If you’re considering moving to Qatar, it’s important to have a good understanding of the cost of living in the country. In this article, we’ll cover the local currency, compare the cost of living in Qatar to the UK and the USA, break down costs for singles, couples, and families of 4 in different categories, and explain the most common forms of payment in Qatar.
Local Currency in Qatar
The local currency in Qatar is the Qatari riyal (QAR). One Qatari riyal is divided into 100 dirhams. The Qatari riyal is widely accepted throughout the country, and you can exchange your currency at banks or exchange offices.
Cost of Living in Qatar Compared to the UK and USA
According to the Numbeo cost of living index, the cost of living in Qatar is generally higher than in the UK and the USA. The index takes into account factors such as housing, food, utilities, transportation, and entertainment.
As of February 2023, the index shows that the cost of living in Doha, the capital city of Qatar, is about 19.91% higher than in London and 12.38% higher than in New York. While the cost of living in Qatar is higher than in the UK and the USA, the country offers high salaries and tax-free income, making it an attractive destination for expats.
Breakdown of Costs in Qatar
To give you an idea of what you can expect to pay for different expenses in Qatar, let’s break down costs for singles, couples, and families of 4 in different categories.
Housing
Housing is one of the biggest expenses in Qatar, and the cost of living in this category is generally high. The cost of housing varies depending on where you live and the type of housing you choose. According to Numbeo, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around QAR 4,500 per month. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around QAR 11,000 per month.
If you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to find a room to rent for around QAR 2,500 per month. However, keep in mind that housing in Qatar can be challenging to find, especially if you’re looking for a specific type of accommodation.
Food
The cost of food in Qatar is generally higher than in the UK and the USA, but it’s still possible to eat on a budget. You can expect to pay around QAR 20-30 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant and around QAR 60-100 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can save money by shopping at markets and cooking your meals. A week’s worth of groceries for one person costs around QAR 200-300.
Utilities
The cost of utilities in Qatar varies depending on the size of your home and your usage. On average, you can expect to pay around QAR 800-1,200 per month for utilities such as electricity, water, and gas.
Leisure
The cost of leisure activities in Qatar varies widely depending on what you enjoy doing. A movie ticket costs around QAR 40, and a fitness club membership costs around QAR 400-500 per month.
If you enjoy going out, expect to pay around QAR 30-40 for a beer in a bar or around QAR 60-100 for a cocktail. Entrance fees for museums and other attractions vary widely but usually range from QAR 10-50.
Transport
The cost of transport in Qatar is relatively low, and the country’s public transportation system is well-developed. A single ride on the bus costs around QAR 2, and a monthly pass costs around QAR 100.
If you prefer to drive, gasoline is relatively inexpensive in Qatar. As of February 2023, the average price of gasoline is around QAR 1.50 per liter.
Clothing
The cost of clothing in Qatar is generally higher than in the UK and the USA. The price of clothing varies depending on the brand and quality of the product. A pair of jeans can cost around QAR 150-300, while a shirt can cost around QAR 80-150.
If you’re looking for affordable clothing options, there are several chain stores in Qatar that offer reasonably priced clothing, such as H&M and Zara.
Household Goods
The cost of household goods in Qatar varies depending on the item and brand. For example, a new television can cost anywhere from QAR 800 to QAR 5,000 depending on the size and features. A washing machine can cost around QAR 1,500-2,500, while a refrigerator can cost around QAR 1,500-4,000.
If you’re on a tight budget, you may be able to find used household goods on websites such as Qatar Living and OpenSooq. Many people sell their used items at a fraction of the cost of new items.
Forms of Payment in Qatar
The most common forms of payment in Qatar are cash and debit or credit cards. Most stores and restaurants accept credit and debit cards, especially in larger cities like Doha.
Mobile payments and contactless payments are becoming more popular in Qatar, and many stores now offer these payment options. Some banks offer mobile payment services, but these services are not yet widely used.
In addition to cash and cards, some stores in Qatar accept payment through popular mobile apps like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay.
The cost of living in Qatar is generally higher than in the UK and the USA, but the country offers high salaries and tax-free income, making it an attractive destination for expats. Housing, food, and clothing tend to be more expensive in Qatar, while utilities and transport are relatively affordable.
When it comes to payment methods, Qatar primarily relies on cash and debit/credit cards, but mobile payment services and contactless payments are becoming more popular.
Before you move to Qatar, it’s essential to research the cost of living in your desired location and create a budget that takes into account your income and expenses. By doing so, you can ensure that you can live comfortably in Qatar without breaking the bank.