for premium international travelers seeking comfort, reliability, and consistency.

Looking ahead, Emirates will continue to enhance its global connectivity as it expands into new destinations throughout 2026, with routes planned in markets across Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The airline is also preparing to welcome next-generation aircraft such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 777-9, both of which will introduce new levels of efficiency and customer experience to its long-haul journeys. These developments are expected to further strengthen Emirates’ position as a leader in passenger satisfaction and an airline that continuously invests in the future of travel.