Qatar is a land of cultural riches and modern infrastructure, offering a luxury lifestyle that attracts expats worldwide. But what does it truly cost to make this Arabian Gulf Peninsula your home?
In this article, we will explore the cost of living in Qatar, from detailing basic expenses to average entertainment and dining prices.
The Living Expenses in Qatar
The cost of living in Qatar, specifically its capital city, Doha, is comparable to other major cities worldwide. Most of the food here is imported, costing more than usual. Similarly, the accommodation is also costly, so the salary bar is higher, with no income tax to pay.
Here are some factors contributing to Qatar’s living expenses:
Cost of Living and Standards
The expenses of living in Qatar mainly depend on your lifestyle and the number of individuals in your family. For example, if you are a single person living here with decent accommodation and a moderate social life, almost QAR 15,000 is enough to spend a month.
Alternatively, if you are a family of four or five living in a villa, you will be spending almost QAR 36,000 per month. However, working expats benefit from cutting this expenditure by up to 30% if they have a housing allowance in their salary package.
Additionally, the lifestyle of a Western expat may be similar to what they spend in Europe. Utilities will cost less because they are significantly subsidised. Still, food and drinks stay on the pricier side.
Basic Salaries and Wages
Wages and salaries in Qatar are as good as those in Europe. But the best part is that there is no income tax. You get to take home all you have earned, making Qatar an ideal country for job seekers.
The bare minimum salary is QAR 1000 per month. Here are some average salary references according to the field you work in:
- Lawyer: QAR 35,000 – 50,000
- IT Manager: QAR 45,000 – 58,000
- Teacher: QAR: 15,000
- Doctor: QAR: 35,000 – 45,000
- Finance Manager: QAR: 30,000 – 42,000
Moreover, as per the Qatar Labour Law, the employers are bound to pay QAR 300 for food and QAR 500 for housing. This, when added to the basic wage of QAR 1000, totals into QAR 1800, which is the minimum salary in Qatar.
Housing and Accommodation
There are two options for accommodation in Qatar: renting or buying property.
Renting
Doha is the costliest city in Qatar in terms of accommodation. Renting 1 BHK apartment here can cost around QAR 7000 per month, while 3 to 4 BHK apartment can cost between QAR 10,000 – QAR 12,000 monthly.
These rental prices can significantly increase if you live in lavish societies, such as Pearl-Qatar Development. However, renting a flat further from the city costs less.
Buying a Property
Foreigners are limited to buying properties in Qatar in areas like West Bay Lagoon and The Pearl. If you purchase a property in Qatar, you and your family will be granted a residence visa for the entire duration of your property ownership.
The average price per square metre in Doha is QAR 15,000. A moderate 1 BHK apartment can cost QAR 120,00,000 to QAR 210,00,000. However, if you plan to mortgage a property, remember that it is almost 48% of your total income with 5% yearly interest for a 20-year mortgage.
Utility Bills
Essential utilities like gas, electricity and water are partially subsidised, making them cheaper than in European countries. On average, these utilities can cost you around QAR 200 per month.
These bills can slightly increase in the summer season, up to QAR 500, because of the greater use of air-conditioners.
Telecommunication Bills
You may find a higher price tag for telecommunications in Qatar than in other major countries. However, it depends on the type of package you buy and what network you choose to have.
Despite the hefty prices, you cannot imagine living without a phone anywhere in the world. Many basic amenities rely on phone apps like public transport, bank accounts, etc.
Vodafone, a telecommunication network, offers monthly packages ranging from QAR 100 – QAR 500. In comparison, local providers like Ooredo offer internet, TV and landline bundles ranging from QAR 356 – QAR 6500, which is very expensive.
Healthcare Expenses
Healthcare facilities in Qatar work slightly differently than you expect, costing relatively more. However, the state healthcare system, Hamad Medical Corporation, offers free emergency care to its registered users.
Moreover, people with health insurance have to pay just QAR 25 per visit to a doctor. You can also get HMC healthcare card at QAR 100 per year, allowing free visits to the Primary Healthcare Center.
Since there are longer waits at the state healthcare centres, expats are bound to opt for private medical centres, costing them too much.
For example, if you are insured, per visit to a private doctor can cost you around QAR 100 – 250. However, specialist consultation prices can significantly increase to QAR 250 – 600.
Education
Qatar offers the highest quality education system, and its government is constantly working to improve this sector. The country has both public and private schools following the British curriculum.
However, as an expat, you can only attend private international schools because public ones are limited to Qatari nationals. The cost of schooling in Qatar depends on the type of school and the education level you choose.
For example, the kindergarten fee structure ranges from QAR 5,000 to QAR 18,000 annually. The primary schools range from QAR 10,000 to QAR 35,000, whereas secondary schools can cost around QAR 15,000 to QAR 50,000 per year.
Qatar has two local universities and branches of international universities like Northwestern, Georgetown, and Carnegie Mellon. The tuition fee at these institutions can cost up to QAR 110,000 per semester.
Food, Drinks and Other Groceries
Daily Essentials
Since most food and other edibles in Qatar are imported, you can expect a higher price range than countries like the UK, USA and Europe. On average, keep aside at least 20% of your monthly income for food and other groceries.
For reference, the following are the prices of daily essential food items:
- Milk: QAR 5 per litre
- Rice: QAR 7 per kg
- Eggs: QAR 7 per dozen
- Tomatoes: QAR 7 per kg
- Bananas: QAR 5 a dozen
- Coca Cola: QAR 6
- Bread: QAR 5 a loaf
- Potatoes: QAR 5 per kg
- Water: QAR 2 for 1.5 litres.
Dining Out
Like other countries, Qatar is home to hundreds of exclusive and lavish restaurants, offering everything from fine dining experiences to chain eateries.
For example, a quick, happy meal at McDonald’s would cost around QAR 25. These prices rise significantly depending on where you dine and the food you order. For a three-course meal, expect to pay around QAR 600, a mid-level restaurant.
Coffee
Coffee is coffee, regardless of where you have it. The average price of coffee in Doha cafes will be the same as that of restaurants in London or Sydney. It just depends on where you buy it! Expect to pay between QAR 15 – 25 per cup.
Transportation
Public Transport
Public transport in Qatar is still new but gradually expanding.
- Doha Metro
Inaugurated in 2019, it is a reliable way to get around the city. It has three lines so far, and the number of stations is increasing regularly.
- Lusail Tram
Lusail Tram also lets you travel around Doha. It has four stations and 25 stations so far.
Doha Metro and Lusail Tram charge the same. Depending on your journey, a one-way Doha metro and Lusail tram ticket costs QAR 2 – 10. You can even buy monthly tickets, costing around QAR 100 – 250.
- Taxi
Taxis are always available with a tariff starting from QAR 10, with an additional QAR 2.5 per kilometre and waiting time.
That said, cars are the most common way to travel in Qatar.
Private Transport
Buying a car is easy in Qatar if you want to have a private vehicle. You can find many car dealers offering both new and second-hand cars. It is also the most cost-effective way to save transportation costs, as fuel is very affordable in Qatar, and it costs only QAR 2/litre.
Lifestyle
Entertainment and Leisure Activities
Qatar has plenty of entertainment and leisure activities to offer. The following is the list of popular activities you can take part in and their respective costs:
- Fitness clubs cost around QAR 400/month
- Movies can cost QAR 40 per ticket
- Public beaches are free of cost to visit
- Parks and tracks for cycling, jogging, or simply strolling start from QAR 15 per ticket.
Clothing
Clothing in Qatar is way more affordable than in other countries. You can buy branded and stylish clothes at deals and discounts; just please look out for the sale season.
Even if you want to purchase high-street brands, they will cost you cheaper than you are used to. For example, imagine QAR 220 for Levis jeans, QAR 150 for a Zara dress and QAR 400 for Nike Jordans.
FAQs
1. Are there any Tips for Saving Money on Groceries and Dining Out in Qatar?
To save money on groceries and dining out:
- Consider shopping at local markets and supermarkets that offer affordable prices.
- Buying in bulk and looking for sales and discounts can reduce expenses.
- When dining out, explore local eateries and cafes that offer reasonable meals.
- Additionally, using apps and websites that provide deals and promotions on restaurants can help you enjoy dining experiences without overspending.
2. What are the Options for International Schooling for Expat Children in Qatar?
Expat children in Qatar have access to various international schools that offer curriculums such as British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB). Popular international schools include Doha British School, American School of Doha, and Qatar Academy. These schools provide a high standard of education, extracurricular activities, and facilities.
3. How does the Visa and Residency Process Work for Expats Moving to Qatar?
For expats moving to Qatar, the visa and residency process involves
- Obtaining a work visa, which the employer usually sponsors.
- Upon arrival, expats must undergo a medical examination and fingerprinting for the residency permit.
- Opening a bank account, signing a rental lease, and obtaining a driving licence are essential.
- Dependents, such as spouses and children, can also obtain residency permits under the primary visa holder’s sponsorship.
The cost of living in Qatar entirely depends on your lifestyle preferences, the location you want to live in and your personal choices. Managing your expenses wisely is the key to thoroughly enjoying what Qatar offers.
If you are ready to move, check out these properties for rent in Qatar to find your ideal home with all the necessary facilities around!
