Doha Car Hire | Doha Rent A Car | Doha Airport Car Rental | Mini Van & Bus | 4WD Hire

 

Doha is the capital city of Qatar, a tiny nation in the Persian Gulf. Qatar officially has a population of less than one million people, though the UN estimates it to be closer to 1.4 million, especially when the many and diverse expat workers are taken into account. Of those, around 400,000 live in the capital. Qatari nationals make up a minority of the population, with many expats from South Asia, as well as North Africans, East Asians, Europeans, Australians and North Americans making up the rest.

 

Doha is a clean and attractive city, built on the site of an old fishing and pearling village. Now it features an attractive corniche, providing a pleasant walking promenade around Doha bay. Oil was discovered in the 1930s, which has made Doha a prosperous city. It has great shopping malls, cinemas and is home to Education City, a centre for research and education.

 

Climate
Doha has a dry, arid climate. Temperatures during the summer months of May to September average over 40 degrees Celsius (104 F). There is very little rainfall year round, and winter evenings can be cool.

 

Customs and Dress

Qatar is a relatively progressive Islamic nation, with more liberal laws than Saudi Arabia, but more restrictive laws than found in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Women are allowed to drive and need not cover their hair. However, both men and women should dress conservatively to avoid causing offense and being stared at or made to feel uncomfortable. Neither men nor women should have bare shoulders or wear skimpy tank tops, though short sleeved blouses, shirts or t-shirts are fine. Shorts are not appropriate for men or women, though ¾ trousers are acceptable for everyone. Women should avoid low cut tops, see-through clothes, shirts which expose their midriffs and skirts which are knee length or shorter. Because of the extreme heat of summer loose flowing skirts and shirts and natural fibres such as silk, linen and cotton are much more comfortable (and modest) than clinging garments made of synthetic fibres.

 

You can find alcohol, but it is generally only served in bars and nightclubs within major hotels. Ordinary restaurants around the city generally do not serve alcohol. It is unacceptable to drink alcohol on the street. Expatriates can apply for a permit to buy alcohol for consumption at home. Public displays of physical affection between couples should be avoided. During the holy month of Ramadan, respect should be shown by not eating, drinking or smoking in public at all. All hotels and many offices will have rooms set aside where non-fasting people or non-Muslims may go to eat or drink and not offend. It is difficult, but important for foreigners who are not used to the climate to maintain fluids by drinking water, so enquire about where you can go to drink water to stay healthy.

 

Sites and Attractions

Doha is home to the Museum of Islamic Art, a stunningly beautiful new building built on Doha bay. It opened in 2008, and the building's architecture incorporates traditional Islamic features, with modern construction methods. It was designed by I. M. Pei, most famous for his contemporary work on the Louvre and its internal use of space is spectacular. It houses a fascinating collection of art from the far flung corners of the Islamic world, from south-east Asia to Spain. Admission and guided tours are free, though there may be entrance fees to some temporary exhibitions.

 

The Qatar University is also home to some lovely and interesting architecture. While Doha has its own share of Dubai-esque skyscrapers, the University buildings are more consistent with the contemporary Islamic style of the Museum of Islamic Art. The University is a bit of a way out of town, so you can use your excellent value Doha car rental to drive out there.

 

Souk Waqif is a popular market with tourists. As a souk, it dates back to ancient times, though considerable renovation has given it a somewhat sterile feel these days. Still, it makes for some lovely photos, and there's no end to the souvenirs you might find. Be aware that it closes for siesta during the hot part of the afternoon, but re-opens in the early evening. The older parts of the souq have more interesting supplies, including spices, dried fruit and tea sets, and are frequented by locals, particularly expats from the sub-continent. The main thoroughfares include some very pleasant restaurants (serving alcohol) and cafes, and high quality coffee can be found.

 

Doha provides plenty of lovely walks along the corniche, especially in the cooler hours of early morning or dusk. The shopping malls provide retail therapy and cinemas, and there's a diverse range of ethnic and local cuisines in high quality restaurants to be enjoyed.

 

Accommodation

Hotels in Doha are generally quite expensive, and even a very modest 3 star hotel can cost $100USD per night. Room availability can be quite tight, so it pays to book well ahead of time. Doha is a long way from reaching the room-density which can be found in other Gulf cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi, though there are numerous 5-star hotels, and plenty more in the planning and construction.

 

Driving in Doha

Driving in Doha is generally safe. Peak hours can be unpredictable, due to people working shifts and taking siestas. While the roads are wide and well signed, some erratic driving can be experienced, so it's best to take care in your Doha rental vehicle. You can drive using your home country drivers' license for one week. For Doha car hire periods longer than one week, you should bring in International drivers license, which permits you to drive in Doha for up to 6 months. International drivers' licenses are available from the auto clubs in most countries. There is a strict zero limit on blood alcohol concentration. Offenders will be punished very severely, and may be prevented from leaving Doha for several months. In the event of an accident, do not move your car. Wait for the police to attend.