Best Time to Visit Qatar

The best time or best weather to visit Qatar depends on your expectations, budget and suitability. The table below sums up the Qatar seasons and expected temperatures so that you can plan accordingly:

March to May (Spring)

March marks the beginning of warm weather in Qatar. The temperatures in March to May range between 27°C to 39°C. It is the best time to avoid crowds of tourists and enjoy warm and sunny days without your winter clothes.

You can spend time at Fuwairit Beach and visit the historic Zubarah Fort. You can also plan a trip to Al Khor Island and explore its natural beauty.

June to August (Summers)

Qatar experiences summer from June to August. Qatar's temperature in summer ranges between 29°C to 41°C. July and August are particularly hot and humid. The temperatures can soar to unbearable levels and spending time outdoors can become challenging.

This is a good time to relax at the beaches. Summers are also great for exploring Qatar’s marine life. You can also spend time shopping in Qatar malls.

However, Shamal winds during this time can cause dust storms and breathing issues. Make sure to carry an umbrella when outdoors.

September to October (Monsoon and Autumn)

September and October are autumn months in Qatar. The weather is warm and the country is gripped in fresh energy at this time. It is the best weather to visit Qatar to explore the country’s beautiful coastal landscapes and deserts.

You can have a good time at Doha’s terrace bars and restaurants and enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, you may have to deal with fluctuating temperatures at this time.

November to February (Winters)

The weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 19°C to 23°C. On some days, you can even experience temperatures falling below 10°C. You can witness the National Day of Qatar in mid-December. This is also the best time to visit Doha and Lusail.

Another must-try thing during this time is winter camping in Qatar’s deserts. Some other activities to try during winter are gondola rides, visiting the Banana Islands, and water skiing at Katara.

Now that you know what Qatar is like in different months of the year, here’s your answer to the question, “What is the best time to visit Qatar?

November to March is the most suitable time to visit Qatar. The pleasant and cool weather makes it comfortable to explore the country’s natural and man-made beauty. The cool winds off the Persian Gulf at this time make Qatar travel a wonderful experience.

You can enjoy sightseeing, outdoor activities and cultural events. This is also the Qatar peak season and the country is packed with tourists. So, you may have to pay more for hotels, transport and flights.

This is when street markets, cultural events and festivals are in full swing, allowing you to taste Qatar in its real sense. You can also enjoy the camel racing events from October to February.

Furthermore, March marks the beginning of Ramadan. The country becomes quieter during this time, letting you explore it without crowds. However, it becomes challenging to do outdoor activities like kayaking and desert safaris during Ramadan.

Eating and drinking are also prohibited in public between sunrise and sunset. So, most restaurants and cafes are closed during this time.

April and May are considered the cheapest times to visit Qatar.

The weather is hot and dry and there is little to no rainfall. This time is great if you want to spend most of the time outdoors without sudden rains spoiling your plans. The hotel prices are also low as compared to the rest of the year.

However, rising temperatures with no rainfall make Qatar less pleasant at this time. April and May can also be the months of sand storms that cause limited visibility and breathing issues. This can make your outdoor plans a bit challenging.

The least busy time or fall shoulder season in Qatar is from September to October.

The weather is warm at this time and you will get smaller crowds at popular tourist attractions. Since fewer people visit the country, hotel prices drop during this period.

The temperatures are not high, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, sudden downpours can ruin your outdoor plans.

Qatar’s peak season is the most expensive to visit the country. There is a surge of tourists from December to February. This raises the price of hotels, transport and flights.

So, it is not recommended to visit Qatar during this time if you are looking for a budget-friendly trip.

June to August is the worst time to visit Qatar.

It is because the temperatures and humidity are high, and there is no rainfall. Most people stay indoors to avoid this scorching heat, which can cause heat strokes and even organ failure.

Another reason why this is the worst time to visit Qatar is the Shamal events. These are dusty and hot winds common during this time. Shamal winds cause sandstorms that reduce visibility to a few feet. They can also lead to breathing issues.

A few amazing things to do in Qatar are as follows:

• Spend time at the Pearl Qatar

• Visit the Qatar Museums Gallery

• Visit the National Museum of Qatar

• Enjoy and shop at Souq Waqif

• Spend time at the beautifully built Qatar National Library

• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Zubarah Archaeological Site

• Plan an outing to the serene Purple Island

• Experience the adventure of Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park

• Visit the unique Fire Station Gallery

• Explore the Katara Cultural Village

• Witness the grand Al Janoub Stadium

• Qatar is a perfect blend of modernity and ancient culture that offers something to every type of traveller. However, the country has certain rules you must follow to avoid any problems. They are as follows:

• Qatar is an Islamic nation and expects you to cover your knees, shoulders and midriff in public, including beaches. However, western swimsuits are allowed at certain private beach resorts. So, pack modest clothes in your luggage

• Do not hug or kiss anyone of the opposite sex in public. This can get you banned from Qatar or fined

• Avoid showing a “thumbs up” sign since it is considered rude by the Qataris

• Use your palm to call someone instead of a finger

• Avoid crossing your legs while sitting with an elder or someone of a higher position

• Qatar strictly prohibits same-sex relationships

• Bargaining is expected at the traditional markets, including Souq Waqif

• You can use Qatari riyal only, which can be obtained from ATMs

• Go for bottled water, which is widely available in Qatar

• All commercial activity is shut down during the Friday prayers and many shops are closed on Fridays

• Qatari women do not shake hands with men

• While Qatar is an Arab nation with Arabic as the official language, English is also spoken in public places

• Smoking is prohibited in public spaces, including malls, sports clubs, restaurants and museums

• Qatar is ranked one in terms of security and safety as per the Numbeo Crime Index 2020

• Don’t forget your sunglasses and sunscreen, especially when you are travelling in the summers

Visiting Qatar can offer you one of the most exhilarating experiences. This West Asian country is a perfect getaway to enjoy scenic beauty, falconry, extravagant malls, museums, stunning coastal landscapes and vast desserts.

However, when you are travelling to an international location, two documents are paramount - visa and travel insurance.

As an Indian national, you are eligible to apply for a visa on arrival. Another essential thing to do before planning a trip to Qatar is to buy travel insurance. A travel insurance plan can make your journey smooth and secure. Be it a lost passport, misplaced luggage, flight cancellation, or a health emergency, travel insurance can take care of anything going wrong on your trip.

Tata AIG offers a range of travel plans, such as domestic travel insurance, international travel insurance, student travel insurance, and senior citizen travel insurance. So, get suitable travel insurance online with a few simple steps and ensure a seamless travel experience.

Which is the coolest season in Qatar?

November to February is the coldest season in Qatar.

What is the best time of year for Doha?

The best time of the year for Doha is from November to April. The temperatures are low, making it comfortable to spend time outdoors.

What is the hottest month in Qatar?

July is the hottest month in Qatar. This is why it is the worst time to visit Qatar, besides June and August. The high temperatures and humidity can cause heat strokes. Due to this, most people stay indoors during this time.

Can I get a visa on arrival in Qatar?

Yes, as an Indian national, you are eligible to apply for a visa on arrival in Qatar.

Is Qatar safe for Indians?

Yes, Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world. There is negligence in crimes like bag snatching, pickpocketing or other crimes. Qatar is ranked one in terms of security and safety as per the Numbeo Crime Index 2020

How many days do I need to explore Qatar?

You need at least three to five days to explore Qatar. It is a small country that doesn't require much time. However, you can stay for longer according to your plans.

Is alcohol allowed in Qatar?

Alcohol is not illegal in Qatar. However, drinking it in public is a crime. Residents and tourists can consume alcohol in bars, restaurants and some licensed hotels without a personal permit. However, entering these places requires you to show an identification. You will not be allowed to enter if you do not carry it.