Living in Qatar: Spring/Summer 2025

Living in Qatar

DAY TO DAY IN QATAR

HEALTHCARE IN QATAR

HEALTHCARE USEFUL NUMBERS

MAP OF HAMAD BIN KHALIFA MEDICAL CITY

INTERESTING READS ACCESSIBLE QATAR

Living in Qatar Living in Qatar

Day-to-Day Qatar

• Ministry of Interior

• Government Apps

• Qatar Labour Law (Kafala)

• Residence Permit

• Residence/Work Permit

• Renewing a Residence Permit

• Other Residence Permits

• Exit Permits

• Useful Documents/Processing

• Health Related Services

Housing and Utilities

• To Rent • To Buy

•Letting Agents • Lawyers and Legal

• Relocation Services/Removal Firms

• Other Housing Considerations

• Water and Electricity

• Gas • Telephone and Internet

Living Essentials and Services

• Television and Radio

• Newspapers • Public Wireless Internet

• Postal Services and Mail

• Courier Services

• Places of Worship

• Birth, Marriage, Divorce and Death

• Liquor Permit

Pets

• Ministry Department for Animal Resources

• Import and Export Guidelines

• Private Veterinary Clinics and Services

Accessible Qatar

• Educational and Learning Centres

• Healthcare (Therapy and Support) Centres

• Leisure and Entertainment

• Important and Useful Platforms

• Travel and Transportation

Founder & Managing Editor

Hilar y Bainbridge

Editorial

Sarah Palmer (Editor)

Ola Diab (Deputy Editor)

Terr y Sutcliffe

Adver tising

Howard Bainbridge

Marrian Magtira

Retail Sales

Ayen Molina

Online/Digital

Weslee Dizon

Patrisha Manzon

Char lotte Wright

Juggy Gill

Khaled Emad

Design and Ar twor k

Dick Tamayo

Mar Principe

Marhaba endeavours to quote accurate information and updates each of its sections every issue. However, the company accepts no responsibility or liability for any false, inaccurate, inappropriate or incomplete information presented, whether in print, on the website, or on social media channels.

© 2025 Marhaba Information Guide. All Rights Reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without written permission of the publishers.

Dana Public Relations PO Box 3797, Doha, Qatar Tel (+974) 4465 0083, 4465 5533

General Information

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Qatar: A Safe, Livable and Stress-free Haven

By Ola Diab

Qatar is the safest country in the region with a high quality of life, according to recent databases.

In recent years, Qatar has gained global recognition as a rapidly developing country and an emerging tourist destination, largely due to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. It has also drawn attention for its exceptional quality of life, consistently ranking as one of the safest countries with a high standard of living for both local and expatriate residents.

Safest country

According to Expatriate Group: Qatar is the safest country in the Middle East, and eighth safest in the world, for expatriates (expats) to live in in 2025, according to recent statistics from Expatriate Group, a global conglomerate dedicated to providing international healthcare insurance for expats living, working, or studying abroad.

The latest report, which collected data on 128 countries, used the Global Peace Index to measure political stability and conflict risk, the Crime Rate Index to measure the level of crime, and the percentage risk of natural disasters to measure the likelihood of such events.

In terms of crime rates, the report also named Qatar as having the second-lowest crime in the world with a Crime Index of 16.0.

According to the report, aside from Singapore, Qatar is the only country outside of Europe on their top 10 safest countries ranking. 'Coming eighth overall, Qatar ranks second for the lowest crime rate in the world. The country has strict laws and strong law

enforcement, which contribute to an environment where violent crime is rare and petty crimes, such as theft, are infrequent. This sense of safety extends to public spaces, which helps make Qatar a comfortable place to live and work,' the report stated.

Qatar also enjoys political stability. 'The country enjoys a stable governance structure and is largely free from political unrest. It has a focus on economic development and maintaining good international relations, which ensures a secure environment for residents,' it stated.

The Expatriate Group report also pointed out that natural disaster risks in Qatar are minimal due to its geographical location. 'The country is not prone to earthquakes, hurricanes, or flooding, though the arid climate does mean there are occasional sandstorms. However, these are generally wellanticipated and managed, with clear guidelines put in place to ensure public safety,' it stated.

Singapore is the safest country in the world, followed by Switzerland (2) with an overall safety score of 28, Denmark (3), Iceland (4) and Slovenia (5) with 30, Austria (6) with 36, Czech Republic (7) with 38, Qatar (8) with 40, Finland (9) with 43, and Estonia (10) with 49.

Within the region, Bahrain is in 13th position, Kuwait in 15th, Oman in 24th, UAE in 30th, and Saudi Arabia in 54th.

For more information, see expatriatehealthcare.com

According to Numbeo: Qatar is the third safest country in the world, according to Numbeo, the world's largest database of user contributed data about cities and countries worldwide. Qatar is in the top 10, ranking third (145) in a global ranking of 147 countries with a 15.8 score in the Crime Index and a 84.2 score in the Safety Index.

The UAE is the safest country in the region, ranking second (146) in the global ranking with a 15.5 score in the Crime Index and a 84.5 score in the Safety Index, followed by Qatar and Oman in 5th place with a 15.8 score in the Crime Index, and a 84.2 score in the Safety Index.

Numbeo has many indices including the Quality of Life, Crime, Health Care, Pollution and Traffic. For more information, see numbeo.com

High quality of life

Qatar has scored highly in the Quality of Life Index 2025 by Numbeo. Qatar is in the top 10, ranking ninth in a global ranking of 88 countries, compared to its 17th position in 2024. The country’s score on the index is 193.3, a significant improvement from 165.9 in 2024.

Ranked in first place is Luxembourg with a 220.1 score, followed by the Netherlands with 211.3, Denmark with 209.9, Oman with 208.9, Switzerland with 205.0, Finland with 203.8, Iceland with 202.0, Norway with 195.0, Qatar with 193.3, and Sweden with 193.2.

It is the second safest country in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA). Oman is the safest in the region with a 208.9 score. Within the region, the UAE is ranked at 20 with a 177.0 score, Saudi Arabia is at 21 with 177.0, Kuwait is at 34 with 160.0, Jordan at 56 with 125.0, Tunisia at 66 with 117.3, Morocco is at 70 with 110.8, Lebanon at 79 with 100.1, and Egypt at 84 with 85.3.

On the Quality of Life Index 2025, Qatar scored the following:

• Quality of Life Index (higher is better) 193.3

• Purchasing Power Index (higher is better) 185.7

• Pollution Index (lower is better) 60.0

• Property Price to Income Ratio (lower is better) 5.2

• Cost of Living Index (lower is better) 47.5

• Safety Index (higher is better) 84.2

• Health Care Index (higher is better) 73.4

• Traffic Commute Time Index (lower is better) 29.0

• Climate Index (higher is better) 36.0

In Numbeo's Quality of Life Index by City 2025, Doha is ranked a 178.47 score.

Published periodically, the Quality of Life Index is an estimation of the overall quality of life in a city or country. Designed to provide a comparative measure, where a higher index value indicates a better quality of life, the Quality of Life Index is based on data and user surveys collected by

Numbeo. The surveys capture the perceptions and experiences of visitors to the website regarding various aspects of quality of life. The index is calculated using an empirical formula that assigns weights to each factor based on its importance. The specific formula used by Numbeo may vary and is subject to change. It combines the data collected for each factor to generate a numerical value that represents the quality of life in a particular location.

In recent years, Qatar and its capital city Doha have continued to retain their global distinction as one of the safest countries in the world. Qatar has taken the title as the world's safest country at least five times on Numbeo since 2017. Qatar has been named the safest Arab country since 2015.

For more information, see numbeo.com

Least stressed country

Qatar has been ranked as the least-stressed country in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, and the third least-stressed country in Asia, according to the 2025 Global Emotions Report by CEOWORLD Magazine. The report, which surveyed stress levels in 197 countries and territories, placed Qatar 11th globally, with a score of 84.3.

The report highlights which countries are performing well in terms of financial and mental well-being and which ones require improvements. It is premised on four main categories: work-related stress, money stress, social and family, as well as health and safety stress.

Qatar scored 94.23 in work-related stress, 93.46 in money-related stress, 80.08 in social and family stress, and 69.44 in health and safety stress.

The surveys, which took place between 2 December 2024 and 12 January 2025, listed Monaco, with a score of 87.33, is the least stressed country in the world.

Within the region, the UAE ranked 25th globally with 80.2, followed Qatar in second place, while Saudi Arabia ranked 38th with 76.98 in third place. Kuwait ranked 40th with 76.6 and Bahrain ranked 43rd with 75.68.

Day-to-Day Qatar

Whether you are a resident or a visitor to Qatar, there are many things to know about your stay in Qatar, from day-to-day activities to government tasks.

Accidents and Medical Emergencies Call 999

Ministry of Interior

The Ministry of Interior (MOI) is concerned with maintaining security, public order, ensuring the safety and security of the country and all those who reside in the State of Qatar or enter its territory, in addition to overseeing issues of nationality, residence permits (RP) of expatriates and more.

Located in the new colossal fort-like building in Wadi Al Sail, opposite the Fire Station, MOI's services can be acessed at portal.moi.gov.qa, and on Twitter, YouTube and Facebook. Residents and visitors can also access MOI's services by visiting its service centres spread out across the country and transacting directly with government officials; however, most services can be accessed on MOI's Metrash app, and online at portal.moi.gov.qa or at hukoomi.gov.qa Some services are available in Arabic, English, Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog and more to meet the diverse language needs of its users. 236 7111, 109 (Government Contact Center)

MOI's General Directorate of Passports (General Directorate of Passports and Expatriate Affairs) in Wadi Al Banat in Al Daayen B3 is responsible for managing and regulating various aspects of residency, immigration and travel documentation, including:

• Residency and visa services

– Issuing residence permits for expatriates and their families.

– Processing visa applications, including work, tourist, family and business visas.

– Handling visa renewals, cancellations, and extensions.

• Passport services

– Issuing, renewing and replacing Qatari passports for citizens.

– Handling passport-related enquiries and issues for both citizens and expatriates.

• Immigration control

– Overseeing entry and exit regulations at Qatar's borders (airports, seaports, and land borders).

– Ensuring compliance with immigration laws and policies.

– Monitoring overstays and addressing violations of residency or visa terms.

For more information, visit portal.moi.gov.qa

Note: Businesses cannot access services at the General Directorate of Passports in Wadi Al Banat, but can visit government service centres for assistance.

Government Service Centers: MOI's General Directorate of Passports Service Centers offer a comprehensive range of services, relevant to MOI, the traffic department and sometimes humanitarian services, including the renewal, issuance and extension of RPs, work visas, family visit visas, residency fines, traffic fines, and more, as well as receive transactions that cannot be completed via Metrash app and online. Service Centers: Al Khor, Al Rayyan, Al Shamal, Al Sheehaniya, Al Wakra, Mesaimeer, Umm Slal, Umm Al Seneem and The Pearl Island. Opening times: Sunday to Thursday 7 am – 12:30 pm, Friday and Saturday closed. HMC 7 am – 1 pm; Lusail City 7:30 am – 1 pm; Qatar Airways 7 am –3:30 pm; Souq Waqif, The Pearl Island and Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) 8 am – 1 pm.

Mandoub: Most companies and organisations have a mandoub, a government liaison officer who is responsible for completing much of the official documentation. A freelance mandoub can also be hired to help individuals with important government documents and services. Arabic proficiency is necessary.

Payment: All MOI and government service centres only accept debit or credit cards as payment for all services. If you do not have a debit or credit card, you can purchase an eCASH card, a nonpersonalised prepaid card, obtainable at any Qatar National Bank (QNB) ATM – RP card or passport required – at a one-off issuance fee of QAR20. The card can be reloaded with a minimum of QAR50 at any QNB ATM. Another option is the new Himyan card, the first national payment card with a Qatari brand, owned by the Qatar Central Bank (QCB). The prepaid debit card is obtainable at all local banks for both banking and nonbanking customers without the requirement for a bank account or credit line and minimum account balance. himyan.gov.qa

Government Contact Center

MOI's Government Contact Center offers 24-hour customer service to citizens and residents. It is the point of contact for all government e-service related enquiries. If you experience any difficulty in accessing Hukoomi e-services, or have questions about your transactions, contact the centre by phone, email or submit an electronic support ticket. 109/4406 9999, gco.gov.qa

Hukoomi

The award-winning government website, hukoomi.gov.qa, available in English and Arabic, is Qatar's official e-government portal and the first place to look when you have governmentrelated queries, offering more than 500 services. It serves as an access point to the many services provided by the government and allows everyone, visitors and residents alike, to make transactions online. Regularly updated, it has many e-services and links to various government ministries, councils, departments and institutions. It also provides information and articles about Qatar. Some services, such as driving licences, require online registration with a Qatari RP card for residents and nationals or a passport number for users outside Qatar. Hukoomi is also available as an app on iOS and Android.

Metrash

In January 2025, the MOI launched a new Metrash app, replacing the old Metrash2, with a more user-friendly experience while reducing steps, and ensuring digital security. The app incorporates personal authorisation service, family authorisation feature, enrollment of wife and/ or children without registered phone numbers, new payment methods like Apple Pay, improved address management for document delivery, service centre locations, and passport scanning for visa issuance. Additionally, more than 100 new services have been added including profile, authorisation, inquiry, security services, certificate issuance, and appointment booking services. GCC nationals residing in Qatar can now renew or replace their RPs more efficiently.

Registering on Metrash: Download the Metrash app on iOS or Android. Select your preferred language, then enter your RP number and expiry date. You will receive an activation number via SMS, after which you can set a PIN for Metrash. A confirmation SMS will follow to complete the setup.

The Metrash app can be activiated on two devices. For technical support, call 234 2000

Issuing counters at:

Traffic Department branches: Madinat Khalifa (HQ) C3, Al Maamoura D4/E4, E Ring Road/Old Airport (Al Matar Al Qadeem) D4.

Immigration Department branches: Wadi Al Banat, Al Daayen B3, the Industrial Area E2, Hamad International Airport (HIA) D5, Al Wakra and Al Khor.

Government Apps

All government apps are available on iOS and Android.

Hukoomi Enables the use of up to 650 online services accessible remotely without having to visit a government office, see above. hukoomi.gov.qa

Kahramaa Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa) app provides several e-services for residents including paying electricity and water bills, e-forms and e-bills services. km.qa

Metrash Offers citizens and residents access to more than 400 services, including 100 new services, provided by the MOI, including residency and other visas (family/work), traffic, travel services and more in Arabic, English, French, Spanish, Hindi and Urdu portal.moi.gov.qa

MOCIQatar The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) app provides residents with easy access to consumer services such as requesting food cards, fodder cards, renewing livestock details, applying for and reissuing cards. In addition, the application offers complaint submission services, and industrial services including industrial license applications, industrial operating license, and more. moci.gov.qa

Nar'aakom Allows people to benefit from many of Primary Health Care Corporation's (PHCC) digital services from their smartphones. View information such as your health card number and its expiry date, check your assigned health centre, and assigned family physician from PHCC. phcc.gov.qa

Oun Helps users in Qatar to access the services provided by the Ministry of Municipality such as pest control, tree-pruning and rain water removal, among other services.

Qatar Digital ID (QDI) Aimed at reducing identity theft crimes in cyberspace, the new app and digital wallet includes all cards issued by MOI, including the residence permit (RP), passport, national address, driving licence and vehicle registration (istimara) and more. Citizens and residents can use QDI for seamless entry and exit through eGate at the Hamad International Airport (HIA).

Sila A navigation app launched by the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) in 2021, bringing together Qatar's public transport modes into an integrated network – metro, bus, tram and taxi. sila.qa

The Qatar Labour Law – Kafala

The Ministry of Labour (MOL) was established by virtue of the Amiri Decree No 57 of 2021, replacing the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs. The government authority organises labour affairs, and implements labour laws and regulations. mol.gov.qa, 16008

Qatar has been taking major steps to reform its labour laws, and ease restrictions of the Kafala or employee sponsorship system. In 2018, exit permits and the no objection certificate (NOC) were abolished, and a minimum wage was introduced. The relationship between an employer and employee is regulated by the Qatar Labour Law, except at Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), which has its own employment laws and regulations, which can be found online at qfc.qa. For more information, visit hukoomi.gov.qa, mol.gov.qa

Sponsorship: All expatriate workers in Qatar require sponsorship to work in the country.

Minimum wage: According to Law No 17 of 2020 on Setting the Minimum Wage for Workers and Domestic Workers, the minimum wage for all private sector workers, including domestic workers, is set at QAR1,000 per month as a basic wage, as well as QAR500 per month allocated by the employer for accommodation expenses and QAR300 per month for food, unless the employer already provides adequate food or accommodation for the employee or domestic worker.

Working hours: A 48-hour week is the maximum allowed under Qatar Labour Law without overtime pay. Government offices and many private companies have a two-day weekend on Friday and Saturday, although a one-day holiday on Friday is still common in the private sector.

Contract: Three copies of the employment contract should be signed by both parties. The employer and employee each retain a copy, the third copy is kept at the MOL C4 after verifying it.

It is illegal for sponsors to keep their employees' passport and travel documents after the visa formalities are over. Sponsor fine: not less than QAR10,000.

End of service benefits: Employees completing a period of continuous service for more than one year are entitled to an end of service benefit on the termination or expiry of the contract of employment. This has been mandatory in the labour law since 2005.

The adoption of Law No 19 of 2020 provides greater clarity regarding termination of employment. To terminate an employment contract and change jobs, workers must provide at least one month’s written notice if they have worked with the employer for two years or less, or two months’ notice if they have worked with the employer for over two years.

Hours of business: Government offices tend to work a single shift 7 am – 2 pm; private companies may work a single shift or split morning/late afternoon shifts with longer hours.

E-services: MOL's website mol.gov.qa offers more than 40 services for companies and individuals, including bilateral contracts, work permits, requesting and extending temporary work visas, requesting and managing registration of establishment records and administrators, labour complaints and disputes, and more.

Workplace Disputes

The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani issued Law No 13 of 2017 amending some provisions of the Labour Law, and forming the Labour Dispute Resolution Committee. All labour disputes are received through the MOL to resolve. The maximum period for reviewing the disputes before the committee is one month, including the time for any potential appeal.

Ministry of Labour (MOL): File your complaint at the MOL's Labour Relation Department within one year of the event with the section for workers’ rights and grievances. Labour complaints by either a company or an individual can also be filed online on the MOL website mol.gov.qa, 16505, 4406 8979

National Human Rights Committee in Qatar: Protects and consolidates human rights of all, subject to the jurisdiction of Qatar. Hotline 800 2222, SMS number 119, nhrc-qa.org

Residence Permit (RP)

Also known as an identity document (ID), a Residence Permit (RP) is an identification card, which is compulsory for all residents of Qatar, including children, with a work or family residence permit. It is issued after the formalities for residence permits are completed and can be used instead of your passport for all transactions in Qatar. Carry your card with you at all times.

The card bears your name, nationality, date of birth, occupation, an RP number and its validity. Containing personal data of the holder, the card also bears your passport number, passport expiry date, residency type, sponsor's name, signature and more. The cards also have electronic chips for storing personal and biometric data. You will be required to present your card every time you enter and exit the country. It will also be accepted at airlines/airports around the world as the official document to prove residence in Qatar.

Note: Beware of fraudulent calls SMS or phishing emails asking for your RP number or personal banking information. Report your lost or stolen RP card as soon as possible. To report any suspicious transaction not initiated by yourself, call your bank, some of which have dedicated fraud lines.

Register at your embassy: All nationals working or residing in Qatar are advised to contact their country’s embassy to register or subscribe to its services. See Foreign Embassies in the Discovering Qatar section for contact details.

For non-residential permits or visas, see Traveller Information in the Discovering Qatar section.

Residence/Work Permits

Expatriate workers must have a residence permit for themselves and each member of their family unless they fall into exempted categories. You need a Qatari sponsor to obtain a work residence permit enabling you to sponsor your family.

Work residence permit: QAR1,260 per year (QAR1,000 annual fee, QAR100 for the RP card, QAR100 for the Labour Department paperwork costs, QAR60 for validation stamps). Work RPs can be renewed every year, two or three years by the expatriate’s employer. It is usually the sponsor’s responsibility to deal with all the paperwork and to pay the fee on Metrash or at the General Directorate of Passports in Wadi Al Banat B3,

the Industrial Area E2 or Mesaimeer E3. Families residing in Al Wakra and Al Khor can apply locally.

Register as a working woman (on husband’s sponsorship): QAR500 per year. Women on family sponsorship can work in Qatar without a separate residence work permit by obtaining a licence from MOL's Women’s Section. When you have been offered a job, the company must obtain an application form from the Labour Department and submit it with the following:

• Three original copies of your employment contract (QAR60 for authentication).

• A no objection letter (NOC) signed by the family sponsor giving his consent for you to work.

• Originals and photocopies of passports and ID for you and your family sponsor.

• Originals and photocopies of all your relevant academic and professional qualifications.

• A certificate of good conduct from the MOI.

• Copy of your resignation letter from your previous employment (if applicable).

• A photograph and fees.

Family residence visa: Spouse and child over 18 –QAR500 per year, child under 18 – QAR400. Every member of the family residing in Qatar, including babies, must have an individual family residence permit. Holders of residence work permits can sponsor their immediate family (spouse and children) if they earn over QAR10,000 a month. Workers are allowed to sponsor their sons under 25 years of age who have not completed university studies and unmarried daughters of any age. The sponsorship law allows women in independent jobs to sponsor their husband and children (conditions apply).

The General Directorate of Passports enables people to submit their family residency applications electronically and online via the Hukoomi website, Metrash and service centres.

In 2023, MOL unveiled a new digital service, allowing residents in Qatar who live under nonwork permits such as family residence visas, to join the labour market by changing their permits to

work residence permits. The process starts with the new employer applying to add the resident as a worker at mol.gov.qa under the 'Request to Join the Labour Market' (change from family residency to work residency). There should be no personal suspension of the new employer, and there should be no other applications of the same type under study for the same worker.

Documents required: Salary certificate from employer; copies of passports of family members; attested marriage, birth and degree certificates (as required); copy of electricity bill; six months worth of bank statements; stamped and registered accomodation lease. Final approval of the residence permit depends on the decision of the recruitment committee. Check hukoomi.gov.qa in case of changes.

Domestic staff residence permit: QAR300 per year (on personal sponsorship). Employees must have a minimum salary and be married with a resident working spouse in Qatar (proof of which is required). Fill in the application form at your local Immigration Department. There are sometimes restrictions on the nationality you can employ so check before you start the process.

Law No 15 on service workers in the home (Domestic Workers Law) guarantees workers a maximum 10-hour workday, a weekly rest day, three weeks of annual leave, and an end-of-service payment of at least three weeks per year.

Recruiting privately: Obtain the visa yourself for domestic staff (or use the office mandoub), register a contract with the Qatar Labour Department and complete any paperwork with the national’s embassy in Qatar. You must then go through an official recruitment agency to complete the entry process. Domestic workers in Qatar earn an average of QAR1,500 a month.

Requirements and regulations are subject to change so please check when applying.

Recruitment agencies: These have a list of staff for you to choose from and will complete all the formalities for you.

Medical Procedure for RPs

The Medical Commission, a department of the Ministry of Public Health, is responsible for overseeing the medical check procedure for immigration in Qatar. Medical checks are carried out at:

• The Medical Commission Department, located off of Rawdat Al Khail Street in Abu Hamour.

• Three private hospitals (Al Ahli Hospital, Doha Clinic and Al Emadi Hospital) approved by the Medical Commission.

• Three primary healthcare centres (Al Khor, Al Shamal and Al Wakra) approved by the Medical Commission.

Medical test: This includes a blood test (not to be confused with blood type) and a chest X-ray, for adults only, carried out by the Medical Commission in Abu Hamour E3 The blood test checks for Hepatitis B and C and HIV/AIDS, and the x-ray for tuberculosis. The visa extension medical check involves the blood test only. Cost QAR100.

4467 9111, moph.gov.qa

Blood-type certificate: This can be obtained from any clinic for both adults and children. You must have this certificate before going for your medical test.

Fingerprinting: A few days after completing the medical test, only adults need to go for electronic fingerprinting. Headquarters are at the Criminal Evidence and Information Department (CEID) at Salwa Road (by the Industrial Area Interchange). Open Sunday to Thursday 6:30 am – 5:30 pm, 234 6666. Other service centres are located in Al Khor, Al Shamal, Duhail B3, the Industrial Area E2 and Mesaimeer E3. Large organisations can ask the MOI’s mobile unit to do fingerprints on site.

Collecting an RP: Usually ready after three days to one week; collect from the issuing office, MOI's Immigration Department, General Directorate of Passports in Wadi Al Banat, Al Daayen B3, 4489 0333. The RP sticker in the passport has been abolished and replaced by an all-encompassing Residence Card, also held by children.

Renewing a RP

Your sponsor must renew your residence work permit, but you can renew your family’s residence permits.

Law No 22 of 2021 on Regulating Healthcare Services (The Healthcare Services Law) makes it compulsory for visitors to have private health insurance in order to receive basic medical services. Health insurance may also be required for some expatriates when applying for a RP or RP renewal. Check with Hukoomi and the relevant ministry for current or up to date requirements. Renew RP on Metrash: Log in onto the Metrash app from your phone or register with your RP number. Select Residency, then choose Residency Renewal. Select Personal and ensure your personal details are up to date before proceeding. Select renewal period (one to three years), choose a delivery option and pay the required fees.

Online renewal through the MOI portal: Log in at portal.moi.gov.qa or register with your RP number. Then go to the e-services tab and select

Residency, then choose Renew Residency. Ensure your personal details are up to date before proceeding. Select renewal period (one to three years), choose a delivery option and pay the required fees.

Note: Qatar Post provides an optional home delivery service via Metrash for QAR20.

Other Residence Permits

Investor Residence Visa: MOI grants this visa to people coming to Qatar for investment. The application is filled out online at portal.moi.gov.qa or offline at the General Directorate of Passports and MOI's Services Centers. The application fee is QAR200. Required documents are copy of valid passport; letter from concerned authority mentioning investment; good conduct certificate; and proof of passing the medical examination outside the country as specified by the concerned authorities. For more information on eligibility and the application process, visit hukoomi.gov.qa or portal.moi.gov.qa

Mustaqel Program: Spearheaded by Qatar Manpower Solutions Co (Jusour), this programme offers a strategic five-year residency permit, welcoming a diverse array of global entrepreneurs, extraordinary talents, and skilled professionals. It offers the option of future renewal and is divided into two categories. The Entrepreneur Visa is catered to business owners, especially small to medium enterprises. The second category, the Talent Visa, encourages skilled individuals within the fields of arts, entertainment, sports, and technology to apply. The business models of applicants must be endorsed by a Qatar-based recognised business incubator. If successful, applicants will receive an endorsement code, which is necessary for completing the online form. Other documents needed include a passport copy, degree certificate, police clearance certificate, and proof of experience. Aside from living and working in Qatar, Mustaqel also grants individuals asset ownership, and residency benefits as well

as recourse to request family visas for other family members. mustaqel.qa, jusour.qa

Permanent Residency Card: Law No 10 of 2018 issued by HH The Amir allows non-Qatari residents to obtain permanent residence in Qatar if he/ she meets certain conditions in accordance with the provisions of this law. The applicant should complete 20 years in Qatar on a legal RP if born abroad and 10 years if born in Qatar. Under the law, permanent residency cardholders are entitled to the same social security as Qatari citizens, including free healthcare and education in government schools. Qatar is the first Gulf country to allow long-time foreign residents to become permanent residents, and grants this opportunity to 100 expatriates per year. In the first stage, applications are made online via the MOI website portal.moi.gov.qa, and later, the application process continues on both Metrash and the MOI website. The application fee is QAR3,000 (non-refundable). It includes all members of the family. If the application is approved, the applicant must pay an additional QAR3,000. For more information on eligibility and the application process, visit portal. moi.gov.qa

There are other long-term residency visa programmes for non-Qatari residents to apply for by investment through real estate. Owners of property worth more than QAR730,000 will be offered residency, as well as their family, for the duration of ownership, with residency given as soon as they finalise the purchase. Owners of property worth more than QAR3.65 mn will receive the same benefits as permanent residents regarding healthcare, education, and investment in some commercial activities.

For more information on investment in Qatar, see Investment and Trade in the Business and Economy section.

Exit Permits

Law No 13 of 2018 (Amending Law) amended certain provisions of Law No 21 of 2015, requiring all migrant workers getting permission from their employers before leaving Qatar. The amended law allows most migrant workers covered by the Labour Law to leave the country without having to obtain an exit permit.

Decision No 95 of 2019 allows expatriates in the following categories to have the freedom to temporarily or permanently leave the country during the period of validity of their employment contract: staff in ministries and other government agencies; employees in public bodies and institutions; employees in the oil and gas sector and affiliated

companies; employees working on marine vessels; workers engaged in agriculture and grazing; and workers in private offices. As per Decision No 95 of 2019, domestic workers should notify employers at least 72 hours prior to the departure.

Employers may submit names of up to 5% of its employees who will continue to require exit permits. Companies need to upload the list of such employees on the MOL's website. The ministry will then move those lists to the MOI. Employers are not required to seek an employee’s consent prior to including a name on the list.

Wives and dependent children under the sponsorship of their husbands or fathers do not require an exit permit.

The Expat Exit Grievance Committee remains in place to accept complaints from workers prevented from leaving the country for any reason. Until advised otherwise, the following fees remain in place for those who still require an exit permit: Multiple use exit permits: Valid for one year –QAR500.

Exit permit for those sponsored by companies or organisations: Valid for one week – No charge.

Exit permit for those on personal sponsorship: Valid for one week – No charge.

Electronic exit permits: Government agencies and private companies can issue exit permits electronically through an authorised signatory within seconds using Metrash or portal.moi.gov.qa. Sponsors can issue the permit via the internet and their mobile phones worldwide.

Manually processed exit permits: Paperwork must be signed by your sponsor and bear the company stamp. Permits must be presented, along with your passport, at the Immigration counter at Departures. The mandoub is licensed to obtain this on your behalf.

Overstay fines: Fines are imposed based on residency violation. Check hukoomi.gov.qa for current fees.

Traffic fines: Traffic law violators are not allowed to leave the country through any state borders (land, air, and sea) without paying the fines through the Metrash, portal.moi.gov.qa or hukoomi.gov.qa, traffic departments, or MOI's Service Centers.

Online visa/permit information: Detailed information about all types of visas and visa applications in English can be found online at hukoomi.gov.qa or portal.moi.gov.qa

eGate Expatriate passengers above 18 years of age can avail the free eGate service at the arrivals

and departures terminal of Hamad International Airport (HIA) after registration at the airport using their RP card or passports. Citizens and residents can also use QDI for entry and exit through eGate.

Useful Documents/Processing

You need to prove your identity in Qatar for all government and commercial transactions, so have plenty of:

• Passport-size photos and several copies of the passport of each family member.

• Copies of your marriage (attested) and birth certificates.

• Original educational qualifications (copies are not accepted), which will need to be authenticated in your country of origin, along with a Bonafide Certificate.

Translating a document: The official language in Qatar is Arabic. Each page of each document must bear the translation firm’s official stamp for it to be considered valid.

Asia Translation & Services Centre 4444 0943

National Translation Services of Qatar (NTS Qatar) 7048 2217

Qatar Translation Center 4443 5354

The Language Professionals

Translation Services 4031 6680

TrustLink 7030 3534

Health Related Services

Health Cards

To access the government healthcare system and facilities, it is essential to apply for a health card. This can be issued only after you obtain a residence permit. Babies under one year receive free vaccinations and medical treatment under the state healthcare system. Cash is not accepted for payment at Primary Health Care Centres (PHCC) – only a valid debit or credit card or payment card obtainable from QNB (see eCASH cards, earlier in this section).

Application: Qatar guarantees health services to all citizens and residents in government medical institutions through a health card system. The system provides the cardholder with a medical record file containing all his/her medical data saved by healthcare centres and government hospitals. You can renew your health card online, or replace a lost or damaged card.

Process: Citizens and residents of Qatar may apply for a health card to access services at any of the government’s healthcare facilities or hospitals. It contains your ID number, nationality, photo and date of issue. To obtain a health card, visit the PHCC centre nearest to where you live. There you need to fill out the appropriate forms. You will be issued a PHCC health file number. The health centre will either issue you with your card immediately or ask you to return within a few days to collect it. Health cards are issued during morning working hours only. For more information, call 107 or 16060, or visit phcc.qa or hamad.qa

Cost: Qatari and other GCC adult residents and children QAR50; non-Qatari adult residents and children QAR100. If you lose your health card but it is still valid, Qatari nationals will need to pay QAR50 for a replacement, non-Qataris QAR100.

If you lose your health card and it has expired Qatari nationals will need to pay QAR100 for a replacement, non-Qataris QAR200. You must pay using a credit or debit card. No cash is accepted.

Renew or replace your health card: Through Hukoomi via these simple steps, hukoomi.gov.qa

• Load the online application.

• Enter your ID number. Choose to renew, or 'Reprint' if you wish to replace your lost or damaged Health Card.

• Choose your preferred delivery option.

• Pay appropriate fees online.

Private Health Insurance

Law No 22 of 2021 on Regulating Healthcare Services (The Healthcare Services Law) makes it compulsory for expatriates and visitors to have private health insurance in order to live in Qatar or visit the country. Some companies provide their employees with free health insurance (but this may be tied to using a local private hospital) or you can arrange your own. Many of the larger private clinics have various options, including family packages.

Health, home and life insurance

Al Koot Insurance & Reinsurance 4040 2999

Arabia Insurance Company

GlobeMed Qatar

4442 2682

GIG Gulf (previously AXA Gulf) 4483 2995

4405 6999

Libano-Suisse 4466 4406

MetLife

800 9711

Qatar Insurance Company (QIC) 800 0742

QLM 800 0880

Seib Insurance & Reinsurance 4402 6888

Vaccinations

Vaccinations for overseas travel, for visitors to Qatar, and childhood immunisation are all available from the Vaccination Unit at Mesaimeer Health Centre E3, 4406 4222. The Communicable Disease Centre in Hamad Bin Khalifa Medical City C3/D3 operates the Travel Clinic where people can go for vaccinations and health advice before travelling. Vaccinations are by appointment only, 4025 4003

Qatar, under the Department of Health Protection and Communicable Disease Control and the National Vaccination Committee, developed a comprehensive immunisation programme that provides protection against 14 diseases through 12 key vaccines.

Some PHCC centres provide immunisation services to the public; to obtain them, visit the hospital or health centre that you belong to. There are a number of private health facilities that also provide vaccination services, either under private health insurance or for a fee. 107, phcc.gov.qa

COVID-19 Vaccinations: Although COVID-19 is not as concerning and widespread as it used to be from 2020, it still continues to circulate with various new variants. Qatar's COVID-19 vaccination campaign comprises Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines. When the vaccinations first rolled out, two doses were given. Six months after the second dose, a third booster dose was given. A fourth dose was applicable to individuals 60 years of age and older, and those with chronic diseases at high-risk for severe COVID-19 infection. covid19.moph.gov.qa

More than 2 mn people have been vaccinated in Qatar, which makes up 92% of the population. All citizens and residents, aged 12 and above can receive the COVID-19 vaccination at PHCC centres. You can only receive a COVID-19 vaccination at the PHCC centre you are registered at. 107, phcc.gov.qa

Housing and Utilities

To Rent

Many employers provide accommodation or a housing allowance for their employees as part of their contract. You are strongly advised to ensure that it is sufficient, especially with continuing fluctuating rent prices in Qatar. Standalone villas and villas in compounds with leisure facilities range from around QAR10,000 monthly or a studio/one bedroom apartment starting at around QAR5,000. Rent at The Pearl Island, Lusail City, Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) and other residential districts in Al Dafna and surrounding areas are commonly more expensive. Another option for long or short-term stays are serviced furnished flats with cleaning and laundry services as well as leisure facilities provide. See Places to Stay in the Hospitality, Hotels and Dining section.

Rent contracts: All contracts, whether new or old, must be registered by the landlord at the Office of Registration of Rental Contracts within 30 days of signing the contract. The lease you sign must be written in English and Arabic. Rent may or may not include water and electricity bills as well as internet.

Eskan

Government housing and building departments for Qatari and non-Qatari government employees, overseen by the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau (CSGDB).

Eskan portal: Allows landlords to register their properties on the platform, and employees to select suitable housing. For government employees, the application must be submitted through the employer. ghs.cgb.gov

Civil Service and Government Development Bureau (CSGDB): Al Faisal Tower, Al Dafna C4 Sunday to Thursday 7 am – 2 pm, 16008 (hotline), cgb.gov.qa

Rent Dispute Resolution Committee (RDC)

The Rent Dispute Resolution Committee (RDC) at the Ministry of Municipality is responsible for settling rent disputes between landlords and tenants. The party that files the complaint before

the committee must pay a fee of QAR100, in most cases giving tenants a six-month eviction period. Call the Unified Communications Center (UCC) at 184 to speak directly to RDC.

To Buy

Expatriates can purchase property in several developments in Qatar and local banks provide mortgages to suitable applicants. See Banking and Finance and Investment and Trade in the Business and Economy section.

Letting Agents

Whether you are interested in renting or buying property, these agents have a wide variety of property on their lists as well as experience in the local market. Also visit propertyfinder.qa

Al Emadi Enterprises 4466 6625

Alfardan Properties 4440 8488

Al Jazi Real Estate 4032 0666

Coreo Real Estate 4016 7000

Cushman & Wakefield Qatar 4483 7388

Just Real Estate (JRE) 4491 3311

Mirage Int'l Property Consultants 4444 4431

The Pearl Gates 4410 4253

Lawyers and Legal

If you are looking to buy a property, contact one of the following legal companies for advice:

Al Tamimi & Company 4457 2777

Clyde & Co 4494 1000

Dr Ghada M Darwish Karbon Law Firm 4488 9050

Gulf Legal Consultants –

Dr Jumah Nasser Al Kaabi Law Firm 4433 7777

Hassan Al Khater Law Office 4443 7770

Law Offices of Gebran Majdalany 4442 8899

Simmons & Simmons 4409 6700

Sultan Al Abdulla & Partners 4442 0660

Relocation Services/Removal Firms

Many international employers will pay for your relocation. You can move locally by doing the packing yourself and/or hire a truck, but you will not be insured.

CEVA Logistics

4436 9439

GAC International Moving 4420 5600

Gulf Warehousing Company (GWC) 4402 3555

Professional Real Estate & Relocations (PRER) 4031 6639

Qatar Logistics 4407 6262

Education City Club House

Other Housing Considerations

Furnishing

Rental or purchasing contracts may or may not come with furniture, and may impact the price. Property with furniture is more expensive than property without.

ACE (Doha Festival City)

800 971 223

City Lifestyle* (Al Asmakh Mall) 4428 9256

Home Centre* (Al Asmakh Mall) 4413 1940

Homes R Us* (Hyatt Plaza) 4469 8999

IKEA (Doha Festival City) 800 4532

Midas (Salwa Rd) 4425 1222

Nabco* (Old Airport) 4466 6646

Pan Emirates* (Salwa Rd) 4427 4966

Pottery Barn* (Mall of Qatar) 4452 9529

The One* (Villaggio Mall) 800 8431

*Indicates multiple branches

For second-hand furniture, check online and social media platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and Mzad Qatar mzadqatar.com. Souq Al Haraj in Najma has locally produced furniture and a secondhand market D4

Note: Throwing waste outside in public spaces is a clear violation of the Public Hygiene Law No 18 of 2017, and a report will be issued against violators. For the disposal of bulk waste and old furniture from homes, call the Ministry of Municipality (Baladiya) at 184 or request the free-of-charge service online via hukoomi.gov.qa or the Oun mobile app.

Air conditioning

Split air conditioners and central air conditioners are the most common in Qatar, and are usually added to the Kahramaa water and electricity bills. In some cases, as with district cooling companies such as Marafeq Qatar at Lusail City and Qatar

Cool in The Pearl Island, the air conditioning bill is separate. Air conditioning is essential in summer and requires regular maintenance and servicing.

Generalco 4019 5333

Gree 4041 2222

LG 800 0054

Panasonic 3109 5261

Techno Blue (TB) 4423 3600

Home Cleaning/Pest Control Services

Home cleaning and pest control services can be flexible to meet your requirements.

Al Mutwassit Cleaning & Pest Control 4436 7555

Boecker Public Health 4444 3744

Hegy International 7759 8405

Qatar Home Services 3060 3076/4427 1197

Qatar Pest Control Company (QPC) 4422 2888

For MME's free pest control services, call 184, or make a request on mm.gov.qa or the Oun app.

Water and Electricity

Kahramaa

Based in Al Ramez Tower, Al Dafna C4, Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) is the sole transmission and distribution system owner and operator (TDSOO) for the electricity and water sector in Qatar. Qatari citizens receive significant subsidies for electricity and water services. In many cases, these utilities are provided free of charge to citizens, especially for their primary residences.

Connecting to electricity and water: Download an application form from hukoomi.gov.qa, and include the reference number of the property for both electricity and water. These are supplied by the owner or found above the door to the property. Kahramaa does not receive paper applications.

• Sign the application form using the same signature as that on your tenancy agreement and ID (a copy of both are required).

• The owner of your rental property will have to give you a completed transfer form to put the utilities in your name, in addition to the owner's ID (if privately owned) or a copy of the building's commercial registration (CR), commonly referred to as the company's computer card.

• Take these and a refundable deposit of QAR1,200 for electricity and QAR800 for water to any of the Kahramaa offices.

Paying water and electricity bills: Amounts for both utilities are sent out monthly on one bill, sign up to receive an email. The monthly estimate is adjusted from time to time with a meter reading by Kahramaa. There is an online ready reckoner to help you estimate your household consumption.

Sanitation fees: Non-Qatari houses and businesses are charged monthly sanitation fees, which equals 20% of the value of the monthly water bill. The fee is for sanitation services provided by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal). Qatari houses and businesses are not charged.

Payment for services can be made:

• At all major banks, via banking apps, and at QNB ATM's.

• Online through Hukoomi at hukoomi.gov.qa or Kahramaa at km.qa

• Via Ooredoo Self Service Machines.

• By the Visaphone service – call 991, select 3, give your Visa card number to the customer service operator.

• Via the Kahramaa application available on iOS and Android.

Customer Care Center: Sunday to Thursday 9 am – 2 pm. Emergency 24-hour hotline: 991 (inside Qatar), 4449 4000 (outside Qatar), 3030 3991 (WhatsApp)

Service centres: Al Hilal • Industrial Area

Note: Severe penalties for wasting water through a hose or pressure pipe can reach up to QAR20,000 for first-time offenders, while wasting electricity can incur a fine of QAR10,000. Kahramaa runs a campaign known as Tarsheed to help Qatar reduce its consumption of electricity by 20% and water by 35%.

BeSolar: Launched in August 2024, the new service encourages customers to install solar energy systems in their homes, farms, factories and other properties. Interested customers can contact an authorised contractor from Kahramaa, who will then follow up on the request and obtain initial approval. The contractor will prepare the technical design, and upon approval, the solar system will be installed. Once the installation is complete, the contractor will notify Kahramaa to connect the customer to smart meters and start generating solar energy.

Water

Buildings in Qatar usually have tanks to store water as mains water is not pumped continuously and often has low pressure. The supply network and domestic storage tanks require regular cleaning and replacement. Tap filters of various kinds are available. Many people prefer to drink bottled water and you can arrange to have one of the water companies deliver five gallon flagons to your home. Some areas still rely on water tankers to deliver. Government licensed tankers are cheaper than private ones.

Home delivery of mineral water:

Al Manhal & Nestlé Pure Life 4433 5777 Rayyan Natural Water 4443 6999

Water tank cleaning:

Al Mutwassit Cleaning & Pest Control 4436 7555

Electricity

The main electricity is usually 220 – 240 volt with three square pin sockets. Many appliances have two pin plugs but adaptors are available in local shops.

Gas

Shafaf by WOQOD are lightweight liquid petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders made from a fiberglass and plastic composite, and are available in all WOQOD service stations, various supermarkets and other retail outlets. Home delivery is also available. Each empty cylinder weighs only 5 kg, half the weight of regular steel cylinders, making these cylinders easy to carry and use. Cylinders are available for consumers in two refill sizes, 12 kg and 6 kg, to fit various domestic household needs, or to be used outdoors during trips and camping. Prices range from QAR283 to QAR365 with additional prices for LPG accessories. The cylinders are fireproof and do not explode, even in the case of fire. Additionally, you can monitor gas levels for prompt replacement. woqod.com.qa, 4021 7777, 800 (FUEL) 3035

There are other gas cylinder providers both Shafaf and metal LPG cylinders, check the WOQOD website woqod.com.qa for contacts.

Telephone and Internet

To obtain a local telephone number, you can only do so with a Residence Permit (RP). A new mobile sim card costs QAR50. Local mobile numbers can be obtained at either of Qatar's two service providers, Ooredoo Qatar (formerly Qtel) and Vodafone Qatar

Telephone calls: The international dialling code for Qatar is +974. Local calls from private houses and businesses are free – especially local landline to landline calls. However, calls to mobiles and international calls are chargeable. Hotels charge a nominal fee for local calls made from the room. Dial 00 (or +) to call out. For international call enquiry, call 150

Mobile Number Portability (MNP): Users are able to keep their existing mobile number when switching to another service provider.

Ooredoo Qatar

In 2013, Qatar Public Telecommunications Corporation (Qtel) was rebranded to become Ooredoo Qatar. It offers a comprehensive package of services ranging from landline to mobile phones, fixed and mobile internet, broadband and entertainment services. ooredoo.qa

4G LTE wireless technology is available. Customers can access the network only through 4G-enabled devices such as the Ooredoo My-Fi device and the Ooredoo 4G USB modem. Ooredoo 5G is the first-in-the-world to launch a commercially available network.

Mobile plans: Includes postpaid, prepaid and mobile data plans, including Shahry+, Qatarna+, Hala SiM and more, with prices ranging from QAR130 per month.

Residential packages: This three-in-one service includes the core pay-monthly mobile phone plan, high-speed internet connection (ADSL), and landline subscriptions with three options. Residents over 18 years old can apply at Ooredoo shops or their authorised dealers. Visit an Ooredoo Shop with your Qatari RP and home electricity number (Kahramaa) to book your installation time and finalise your internet service.

Home internet & TV (Broadband): Branded as Home+ by Ooredoo, offers customers a range of packages to suit household needs, including fibre internet, Ooredoo TV and other entertainment services. Home+ Go costs QAR330 per month and Home+ Prime Entertainment costs QAR450 per month. No installation fee included.

Nojoom: A customer reward programme where subscribers can earn points to spend on all their services (mobile, landline, internet and TV) and redeem them with the company or with a number of their partners. Call 111 from an Ooredoo phone, visit the website or register via the app.

Ooredoo Money: A mobile wallet service that allows you to register for a 'Mobile Wallet Account' so that you can deposit, withdraw, pay and send money in Qatar or abroad instantly through your phone.

Ooredoo Passport and Data Roaming Plans: Travel without worrying about roaming charges with partner networks in more than 160 countries with weekly and monthly plans with special rates for specific destinations. Check availability in the country you're travelling to. Weekly: QAR100 and QAR150. Monthly: QAR500. There are different weekly and monthly Ooredoo Passport and data roaming plans for businesses. Check ooredoo.qa for details.

Ooredoo TV: Offers over 400 live channels through phone or tablet computers. Ooredoo is the first operator in the region to offer a commercial 4K, which combines apps, on-demand and live television in one easy-to-use box. To subscribe, call 111, or visit any Ooredoo or Starlink shop.

Call centre: 111 (from Ooredoo mobile), 4414 4414 (WhatsApp), +974 4438 0000 (Overseas Centre), ooredoo.qa

The Ooredoo app is available for iOS and Android.

Vodafone Qatar

Vodafone Qatar is part of an international telecom company, Vodafone Group, and is owned by Qatar Foundation (QF). Vodafone Qatar offers a choice of flexible mobile phone, internet and broadband services.

Mobile plans: Includes a wide choice of prepaid and postpaid plans with internet services to suit different requirements, plus welcome packs. Recharge is available online or at Vodafone stores and their partner outlets All plans allow 5G speed experience with unlimited data, calls and SMS.

Vodafone Passport Pack: A roaming pack for travellers to receive 100 minutes of incoming calls, calling Vodafone Qatar numbers and 1GB of data for QAR100/week (1GB extra in GCC countries).

Home internet: Get GigaHome Fibre 1 gigabits (gbps) speed for QAR299 per month, 2 gbps speed for QAR399 per month, or 5 gbps speed for 3,150 per month. OSNtv is available with GigaHome.

Call centre: 111 (from Vodafone mobile), 800 7111 (from Ooredoo mobile/toll free), + 974 7700 7111 (from abroad), vodafone.qa

Television

There is a number of options for receiving satellite or cable television, installed through any of the local cable companies.

Orbit Showtime Network (QSN) With OSNtv and OSN+, watch trending series, award-winning movies and best documentaries on OSN, all subtitled or dubbed in Arabic. 4031 0090 (new customers), 4447 7177, osn.com

beIN With beIN 4K, beIN offers beIN SPORTS, beIN MOVIES, beIN SERIES, beIN CINEMA, beIN Kids and more entertainment shows and programmes. 4457 7777, bein.com

Other satellite operators: Airtel airtel.in • Arabsat arabsat.com• Nilesat nilesat.org

Satellite/Cable Providers

Almuftah Cable Vision 4442 5810

Qatar Multitech Trdg & Contg 4435 3565

Rukun Al Qala Trdg & Contg 4442 0200

Get connected while you check-in

Living Essentials and Services

Television and Radio

Al Jazeera The most watched Arabic news channel in the Arab world is broadcast from Doha in English (101.7 FM, aljazeera.com) and Arabic (102.6 FM, aljazeera.net) 24/7.

Alkass A group of eight sports channels that are broadcast 24/7 from Qatar focusing on domestic football. alkass.net

Al Rayyan TV An Arabic satellite television network that broadcasts cultural and family entertainment programmes. alrayyan.tv

beIN Sports Watch and stream live sports including La Liga, Ligue 1, Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana, and MLW. beinsports.com

Golfo Radio Spanish and Portuguese radio station in Qatar transmits on 98.3 FM. golforadio.com

Habaieb FM 93.7 An Arabic broadcast and internet radio station. habaiebradio.com

Mazaji 94.6 FM An Arabic radio station available online and via app. mazaji.fm

Oryx FM A French service, transmits 24/7 on 94.0 FM. oryxradio.qa

Qabayan Radio First and only Filipino radio channel in Qatar, operating on 94.3 FM. qabayanfm.com

Qatar Television (QTV) Government-owned public service national television channel, operating Channel 1 in Arabic. qtv.qa

QBS Radio Operates daily under Qatar Media Corporation (QMC) on 97.5 FM in English. qbsradio.qa

QFM Radio Network First Sri Lankan radio stations in Qatar broadcast in Sinhalese, Bangla and Tamil languages. qfmradio.qa

• Malayalam 98.6 FM radio986.com

• QFM 95.3 Bangla • QFM Nepal qfmradio.qa • QFM 95.3 Sithula sithularadio.com

• QFM 95.3 Tamil

Quran Radio Qatar Operates 24/7 in Arabic on 103.4 FM. quranradio.qa

Radio Olive A Hindi FM station, broadcasts 24/7 on 106.3 FM. olive.qa

Radio Suno 91.7 FM Malayalam radio station. suno.qa

Sout Al Khaleej (Voice of the Gulf) An Arabic live radio station, broadcasts Arab music and entertainment on 99.0 – 100.8 FM. soutalkhaleej.fm

Urdu Radio Operates daily on 107 FM in Urdu under Qatar Media Corporation (QMC). urduradio.qa

Newspapers

There are three local English daily newspapers published in Qatar:

Gulf Times Founded in 1978, the newspaper is the first English newspaper in Qatar, and the first publication of the Gulf Publishing and Printing Company in Qatar. gulf-times.com

The Peninsula Launched in 1996 by Al Sharq, the newspaper has extensive news coverage from around the world with a primary focus on life in Qatar. thepeninsulaqatar.com

Qatar Tribune Launched in 2006 by Dar Al Watan publishing, printing and distribution, the newspaper covers news from Qatar and around the world. qatar-tribune.com

There are other international titles that arrive in Qatar, but a little later, including the international New York Times.

The are five local Arabic daily newspapers published in Qatar: • Al Arab alarab.qa

• Al Sharq al-sharq.com • Arrayah raya.com

• Al Watan al-watan.com • Lusail News lusailnews.net

Most newsagents deliver newspapers if asked. All of the local English and Arabic dailies are also available online.

Public Wireless Internet

Most, if not all, public spaces such as parks, malls and hotels as well as some restaurants, cafés and coffee shops offer free Wi-Fi or internet connectivity. However, passwords may be required to access the Wi-Fi.

Hotspot Broadband Wi-Fi Services: Ooredoo and Vodafone offer high-speed internet access at selected locations within Qatar, connecting Wi-Fi enabled devices such as laptops, tablets and smartphones. Hotspots include many cafés, coffee shops, libraries, the airport and other public places.

Postal Services and Mail

There are no postcodes or zip codes in Qatar; therefore, all mail is delivered through a Post Office (PO) Box or home delivery. Mail delivery in Qatar is the responsibility of Qatar Postal Services Company (Qatar Post). In 2017, Qatar Post revamped its brand and logo, and prioritised modern services such as e-commerce and Express Delivery, and continously opens new branches.

Qatar Post

The General Post Office: The main post office is located in Al Dafna C4 with 25,000 fully computerised electronic PO boxes. Postal services offered include regular letter and parcel postage/ delivery, bill payment, RP renewal, and money transfers/orders. Paid parking is applicable at the main post office. Qatar Post has over 30 branches, providing local and international services. Visit qatarpost.qa, call 4446 4000 or 104 (Hotline), or download the QatarPost app on iOS and Android.

Open: Sunday to Thursday 7 am – 9 pm; Saturday 8 am – 11 am/5 pm – 8 pm; Friday closed

Options to receive mail/parcels locally and globally

• PO Box Individual • PO Box Business

• Home delivery • TAMM • Connected

Options to send mail/parcels locally and globally

• Retail stores • Street post boxes

• Standard, Express, Priority, Premium services

PO Box subscription: Subscribe online or any post office. Required documents include the application form, a copy of your RP and a refundable deposit of QAR100. Companies need to provide a copy of a commercial registration licence, a copy of the authorised signatory and a refundable deposit of QAR100. Personal electronic boxes at the General Post Office cost QAR500 per year including one key. Company electronic boxes start at QAR1,500 per year including one key. At other branches, personal standard boxes cost QAR200 per year, plus QAR60 for three keys. Company standard boxes cost QAR500 per year plus QAR60 for three keys.

Special PO Box Numbers: Exclusive and unique PO Box numbers with prices that range from QAR1,500 to QAR10,000. Apply at the General Post Office or other branches with a copy of your RP for registration. PO Box service subscription fees apply.

Connected by Qatar Post: Qatar Post's new ecommerce service. It is an international shipping service that offers hassle-free shopping, and delivers the items at competitive rates to a chosen delivery location. Many US, UK and Asian

online stores do not offer international shipping options, CONNECTED provides shoppers with an international shipping address. Shoppers can sign up and buy goods online using the overseas address as a shipping location. Parcels will be forwarded on to them in Qatar – delivered directly to their homes.

Parcels are delivered within five to eight working days, and has an online tracking system. Parcels can be up to 1.5 m in length and the maximum length plus girth cannot be more than 3 m. Delivery charges will be based on the weight of the package. The items are stored in a warehouse for up to 21 days, allowing shoppers to bundle together a number of parcels to minimise shipping costs. connected.qa

Delivery of important documents: In partnership with the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Public Health, when using Metrash and other government platforms, important documents such as RPs, driving licence and vehicle registration (istimara), birth certificates can delivered by Qatar Post to a chosen delivery location at a QAR20 fee.

Note: Beware of fraudulent calls SMS or phishing emails from Qatar Post or other courier services asking for your RP number or personal banking information.

Courier Services

Aramex

4420 0100

DHL Express 4458 7888 FedEx 4484 1111

Qatar Post 4446 4000

TNT Express 4001 1436

UPS Express 4011 9600

Places of Worship

Islam is the official religion of Qatar but many expatriate communities hold church services. All religious associations need to register with Qatar International Christian Ministry (QICM) to be considered legitimate.

Bethel Assembly of God Church Doha Qatar (Bethel AG Church Doha) E4 One of the fastest growing Pentecostal churches in Doha with over 1,000 members. 5586 9359, bethelagdoha.com

Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Rosary (Priests of The Parish) E4 The Catholic Church in Qatar is a part of the universal church whose spiritual head is the Pope. Daily Mass: early morning and evening in English and other languages. 4416 5550/5400, catholicchurchqatar.org

Immanuel Mar Thoma Church – Doha, Qatar E4

Member of Inter Denominational Christian Church. 4416 5701, imtcdoha.com

RCCG Rehoboth Assembly E4 A parish of the redeemed Christian Church of God. Teenage Church and Children's Club available. 7770 7783, rccgrehobothqatar.org

Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center (Fanar) D4 Once the largest mosque in Qatar, Fanar hosts religious, educationrelated and social activities. Visitors can enjoy traditional coffee and learn about the Qatari lifestyle, the country’s heritage and culture. 4444 7444, binzaid.gov.qa

St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Church An Apostolic Church founded in India by St. Thomas E4 4416 5060, syromalabarqatar.in

The Church of the Epiphany E4 The Anglican Church in Qatar, a member of the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf, which is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion 4416 5726, anglicanchurchinqatar.org

See Mosques in Sightseeing in the Discovering Qatar section.

Birth, Marriage, Divorce and Death

Birth

Under Qatari law, a woman must be married to give birth in the country. It is a criminal offence to be unmarried and pregnant, and may result in a 12-month jail sentence on average and deportation.

Childbirth: Qatari and non-Qatari residents can recieve free maternity care at public hospitals such as Women's Wellness and Research Center, Al Wakra Hospital or Cuban Hospital. Residents looking to access maternity services at private hospitals such as Sidra Medicine, Al Ahli Hospital, Al Emadi Hospital or Aster Hospital should review their insurance to see what, and which, hospitals offer coverage. Delivery packages can range from

QAR5,000 to QAR30,000. Packages for Caesarian (C-section) births are more expensive than natural childbirths. Home births are illegal in Qatar. Required documents include the RP or passports of both the father and mother, health cards, marriage certificate, and health insurance (if you have one). For more information, see Healthcare in Qatar in this section.

Birth certificate: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) issues a birth certificate to every child born in the country, including non-Qataris; however, non-Qatari children are not entitled to Qatari nationality by reason of birth here. Public and private hospitals have birth registration offices that can assist family members with birth certificates. However, all births have to be registered online at moph.gov.qa. Birth certificates are free of cost; however, fees apply for additional copies (with official stamp and signature), costing QAR20 per copy. Within 48 hours, the birth certificate can be found at the hospital in which the delivery took place or can delivered by Qatar Post at a fee of QAR20.

Under Law No 3 of 2016, births have to be reported by a family member and a physician or any authorised person at the hospital within a maximum of 15 days. The information to be provided include the date of birth according to the Hijri and Gregorian calendars, time and place, gender of the baby, baby's name (should not be shared by a sibling or be a compound name) the names of both parents, the person who helped in the delivery and the person who reported the birth. The hospital provides two letters after the birth, one of which will bear a government number.

Passport: Expatriates can then register their child’s birth at their embassy and obtain a passport (not all embassies provide this service, check first yours).

Residence Permit (RP): An application for a newborn's RP must be submitted within 60 days of birth, or the parents will incur a fine of QAR10 per day. Once the passport is issued, you can apply for your child's RP. Only the parents can sponsor the child, typically the father. The mother may sponsor the child only if she is employed and sponsored by her employer. Required documents include the birth certificate, a copy of the baby's passport, copies of the parents' RPs and passports, a letter of employment, the original employment contract, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the father’s employer (detailing job position, salary, and contract type), and passport-sized photos of the baby with a blue background. Additional documents may be requested. The application can be completed via Metrash or at the General Directorate of Passports for a fee of QAR500.

Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Rosary

Maternity leave: Employees with at least one year of continuous service are entitled to a 50-day maternity leave with full pay. At least 35 days of the leave must be taken after the birth. If the employee suffers from a pregnancy-related health issue, they are entitled to take up to a further 60 days unpaid leave.

Paternity leave: Not required by law in Qatar. However, some companies may allow paid or unpaid leave ranging from a day to two weeks after childbirth.

Nursing interval: Nursing women who work at least six hours per day are entitled to one hour nursing break(s) per day from the birth of the child until the child reaches the age of one. The nursing hour is determined by the employee according to her convenience, and should take place during working hours without salary deduction.

Marriage

Couples wishing to get married in Qatar are required to undergo the premarital health checkup or screening in order to avoid any genetic, hereditary and communicable diseases in addition to controlling the prevalence of disability and other diseases. The screening can be done at one of the accredited health centres in Qatar. Once the checkup is complete, Muslim marriages take place at the Family Court or if preferred, at their home with the presence of a mazoon, an official for civil ceremonies.

Civil marriages for non-Muslims are unrecognised by the law in Qatar. The only non-Muslim marriages granted official recognition by the State of Qatar are Christian marriages performed by churches registered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and by clergy recognised by the ministry to perform non-Muslim marriages. Certain embassies and churches will perform marriages for expatriates. See Places of Worship earlier in this section. The church will issue your marriage certificate. Translate a copy of the marriage certificate

into Arabic through a translator recognised by Qatar Chamber (QC). Then register the marriage certificate and Arabic translation at the Office of Land Registration and Legalization at the Ministry of Justice, which will stamp the back of the marriage certificate with a registration number, and keep the copy and Arabic translation for its records. Check with your embassy to see if you need to register the marriage in your home country.

Divorce

The process of getting divorced in Qatar is different for Muslim and non-Muslim couples. Couples of any religion and nationality that can prove their residency in Qatar can file for divorce, although the process can differ.

For Muslim couples who were married in Qatar and seeking to dissolve their marriage, they will have to meet certain requirements, such as proving their residency. In addition, the wife will have to honour the iddat, a period of three months where she cannot remarry. If the divorcing couple can reach a settlement, they can have their lawyers draw up an agreement and fast-track their case through the courts. If this isn’t possible, the person requesting the divorce will have to provide a reason for doing so – adultery, impotency and abuse – along with evidence to support their claims.

To dissolve a marriage that took place in Qatar, there are a number of firms well-versed in local law who could assist and advise (see Lawyers and Legal earlier in this section).

Note: If you are in Qatar on your spouse’s visa, you will lose your RP after divorce. You will need to get another RP, either under the sponsorship of your employer or another eligible family member. Advice is recommended.

If you were married outside of Qatar, seek advice from your embassy or law firms in your country on how to dissolve your marriage. It may be easier and more cost-effective to file for divorce in your home country.

Watad: A free online marriage and family therapy/ consultation and parenting consultation service provided by the Ministry of Social Development and Family (MSDF) in collaboration with Family Consulting Center (Wifaq). Its aim is to assist couples and families in dealing with marital and family challenges that may have negative impacts on their married life. Watad offers specialist consultation and therapy services in a professional manner that ensures confidentiality and respects and protects privacy rights. 16080, watad.msdf.gov.qa

Death

Notifying the police is mandatory and in some cases they may require a post-mortem. Get help from the relevant embassy, which will be able to advise you. Newborn deaths and stillbirths have to be reported within seven days.

When one dies in Qatar, the law of the country that issued their passport will be honoured. Qatari law will apply only if the deceased has assets in Qatar but no heirs in the country.

If one dies in Qatar and a will is not in place, their assets, including their bank accounts, cars and other valuables registered in their name will be frozen until the heirs or the deceased's beneficiaries provide an official inheritance certificate duly authenticated by all relevant authorities, proving their entitlement to those assets. Heirs may prove their entitlement to the deceased’s assets by producing a legal statement from their country of nationality. The exact format of this will be dependent upon the jurisdiction of the deceased's home country. If a will is in place, a court order or other approved and authenticated document will be required. The bank may then forward payment to the relevant beneficiary/ beneficiaries.

For joint accounts, Article 351 of The Commercial Code states that joint account holders will be considered to have equal shares unless otherwise agreed in the contract. When one of the account holders dies, the remaining holder must inform the bank of their intention to either continue with the account or to close it within 10 days of the date of death. Further details can be obtained from the relevant bank.

In the unfortunate event of both parents dying, children residing in Qatar will go into the care of the Qatar Foundation for Child and Women Protection (QFCW), which will attempt to contact the children’s next of kin and keep the children until they can be released to the proper guardian or family member. The next of kin will require proof (birth certificates) that they are indeed the sibling or parents of the deceased for QFCW to release the children.

Humanitarian Services Office at MoPH: In coordination between Ministry of Interior (MOI), MoPH, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), General Authority of Customs, Qatar Airways, Public Prosecution and other relevant authorities, the office offers simplified procedures for the repatriation of the deceased abroad or their burial inside the country via a single window system. The office is managed by MOI, and is located on Mohammed bin Thani Street behind

Hamad Hospital mortuary. The office is open daily from 7 am – 9 pm.

Making a Will

Residents of Qatar or Qatari nationals are not required to have a will in place. However, it is strongly recommended that you draw up a will in your home country. You will need to get it attested at the Qatar Embassy in your home country, translate it into Arabic, and then get it registered in Qatar at the Ministry of Justice.

If you want to make a will in Qatar, there are a number of firms well-versed in local law who could assist and advise you (see Lawyers and Legal earlier in this section). In addition, seek advice from your embassy.

Liquor Permit

Alcohol in Qatar is a strictly regulated concession. Rules issued should be strictly adhered to. Liquor for home consumption is available only from the Qatar Distribution Company (QDC) in Abu Hamour E3 and Hotel Park C4. A QDC Permit Card is necessary. New memberships and renewals can be made at qdc.com.qa. Call their Permit Office on 4429 9777. You will need a letter from your employer addressed to QDC detailing your position, salary, benefits, and accommodation, together with a copy of your passport or RP. On approval, the applicant will be required to pay an annual licence fee, paid on a pro-rata basis, based on your RP's validity. The permit holder's spouse can also hold a card for the same account.

In addition, QDC has a range of pork products, which are available for purchase only at the Abu Hamour store with a Speciality Food Only Permit, available at qdc.com.qa. No fee is applied nor will it be deducted from your monthly alcohol allowance. Opening times: Sunday and Monday 9 am – 9 pm. Saturday 5 pm – 9 pm. There is strictly no access from Tuesday until Friday.

Opening times: Entry into the shop and purchases can only be made by those holding a valid QDC Permit Card. Abu Hamour: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 9 pm, Friday 1 pm – 9 pm. Hotel Park: Sunday to Wednesday 11 am 8 pm, Thursday 9 am – 9 pm, Friday 1 pm – 9 pm and Saturday 9 am –6 pm. The shop closes during the holy month of Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha.

Appointments to visit both stores are only required on Thursday, Friday and during peak periods. Book an appointment at qdc.com.qa. An email confirmation must be presented along with your Permit Card for entry and purchase at QDC. There's also a Click & Collect service and home delivery for selected zones.

The Ministry of Municipality's Department of Animal Resources is in charge of animal control and veterinary supervision of animal diseases. The department issues import permits, and oversees the exportation, transfer and transit of pets across borders. There are strict controls on the movements of endangered species. The Municipality's Department for Animal Resources operates a large veterinary clinic in Al Rayyan D2 For the Main Veterinary Clinic call 4426 1656, or apply online to request an appointment via the Ministry of Municipality: 184, hukoomi.gov.qa

There are free vaccination and trap/neuter/return services for cats and dogs. All animals should be microchipped – the department offers this service, as do all the veterinary clinics in Qatar. For more information or to register your pet, visit petsafeqatar.com

Cremation: Must be arranged through your veterinarian. You may ask for individual cremation.

Importing a Pet

Pets may be imported as cargo or excess baggage. If you ship your pet as cargo, it will go to a special facility for pets where it will be cared for until it clears customs. However you choose to import your pet, you will need a permit from the Department of Animal Resources. You can get this up to two weeks before the date of travel and it is valid for one month. To get an import permit, your pet must:

• Be more than four months old.

• Have a certificate issued from an accredited laboratory not less than three months and not more than 12 months prior to the date of entry that shows the serum neutralisation test against rabies of more than 0.5 IU/ml.

• Have a health certificate issued by a competent authority from the country of import.

• Have a vaccination document or passport which must include the microchip number, date of birth and required vaccinations and treatments.

As you cannot obtain an import permit from outside the country, it is recommended that you use one of Qatar’s pet relocation specialists to handle the importation.

The above requirements are current but may be subject to change at any time.

Short-nosed cats and dogs (eg Persians and pugs) are embargoed on many airlines, including Qatar Airways. Your pet's travel kennel must comply with the IATA regulations, iata.org. Some dog breeds are banned in Qatar – check with a pet relocator specialist or visit portal.moi.gov.qa

Exporting a Pet

All pets must be vaccinated against rabies and must be microchipped. You will then need to arrange rabies serology tests to obtain the necessary certification.

You are strongly advised to check all health requirements and regulations with relevant government authorities and the relevant country well ahead of time, up to six months. Contact your local vet, animal support organisation and pet relocator specialist in Qatar and refer to the relevant countries' government website.

Airlines require a health certificate, obtainable from the Animal Resources Department. You will need to take your pet for an examination and show current vaccination records. The export document is valid for seven days. Present it at the QNT Office in the Cargo Section at Hamad International Airport (HIA) at least five days before you wish your pet to travel and book a flight there. You will need to pay the full fare plus handling charges at this stage. Your pet needs a travel kennel that complies with the airline’s regulations.

As regulations and requirements relating to the import and export of pets are subject to change, it is recommended that you contact Privilege Pet Travel & Services privilegepettravel.com or any other pet relocation service or specialist.

L'Arche Vet Clinic Al Wakra larchevet.com 4421 1111, 800

Parkview Pet Center C3 parkviewpetcenter.com 4417 1560

Pets Care Veterinary Center D4/D3 petscare-qa.com 4488 1036, 5000 7045

Qatar Vet Center D3/B3 qvcpetshop.com 4016 1366, 4498 9620

Royal Vet Clinic D3 Facebook, Instagram 4017 5721, 7000

Are you planning on travelling with your pets? Or maybe you can be a flight buddy?

Photograph: Javier Brosch/Alamy Stock Photo

Don’t leave making travelling plans with pets to the last minute!

There are a number of pet relocation specialists in Qatar who can assist with all the necessary paperwork required, and the veterinary centres can provide tips on how best to travel with animals – see Pets in the Living in Qatar section for contact details.

Animal centres are always looking for help with relocating rescues. If you are flying from Qatar to North America or Europe, take the opportunity to be a flight buddy – you will be bringing joy to both the animal and its potential new family. All you need to do is meet the pet and a volunteer from the rescue centre at the airport. The paperwork is prepared in advance, the flight is paid for by the shelter, and your flight buddy will fly with you on your baggage ticket. So there is absolutely no cost or effort required from you!

See Groups Seeking Volunteers in Leisure Activities in the Events and Activities section to contact one of the rescue centres and find out how you can help.

Accessible Qatar

In Qatar, there are many sectors that cater to people with special needs, especially in education and healthcare. The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ played a transformative role in making the country more accessible for people with disabilities as the country ensured tournament facilities as well as the wider public infrastructure met the requirements of people with disabilities.

Educational and Learning Centres

It is Qatar’s national policy that every child should be provided with education to help them reach their full potential, and through the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE), the State of Qatar is committed to inclusive integration in education where possible.

MoEHE provides suitable, supportive and safe environments for students with special needs, supported by specialised staff, as well as assistive devices and technologies. Students with special needs are enrolled in general education schools based on the type of services provided, and severity of the case, including public schools with support services, inclusive schools, and specialised schools. For more information, visit edu.gov.qa/en/Content/SpecialNeedsEducation

Although many special needs centres and support services are for Qataris only, many others are open to non-Qatari residents.

Al-Hidaya Special Needs Schools Multiple locations are public schools established by the MoEHE for students with special needs such as intellectual disabilities and/or autism, offering integration services that are provided through a multidisciplinary team. Catering to students from kindergarten to Grade 12, schools are equipped with resource rooms, programmes, services and specialists that serve students and enhance their academic and independence capabilities, according to each students’ individual goal plan. There are at least six Al-Hidaya Special Needs Schools including kindergartens and primary schools, as well as secondary schools segregated by gender. edu.gov.qa

Al Noor Institute for the Visually Impaired (Al Noor Institute for the Blind) A4 is one of the educational centres for rehabilitating the blind. It caters for visually impaired people over the age of three years. Younger children receive care visits in their home. 4422 2777, see their Facebook page

Al Tamakon Comprehensive School E3 adopts the Qatar National Curriculum and provides quality education to students with special needs who have learning difficulties, autism and other developmental delays. They provide supportive health services (speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, sensory integration).

4466 0466, tamakon.org

Al-Waha Center for People with Special Needs provides a wide range of therapeutic and educational services, including physical therapy, occupational training, speech therapy, special education, as well as psychological and social support programmes. 5022 2066, alwahaqa.com

Audio Education Complex Multiple locations are public schools established by MoEHE to cater to students with hearing disabilities to provide them with appropriate educational services and help them acquire skills and knowledge that serve them academically. The Complex comprises the Audio Education School for Girls and the Audio Education School for Boys. edu.gov.qa

Awsaj Academy C2, a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), tutors grades KG-12 students with learning challenges in classes of 10 students and one teacher. Teaching is in English, and the curriculum includes maths, English, science, Arabic, Islamic studies, Qatari history, art, IT, and physical education. It also has an outreach centre that provides evaluation and professional development services to the community.

4454 2111/15, awsaj.qa

Child Development Center (CDC) B4 is a multidisciplinary therapy centre in Al Dafna. Established in 2013, CDC provides a network of internationally qualified and licenced professionals who offer child-centred and evidence-based therapy services for children with autism, speech delays, and related developmental delays. Services include initial consultations, early intervention programme, Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, parent coaching,

feeding therapy, sensory integration, handwriting intervention, social skills groups, speech and language assessments, and occupational therapy assessments, as well as professional development training and workshops. 6692 0199, 4414 7283, cdcenterqatar.com

Doha International Center for Special Needs E3 teaches special needs children using early intervention through five levels. After they finish all levels, they can integrate into general schools. The centre teaches language and function skills through evaluation, diagnostic and learning plans for each child 4469 2920, dic-specialneeds.net

Family Hope Center C3 is for children, adolescents and adults with social, mental and physical challenges, providing the necessary resources to support both individuals with special needs and their families. 4435 0951, familyhope.qa

HOPE Qatar Centre for Special Needs D4 provides Help, Opportunity, Participation, and Education (HOPE) for children and young people aged 3 – 25. Established in 2005, HOPE Qatar is approved by MoEHE and offers individualised programmes meeting academic as well as therapeutic needs of its students in a near school environment that enables achieving their full potential and holistic development. 800 HOPE (4673), hope-qatar.org

Inclusion and Special Needs Support Center (ISNSC) at Qatar University (QU) B3 provides various services, including academic support and inclusion services, by providing students’ scribes to write down lecture notes and making the necessary exams arrangements for students with special needs. Furthermore, the centre offers assistive technology services that suit different disabilities through conducting assistive technology assessment and providing appropriate training based on the student’s needs. The centre also works on converting learning materials

into accessible formats for students, and on improving the level of physical accessibility of all QU’s buildings and facilities as well as ensuring digital accessibility of the QU’s official website. 4403 3333, qu.edu.qa/students/success-anddevelopment/special-needs

Jumpstart Center for Special Needs C3 is an educational centre that provides high-quality learning opportunities and multidisciplinary programmes for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental delays. The centre also provides support for families through individual parent training sessions and consultations. 7757 1007, jscenterqa.com

Noor Center for Special Needs D4 provides Montessori and Academic training, Sensory Training, Speech Therapy and more. 5562 8000, see their Facebook page

Omega Centre for Special Needs Education E3 offers diagnostic, therapeutic and education services and aims to assist families whose children have psychiatric, physical, educational and social challenges. 4451 3210, omegaqatar.org

Ontario Center for Special Needs (OCSE) E3 established in 2015 by Mariam Al Rashidi, a mother of a child with autism, offers programmes in Early Intervention (school preparation for children 2 to 5 years), Growth and Development Services (6 to 18 years), Vocational Training and Work Services (14 to 21 years), Speech, Occupational and Behaviour Training (Individual Sessions), and Bridge Program (Inclusion & Integration). 3348 3888, ontario-center.com

Qatar Autism Center and Special Needs (QACSN) E4 established in 2010 under the supervision of MoEHE, the centre consists of two spacious villas based upon modern international standards for rehabilitation, taking into consideration the appropriate classroom environment for the handicapped, in compliance with safety and security standards of students. 4464 3711, 5565 6805, qacsn.com

Qatari Center of Social Cultural for the Deaf (QCSCD) D3 is the national organisation representing deaf people in Qatar, and a member of the World Federation of the Deaf. It is the first centre of its kind in Qatar specialised in caring for people with audio disability in the fields of education, awareness, entertainment. Their programmes and interests cover all the groups of people with audio disability (male/female) regardless of their nationality and age. 4469 7700, qdeafctr.com

Education City

Qatar Foundation (QF) C2 hosts an Ability Friendly Program in Education City that supports people of all abilities to engage in sporting and development activities. The programme includes sports activities, disability awareness workshops, and events tailored to participants' needs. QF also provides a 'Qatar for All' accessibility guide on its website. 4454 0000, qf.org.qa

Qatar National Library (QNL) C2 has a Children's Library that caters to children of all abilities; a collection of physical Arabic audio books that are suitable for children with impaired vision; vast accessible online resources such as Bookshare, ABC, Overdrive and Libby; a collection of autism books; an Assistive Technology Center offering training programmes and demonstrations of assistive technology for individuals with autism and special needs, and organisations working with them; and a Sensory Room for children with learning difficulties, development disabilities and sensory impairments that combines a range of stimuli, including sensory devices and toys to create stunning visual effects that engage children. QNL also hosts sensory story-telling sessions. 4454 0100, qnl.qa

Qatar Social and Cultural Center for the Blind (QSCCB) C3 provides special training programmes for the blind, including courses in Computer, English Language, Braille, Reinforcement Lessons (private tutoring), handcrafts, sports, etc; printing in Braille; social interaction and integration; and blindfriendly facilities (computer lab, equipped sport hall, library, swimming pool, etc). QSCCB is an official member of the World Blind Union, Asian Blind Union, Arab Union for the Blind, The Rehabilitation International – Arab Region, and Gulf Disability Society. 4487 7511/44/22, blind.gov.qa

Registering for schools

Renad Academy C2, a member of QF, is a school for children aged 3 – 14 diagnosed with autism. The school provides education and therapeutic services to students as well as training and support to parents and the wider community. It provides all aspects of education for its students, using evidence-based practices that are researched to be effective, such as the structured TEACCH approach. This is delivered in one-to-one and small-group settings. 4454 1974, renad.qa

Shafallah-Integration for the Disabled A4 is a non-profit, private centre, established in 1999, to serve as a model for the provision of special education, therapeutic, and healthcare support services for Qatari children with disabilities from birth to adulthood. It includes an on-site Genetic Research Centre, cutting-edge therapies, and a first-class faculty and counsellors. 4495 6666, shafallah.org.qa

Step by Step Centre for Special Needs D3 offers a caring and stimulating environment to enable children, aged 3 – 16, with learning challenges to achieve their full academic and personal potential through specialised teaching in a school setting and individual therapy sessions. It also has a Summer School Programme. 4475 7625, 5592 7376, stepbystepqatar.com

The Learning Center (TLC) C2, a member of QF, provides relevant and high-quality support services to students across QF schools and offers services to support the wider community's needs through the DARB Center. The services include: Speech and language therapy; educational psychology; occupational therapy; specific individualised behavioural interventions for students; and Language acquisition services, and professional development, training, and coaching of faculty and parents. Alongside serving students directly,

The registration of new students with Additional Educational Support Needs (AESN) in kindergartens (KGs) is only for Qataris, while registration in the first grade is allowed for both Qatari as well as expatriate students with special needs According to MoEHE, students who suffer from speech and language problems such as hearing, hyperactivity disorder and physical disabilities not associated with mental disabilities can register directly through independent/public schools.

Hearing impaired students of all levels of ability can register at the Audio Education Complex. Children who suffer from conditions like cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, autism and others can apply through the Roua Centre for Assessment, Support and Counseling under the Special Education Office to determine the right school for the student.

Meanwhile, MoEHE has issued a circular to public schools, asking them to admit children of employees working in the private sector in areas which do not have private schools like Al Shamal, Dukhan, Rawdat Rashed, Al Karaana, Al Sheehaniya, Al Ghuwariyah, Al Zubara, Al Kharsaah, Al Kaaban, Al Ghashamia and Al Jamiliyah. According to the circular, all admission and registration requirements should be met and the parents should provide documents proving their residence in the area. Students cannot be transferred to public schools in areas which have private schools.

TLC works with parents and teachers to build capacity and share insights about their child’s developmental and learning needs. 4454 2106, 7400 2065, tlc@qf.org.qa, qf.org.qa/tlc

Trust Center Multiple locations provides a range of integrated services in its three branches, such as medical services; physical, occupational, behavioural and group therapy; and the treatment of speech and language problems. The centre also provides developmental services as well as school and professional integration services. 6668 3566, trustcenter-qa.com

Healthcare (Therapy and Support) Centres

Al Maha Pediatric Specialized Care Center in Al Wakra Hospital offers expert long-term and acute care for children with special needs. This unique centre is designed to create a home-like environment aimed at promoting a better quality of life for children with long-term care needs. It includes medical, diagnostic and therapy services (such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, assistive technology, audiology services, seating and positioning, and feeding and swallowing as well as psychological support and intervention). The centre also provides aquatic therapy offered in a multi-level hydrotherapy pool, music and art therapy, virtual reality treatment, and other services. hamad.qa

Al Tawasul Specialized Center for ENT E3 is specialised in Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT), Audiology and Speech Language Therapy. They provide life-changing treatment and support to patients from infancy to old age. 4017 6399, see their Facebook page

Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) C3/D3 provides services and outpatient programmes in Early Detection and Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Early Intervention, School Rehabilitation Services for children with disabilities and more, as well as Medical and Behaviour Consultation Clinics. The programme accepts referrals only from HMC's physicians to make best use of the programme and resources for the right group of children. 16060, hamad.qa

Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine (IRM) D3 offers a range of medical equipment, prosthetics and orthotic patient aids, as well as a comprehensive selection of accessibility and lifts equipment. IRM customises and fits related rehabilitation solutions, and offers expert consultancy in the design and configuration of solutions for each patient. 4499 5544, irmop.com

Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) Multiple locations PHCC's health centres offer the FastTracked Flow service to support patients with special needs. This optional service entails the use of special needs’ car parking slots available on the ground floor or Basement 1 by individuals with special needs who have a car parking sign from the Ministry of Interior; walk-in patients can approach the Hayyak team for a special needs Q-matic number; and clients with booked appointments may approach the Hayyak team for assistance. 107, phcc.gov.qa

The Qatar Institute for Speech and Hearing (QISH) C3 is devoted to speech/language, hearing and rehabilitation services. QISH aims to enhance the wellbeing of people living in Qatar. It is a platform that provides an understanding into various issues facing children and adults with special needs, hearing loss, speech difficulties, psychological disorders and physical disability. 4412 2742, 4487 3909, qish.info

The Qatar Society for Rehabilitation of Special Needs D4 attends to the social, mental, academic and healthy rehabilitation of people with special needs in society, in keeping with the Islamic principles, traditions and customs of Qatari society. qsrn.org

Sidra Medicine C2 offers services for children and young people with special needs within its various departments and clinics, including Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Developmental Pediatrics, Pediatric Wellness Clinic, Rehabilitation Medicine and more. Sidra Medicine's Child and Adolescent Mental Health division also provides comprehensive mental health support to the students of Assalam Schools for marginalised children in Qatar, including psychiatric and psychological assessments, medication management, and follow-up care for mental health issues, complemented by specialised psychological testing for IQ and standardised rating evaluations. 4003 3333, sidra.org

Leisure and Entertainment

All malls and most shopping destinations, and play zones in Qatar are accessible for those who are physically disabled. Play zones and other entertainment centres offer discounts for people with special needs.

Al Shaqab C3 offers an Equine Assisted Therapy Program for children with autism specturm disorder (ASD) between the ages of 6 – 12. Therapeutic riding and stable management activities are combined in 45-minute sessions, which are offered daily except Friday. 4454 1992, alshaqab.com

City Center Doha C4 offers accessibility-friendly escalators, elevators, ramps, and parking as well as accessibility-friendly toilets. For baby strollers and wheelchair requests, visit the information desk. 4493 3355, citycenterdoha.com

Doha Festival City B2 Offers wheelchair accessibility, designated parking, curb ramps, accessible escalators, elevators with Braille buttons, and spacious restrooms with supportive features. It also provides kids' wristbands with caregiver details to assist children with special needs. 4035 4444, dohafestivalcity.com

Education City Golf Club C2 offers golf courses that are accessible to wheelchair users. The PGA Golf Professionals are open to requests on a case-by-case basis. 7773 7973, ecgolf.com

Sensory Souk C4 established in 2019 by mothers with children with special needs, is an online store with an array of products to support children's learning and development. 5512 3374 (WhatsApp), sensorysouk.com

Spark Sense and Play at Doha Festival City B2

An indoor all-rounded centre with a playground, creative wokshops and café where a child can play, learn, and create. 4488 7233, thesparkplay.com

Monoprix Al Waab 2022 D2 provides a sensoryfriendly shopping experience in collaboration with Step by Step Centre for Special Needs. Qatar’s first ever 'Sensory-friendly hour' in Monoprix Al Waab 2022 is daily between 8 am – 10 am.

At Monoprix at Doha Festival City, it is from 1 pm –3 pm from Sunday to Thursday and 8 am – 10 am on Friday and Saturday. 4473 2400, monoprix.qa

The Museum of Illusions at The Gate Mall C4 has designed its premises to accommodate people with disabilities. In collaboration with Accessible Qatar, exhibit descriptions are displayed in Braille to ensure accessibility for visually impaired visitors. 4020 6273, museumofillusions.qa

Qatar Museums (QM) Multiple locations ensures that all of their galleries, museums and cultural sites are fully accessible with dedicated parking spaces, accessible toilets, ramps, wheelchairs to borrow, lifts and sliding doors. 4422 4100, qm.org.qa/en/accessibility

The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) C4 offers a wide variety of engaging events and programmes that are accessible to audiences of all ages. 4422 4444, mia.org.qa

The National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) D4 offers a wide range of accessibility initiatives for visitors with disabilities. For those with visual impairments, it provides bespoke tours, assistive technology, audio guides, Braille text, and hands-on models; sign language tours in Arabic and English; a sensory room; and biweekly workshops, tours, and programmes for individuals with learning disabilities, incorporating multisensory and tactile experiences. Additionally, assistive technology such as electronic magnifiers, C Pen readers, and Eye-Pal Solo devices are available upon request. 4452 5555, nmoq.org.qa

Important and Useful Platforms

Accessible Qatar, an initiative established by Sasol under the supervision of the Ministry of Social Development and Family, is a smartphone application and website, where the disabled community is able to view the public and touristic locations and outlets in Qatar and see whether they are accessible and in what way. It combines expertly-audited data and user reviews and ratings, giving the disabled community the confidence they deserve to explore and enjoy Qatar without limits. accessibleqatar.com

Definitely Able is Sasol’s signature corporate responsibility initiative in Qatar. Launched in 2012, the initiative focuses on the abilities of people living with disability and aims to highlight the positive contributions of, and create opportunities for, people living with disabilities. The initiative partners with local stakeholders while raising awareness to promote social acceptance and inclusion for people with special needs. definitelyable.com

Doha Festival City

Mind Institute E3 works with children from birth to 18 years with communication difficulties, fine and gross motor challenges, language delays, hearing difficulties, educational delays, behaviour disorders, emotional disorders, sensory integration issues, social skills challenges and more. 3337 7648, 4418 1968, mindinstitutes.com

Qatar Assistive Technology Centre (Mada) C4 enables those with learning, visual, hearing, and physical disabilities (including dyslexia) to access information and communications technology without barriers offering assessments, advice and training. In 2023, Mada launched MadaLab, featuring the latest cutting-edge assistive technologies and accessible solutions related to improving digital access for persons with disabilities in the Arabic-speaking region and beyond. MadaLab serves as an innovation hub for innovators, solution providers, users, and ICT and AT experts. 4459 4050, mada.org.qa

Qatar Manpower Solutions Co (Jusour) C4 have the Sahem programme for Employing People with Disabilities to empower people with disabilities in the private sector. The programme focuses on nurturing the candidates’ capabilities, amplifying their potential, and ensuring their independence. People with disabilities will be provided with parttime employment opportunities. The programme's services are free of charge for all applicants and company owners. 4401 1044, jusour.qa

Qatar National Bank (QNB) Mulltiple locations provides applications in Braille for blind and visually impaired customers at designated QNB branches. Completed with the technical supervision and support of the Arab Union for the Blind, people with visual impairments will be able to read the terms and conditions and requirements for their requests, and will receive CDs with this information. They will be able to open current and saving accounts, apply for personal and vehicle loans, issue cards and use power of attorney as well. 4440 7777, qnb.com

Sokoon is an accessible electronic application developed by Mada in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Development and Family and the Social and Sports Activities Contribution Fund to digitise the unified Arabic dictionary of Arabic sign language to support digital inclusion. The app contains 2,637 words and 485 sentences. It also includes 20 classifications in all aspects and fields. It can be browsed in three languages. The Sokoon app is available to download on iOS and Android. sokoon.msdf.gov.qa

Travel and Transportation

Doha Metro has 37 stations that are all fully wheelchair accessible, providing barrier-free entry. Qatar Rail’s accessibility features include: Level access boarding; dedicated seating for people with limited mobility; spaces for wheelchair users; family areas; tactile paving inside the stations for visually impaired people; and guide dog allowances. 105, qr.com.qa

Hamad International Airport (HIA) D5 offers barrier-free access and dedicated facilities for passengers requiring special assistance. Airlines can arrange personal helpers for check-in, security, and baggage claim. Special assistance travellers board first and disembark last. Lounges include Shafallah Center Lounge, offering comfortable seating, televisions and a trained attendant, and Muzn Lounge, a multi-sensory room equipped with a wide range of devices that achieve calm and balance in a safe environment for children on the autism spectrum and those with special needs. Located between gates C7 and C9, the use of the room is free of charge for children aged two to 12 years for a maximum of two hours and it is open 24 hours a day. Adapted washrooms and complimentary wheelchairs are also available throughout the terminal. 4010 6666, dohahamadairport.com

Ibticar is a Qatar-based company that serves people with disabilities by providing accessible transportation to wheelchair users. 4005 4799, 3335 2245, ibticar.co

Mowasalat (Karwa) provides a fleet of wheelchair accessible Karwa taxis to expand the travel options for passengers with disabilities and/or limited mobility. In addition, Mowasalat has a fleet of low-floor buses, ramped access for wheelchair users, one wheelchair space per bus, and improved accessibility at bus stops, which been improved to aid the boarding process. The Karwa app is available to download on iOS and Android. 800 8294, 4458 8888, mowasalat.com m

Useful Numbers

•Primary Health Care Centres

•HMC Hospitals and Services

•Ministry of Public Health

•Private Medical Centres

•24‑hour Pharmacies

•Dental and Optical Centres

•Support Groups

Healthcare in Qatar

•Healthcare News

•The Ministry of Public of Health

•Hamad Medical Corporation: HMC Hospitals; Additional Services; HMC Hospitals with Emergency Departments; Meeting International Standards of Care; Working Towards a Healthy Qatar

•Primary Health Care Corporation and Sidra Medicine

•How the Health System Works Together

Map of Hamad Bin Khalifa Medical City

Healthcare in Qatar Healthcare in Qatar

PHCC now offers cupping therapy at three health centres

By Sarah Palmer

The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has announced the launch of its Cupping Therapy Clinics, offering a regulated and medically supervised environment for the delivery of wet cupping therapy, also known as Hijama, which translates to ‘drawing out’ and to ‘return to a normal state’ of internal balance.

Cupping therapy is a widely practised traditional healing technique, known for its potential benefits in alleviating conditions such as chronic back pain, migraines, and muscle pain. It provides an alternative pain management option in order to reduce the reliance on medications.

The clinics expand PHCC’s services and provide patients with a safe and effective alternative for managing chronic pain. For optimum patient safety and efficacy, the service will be delivered by qualified physicians and trained nursing staff, essential for patients seeking cupping therapy treatments within a professional healthcare framework – and minimising the risks associated with unregulated external providers.

Dr Wadha Al Baker, PHCC’s director of Wellness Programmes, said: 'The introduction of the Cupping Therapy Clinics aligns with PHCC’s mission to deliver integrated, patient-centred care. By offering this service in a controlled and infection-free environment, we are addressing the growing demand for alternative therapies while ensuring the highest standards of safety and professionalism.'

A cupping therapy service was first offered to patients in a pilot phase at Umm Slal Health Centre in 2023, and is now additionally available at Al Sadd and Umm Seneem Health Centres.

Patients must first consult their family physician for eligibility and undergo necessary blood tests to meet the criteria for receiving cupping therapy.

Receiving cupping therapy at PHCC clinics has a number of benefits:

• Comprehensive assessment: Patients initially undergo consultations with family physicians to assess their suitability for the therapy.

• Regulated environment: Cupping procedures are conducted using sterile, disposable equipment, adhering to strict infection control guidelines.

• Holistic care: The clinics integrate cupping therapy into PHCC’s wider wellness and preventive health services.

Image from Freepik

Image by xb100 on Freepik

Who could benefit from cupping

Cupping therapy was first launched in February 2023 under a pilot phase at Umm Slal Health Center. The expansion to two further health centres is part of PHCC's intention to provide a comprehensive and integrated health service by focusing on individuals, in addition to working steadfastly to meet all patients needs based on the highest global standards.

Cupping could be helpful to those patients who have been diagnosed with chronic headache due to unknown causes, refractory migraine, carpal tunnel syndrome without indication for surgical intervention, muscle imbalance and postural dysfunction, refractory muscle spasms, neck and upper or lower back pain, chronic diseases such as eczema and asthma, and skin diseases like acne.

Cupping therapy is an alternative medicine and one form of traditional medicines that has been practiced since ancient times and it is used in several parts of the world, including China and the Middle East, to promote health, prevention, and treatment, as well as acting as a tranquiliser for chronic pain through using wet cupping.

PHCC has stated that cupping is consistent with Islamic Sharia law and was mentioned in many Hadiths. Cupping therapy (hijama) is one of the traditional medicine practices which has been practiced for thousands of years in Arabic and Islamic countries including Qatar. It is one of the five regulated complementary medicine practices – acupuncture, Ayurveda, cupping therapy, chiropractic, and homeopathy – that has been approved by the Ministry of Public Health since 2016.

Advantages include the improvement of blood flow and the reduction of toxic buildup in the body, heading off pain and headache, strengthening the nervous system, and increasing the scope of movement and flexibility.

How cupping therapy works

In wet cupping, the therapist creates a mild suction by leaving a cup on your back for about three minutes. The cup is removed and a small scalpel or needle makes light, tiny cuts on your skin. A second suction draws out a small quantity of blood, and the cup is left in place for 10-15 minutes. The cuts attract inflammatory cells and brings about the release of natural pain relievers and mood enhancers.

You may have just one cup at your first treatment session, but rarely are more than five to seven cups used.

After the treatment, an antibiotic ointment is applied to the skin and then bandaged to prevent infection. Cupping leaves marks on the skin, and there may be side effects associated with bruises and skin itching, but patients eventually recover after seven to 10 days. You can repeat wet cupping every four to eight weeks.

Most experts agree that cupping is safe. However, it is not suitable for everyone. It must be avoided by pregnant women, patients with acute hepatitis, tuberculosis, heart disease, arrhythmia, pacemaker implantation, blood clotting diseases such as hereditary hemorrhagic disease, severe anaemia, kidney failure, and those using anticoagulants.

To book an appointment with your family physician and see if you can benefit from cupping, call the PHCC helpline on 107 m

A number of famous athletes, such as swimmer Michael Phelps, have used cupping to treat injuries and reduce pain.

Useful Numbers

EMERGENCIES – AMBULANCE, FIRE OR POLICE – 999

Medical facilities in Qatar are open to citizens, residents and visitors. Visitors need to pay for treatment at government hospitals and Primary Healthcare Centres and provide proof of insurance; residents holding a valid Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) Health Card pay nominal fees.

Public Healthcare

Primary Healthcare Centres

For enquiries call Hayyak 107, download the Nar'aakom app, visit phcc.gov.qa

North Region: Al Daayen (24/7 paediatric Urgent Care Service) • Al Kaaban (UCS) • Al Khor (UCS)

• Al Leghwairiya • Al Ruwais (UCS) • Gharrafat Al Rayyan (UCS) C2 • Leabaib (Qataris only)

• Madinat Khalifa C3 • Qatar University B3 • Umm Slal (UCS)

Central Region: Airport (paediatric UCS) D4 • Al Mashaf (UCS) • Al Sadd (UCS) D3

• Al Thumama (Qataris only) E4 • Al Wakra • Omar Ibn Al Khattab C3 • Rawdat Al Khail (UCS) C4

• South Wakra (Qataris only; UCS) • Umm Ghuwailina D4 • West Bay (Qataris only) B3

Western Region: Abu Bakr Al Siddiq (UCS) D2 • Abu Nakhla • Al Jumailiya • Al Karaana

• Al Rayyan (paediatric UCS) D2 • Al Sheehaniya (UCS) • Al Waab D2 • Al Wajba • Mesaimeer E3

• Muaither (Qataris only; UCS) D2 • Umm Al Seneem E3

Visit phcc.gov.qa for up to date opening hours of all centres

HMC Hospitals and Services

Al Khor Hospital 4474 5555

Ambulatory Care Center/Women’s

Wellness & Research Center C4 4439 5777

Al Wakra Hospital 4011 4444

Enaya Specialized Care Center C4 4439 8120

Hamad Dental Center 4439 5777

Ministry of Public Health

For enquiries call Nesma'ak 16060, visit hamad.qa

Heart Hospital C4 4439 5838

National Blood Donation Center C4 4439 1081/2

The Cuban Hospital 4024 7777

Tobacco Control Center C4 4025 4981

Travel Clinic C4 4025 4003 (Communicable Disease Center)

For enquiries call 4407 0000, visit moph.gov.qa

Medical Commision D4 4467 9111 Vaccinations (Mesaimeer HC) D3 107

Private Healthcare

Private Medical Centres

Al Ahli Hospital C3/4 4489 8888

Al Emadi Hospital D4 4466 6009

Aman Hospital E4 4400 4400

American Hospital D4 4442 1999

Aspetar (Orthopaedic & Sports 4413 2000 Medicine Hospital) D3

Doha Clinic Hospital C4 4438 4333

Icon Medical (International Center for Orthopedics and Neurosciences) D4 4019 1200

The View Hospital B4 4144 2999

Turkish Hospital D4 4499 2444

West Bay Medicare C4 4020 6336

Dental and Optical Centres

Al Dar Optics 800 0506

Al Jaber Opticians (Lagoona mall) A4 4415 1252

Al Jabor Vision Technology D4 4442 7152

British International Dental Centre 4411 7755 (Salam Tower) C4

British International Dental Centre 4460 6058 (Al Waab) D3

Qatar Optics (City Center‑Doha) B4 4483 3349

Royal Dental Centre D4 4441 1250

Yateem Opticians (Mall of Qatar) B1 4432 3204

Pharmacies (24 hour)

Care n Cure Pharmacy app, online express delivery

Care n Cure Pharmacy Al Wakra 4486 1693

Family (Al Muaither Street) C3

4441 6419

Ibn Al Haytham (Doha Clinic Hosp) C4 4438 0114

Kulud app, 24/7 online live chat and express delivery

Kulud (Markhiya) C3 4487 7784

Mina Al Nayef p/stn (Al Rayyan) C3

4481 1896

Sunlife Pharmacy 24/7 support centre 3111 1629

Wellcare Pharmacy (Airport Street) D4 4037 0896

Healthcare items can also be ordered via delivery services like Talabat, Snoonu and Rafeeq

Support Groups

Alcoholics Anonymous 5518 8295, aaqatar.org

ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics) 5505 9124

Aman Centre (protecting/rehabilitating women and children who are victims of violence and family disintegration) 4409 0999, aman.org.qa

Qatar Cancer Society D4 4484 7777, qcs.qa

Qatar Diabetes Association D4 4454 7334, qda.org.qa

Sidra child/adolescent mental health team 4003 6816

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Healthcare in Qatar

Many changes and improvements have been introduced since the country opened its first hospital over 60 years ago. Billions of dollars are being spent on improving and expanding Qatar's healthcare system to cope with the rise in population. According to the World Health Organization, Qatar is spending more money per capita on healthcare than any other country in the Gulf. The healthcare system is available to all – citizens, expatriates and visitors. The public healthcare service provides free or extremely subsidised healthcare; the exception to this may be treatment for highly specialised services.

Under the new health insurance law, visitors and residents require proof of medical insurance. Residents should check with their employer to see what health insurance is provided, or contact one of the insurance companies to take extra personal cover – see Day-to-Day Qatar in this section for a list of companies.

Healthcare News

HMC and PHCC release stats for 2024

The Outpatient Department of Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) received 3,198,989 visits, and its laboratory conducted 24,372,843 tests in 2024. HMC’s ‘Nesma’ak’ customer service helpline (16060) was the third most used service, handling more than 1.7 mn calls.

The Emergency Departments at HMC hospitals received 672,701 patients, and the five Paediatric Emergency Centres treated 781,595 children. The Ambulance Service received 402,320 calls and recorded 1,887 life-flight air ambulance activations.

The Urgent Consultation Service, which offers telephone consultations for urgent conditions without a prior appointment, received 147,896 calls, and the National Mental Health Helpline, which provides professional mental healthcare and support, received 15,501 calls.

Meanwhile, the Primary Health Corporation (PHCC) received 5.2 mn visitors in 2024, the majority of which were at the Family Medicine Clinics. There was an increase in the demand for virtual consultations (phone or video), with more than 410,000 virtual consultations, an increase of approximately 10% against 2023.

Minister of Public Health launches Sehatuha

HE Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud, Minister of Public Health, inaugurated the Sehatuha campaign in February 2025. Launched by Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q), the initiative is a significant milestone in efforts to enhance women's health, emphasising the crucial role women play in society and the urgent need to prioritise their wellbeing.

Inspired by the principle that 'prevention is better than cure', the campaign aims to raise awareness about health issues and preventive measures, and is part of the National Health Strategy 20242030 to improve the health and wellbeing of the population.

Sehatuha addresses a woman’s entire lifecycle, from childhood and adolescence to motherhood and her golden years, highlighting health concerns specific to each stage. It promotes physical health, mental and emotional wellbeing, healthy lifestyle habits, and self-care. Community engagement activities will be centred on these key themes, via podcasts, workshops and lectures. This approach provides practical knowledge and shared experiences to inspire and empower women in making informed choices about their health.

PHCC's new Art for Better Mental Health project

The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has launched the Art for Better Mental Health project as part of its efforts to enhance mental health and wellbeing within the community. The project aligns with the National Health Strategy 2024-2030, the National Mental Health Strategy, and PHCC’s Corporate Strategic Plan, where mental health is considered a key pillar in developing its services to meet national goals aimed at improving quality of life.

The project aims to promote mental health by using art as an effective medium for expressing emotions and reducing stress. Art has been regarded as a therapeutic tool to lower stress and anxiety levels while preventing the onset of chronic diseases. Under the pilot phase, the project is being implemented at the Qatar University Health Center, targeting a group of patients and staff, with initial sessions demonstrating positive outcomes. This will expand in the future to include additional sessions and other centres, and will target the PHCC's clients and staff, as well as the general public in Qatar.

The Ministry of Public Health

In 2016 the Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani disbanded the Supreme Council of Health and reverted their responsibilities to the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH, moph.gov.qa).

The MoPH will continue to oversee the nation’s health services, with policies, goals and objectives to achieve that vision, and monitoring and evaluation of its progress and the quality and effectiveness of health service providers. The ‘Caring for the Future’ programme encourages healthy lifestyles, provides community-based primary care, and ensures that the world’s most advanced, highest quality care is available locally in secondary and tertiary medical facilities.

One of the pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030, 'Human Development', represents Qatar's ambition to develop a physically and mentally healthy population. The first phase was the National Development Strategy (NDS) 2011–2016, and the National Health Strategy (NHS) 2011–2016. These developments were built on under NDS 2017–2022 and NHS 2018–2022.

Supporting strategies and frameworks include:

• Qatar Public Health Strategy • National Primary Healthcare Strategy • National Diabetes Strategy

• Qatar National Dementia Plan • National E-Health and Data Management Strategy

• Continuing Care Design Strategy • Qatar Healthcare Facilities Master Plan • Summary National Mental Health & Wellbeing Strategic Framework 2019–2022 • National Cancer Framework 2017–2022.

The MoPH was awarded the national accreditation status of the US Public Health Accreditation Board in October 2022, the first country outside the US to receive the certification.

Departments and Services

• Medical Commission: Examines all travellers to the country and residents; issues medical certificates to:

º Prospective and current employees.

º Non-Qataris arriving to work, reside or visit family in the country, or to change sponsorship.

º Applicants for Qatari citizenship.

º Non-Qatari men who wish to marry Qatari women.

º Students for university enrolment.

º Citizens travelling overseas.

º Applicants for special categories (eg pilgrimage contractors, citizens marrying outside Qatar).

Most medical check-ups are conducted at the Medical Commission (MC) near Abu Hamour, although the service is also available at Qatar Red Crescent (Mesaimeer), Mowasalat Medical

Services (Industrial Area), Al Ahli Hospital, Al Emadi Hospital and Doha Clinic Hospital.

The main MC unit has four sections: one for expatriates taking up jobs in senior positions; one for families; one for domestic workers; and one for labourers. There is an electronic registration service for companies and corporations with over 15 employees; they must register their workers’ data online for tests and make electronic payments through Hukoomi at gov.qa

For more information about medical procedures, see Day to Day Qatar in this section.

• Health Protection and Communicable Disease Control: Monitors and controls communicable diseases, oversees the national vaccination programme.

• Health Promotion: Develops and implements policies and action plans, such as occupational health, tobacco law and mental health.

• Health Information Center: Collects health data and information, conducts statistical surveys, liaises with international health institutions, and oversees birth and death registrations.

• Food Safety: Implements health policies in all food safety-related matters, as per Law No 8 of 1990 regarding regulating human food control.

• Health Emergency: Responsible for plans and projects related to health emergency preparedness and response, in cooperation with partners in the health sector such as Hamad Medical Corporation, Primary Health Care Corporation, and the private sector.

• Health Financing and Insurance: Develops health financing and insurance systems that support the wider goals of the healthcare landscape and the National Health Strategy.

• Healthcare Professions: Draws up the specifications and conditions of accrediting hospitals, health centres and clinics, and training and rehabilitation centres for health practitioners. Issues licences for practicing health and medical professions and revokes where necessary.

• Health Facilities Licensing and Accreditation: Oversees the licensing and accreditation standards for health facilities, and conducts inspections.

• Pharmacy and Drug Control: Responsible for regulating the dispensing, import, and circulation of medicines, the registration of pharmaceutical companies, and supervising drug prices.

E-services available at moph.gov.qa include: • birth and death certificates • medical commission requests • finding a health practitioner or pharmacy • clinical guidelines

Hamad Medical Corporation

Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC, hamad.qa) is the main provider of specialist healthcare in Qatar and one of the leading hospital providers in the Middle East. HMCs network is made up of hospitals as well as the national Ambulance Service, home and residential care, and other services such as mental health and physiotherapy.

Since Rumailah Hospital first opened in 1957, HMC has significantly expanded its portfolio of hospitals. As Qatar has grown and developed over the recent decades, so too has HMC. This long history of caring for the residents of Qatar ensures HMC is uniquely positioned to understand the specific cultural and healthcare needs of the population, and provide the best possible care.

The clinical teams at HMC deliver a wide range of specialist healthcare services to patients. These services differ to those provided at primary health centres as they diagnose and treat complex cases that cannot be treated in a primary care setting.

In 2021, HMC marked 15 years of accreditation by Joint Commission International (JCI) under the Academic Medical Center accreditation programme and is the first healthcare system in the world to have all its hospitals accredited. Qatar is ranked in the top 20 countries in the Numbeo Healthcare Index 2025, for the fifth consecutive year.

How to get an appointment at an HMC hospital: Getting an appointment is simple and convenient.

> Your primary healthcare provider doctor (Primary Health Care Corporation or private clinic) will refer you to HMC if specialist care is required.

• Referrals from private clinics can be registered online at hamad.qa (see below).

• Referrals from PHCC health centres are made automatically.

> Once your referral has been received by HMC, you will be sent an SMS acknowledging receipt.

> When an appointment becomes available you will be contacted with the date, time and location. Once processed, you will also receive an appointment notification by SMS.

> You will receive a reminder SMS one day before.

> Aim to arrive 30 minutes before the appointment time. If you are more than 15 minutes late you may not be seen and your appointment will need to be rearranged.

Referrals from private clinics: Patients with referrals from private clinics for specialised care at HMC can submit their requests online. To access the appointment referral site, patients can scan the QR code or visit hamad.qa and use the Contact Us page, providing the health card number and

uploading the referral form. A confirmation message will be sent acknowledging that their referral has been received and is being processed. After a few days, Nesma’ak will call to arrange an appointment. Fees for HMC services: Residents with a valid Qatar ID and health card are entitled to heavily subsidised consultations and prescriptions. Without these, patients will be charged a higher fee. Emergency medical services are provided free of charge.

Contacting HMC: HMCs dedicated customer service team, Nesma'ak, can help with questions and enquiries, including checking/rescheduling/ cancelling appointments. Teams are on hand in all HMC hospitals to assist patients, via 16060 (24/7 in Arabic, English, Urdu and Malayalam), or by emailing nesmaak@hamad.qa

HMC Hospitals

Aisha Bint Hamad Al Attiyah Hospital

This new community hospital, south of Al Khor in Tenbek, is the corporation's second largest after Hamad General Hospital. The first patients were seen in November 2022 after inauguration by The Father Amir, HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. There are 300 inpatient beds, 64 outpatient clinics, an emergency department, operating theatres, obstetrics and gynaecology services, neonatal and paediatric care, haemodialysis, robotic pharmacy, laboratory services, VIP inpatient and critical care rooms, and a day care unit.

In July 2024, a new male outpatient physiotherapy department opened, replacing services at Al Khor hospital. In September 2024, paediatric emergency services were relocated from Al Daayen Pediatric Emergency Centre to the hospital, offering 24/7 care to patients aged 0 to 14 years, and several services within the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department at Al Khor Hospital also relocated.

Ambulatory Care Center

The Ambulatory Care Center offers patients a new approach to surgical and clinical care in Qatar, providing day care surgery, some inpatient surgical care and clinical care in a single dedicated location. This means that within 23 hours of receiving surgery or a medical procedure, patients are able to leave hospital and recover at home. A new Audiology and Balance Unit opened at ACC in January 2024, which provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for patients of all age groups experiencing hearing and balance issues. The new unit combines cuttingedge technology with personalised rehabilitation strategies for more patient-centred care.

Al Khor Hospital

Al Khor was the first Hamad hospital outside of Doha, providing healthcare services to the growing population in the northern region of Qatar. The hospital offers patients treatment in a pleasant and modern environment, with a wide range of clinical departments providing advanced care. The hospital has an Antenatal and Postnatal Exercise Center, unique to HMC, and a Breastfeeding Resource Center, as well as the offices for Home Healthcare Services.

Al Wakra Hospital

Al Wakra Hospital provides healthcare services for the growing towns of Al Wakra and Mesaieed to the south of Qatar. Al Wakra Hospital provides patients with safe, high-quality care in an efficient way, and means that people no longer need to travel to Doha. Al Maha Pediatric Specialized Care Center was officially opened in May 2022 and is the region’s first paediatric specialised care centre dedicated to long-term care for young patients with special and rehabilitation needs.

Communicable Disease Center

The CDC is a specialist tertiary centre to support and treat patients with communicable diseases.

It has been purpose built with the mission to detect, treat and prevent infectious diseases in Qatar, particularly those of public health importance. Its highly specialised team of doctors, nurses and allied health professionals provide consultations and treatments for patients who have infections that are often beyond the scope of primary and other secondary care services.

Hamad General Hospital

One of the region's leading tertiary hospitals, offering highly specialised care since 1982. The 600+ bed facility offers extensive medical care and clinical services, including trauma, emergency medicine, paediatrics, critical care, specialised and sub-specialised surgery, specialised medicine, laboratory medicine, diagnostic imaging, and adult rehabilitation.

Modern diagnostic facilities include laboratory, medicine, pathology and radiology. A state-of-theart Trauma and Emergency Center was opened in 2019 by The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, with a Hyperbaric Therapy Unit and the first hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber of its kind in Qatar.

The National Center for Diabetes Treatment opened in 2013 and provides diabetics with improved patient care and access to specialised services through a multi-disciplinary approach. The hospital also manages the Fahad Bin Jassim Kidney Center, offering some of the most advanced treatment standards in the region for patients with acute and chronic kidney ailments.

The hospital is undergoing a renovation programme, expected to last for three years starting from 2025. Most outpatient clinics will remain operational at HGH, while some services will be relocated to Aisha Bint Hamad Al Attiyah Hospital and the Medical Care and Research Center.

Hazm Mebaireek General Hospital

Located in the Industrial Area of Doha, the hospital provides inpatient and outpatient care, surgical services, and emergency care services. With a 14-bed Emergency Department and 118 inpatient and intensive care unit beds, the hospital can treat hundreds of patients each day. The hospital welcomes all adult male patients, providing them with access to the highest quality treatment and care within their community.

Heart Hospital

The state-of-the-art centre is committed to delivering high-quality care and treatment for adults with heart conditions. The specialist hospital integrates all cardiothoracic medical and

surgical facilities in one centre. Heart Hospital is committed to academic health as well as medical education with an active cardiology fellowship programme, and a strong commitment to the education of residents, fellows and specialists.

Mesaieed General Hospital

A 120-bed state-of-the art hospital located south of Al Wakra, which opened in April 2020 to meet the demands for hospital beds due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The hospital now offers care to geriatric patients with long-term care needs, as well as to diabetic patients following the relocation of Al Wakra Hospital’s National Diabetes Center in 2021. The Mental Health Hospital Services at the Psychiatric Hospital on Salwa Road has been temporarily relocated to Mesaieed General Hospital while renovation of the Salwa Road facility continues.

Medical Care and Research Center

The new 250-bed centre opened in July 2024 at Hamad Bin Khalifa Medical City. The facility aims to advance treatment practices through clinical and precision medicine and will offer a range of services, including a pharmacy, a dedicated ambulance route for efficient patient transport, and an inpatient physiotherapy gym. High-quality paediatric care is available through an Intensive care unit, critical care unit, daycare unit and a dedicated ward. there are also an acute geriatrics unit and a palliative care unit.

The Medical Care and Research Center is connected via an internal bridge to the Women's Wellness and Research Center, the Ambulatory Care Center, and the Qatar Rehabilitation Institute, to facilitate access to specialised care, diagnostic, and laboratory services. A new Bone Marrow Transplant Joint Clinic opened in January 2025, providing enhanced care for transplant patients and their donors.

National Center for Cancer Care and Research

The 60-bed hospital specialises in the delivery of diagnosis, treatment and management for the care of people with cancer and blood disease. Advanced technology, such as the region's first PET CT scanner, combined with teams of specialists and highly trained staff offer high-quality healthcare tailored to patients’ individual needs.

Qatar Rehabilitation Institute

The Institute is the region’s largest tertiary rehabilitation hospital, providing world-class integrated rehabilitation services and the most technologically advanced patient-centred care. At the heart of this care is a multi-disciplinary team of clinicians working together to coordinate and deliver a personalised package of advanced rehabilitation services tailored to each patient’s individual circumstances.

The ‘Easy Street’ rehabilitation facility, opened in 2021, simulates real-world situations in a safe clinical environment so that patients can take their first independent steps towards recovery after a lengthy illness with life-changing medical issues.

The state-of-the-art Neuro Vestibular Physiotherapy Clinic opened in September 2024, to provide advanced care for patients, including personalised treatment plans, continuous support and the use of tools such as wearable sensors and virtual reality to track and enhance recovery.

In December 2024, the Oncology and Lymphedema Outpatient Physiotherapy Department at NCCCR relocated to QRI. The state-of-the-art facilities and the expertise of the Oncology and Lymphedema Outpatient Physiotherapy Department enables a full continuum of care for oncology and lymphedema patients, from diagnosis through to recovery.

Rumailah Hospital

Rumailah Hospital is Hamad’s longest-serving hospital and provides healthcare services for both acute and long-term rehabilitation patients. It is a multi-speciality teaching hospital with 605 beds across seven sites. Most services are provided from the original main site, such as dermatology, ophthalmology, plastic surgery and care for the elderly. Rumailah Hospital has achieved Joint Commission International (JCI) Triennial Hospital Reaccreditation as well as JCI accreditation for Long Term Care Standards, the first hospital in the GCC to attain this status.

The Sarcopenia Clinic opened at the hospital in February 2023, the first of its kind in the region, and a Spinal Decompression Clinic opened in September 2024 within the hospital's male physiotherapy department, offering non-invasive chronic neck and back pain management.

The Cuban Hospital

Located in Dukhan in the west of Qatar, the hospital is a joint venture project between the State of Qatar and the Cuban Government. With 65 beds and approximately 400 highly qualified Cuban healthcare professionals, the hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology serving Dukhan and its surrounding communities.

Women’s Wellness and Research Center

The centre is the region’s largest tertiary hospital providing women in Qatar with specialised care through all stages of their lives. The hospital offers a range of surgical and clinical services from preconception to childbirth, post-natal care and beyond, provided by a passionate multidisciplinary team of highly trained clinicians specialising in gynaecology, obstetrics, and newborn care. The Obstetric Anesthesia Services has been designated as a Center of Excellence by the Society for Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology in the US, the first hospital in the Middle East to receive the prestigious designation.

Additional Services

Ambulance Service

Each year HMCs Ambulance Service receives more than 250,000 calls, many of which request emergency support for life-threatening incidents.

The Ambulance Service teams are quickly dispatched to assist the injured patient using the most appropriate fleet vehicle: air ambulances (helicopters), advanced road ambulances and rapid response vehicles, 4x4s for the desert, and bicycle units for parks. The helicopters ensure air ambulance coverage even in the most remote areas of the country. The pilots of the helicopters are from the Qatar Emiri Air Force (QEAF).

The Ambulance Service’s Medical Communication Center was named the Middle East’s first Accredited Center of Excellence by the International Academy of Emergency Dispatch for its high level of commitment towards delivering safe and efficient healthcare in Qatar and the region. The service itself has been accredited three times by the Joint Commission International for quality and safety, and the LifeFlight service has also been accredited by the European Aeromedical Institute for both adult and paediatric critical care.

The Mobile Healthcare Service, launched in 2015, provides senior physician support and nursing care to patients outside the hospital setting. The service works with the Home Healthcare Service, responding to urgent calls and supporting clinical teams in delivering care to patients in their homes. MHS doctors support early discharge by working

with the hospital's medical teams to identify patients who are able to go home but might still need support. The programme reduces the length of stay of many patients by providing extra support following discharge from the hospital.

'Know the 5 to save a life'

campaign

In order for the Ambulance Service to provide the best possible support quickly, it is vital that members of the public follow the 'Know the 5 to save a life' key steps:

• Dial 999 immediately • Know your location

• Answer all questions • Follow all instructions

• Give way to ambulances

For more information, visit as.hamad.qa

Residential and home care

Established in 2020 by HMC in collaboration with the Sport and Social Activities Support Fund, Daam provides holistic and person-centred care for adults aged 60 and above. The facility has grown into a leading centre for geriatric care, earning Joint Commission and Person-Centred Care accreditations. Daam is a fully equipped, state-of-the-art centre with 64 individually designed private rooms, staffed by a multidisciplinary team of skilled healthcare professionals, including geriatricians, nurses, and allied health workers. Caring for partially or long-term dependent patients outside a hospital setting is of great importance. The Enaya Specialized Care Center provides services for patients with 24-hour specialist care needs, in conjunction with Hamad General Hospital and Rumailah Hospital. Continuing Care is for patients who need care outside of a hospital in specialised facilities, in the community or at home. The two centres, located at Hamad bin Khalifa Medical City, are connected via a link bridge, to maximise efficiencies in staff and equipment.

Dental services

Hamad Dental Services offers patients access to specialised oral and dental care at the state-ofthe-art Hamad Dental Center and several other locations within HMC. This includes both routine dental exams and more complex procedures.

Mental health services

HMC plays a leading role in the delivery of care for people with a mental health illness. Guided by Qatar's National Mental Health Strategy, HMC is working with partners in Qatar to develop a highquality mental health system and transform the way mental illness is perceived and treated. The strategy will drive important structural changes which allow HMC to be more focused in its delivery of community-based care, providing the people who need it with the right care, at the right time and in the most beneficial environments.

HMC has partnered with the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and Qatar’s healthcare providers on an awareness campaign to educate the public about mental health and to remove social stigma. The first Guide to Mental Health was launched in late 2019, developed by MoPH, HMC, Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), Sidra Medicine, Qatar Red Crescent and Naufar, a mental health facility that focuses on wellbeing and help for those with addiction and substance abuse.

The Mental Health Helpline is free and confidential with a multilingual team of nurses, psychologists and psychiatrists providing support and early intervention, as well as the ability to handle more complex calls. Mental health services are now available as part of the emergency and urgent care provided at public healthcare facilities in the country.

Anyone in psychological distress or having a mental health crisis should call the helpline, 16000, to immediately access emergency and urgent care. The service is available Saturday to Thursday 8 am – 6 pm – outside of these hours, visit any emergency department.

Extensive information regarding mental health can be found at sehanafsia.moph.gov.qa, an initiative run by MoPH to provide information to the public about wellbeing, mental health conditions and how to access services in Qatar.

For more information about mental health services, visit hamad.qa, call Nesma'ak on 16060, or the mental health helpline on 16000. For immediate assistance, go to an HMC hospital emergency department.

Itqan Clinical Simulation and Innovation Center

The state-of-the-art education and training facility in Hamad Bin Khalifa Medical City is one of the world’s largest simulation centres and the largest facility of its kind in the region. The centre provides healthcare professionals and students the opportunity to develop and refine their technical clinical skills, clinical judgment, prioritisation, communication and teamwork skills. The centre was awarded Full Accreditation for Teaching/Education by the Society for Simulation in Healthcare in September 2024.

Qatar Metabolic Institutute

The institute is an initiative of HMCs Academic Health System. Several educational, research and clinical institutions in Qatar have united to drive forward significant improvements in the health and disease outcomes of the Qatar population affected by diabetes, smoking, obesity and metabolic disorders. Partners include HMC,

PHCC, Sidra Medicine, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Qatar University, Weill Cornell Medicine in Qatar, and University of Calgary in Qatar.

Organ donation and transplant

The Qatar Organ Donation Center (HIBA) is an internationally acclaimed centre that practices high professional and ethical standards. The Doha Donation Accord, prepared by HMC and endorsed by world-leading experts in the field of organ donation and transplantation, ensures ethical, equitable, safe and legal processes for organ donation. The Donor Registry is unique in its design and includes over 100 nationalities.

HIBA marked the 10th anniversary of Qatar’s Organ Transplant and Organ Donation Programmes in 2022 with the organ donor registry exceeding 500,000 registered donors, around 25% of Qatar’s adult population – and up from the just 2,424 donors in 2012. The organ transplant programme offers kidney, liver and lung transplant surgeries, making HMC one of the most comprehensive transplant centres in the region.

To register as a donor or to make enquiries about donations, contact the Qatar Organ Donation Center: 4439 8557, organdonation.hamad.qa

Blood services

The Qatar Blood Donation Center is the only health entity providing blood supplies for the whole of Qatar. The centre's main target is to attract voluntary blood donors in order to meet the needs of both public and private hospitals in Qatar. The procedure for donating blood at the centre, including donor registration, a medical interview, physical examination and assessment, as well as blood collection and post donor care, only takes about one hour.

The Qatar Blood Donation Center is at the West Energy Center on Mohammad bin Thani Street, and receives male and female whole blood and platelet donors. Working hours: Saturday 8 am –2 pm; Sunday to Thursday 7 am – 9:30 pm; Friday closed. 4439 1081/2

Delivery of medical reports and consumables

Patients of Hamad General Hospital, Heart Hospital, Rumailah Hospital, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Al Wakra Hospital, The Cuban Hospital and Hazm Mebaireek General Hospital can have HMC medical reports delivered to them directly by Qatar Post. Patients need to provide their Qatar ID details, mobile number, a preferred delivery time, and a delivery address. Qatar Post will call to confirm the delivery.

Under HMCs Home Healthcare Service, patients with valid health cards can sign up with their Home Healthcare nurse to have medical consumables such as gloves, bandages and dressings delivered to their home. The service means patients will no longer have to visit their hospital multiple times for these items. Patients with repeat medication and dietary products can also use the service by calling 16000 Sunday to Thursday 8 am – 2 pm.

HMC will send a link via SMS for payment. There is a separate delivery fee of QAR30, payable in cash to the Qatar Post rep at the time of delivery.

HMC hospitals with emergency departments

Patients with emergency medical conditions should call 999 for an ambulance or visit the emergency department at one of these HMC hospitals:

• Hamad General Hospital

• Al Wakra Hospital

• Al Khor Hospital

• The Cuban Hospital

• Heart Hospital (for patients with emergency heart conditions only)

• National Center for Cancer Care and Research (for emergency cases related to cancer only)

• Women’s Wellness and Research Center (for emergency gynaecological and obstetrics conditions only)

Reasons for going to an emergency department Emergency departments are designed to care for the patients with urgent medical conditions. Patients are triaged on arrival to determine the severity of their condition. This allows the emergency teams to prioritise those patients with the most serious conditions and treat them first.

Pediatric Emergency Centers (PEC)

The PECs provide urgent care 24/7 for patients up to 14 years of age. Trauma and other emergency cases should go directly to a main emergency department:

• Main Pediatric Emergency Center: Suhaim bin Hamad Street, Al Sadd

• PEC Al Rayyan: Al Furousiya Street

• PEC Al Shamal: Al Ruwais

• PEC Airport: Airport Street

• PEC Al Daayen: Al Khor Road has been transferred to Aisha Bint Hamad Al Attiyah Hospital.

Meeting international standards of care

HMC has achieved accreditation from leading organisations across many areas, demonstrating the ability to deliver high standards of care to patients. HMC is the first healthcare system in the world to have all of its facilities and services accredited by US-based Joint Commission International (JCI) under the Academic Medical Center accreditation programme, as well as the Hamad Dental Center and Mental Health Service. The National Ambulance Service, Home Healthcare Service, Stroke Service and Palliative Care have also all received accreditation since 2011.

Working towards a healthy Qatar

Improving the health of the people of Qatar is a priority for HMC, working with local healthcare partners including the Ministry of Public Health and the Primary Health Care Corporation to raise awareness of important health and injury prevention issues.

Hamad

Trauma Center

HMCs Trauma System at Hamad General Hospital provides comprehensive care for patients including pre-hospital, while at the centre, and rehabilitation services. Education and outreach programmes are supported by data from the National Trauma Registry, analysed by the Clinical Research Unit and Hamad Injury Prevention Program (HIPP).

HIPP is a collaboration with many partners related to injury prevention, such as for construction workers and pedestrians. HIPP activities also engage those in other high-risk groups for injury, such as children and young drivers. HIPP's two National Priorities Research Program Grants from Qatar Foundation are for improving the use of child restraints in children aged under five, and for creating a unified registry for all occupational injuries in Qatar.

Public awareness campaigns

HMC is actively educating the public about the signs, symptoms and care options of important health issues. Public awareness campaigns have been run for such things as stroke, diabetes, organ donation, psoriasis and smoking cessation. Major campaigns include breast and bowel cancer awareness, and information to ensure a safe and healthy Ramadan. This all provides patients with the tools and knowledge to take responsibility for their own health, leading to a healthier society.

PHCC and Sidra Medicine

About Primary Health Care Corporation

The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has more than 30 health centres, delivering communitybased primary care services in all parts of the country. The health centres provide preventative, diagnostic and treatment healthcare services, including dental, antenatal care, immunisation, pharmacy, ophthalmology, audiology, radiology and wellness. Bowel and breast cancer screening is available at Al Wakra and Rawdat Al Khail.

The PHCC labs have become one of the world’s largest group of network laboratories accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) outside the US and the largest in the public sector.

Primary health centres should be the first point of contact for patients with non-emergency conditions – patients with emergency conditions should visit an HMC emergency department or call 999 for an ambulance. If your primary care doctor determines that more specialist care is required they will refer you to an HMC hospital.

How to get an appointment

All expatriate residents of Qatar can register at their local health centre when obtaining a health card. Qatari nationals can make an appointment at any primary health centre. To get an appointment at the health centre you are registered at, either visit your registered health centre in person, or call PHCC customer services team, Hayyak, on 107

How to contact Primary Health Care Corporation

PHCC customer service is available 24/7, via Hayyak at 107 or the Community Call Centre at 16000. If outside Qatar, call +974 4406 6466

The Nar’aakom app offers numerous services and facilities, such as accessing upcoming appointments and applying for a health card online. The app is available in English and Arabic.

Payment for services at primary health centres Qatar residents with valid health cards are entitled to subsidised consultations and prescriptions.

Deiivery of medication

PHCC has a fast, safe and convenient way to deliver medication to your home. The service is available to all patients registered at a PHCC health centre, with a valid health card, credit card and correct address details, as per your residence's blue plate (ie building, street and zone numbers).

Patients can call 16000 for help, or send a message via WhatsApp saying 'Hello' – each of the health centres has a dedicated number. A pharmacist from your health centre will call you and start the process. After the call, a payment link will be sent via SMS; the cost is QAR30 and must be

paid online. The medication will then be delivered within two working days by Q-Post. Note that this delivery service is for standard prescriptions only – narcotics and controlled medications require a special prescription and can only be obtained from your registered health centre.

Sidra

Medicine

Sidra Medicine is an ultramodern, academic medical centre providing specialised healthcare to women, children and young persons in Qatar. It is a private hospital for public benefit. Established by Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, Sidra Medicine embraces best practice medical education, innovative biomedical and clinical research and discovery, and exceptional patient and family focused care. Sidra Medicine is the only specialist hospital in Qatar to care for children with cancer from the ages of 0 to 18 years.

How to get an appointment at Sidra Medicine

Sidra Medicine accepts referrals from all healthcare providers in Doha, including Hamad Medical Corporation, PHCC and private healthcare institutions. In addition, its Women’s Services also accepts self-referrals.

Self-referrals for Women’s Services

• For an Obstetrics, Gynaecology or Maternal Foetal Medicine appointment, call Women’s Services 4003 7113, email wcct@sidra.org or visit sidra.org/women for more information.

• The Women’s Obstetrics Triage and an Urgent Care Clinic treats moderate to serious health issues for women relating to pregnancy and the female reproductive system.

• For Sidra Medicine’s Perinatal Mental Healthcare service, call the Sidra Medicine Hotline 4003 3333, ask for the Women’s Wellbeing Clinic and request an appointment.

Payment for services at Sidra Medicine

Patients accessing Women’s Services such as maternity, gynaecology and foetal-maternal care will be charged for the care they receive. For payment rates, contact Sidra Medicine directly.

How

to contact Sidra Medicine

For general inquiries about Sidra Medicine, call their contact centre on 4003 3333. Sidra Medicine also has a dedicated Women’s Care Coordination Team (WCCT) who can be contacted on 4003 7113 or wcct@sidra.org for information related to selfreferrals, tours of the maternity wards or ante-natal classes for patients. Operating hours for WCCT are Sunday – Thursday 7 am – 3 pm.

How the Health System Works Together

Qatar’s various healthcare providers work closely together to deliver the best healthcare services to Qatar’s population.

Referrals between providers

Primary care centres are usually the first point of contact for patients with non-emergency conditions in Qatar. If the primary care doctor feels that more specialist care is needed at one of HMC’s hospitals, they will refer the patient to HMC for an appointment. A similar referral process also operates between HMC, Sidra Medicine and the private sector provider. Patients can also be referred back to a primary health centre for follow up after receiving treatment at an HMC hospital.

Sharing of patient information

New initiatives have significantly improved the ability of clinical teams to share patient information between teams across the health system. Patient records, including lab results, x-rays, diagnostic images and medical reports, can generally be accessed electronically by clinical teams in HMC, PHCC and Sidra facilities. This enhances the quality of care delivered to patients by providing clinicians with a complete patient record regardless of where they are treated.

MyHealth Patient Portal

The MyHealth Patient Portal enables patients to access their electronic personal health record online and through an app. Features of the portal include the ability to access lab reports, to view and reschedule upcoming appointments, and to review discharge summaries. The portal also allows patients to send a non-urgent message to their healthcare provider in a confidential manner.

MyHealth empowers patients by allowing them to play a more active role in controlling their health information and making more informed decisions about their wellbeing. It helps patients stay on

track by providing up to date information about lab results and active medications and provides reminders about appointments.

Patients can enrol for the MyHealth Portal online at myhealth.qa or at any HMC or PHCC facility. Patients can also seek more information about MyHealth by calling Nesma’ak at HMC on 16060 or Hayyak at PHCC on 107.

Health System FAQs

I have just arrived in Qatar and need to get a health card, what do I do?

To get a health card, residents must visit the Primary Health Center nearest to where you live – call 107 if you are unsure where your local centre is.

I need a sick note for work, where can I get one from?

You should visit your local health centre for a sick note. If you are visiting an emergency department due to your condition being a serious medical emergency, you can request a sick note at the emergency department.

I want to see a doctor at a HMC hospital, how can I get an appointment?

Unless you have a medical emergency, in which case you should go to your nearest HMC emergency department or call 999 for an ambulance, you will need a referral from a primary health centre or private clinic in order to make an appointment at an HMC facility.

I want to see a doctor at a primary health centre, how can I get an appointment?

You can call PHCC’s customer helpline, Hayyak, on 107 to arrange an appointment at the health centre which you are registered at. Alternatively, you can visit your health centre in person to arrange an appointment.

Do I need to prepare for an appointment?

If you are visiting the hospital or primary health centre for the first time, please come at least 30 minutes before your appointment time in order to complete some paperwork.

Does it matter if I miss a scheduled doctor’s appointment?

If you are unable to attend a scheduled appointment, call your primary health centre via Hayyak 107, or hospital clinic via Nesma’ak 16060 in advance to cancel, so the timeslot can be used for another patient who may need it more urgently.

Sidra Medicine

How do I know which is my local health centre?

Your utility bill (phone, water/electricity) includes a code related to your location and this determines where your designated health centre is located. Call Hayyak 107 for more information or take your utility bill in person to the nearest health centre.

Do I have to pay for care at HMC and primary care centres?

These facilities do charge a small fee for services but residents with a valid health card are entitled to greatly subsidised consultations and prescriptions at HMC and PHCC facilities.

I have a bad back and need to see a doctor; can I go to an emergency department and be seen?

For all non-urgent conditions, such as backache, small cut or mild eye discomfort, you should make an appointment at your local health centre. Emergency departments should be used for only serious emergency medical conditions.

Why can’t I just turn up at a HMC hospital and be seen by a doctor?

HMC provides specialist secondary and tertiary care services. These services are for patients whose needs are too complex to be treated at a primary care centre. A large number of conditions can be successfully treated in primary care and do not require treatment at HMC.

Can I see the same doctor at my health centre? Every effort will be made to enable you to see the same doctor for your visit, but the doctor’s availability on the day you wish to come cannot be guaranteed.

I would like to access help for a mental health condition, where can I go for this?

or any similar mental health issue that affects your general health, visit your doctor in a primary health clinic for care or referral to one of HMC’s clinics. For urgent care involving suicidal or selfharm thoughts, visit one of HMC’s emergency departments or call 999

I need to see a dentist, should I go to my health centre or to an HMC hospital?

Unless your condition is a medical emergency, in which case you should go to your nearest emergency department, you should visit your local health centre for a dental consultation. If specialist dental treatment is required, your primary care doctor may refer you to HMC.

I have moved house and want to change my health centre, how can I do this?

To change your health centre you must obtain a utility bill from your new address and visit the nearest health centre to apply for a change.

I/my wife is pregnant and must register with an obstetrician, where can we get antenatal care?

Your first appointment should be at your local health centre. Your primary care doctor can then advise on the best plan for your antenatal care.

Is there public parking available when I visit a HMC clinic or primary health centre?

All hospitals and health centres have public parking facilities. However, some of HMC’s busy hospitals have limited free parking and visitors are recommended to either come by taxi or public transport, or they can use the valet parking service offered in many locations.

If you are concerned about depression, anxiety m

HMC Human Resources HITC Hamad Int’l Training Center

HSO Humanitarian Services Office

Itqan Itqan - Clinical Simulation and Innovation Center

MOPH Ministry Of Public Health

NCCCR National Center for Cancer Care and Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation Institute Retaj Retaj Residence Al Sadd

Surgical Speciality Center

Women’s Wellness Research Center

Helicopter Landing Pad

Pay attention to wheelchair access at entrances and parking at malls, shopping centres, hotels, parks, and other public places.

Request or apply for the parking permit for people with disabilities on the Metrash2 app or the Hukoomi e-services portal.

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