Are you relocating to Qatar or a new neighborhood in Doha?  This country is known for dynamic changes in rental prices and varying lease terms and housing options, which can make the process of searching for the perfect place frustrating. Here’s what to keep in mind when looking to rent an apartment in Doha: reputable websites, forums and groups you can rely on for information, and practical tips for a smooth relocation.

Budget

Before you start your search, set a total budget that includes both rent and utilities (Kahramaa). When researching, check whether the rental fee includes utilities, services, and parking charges. If not, you could ask the owner to provide you with the previous months’ bills so you know whether the apartment fits your overall budget. 

Apartment state

An unfurnished apartment is cheaper to rent, but you will spend more money and time setting it up. Long-term, for Qatar, it’s usually more cost-efficient to purchase your own stuff. But if you aren’t planning on staying for more than six months, it’s better to opt for a fully furnished place. 

Location

A one-bedroom apartment for rent in Doha suburbs will be more expensive than a three-bedroom flat outside the city, say somewhere in Umm Salal or Al Khor. Car owners are better off with a less expensive neighborhood, especially if it’s not too far away from their workplace or schools. In case you don’t have a vehicle, you’ll have to check whether the apartment is easily accessible by public transport, and if malls, markets, parks, and clinics are close by.  

Neighborhood type

There are a few family-oriented areas like Abu Hammour, Ain Khalid, and Doha Al Jadeeda, where property owners prefer married tenants, meaning bachelors are less likely to find accommodation there. In most cases, you’ll see a “For families only” disclaimer on the advertisement (like this Steps apartment ad).

On the other hand, some apartments are designed for accommodating workers and are customized for bachelor-style living. They have fewer family-friendly amenities and are typically located in Abu Nakhla, Barwa, and Umm Salal workers' camps.

Terms of lease

You should ask if the lease agreement has clauses that can lead to penalties. If you have pets or kids, check whether the contract specifically allows them and what kind of damage can lead to breaking the lease. Additionally, verify whether the payment terms work for you: the rent frequency (monthly, quarterly, yearly) and payment methods (cash, post-dated cheques, etc).

Extra amenities 

Look out for additional building perks like swimming pools, indoor gymnasiums, kids’ play areas, and security features to suit your living preferences.

How much should you spend to rent an apartment in Qatar? Is it easy to rent an apartment in Doha and the nearby neighborhoods? 

Below is a summary of average monthly rental costs based on available properties.

Property websites

Property listing websites are probably the easiest and most common way to scout for rental apartments in Qatar. There are websites where vetted and verified realtors and real estate companies frequently advertise vacant units, with tools for filtering apartment features. Here are popular sites you can check out: 

• Property Finder Qatar

• Qatar Living Properties 

• Property Oryx

• Dubizzle (formerly OLX)

• Bayut

• Steps

• Real estate companies’ websites: Retaj, FGRealty, Ezdan Real Estate, Habari Real Estate, Alfardan Properties, Al Ameen Properties, Al Emadi 

Social media forums

Social media forums are essential for research and fact-finding about renting apartments in Qatar — people often share their experiences, real estate agent and landlord recommendations, and emerging rental trends. 

For instance, Reddit Qatar (r/Qatar) contains people’s first-hand experiences as they search for apartments for rent in various areas. In addition, Quora hosts discussions about the hurdles of renting an apartment and actionable tips to overcome them.

There are also several Facebook pages where expats in Qatar engage in virtual discussions about life and renting. Some agents also use these forums to advertise their listings. Popular groups include Qatar Living Buy and Sell, Villa/Flats Rent & Sell in Qatar, and For Rent/Sale in Doha.

Apart from Facebook groups, you can use the Facebook marketplace to search for apartments in different neighborhoods across Doha City and Qatar. Filter the listings by time to view the latest rental properties. However, be careful when dealing with merchants on the marketplace, and do not send any money to anyone you haven't met or entered into a legal agreement with. 

Lastly, virtual online communities for expats can be a good place to ask for information about apartments. Some of them may require an invitation from a member, affiliation with a region/country, or registration. You can ask forum members about living in their neighborhoods, navigating lease agreements, and how to relocate to and within Qatar. Examples of such local forums include Expat Woman, Girls of Doha, Qatar National History Group, and South African Social Community (SAiQ).

Before you sign anything, schedule a visit and physically view a place to ensure all the information and photos are accurate. You can also use these visits to learn more about the neighborhood. 

Furthermore, request a lease agreement and read it thoroughly before signing to ensure it clearly states the terms of payment, the party responsible for maintenance costs, the lease duration, exit penalties, and legal obligations for each party. If the contract contains any penalties for damaged items, consider investing in home insurance that protects rented property as well.

Moreover, confirm that the building is registered with government agencies. The property has to meet all statutory requirements for protective devices like smoke detectors, alarms, and fire-fighting equipment — do not fall victim to illegal subletting, no matter how cheap the flat is. 

While on the topic of scams, do not send money to anyone purporting to be an agent or intermediary without a signed rent agreement or property viewing, and don’t engage agents or realtors who demand property viewing fees. You should also avoid unregistered agents and marketplace dealers who do not have a physical office, yet post rental properties. 

As you move in, take photos of each area. You can use it in case of disputes when moving out. 

The moving process can be frustrating, but if you protect yourself from scammers, have a list of everything you need, and spend time researching neighborhoods, you’ll find the perfect place in Qatar in no time.