Quick Tips for Women Traveling Solo to Qatar

Planning a solo trip to Qatar? You’re in for a fantastic experience! The country offers a rich blend of modernity and tradition, and its capital, Doha, was ranked as the second safest city in the world. It’s also a vibrant megapolis with lively streets and a global business culture. Yet it’s perfectly fine if, being a woman, you want to ensure you’re being respectful to local traditions. And it’s really not that hard, as you’ll see from this guide.

Qatar enjoys a warm desert climate, with temperatures ranging from 35°C to 50°C (95°F to 122°F) in the summer, often accompanied by high humidity. For the most comfortable experience, we recommend visiting between November and March, when the weather is pleasantly mild. You may also want to consider planning your trip outside the holy month of Ramadan, as some businesses and restaurants operate with adjusted hours during this time.

Ruled by Sharia laws derived from the Quran (words of God) and the Prophet Muhammad’s practices and sayings, Qatar’s Islamic nature is reflected in many aspects of its daily life. The points below provide some examples and recommendations.

Dress modestly

Qatar is a welcoming country with a sizable expatriate population, but it’s important to respect the traditional culture of the native community. You are not expected to wear a head scarf or an abaya. However, it is recommended that you always cover your shoulders and knees, especially in public places like malls and markets.

Avoid public displays of affection

In Qatar, public displays of affection are generally discouraged. Kissing, hugging, and even holding hands in public may be viewed as violations of local customs and laws. Additionally, direct eye contact with strangers can sometimes be perceived as overly familiar!

Be friendly without overdoing it

While handshakes with men are generally accepted, some Muslims might refrain from touching stranger women. Make sure you know the other person’s boundaries before offering physical communication. Loud laughs can grab unwanted attention — you may want to save those for when you are comfortable with friends.

Learn about Ramadan traditions

Ramadan is a holy month during which​​ Muslims refrain from eating and even drinking water from dawn to sunset. Qatar’s laws prohibit both Muslims and non-Muslims from doing any of those acts (and also smoking!) in public during fasting hours. Violating this rule can be punished with up to three months of imprisonment, a fine of 3,000 QAR (approximately 820 US Dollars), or both.

There are plenty of things to indulge in in the capital city of Doha or across Qatar if you’re ready to take some extra miles. 

Enjoy nature

Whether you love beaches or deserts, Qatar offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, surfing, scuba diving, safaris, camping, and more.

Appreciate the culture

For culture diggers, Qatar is a haven of museums and unique destinations to explore. Consider the Museum of Islamic Art, the National Museum of Qatar, the four heritage-focused Msheireb museums, and the Museum of Illusions.

Indulge in self-care experiences

The traditional nature of Qatar comes with its privileges! Female-only gyms and spas will offer you the ultimate comfort and privacy. You may also want to get henna tattoos, but make sure you pick a well-reviewed salon and choose 100% natural products.

Go shopping

With luxury malls everywhere, shopping in Doha is never boring. If you prefer traditional markets, you can leave it to Souq Wafiq.

Official public transportation is perfectly safe and comfortable in Qatar. It is the first option on our list. However, the country also has other safe transportation options.

• Doha Metro has a women and children-only section where you can feel safe commuting.

• Karwa official taxis are also a good option. Avoid unregistered taxis.

• Uber is another reliable choice if you prefer using an app you already know.

• Car rental is your best option if you like to take complete control of your experience.

While Qatar is a highly safe and welcoming space for women, based on other female travelers’ experiences, we are happy to provide additional tips to help you feel more comfortable booking your solo trip to Qatar.

• Health comes first. Make sure you are covered by decent health insurance. You may also want to prepare your first aid kit, just in case. Avoid long walks, especially during the day, and always carry a water bottle wherever you go.

• Save emergency numbers on your phone. These include Qatar’s emergency hotline (999), your embassy number, and any other numbers you might need while in Qatar.

• Connect with travel groups to feel safer and less lonely within a community and make new friends!

• Learn a few Arabic words. An assertive «La, Shukran» (No, thank you) can set your boundaries right away. Also, a simple greeting in Arabic, «As-salaam alaykum» (Peace be upon You), can help you break the ice with locals.

• Always carry a scarf or shawl. You never know when they will come in handy.

• Enjoy! Just book that trip. Thank us later.