Qatar

TRAVEL INSURANCE

The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance, is obtained before travelling to Qatar. Travellers should note that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

From 1 May, 2010 Irish citizens do not require a visa for travel to Qatar.

For further information, please contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Qatar 

It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.

CRIME & SECURITY

Most visits to Qatar are trouble-free and there is a relatively low incidence of crime.

However, you should be aware of the threat from terrorism generally in the region. Attacks could be indiscriminate, and against Western interests.

A suicide-bomb attack occurred on 19 March 2005 outside the Doha Players’ Theatre, Doha. One British national was killed and at least 12 other people were injured.

LOCAL LAWS & CUSTOMS

The importation of narcotics, alcohol, pornography, pork products and religious books and material is forbidden. DVDs and videos are subject to scrutiny and may be censored. In particular, the penalties for possession of or trade in drugs are severe, often resulting in prison sentences. It is a punishable offence to drink alcohol or be drunk in public. Offenders may incur a prison sentence or deportation. Alcohol is, however, available at licensed hotel restaurants and bars, and expatriates living in Qatar can obtain alcohol on a permit system. You should not carry alcohol with you, including in your car (except to take it on the day of collection from the warehouse to your home).

You should dress modestly, behave courteously and respect local customs and sensitivities.

Any intimacy in public between men and women (including teenagers) can lead to arrest.

Homosexual behaviour is illegal in Qatar.

ROAD SAFETY

Road travel can be dangerous due to unsafe driving practices. Roaming animals and drifting sands are additional road hazards. Off road driving can be hazardous. You should ensure that your vehicles are well-equipped and properly maintained.

There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. Offenders may be detained, fined and banned from driving.

Excursions to the desert can be hazardous unless undertaken in an adequately equipped 4 x 4 vehicle. Always travel in convoy with other cars, take a supply of water and a mobile telephone if you have one and leave travel plans with friends or relatives.

DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR MISSIONS 

The Embassy of Ireland in Riyadh in Saudi Arabia is accredited to Qatar - for contact details, please click here. (Opens in new window)