As an Arab country, Qatar is recognized as an excellent travel destination as it offers its visitors countless modern and luxurious locations blended with its rich cultural lifestyle. Visitors to Qatar can have the opportunity to explore the best world-class museums and see the Islamic architecture of the Middle East. Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world, ensuring that tourists can enjoy their trip with confidence and tranquility. As Indian travelers who wish to journey to Qatar, it is best to be cautious about the rules and regulations of your destination and whether Indians require a visa to enter Qatar. We have provided you with the things you need to know before travelling from India to Qatar.
Qatar visa for Indians
Qatar grants Visas to foreign travelers as official permission to enter and stay for a specified period. Indian passport holders can visit Qatar without a visa for up to 30 days.
Upon arrival, Indian visitors will receive a visa waiver that is valid from the date of issuance by presenting a passport with at least three months of validity and confirmed return tickets. You must also present a hotel reservation.
Indian travelers must obtain a Qatar visa if their stay exceeds the permitted duration. You can apply for a visa either online or offline, with the process generally taking 7 to 10 working days. Gaining insights into Qatar and exploring the Qatar travel guides can greatly enhance your experience during your visit.
Applying for a Qatar Visa
– Apply through the official website or an authorized agency
– Download, print, and complete the visa application form, ensuring it is signed
– Gather the necessary documents, including a passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel date, scanned copies of the first and last pages of your passport, a confirmed return ticket, proof of paid accommodation, and a bank statement
– Pay the visa fee and submit your application online or via an authorized agent
– Track the status of your application on the official website
Visa on Arrival
Indian citizens are eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) in Qatar, provided they meet specific conditions. This visa is generally valid for 30 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days.
Visa Charges
Indian citizens traveling to Qatar can expect costs ranging from ₹1,900 for a tourist visa to ₹5,700 for a business visa, with additional fees for work visas that include medical expenses.
eVisa – Electronic Visa
Indian citizens can easily apply for a Qatar visa through the electronic visa (eVisa) system, which streamlines the application process. By accessing the Qatar eVisa website, travelers can complete their applications online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to embassies or consulates.
This digital approach offers several benefits, such as reducing paperwork, saving time, and accelerating approval times, which significantly minimize your waiting periods.
The convenience of the eVisa system makes traveling to Qatar more accessible and hassle-free for Indian visitors. Please note that the following are associated with the cost of your e-visa application.
Visa Category: The type of visa, whether tourist, business, or family, determines the cost.
Processing Time: Choosing expedited processing leads to higher charges.
Entry Privileges and Nationality: The applicant’s nationality and the permitted number of entries influence the fee structure.
Types of Available Visas
For Indian citizens, the validity of Qatar visas varies from 14 days to over 2 years, depending on the visa type.
Tourist Visa (Qatar e-Visa): When traveling to Qatar for leisure or sightseeing
Business Visa: Designed for individuals visiting Qatar for work-related purposes
Work Visa: Required for those seeking employment opportunities in Qatar
Student Visa: Granted to individuals pursuing education in Qatar
Visitor Visa: Ideal for those visiting family or friends in the country
Family Visa: Issued to family members of Qatar residents
GCC Visa: Available for citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries
Transit Visa: For brief stopovers in Qatar while traveling to a final destination
Necessary Documents for Your Travel
Indian citizens must submit several necessary documents when applying for a Qatar visa:
– Valid Passport: Must have at least six months of validity from the date of entry
– Recent Passport Photos: Two passport-sized colored photographs are required
– Financial Documentation: Bank statements or pay slips demonstrating adequate funds for the stay
– Health Requirements: Submitting health insurance is obligatory. Certain health-related prerequisites may apply. Travelers should review any vaccination guidelines or health advisories before their trip, given the ever-changing nature of global health regulations
– Proof of Accommodation: Either a hotel reservation or an invitation letter from a host in Qatar
– Confirmed Flight Itinerary: A verified return flight booking
Flights to Qatar from India
Several airlines offer direct and connecting flights from India to Qatar. Some of the major carriers include Qatar Airways, Air India Express, IndiGo, Air India, and Akasa Air.
Cheaper flights are also available for your trip. Flight ticket prices can start at approximately ₹9,239. Note that the most affordable month to fly is June.
Flights frequently depart from major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad, which are considered the most popular routes.
How Far Is Qatar from India?
The distance between Qatar and India is approximately 2,891 kilometers (1,796 miles) by air. A direct flight from Qatar to India typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the departure and arrival cities.
Travel Guides
Before visiting Qatar, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the country’s laws and regulations and follow the official guidelines set by the government.
Dress Code
Qatar maintains a fairly relaxed stance on clothing, but visitors are advised to honor local cultural norms by avoiding excessively revealing attire in public spaces. As a general guideline, both men and women should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered.
The Currency in Qatar
The Qatari Riyal (QR) is the exclusive currency used in Qatar. It is readily available through ATMs, which are strategically placed in malls, hotels, and various locations across Doha.
The Riyal maintains a fixed exchange rate of QAR 3.64 per US Dollar.
Embassies in Qatar, Doha
Doha is home to over 100 foreign embassies and a consulate that provides diplomatic services throughout the week.
These offices operate from Sunday to Thursday, remaining closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and any public holidays observed in either Qatar or the embassy’s respective home country.
Smoking
Smoking is banned in all public areas, such as museums, restaurants, shopping malls, and sports clubs. Those who violate this restriction may face fines from QAR 1,000 to QAR 3,000.
Qatar’s Climate
Qatar has a desert climate featuring consistent sunshine throughout the year, with scorching summers and pleasantly mild winters.
Average temperatures range from 17°C in January to 36°C in July, occasionally exceeding 40°C during peak summer months.
Things to Do in Qatar
There are a myriad of things you can do while staying in Qatar. Because of the combination of modern infrastructure and historical Islamic cultural sites, Qatar offers a diverse range of activities. From fine arts museums and mosques to top-notch malls and exciting parks.
If you are an adventure seeker visiting Qatar, you can participate in the thrilling desert safaris, dune bashing, and scuba diving in the Persian Gulf during your leisurely stay.
Museums and Mosques You Can Visit:
Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art
Katara Mosque
Other Exciting Locations Worth Visiting:
Zekreet Beach
Hotel Room Reservation
When reserving a hotel room, you do not have to worry because Qatar presents its guests with a wide selection of accommodations catering to various budgets.
These hotels can go from luxurious desert glamping retreats to high-end resorts. Indian visitors can explore top-rated hotels, relaxing neighborhoods, distinctive stays, and family-friendly lodging options that guarantee you a comfortable and memorable experience.
We will help you discover the best accommodation recommendations to enhance your visit to Qatar.
Lastly
Qatar is known for its authentic culinary scene that features diverse international cuisines. Daring visitors can enjoy Qatar’s thrilling desert safaris, scuba diving, and skydiving over the Persian Gulf. Additionally, whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural discovery, Qatar has something for everyone.
The country presents itself with a unique harmony of modern facilities and an opulent cultural background. Indian visitors can explore a variety of memorable places like museums and marvel at the stunning Islamic architecture that seamlessly combines tradition with innovation.
Qatar also provides you with luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and top shopping locations. Indian tourists can savor popular cultural attractions and exciting outdoor activities, making Qatar a well-rounded destination for leisure, adventure, and cultural exploration.
Are you planning to travel to Qatar and looking for a Qatar travel agency? Check out our Qatar tours, and Qatar transit tours.
