Qatar
Profiled in Doha · the Middle East
A gleaming, ultra-safe Gulf capital where desert heritage meets glass towers, big money and a huge international crowd.
Cost of living
What a month costs
No income tax helps, but rent and schooling are the big costs.
The scores
How it rates for a moving family
See and do
Top 10 in Doha
- Souq WaqifRestored old market with spices, shisha cafes and a falcon souq.
- Museum of Islamic ArtI.M. Pei landmark on its own island with world-class collections.
- National Museum of QatarJean Nouvel desert-rose building telling the country's story.
- The CornicheSeven-kilometer waterfront promenade with skyline and dhow views.
- Katara Cultural VillageAmphitheater, galleries, mosques and beach in one district.
- The Pearl-QatarMan-made island with marinas, towers and Mediterranean-style promenades.
- Msheireb DowntownSmart, walkable modern district built on Doha's historic heart.
- Aspire Park and Torch TowerBig green park beside the landmark Aspire sports tower.
- Doha dhow harborTraditional wooden boats lined up along the bay at sunset.
- Lusail cityFuturistic planned city with marina, stadium and Place Vendome mall.
Where to go
Weekend escapes
- Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea)Dramatic desert dunes meeting the sea, best by 4x4 safari.
- Al ZubarahUNESCO-listed ruined pearling town and fort in the northwest.
- Banana IslandResort island a short ferry from Doha for a beach day.
- Dubai, UAEUnder an hour by air for shopping, skylines and nightlife.
- Purple Island (Al Khor)Mangrove boardwalks and kayaking about an hour north of the city.
Coffee
Best cafes
- Chapati & KarakLocal favorite for spiced karak tea and quick bites.
- %Arabica (The Pearl)Minimalist Japanese coffee brand with a marina-side terrace.
- Costa CoffeeReliable chain found across malls and the Corniche.
- Flat White SpecialtyAussie-style specialty coffee popular with the expat crowd.
- Starbucks KataraBusy branch beside the cultural village and beach.
Restaurants
Where to eat
- Al MourjanLong-running Lebanese spot with bay views and mezze.
- Parisa Souq WaqifOrnate mirrored Persian dining room in the old souq.
- IDAMAlain Ducasse fine dining atop the Museum of Islamic Art.
- Nobu DohaThe huge over-water Nobu at the Four Seasons.
- Shay Al ShomosBeloved Qatari home-cooking spot in Souq Waqif.
- TajineCozy Moroccan restaurant known for slow-cooked tagines.
- Saffron LoungePopular Indian dining at Katara with generous thalis.
Morning
Best breakfast
- Bayt SharqTraditional Qatari breakfast with balaleet and chebab pancakes.
- IHOPAmerican pancakes and eggs, a family standby in the malls.
- PAULFrench bakery-cafe for croissants and egg plates.
- Cocoa RoomHome-grown brunch spot with pretty plates and pastries.
- EggspectationBig all-day breakfast menu popular for weekend brunch.
- Elan CafeInstagram-friendly floral cafe for brunch and coffee.
- The Chedi Katara breakfastUpscale hotel breakfast beside the beach.
- SemsomModern Lebanese cafe good for manakish and eggs.
- Karak MqanasPopular local chain for karak, chapati and quick morning bites.
Residency
Most newcomers arrive on an employer-sponsored work residence permit, which the company arranges after you land a job. Property investors can qualify for renewable residency by buying in approved zones, and there is also a points-free investor and skilled-professional track.
Tax
Qatar levies no personal income tax on salaries, so take-home pay is your gross pay. There is no capital gains, wealth or inheritance tax on individuals, though a 5 percent VAT and some fees still apply.
Thinking about moving here for real? See the verified Qatar residency and citizenship routes →
Curious what you would actually pay? See the Qatar tax profile: income, corporate, VAT and exit rules →
Nearby
More of the Middle East
Frequently asked
How much does it cost to live in Qatar?
About $2,800 a month for one person and $6,800 for a family. A one-bedroom flat rents for around $1,500, and a casual meal costs about $14. No income tax helps, but rent and schooling are the big costs.
Is Qatar safe, and what is healthcare like?
In our index safety scores 10 out of 10 and healthcare 8 out of 10, where 10 is best.
What language and currency are used in Qatar?
Arabic (English widely used). The currency is Qatari riyal (QAR).
What is the capital of Qatar?
Doha.
How can a foreigner get residency in Qatar?
Most newcomers arrive on an employer-sponsored work residence permit, which the company arranges after you land a job. Property investors can qualify for renewable residency by buying in approved zones, and there is also a points-free investor and skilled-professional track.
What taxes does Qatar charge?
Qatar levies no personal income tax on salaries, so take-home pay is your gross pay. There is no capital gains, wealth or inheritance tax on individuals, though a 5 percent VAT and some fees still apply.