Banks in Qatar for Expats
Qatar’s strong banking industry provides expatriates with a range of options that cater to their diverse needs. From traditional banking services to Sharia-compliant products, there is a bank in Qatar that fulfils your every wish. Take a close look at some of Qatar’s finest banks for expats:
Best Banks in Qatar for Expats
If you are an expat living in Qatar, we’ve compiled a list of the best banks for expats to help you make an informed decision. This list highlights their key features, ease of account setup, and international banking services.
Qatar National Bank (QNB)
Qatar National Bank (QNB) is the largest bank in Qatar and one of the leading banks in the Middle East. QNB has a presence in more than 30 countries and a wide product portfolio including retail and corporate banking, wealth management and treasury. Its widespread network and varied products make it one of the most sought-after banks by many expatriates.
Key Features
- Large international presence, making transfers abroad easier.
- Expats can open accounts with employer sponsorship.
- Offers premium banking services with multi-currency options.
Headquarter’s Address
Building Number 4, Zone Number 7, Al Souq, Street Number 810 Abdullah Bin Jassim Street, Corniche Street
https://maps.app.goo.gl/5dyDn7owxNVLEPWXA
Contact Information
+974-4-440-7777
Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am to 01:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: Off
Commercial Bank of Qatar
Commercial Bank of Qatar building
The Commercial Bank of Qatar is one of the nation’s largest private banks. The bank was established in 1975 and offers a variety of products like personal banking, corporate banking, investments and foreign exchange services. It also provides Islamic banking services for those clients requiring Sharia-compliant financing solutions.
Key Features
- Strong online and mobile banking platform.
- Easy online account opening for salaried expats.
- Competitive international transfer rates.
Headquarter’s Address
Al Markhiya Street
https://maps.app.goo.gl/v6RazkxxZs9Lov4C8
Contact Information
+974-4-449-0000
Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 09:00 am to 02:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: Off
Qatar Islamic Bank
Opened in 1982 as the first Islamic bank in Qatar, Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) now stands as the largest Islamic commercial bank in the country. The bank has a variety of Sharia-compliant products and services that cater to personal banking, corporate finance and investment products.
QIB’s large network and Islamic banking principles ensure that it is a preferred choice for expatriates who wish to have ethical banking
Key Features
- Strong reputation for ethical Islamic banking services.
- Interest-free (riba-free) accounts and financing options.
- Large ATM and branch network across Qatar.
Headquarter’s Address
Grand Hamad Street, Zone no: 5, Street no: 119, Building no: 64
https://maps.app.goo.gl/4fwMqz2szmojWcSZA
Contact Information
+974-444-8444
Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am to 01:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: Off
Doha Bank
Buildings of Doha
Founded in 1979, Doha Bank is Qatar’s leading commercial bank, providing services in wholesale banking, retail banking, international banking and investment. It offers a range of financial solutions to individuals, businesses and institutions, both locally and abroad. Doha Bank’s innovation and customer service have won many awards and a high level of expatriate satisfaction.
Key Features
- Competitive exchange rates for expats sending money abroad.
- Wide range of remittance services with partnerships across Asia and Europe.
- Easy account opening process for new arrivals.
Headquarter’s Address
Banks Street, Doha 3818
https://maps.app.goo.gl/FYiP1Ubdr6oXo2d87
Contact Information
+974-4-015-3555
Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 09:00 am to 02:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: Off
Qatar International Islamic Bank (QIIB)
Founded in 1991, Qatar International Islamic Bank (QIIB) is a leading Islamic bank that provides personal and corporate banking services that are compliant with Islamic principles. QIIB’s strong financials and Sharia-compliant products make it a top choice for expatriates seeking ethical banking.
Key Features
- Dedicated expat banking packages with Sharia-compliant benefits.
- Excellent financing options for home and car purchases.
- Strong financial stability and governance.
Headquarter’s Address
119, Grand Hamad Avenue, Doha
https://maps.app.goo.gl/GTW88PyCMoKVtKJA8
Contact Information
+974-4-484-0000
Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am to 01:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: Off
HSBC Bank Middle East
Lady withdrawing her salary from atm in Qatar
Being a subsidiary of the world banking giant HSBC, it has been present in Qatar since 1954. It provides a broad spectrum of services such as retail banking, commercial banking and wealth management. HSBC’s global presence and wide range of services make it an easy choice for expatriates seeking global banking services.
Key Features
- Best for expats who need international banking services.
- Free global transfers between HSBC accounts in different countries.
- Premier banking options for high-income expats.
Headquarter’s Address
Building 150, Al Matar Street، Airport Road
https://maps.app.goo.gl/UD6HFCmfU7EU8vSw9
Contact Information
+974-4-442-4722
Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am to 01:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: Off
Al Rayan Bank
Al Rayan Bank, founded in 2006, is one of the top Islamic banks in Qatar. It has 12 Qatari branches and provides services like wholesale banking, retail banking and private banking facilities. Al Rayan’s speed of growth and dedication to Sharia-based products make it an attractive choice for expats.
Key Features
- High returns on Islamic savings accounts.
- Specialised banking solutions for different industries.
- Strong focus on ethical and Sharia-compliant banking.
Headquarter’s Address
69 Alad Al Sharqi Street, Lusail
https://maps.app.goo.gl/E83Hey1vp1fePiab6
Contact Information
+974-4-494-0000
Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 07:30 am to 01:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: Off
Al Khaliji Commercial Bank
Clerk counting money in a bank office
Al Khaliji Commercial Bank is a future-fit bank in Qatar, catering to premium, business, corporate and international customers. With robust financials and an emphasis on innovation, Al Khaliji offers a portfolio of banking solutions to meet the requirements of both expatriates and businesses.
Key Features
- Premium banking options with exclusive benefits.
- Higher limits on credit cards and personal loans.
- Focus on digital banking and mobile solutions.
Headquarter’s Address
Al Markhiya, Al Markhiya Street
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ayKse8v5NZbyoWaM8
Contact Information
+974-4-449-0000
Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 09:00 am to 02:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: Off
What Expats Need to Consider When Selecting a Bank in Qatar
Before entering the list of banks, the following are essential considerations to have in mind as an expat:
- Ease of Opening an Account: Some banks insist on a residency permit, while others allow you to open an account using a passport and employer documents.
- International Transfers & Foreign Currency Accounts: If you transfer money overseas regularly, consider banks with minimal remittance charges and extensive global alliances.
- Multi-Currency Accounts: A few banks enable you to maintain accounts in various currencies such as USD, EUR and GBP, which may be convenient for international transactions.
- Availability of ATMs and Branches: It is important to look for a bank with easy access to ATMs and bank branches in your residential area or office premises.
FAQs
Can Expats Open an Account in Banks in Qatar?
Yes! Expats can open a bank account in Qatar, but most banks require a valid residence permit, passport and salary certificate from your employer.
Which Bank in Qatar Is Best for International Money Transfers?
HSBC, Doha Bank and QNB offer competitive exchange rates and lower fees for international transfers.
How Can I Find a Job in Doha as an Expat?
Finding jobs in Doha requires networking, using online job portals and applying through recruitment agencies.
Do I Need a Qatari ID to Open a Bank Account in Qatar?
Most banks require a Qatari residence permit (ID), but some banks allow you to start the process with a passport and employer letter.
While selecting a bank in Qatar, you will need to consider the variety of services provided by the bank, the availability of branches and ATMs, the bank’s ability to handle digital banking, and the overall reputation of customer service.
By considering these aspects, you can choose a banking institution in Qatar that best suits your financial requirements and desires, facilitating an easy and hassle-free banking experience.
Besides that, you can also explore about Qatar ID Card on the Property Finder Qatar Blog.