Qatar has a sub-tropical desert climate; high daytime temperatures, low night time ones and little rainfall.
This is a Muslim country and you will cause offence if you expose too much flesh; moderate dressing is recommended, especially in public places.
In tourist hotels the attitude is more relaxed but you should always keep your shoulders, knees and stomach covered.
Pack lightweight loose-fitting clothes in natural fabrics such as linen, bamboo and cotton that will keep you cool and are easier to wash and dry.
Long-sleeved tops and long pants will cover you from the harsh sun and protect against mosquitoes at night.
Be sure to take a pashmina or wrap because even though it's 45 degrees outside the air conditioning works well and it can be cool in both shopping malls and restaurants. Men may like to carry a light jacket.
Quality sunglasses and a sunhat are a must.
What Shoes To Pack
For footwear sandals are fine, unless you are heading into the countryside when sturdy sneakers or preferably light walking boots are best. Remember your feet may swell in the heat. We love Hotter shoes – they're really lightweight and stylish too.
Save your high heels for the evenings. Why not try the Lindsay Phillips Switch Flops range – using interchangeable shoe and flip-flop bases with snap-on decorations, you can change your look from day to evening in an instant whilst still packing light.
Clothing Tips for Women
Short tops, short skirts / shorts, tight or body-revealing clothes etc. should be avoided entirely. Cotton or other natural fiber shirts or t-shirts, with cotton pants or an ankle length skirt, are good and do cover your shoulders. Keep clothing loose – it has the double benefit of keeping you cooler and attracting less unwanted attention.
The evenings are the time to dress up – be glamorous and add accessories.
A few well-chosen pieces of costume jewelry will transform any outfit.
And a pashmina is a versatile piece that will dress up any outfit, as well as covering up for modesty.
When visiting any religious sites then out of respect cover your shoulders and bare legs – again your pashmina or a sarong can come in very handy.
Topless sunbathing is illegal and a definite no-no. Wearing a bikini is fine on the beach or by the pool, but cover up with a kaftan or sarong when walking around. Away from tourist areas get dressed properly.
For business attire, opt for a dress or skirt below the knee, or pants. Your top should have at least half-sleeves and avoid low necklines.
Clothing Tips for Men
For guys keep it cool and casual; linen pants and shirts work well.
Shorts are fine for the beach areas, but away from here opt for pants and sleeved shirts.
For versatile and stylish beach, casual and swim wear we love the Madda Fella range.
If you're in Qatar on business, wear lightweight pants with a long-sleeved shirt and tie. A jacket or suit is not necessary.
For great versatile travel jackets with multiple pockets including RFID security options, we love the SCOTTeVEST range.
Pack for the Weather
Through spring – March, April and May – and the summer – June, July, August and September – the hot Shamal wind blows and is full of sand; use a sarong or scarf to protect your face.
And in winter (December, January and February) pack a lightweight raincoat and a sweater, especially for night.
We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android
Other Things To Pack
Toiletries and sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection) are expensive so ensure that you take them with you. Remember your insect/mosquito repellent too.
Don’t drink or even brush your teeth in tap water. Consider taking a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle. Make sure you drink plenty as dehydration is common in the intense heat.
A lightweight day sack or shoulder bag will come in handy to carry your daytime essentials.
Look after your mobile phone with a phone bunjee – it protects against loss, theft and damage.
If you're aiming to travel with just carry-on baggage, try the CabinMax soft-sided rucksack – it's light, roomy and has plenty of pockets to keep your stuff organized. You can use packing cubes to compress the volume too.
Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Toy camels, jewelry and dates are all popular buys.
If your visit coincides with the Holy Month of Ramadan, be particularly careful to respect local customs: do not eat, drink or smoke in public places during daylight hours and dress sensibly. Your hotel should be able to give you more information on their policy e.g. bars may be closed during the day.
