Is it safe to travel to Qatar right now? Latest travel advice
In recent years, Qatar has increasingly become an alternative holiday destination to the UAE. Like its regional neighbour, there is awe-inspiring architecture to gawk at and traditional souks selling herbs and spices, but the Arab nation is also a centre for traditional and modern art. Among the highlights are the Museum of Islamic Art and Mathaf (the Arab Museum of Modern Art), both of which are in the capital, Doha. And flights to the destination can often be very reasonable.
Since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began, Qatar has also become an important regional mediator, despite the fact that it doesn’t share a border with Israel or the Occupied Palestinian Territories. But as tensions in the Middle East have escalated in recent weeks, the UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for Qatar. If you have a trip planned there, here’s what you need to know.
• Is it safe to travel to the Middle East right now?
What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Qatar?
The UK Foreign Office does not currently have any travel advisories about Qatar. However, it says that terrorism in the country can’t be ruled out, and busy areas such as hotels, shopping centres and beaches could be targets.
In addition, the Foreign Office has also noted the escalating regional tensions.
On the fighting between Israel and Lebanon-based Hezbollah, it says: “Ongoing hostilities between Israel and Lebanon could escalate quickly and pose risks for the wider region.”
It advises monitoring its travel advice page and other media as the situation is fast developing.
It also notes that Qatar may be impacted by the activities of the Houthi rebels based in Yemen.
On this, it says: “Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that travel advice for nearby countries could change at short notice.”
If you’re travelling in Qatar, you should be aware of local laws and customs, including political opinions, as well as actions that might cause offence. For example, public displays of intimacy could lead to arrest, while both men and women should dress modestly. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public, as well as swearing, playing loud music or dancing, would be considered offensive.
Has Qatar been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?
Qatar does not border Israel, so it’s not directly affected by the conflict with Hamas. However, Qatar does have close ties with Hamas and has been an important regional mediator.
On October 3, 2024, the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, said at the Asia Cooperation Dialogue summit in Doha: “It has become crystal clear that what is happening is genocide, in addition to turning the Gaza Strip into an area unfit for human habitation, in preparation for displacement.” He also condemned Israel’s ground incursion into Lebanon.
Traditional dhows in Doha
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Is it safe to travel to Qatar right now?
There’s no reason not to travel to Qatar right now based on Foreign Office travel advice. The Arab nation is considered a safe place to visit and crime levels are also generally low.
What are Qatar’s entry requirements?
Those using a full British citizen passport to travel to Qatar for tourism can get a free 30-day visa waiver on arrival. (You may be able to extend this before it expires through the Qatar Ministry of Interior.) However, you will need a confirmed return or onward ticket, and your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the day you arrive.
If you’re travelling on a non-standard British passport, such as one from a British overseas territory, you will need a visa. You will also need a visa if you’re visiting the country for another reason.
Fanar Qatar Islamic Cultural Center in Doha
GETTY IMAGES
Is Qatar safe for female travellers?
Qatar is generally considered safe for female travellers. However, you should still take care when walking or travelling alone, especially at night. You should also use reputable taxi firms.
The Foreign Office says that personal attacks, including sexual assault and rape, are relatively rare but they do happen. However, local laws mean that the burden of proof rests heavily on the victim. If they cannot prove that the sex was non-consensual, it may lead to their prosecution.
Those who have been sexually assaulted are advised to call the British Embassy on 00 974 4496 2000 for advice. It has also provided written guidance for victims of rape or sexual assault in Qatar.
Is Qatar safe for LGBT travellers?
Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar. Same-sex relationships can lead to imprisonment or even the death penalty.
• Best hotels in Qatar
• Best things to do in Qatar
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