Tips on Doha Warnings or Dangers – Stay Safe!

Doha Warnings and Dangers

In 2022 the world will descend on Doha Qatar for the premiere soccer event, The Fifa World Cup.  While it is pretty safe to be there, we have a few warnings about potential dangers to know before you go.

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Staying Healthy

Temperatures can get as high as 120 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months and as low at 55 degrees at night in the winter. The key to staying healthy while in Doha is hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.  The water from the faucet isn’t drinkable if you are a visitor unfamiliar to the high mineral count. Most hotels provide daily gallons of water for their guests at no change. Take advantage.

Beware of the frequent dust storms.  Carry a scarf or a large handkerchief to cover your nose and mouth, and try to get indoors until the storm passes.

Bring a good sunscreen and wear it every time you leave your hotel or guest house.  A good pair of sunglasses is also beneficial as is a hat with a brim.

Local Customs

Qatar is a strict Muslim state. If you have alcohol with you on arrival, you can check it into one of the lockers and get a receipt for pickup on departure.  The only place that alcohol is served is in the bars of four- and five-star hotels. You must bring your passport with you to be served. Drinks are quite expensive.

Clothing should be modest. Shoulders, upper arms, and knees should be covered and clothing should not be tight. For men, light, long summer pants and wide cotton shirts are ideal, also serving as protection against the sun.  For women, loose fitting capris, longer cotton dresses, and shirts cover the shoulders should be fine for wandering the streets.   The correct bathing dress for men is Bermuda shorts, and for women are single-piece swimsuits. Bikinis are only allowed at private hotel swimming pools. Apart from on swimming beaches, you should remain completely dressed.

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Do not take photos without permission and do not ask or even attempt to take a photo of a Qatari woman while in Doha. It is strictly forbidden.

Starting around noon on Friday in Qatar, everything shuts down for the holy day, with the exception of hotel facilities. After sundown on Saturday, everything reopens. There is a call to prayer 5 times a day when Muslims stop and kneel. Western visitors are not expected to participate.

Safety

Doha is a very safe city for visitors and has very little crime.  Women walking alone might be approached or may be the object of curiosity. Just be polite and continue on your way. The locals are well educated and extremely nice to tourists, whom they view as their own guests.

Driving

Driving is a challenge as there are few lights, many roundabouts, and very little use of turn signals. Taking a taxi is a better idea.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Doha Things to Do – Attractions & Must See
• Doha Nightlife – Clubs, Bars & Nightlife Tips
• Doha Transportation – Taxi, Train, Bus & Airport Tips

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Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings and dangers in Doha.