Best Time to Visit Qatar from India
The best time to visit Qatar is between October and April. Qatar is one of the safest and wealthiest nations in the world. The country boasts a rich, traditional culture and offers a wide array of experiences to all kinds of tourists.
Anyone planning to visit Qatar will want to choose the colder months as the weather is pleasant, unlike the scorching summer. This article will tell you about the best time to travel to Qatar so you can plan a comfortable trip.
Best Months/Seasons to Visit Qatar
Knowing the details of each season of the country you’re visiting makes trip planning much easier. Follow the details below to plan your trip to Qatar:
Month | Average Temperature | Description |
March-May (Spring Season) | 27 to 39 degrees Celsius | During this time, temperatures gradually rise from the cooler winter months, ranging from pleasant lows in the early spring to warmer highs as it progresses. Popular events during this time: Al-Shahaniya Camel Racing, Aspire International Kite Festival, and Doha Cultural Festival. |
June-August (Summer Season) | 29 to 41 degrees Celsius | This period is characterised by scorching and humid weather, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C and occasionally reaching even higher. Popular events during this time: Qatar Airlines Summer Festival and Project Qatar. |
September-November | 19 to 37 degrees Celsius | Autumn in Qatar spans from September to November, transitioning from the intense heat of summer to more moderate temperatures. Popular events during this time: Qatar International Art Festival, Doha International Coffee Exhibition, and Kids Expo. |
December-February (Winter Season) | 19 to 23 degrees Celsius | Winter in Qatar spans from December to February and offers a pleasant escape from the scorching heat of summer. Popular events during this time: Balloon Festival, Qatar National Day Celebration, and World Arabian Horse Championships. |
March-May (Spring Season)
During the spring season in Qatar, you can explore several activities and places. It's a popular time for outdoor activities and cultural events, making it a vibrant experience.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Qatar:
Weather | Warm |
Temperature | 27°C to 39°C |
Season | Moderate |
Season for Localities | Al-Shahaniya Camel Racing, Aspire International Kite Festival, Doha Cultural Festival |
Key Highlights |
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June-August (Summer Season)
While summer in Qatar can be challenging due to the heat, it also offers opportunities to explore indoor attractions, experience cultural festivities, and enjoy water-based activities to beat the heat.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Qatar:
Weather | Hot and Humid |
Temperature | 29°C to 41°C |
Season | Off |
Season for Localities | Qatar Airlines Summer Festival and Project Qatar |
Key Highlights |
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September-November (Autumn Season)
Autumn in Qatar offers a pleasant climate, making it an excellent time to explore the country's natural landscapes and cultural heritage.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Qatar:
Weather | Cool |
Temperature | 19°C to 37°C |
Season | Moderate |
Season for Localities | Qatar International Art Festival, Doha International Coffee Exhibition, Kids Expo |
Key Highlights |
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December-February (Winter Season)
Winter in Qatar provides a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and leisure activities in a comfortable climate.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Qatar:
Weather | Cool |
Temperature | 19°C to 23°C |
Season | Peak |
Season for Localities | Balloon Festival, Qatar National Day Celebration, World Arabian Horse Championships |
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When to Avoid Visiting Qatar?
Qatar has hot and humid weather for most parts of the year. However, the summer season can be especially uncomfortable due to the intense heat and humidity.
Months to Avoid | Reason |
June to August (Summer Season) |
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Seasonal Travel Costs of Visiting Qatar from India
Travelling to Qatar from India can vary in affordability depending on the time of year. Here's a general overview of how costs for flights and hotels can differ across different months or seasons:
Season | Average Flight Cost | Average Hotel Cost per Night | Description |
Spring (March-May) | ₹24,000 - ₹36,000 | ₹3,500 - ₹5,000 | Moderate to peak prices; the season experiences pleasant to warm weather. Tourists can experience water-based activities. |
Summer (June-August) | ₹11,000 - ₹13,000 | ₹2,000 - ₹3,000 | Lowest prices due to the summer heat and humidity. Tourists can enjoy air-conditioned venues and indulge in water sports. |
Autumn (September-November) | ₹18,000 - ₹22,000 | ₹3,000 - ₹4,000 | Moderate prices; autumn offers a respite from the summer heat, and tourists enjoy sightseeing in the daytime. |
Winter (December-February) | ₹27,000 - ₹40,000 | ₹4,000 - ₹5,000 | Peak prices due to the cool weather. Tourists can enjoy the winter celebrations and sightseeing in the cool weather. |
Things to Know Before Visiting Qatar
Qatar is a beautiful blend of natural beauty and shiny modernity. It offers something for every kind of traveller. Here are the things you must know before you travel to Qatar from India:
- Numerous international airlines fly to Qatar.
- Taxis are readily available, and their fares are cheap as well.
- Qatar, with its oil and gas reserves, is one of the wealthiest countries in the world.
- Do not carry alcohol into the country because drinking in public is strictly prohibited.
- Do not carry religious books, pork or food items that contain pork.
- In Qatar, same-sex relationships are illegal.
- Research well about the nomadic lifestyle of the Bedouins.
- Carry good quality sunscreen and sunglasses, especially if you are travelling during the summer.
- It would be a good idea to carry a metal water bottle.
- Pack decent clothes in your luggage.
Tips for Travelling in Qatar
Every country has its customs. Travelling becomes much easier if you are mindful of the local customs. Here are certain tips that would make visiting beautiful places in Qatar easier for you:
- Dress modestly in public places.
- Do not engage in physical contact like hugging or kissing members of the opposite sex. You might be fined or banned from the country.
- A 10% tip is considered appropriate if the restaurant does not charge any service fee.
- Do not show the 'thumbs up' sign. While it is an acceptable gesture in western countries, Qatar's people consider it rude.
- Do not cross your legs when sitting in front of someone older or higher.
- Do not use one finger to call someone. Instead, use the palm of your hand.
- Do not point at anyone or anything. The residents of Qatar consider it to be rude.
- Avoid eating with your left hand
What Phrases Should You Know Before Travelling to Qatar?
When in Qatar, it is best to speak a few Arabic phrases to feel local. Listed below are the top phrases that you will find helpful while communicating in Qatar:
English | Arabic |
Hello | Hala |
Thank You | Shukran |
Let’s go | Yalla |
Good Morning | Sabah al khair |
Response to Good Morning | Sabah al nour |
Yes | Naam |
No | Laa |
Correct | Sah |
No problem | Maafi Mushkila |
Amazing | Ajeeeb |
Where is | Wain |
Where is the restroom | Wain al hamam |
What is your name (male) | Shismik |
What is your name (female) | Shismich |
A pleasure to meet you | Tasharafna |
How much is this | Ib Kam |
Please reduce the price | A’atni khasam |
Unfortunately, I speak only a little Arabic | Lil’asaf, anaa ata haddath faqat qaliil min alaarabiyya |
Hospital | Mushtashfa |
Airport | Mataar |
Embassy | Safara |
Restaurant | Mat’am |
My Name is | Asmi hu |
Water | Ma’ |
Go | Yadhhab |
Stop | Qf |
Turn right | Aineataf yaminan |
Turn left | Aineataf lilyasar |
Wine | Khamr |
How Much Is This? | Kam thaman hadha? |
0 | Sifr |
1 | Wahid |
2 | Aithnayn |
3 | Thalatha |
4 | ‘Arbaea |
5 | Khamsa |
6 | Sita |
7 | Sabea |
8 | Thamania |
9 | Tise |
10 | Eashra |
If you are looking for vibrant and culturally rich places to visit for your upcoming holidays, you can travel to Qatar. This country offers everything that a tourist can ask for. From desert to ancient historical sites and from beaches to sprawling parks, Qatar will never disappoint. You also get a chance to learn about Islamic art. So, pack your bags now.
FAQs about Best Time to Visit Qatar
What is the peak season in Qatar?
The peak season in Qatar typically coincides with the winter months from December to February. During this period, the weather is pleasantly cool and comfortable.
What is the moderate season in Qatar?
The moderate season in Qatar spans the transitional periods between the peak and off seasons. This includes spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures begin to rise or fall.
What is the off-season in Qatar?
The off-season in Qatar typically covers the summer months from June to August. This period is characterised by extremely high temperatures, often exceeding 40°C.
What is the best time of year to visit Qatar?
The best time to visit Qatar is during the winter months, from December to February, when the weather is pleasantly cool and comfortable for outdoor activities.
What months should I avoid visiting Qatar due to extreme heat?
It is advisable to avoid visiting Qatar during the summer months from June to August, when temperatures soar above 40°C, accompanied by high humidity levels.
Should I consider any festivals or events when planning my trip to Qatar?
Yes, Qatar hosts various cultural and sporting events throughout the year. The Qatar International Food Festival in March and the Qatar National Day celebrations in December are particularly popular.
How crowded is Qatar during the peak season?
During the peak season from December to February, Qatar can experience higher tourist numbers, especially around significant attractions and hotels. It's advisable to book accommodations and tours in advance during this period.
Can you visit Qatar during Ramadan?
Yes, it is possible to visit Qatar during Ramadan. However, visitors should be aware that the pace of life slows down during this holy month, and some restaurants and attractions may have altered schedules.
What are the advantages of visiting Qatar during the off-season?
Visiting Qatar during the off-season (summer) may offer lower hotel rates and fewer crowds. However, it's essential to be prepared for sweltering weather conditions.
Are there any indoor attractions in Qatar to enjoy during the summer months?
Yes, Qatar offers a range of indoor attractions, such as museums, shopping malls, and cultural centres, that provide relief from the summer heat.
What should I pack to visit Qatar during the peak season?
If you visit Qatar during the peak season (winter), pack light layers for daytime and warmer clothing for evenings. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are also essential due to the sunny weather.
Is Qatar expensive to visit?
Yes, Qatar can be relatively expensive compared to other destinations, especially regarding accommodation and dining. However, there are options across different price ranges, and budget travellers can find affordable accommodations.
When to go to Doha?
The best time to visit Doha is during the winter months, from December to February, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring the city.
Do Indians need a visa for Qatar?
Yes, Indian citizens generally need a visa to visit Qatar. Tourist visas can be obtained online or on arrival, depending on the traveller's nationality and entry requirements.
Which month is there snow in Qatar?
Snow is extremely rare in Qatar due to its desert climate. It rarely snows in Qatar.
Which month is good for Qatar?
The months of November to April are generally considered the best time to visit Qatar due to the pleasant weather conditions.
Why is Qatar worth visiting?
Qatar is worth visiting for its blend of modernity and tradition, impressive architecture, such as the Museum of Islamic Art and the futuristic skyline of Doha, cultural attractions, desert landscapes, and luxury shopping experiences.
Is Doha worth visiting?
Yes, Doha is worth visiting for its modern architecture, cultural attractions, diverse cuisine, shopping opportunities, and vibrant atmosphere along the Corniche.
Is Doha hot or cold?
Doha experiences a desert climate characterised by hot summers and mild winters. During the summer months (June to August), temperatures can be scorching, often exceeding 40°C (104°F).
Is it safe to go to Doha at night?
Yes, Doha is generally considered safe for visitors at night. However, as with any city, exercising normal precautions and being aware of your surroundings is advisable, especially in less crowded or unfamiliar areas.
Is Qatar good for nightlife?
Yes, Qatar offers a growing nightlife scene, especially in Doha, with various bars, lounges, and clubs catering to different tastes. However, nightlife options can be more limited compared to other major cities.
What is the speciality of Qatar?
Qatar is known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional souks (markets), Arabian cuisine, dhow cruises, and iconic landmarks like the Katara Cultural Village and The Pearl-Qatar.
What is the most visited place in Qatar?
The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha is one of the most visited attractions in Qatar, renowned for its impressive collection of Islamic art spanning centuries and various regions.
What is the prettiest place in Qatar?
Many visitors find the sand dunes of the desert, especially those in the Inland Sea area, among Qatar's prettiest and most striking natural landscapes.
What to buy from Qatar Doha?
Popular souvenirs and items to buy in Doha include traditional Arabic coffee pots (dallah), Qatari spices, perfumes, textiles, such as embroidered thobes (traditional clothing) and local artwork.
What foods is Qatar famous for?
Qatar is known for its traditional Middle Eastern and Arabian Gulf cuisine. Popular dishes include machboos (spiced rice with meat), harees (wheat and meat porridge), and various grilled meats and seafood dishes.
What are 5 facts about Qatar?
Five interesting facts about Qatar include:
- Qatar derives its wealth derived from natural gas reserves.
- They have hosted the FIFA World Cup 2022.
- Qatar has a rapidly developing infrastructure and skyline.
- Qatar has an Education City with branches of top international universities.
- Qatar has ambitious cultural projects like the National Museum of Qatar.
Is Qatar good for shopping?
Yes, Qatar is excellent for shopping, offering luxury shopping malls like Villaggio Mall and The Mall of Qatar, traditional souks (markets) such as Souq Waqif, and a wide range of international brands and boutiques.