|
ABOUT QATAR |
|
|
|
|
Fast Facts about Qatar:
Full Name: State of Qatar
Capital City: Doha
Time Zone: GMT/UTC +3 ()
Languages: Arabic is the official language, but English is
also widely acknowledged. Urdu is also spoken.
Currency: Qatari Riyal (QR) Check Riyal currency converter
Electricity: Voltage is 240 AC at 50 cycles [As for
electrical sockets, British Style Plug with one grounding
blade and two flat blades are used. Even Indian/South
African style plugs with two circular metal pins above a
large circular grounding pin can be used.]
Geography: Qatar is an oil rich peninsular protruding into
the Gulf between the UAE and Bahrain. There are hills
located along the northwest, though the rest of the country
comprises salt flats, sand dunes and scattered vegetation
towards north.
Etiquette and Customs: A tourist visiting Qatar, should be
completely aware of the Muslim customs, religious
laws.
Women are expected to dress modestly. It should be noted
that while it is acceptable to sit cross legged, showing the
sole of the foot, or pointing it at a person would be
considered as an insult here. In business and social
gatherings, one gets to sip the traditional Qatari coffee,
served in tiny cups without handles, which is a welcome
ritual for guests, and is served in order of seniority. Two
cups are polite, however it is suggested not to limit to one
or exceed three cups.
Hotels: Qatar is well-served by world class hotels. There
are plenty of three or four star hotels. Advance booking is
strongly recommended. All hotel rates are subject to fifteen
percent service charge.
Driving: On arrival at Qatar, a tourist or a traveller can
drive in the country if he holds a valid driving license for
seven days (including the day of arrival). People intending
to remain in Qatar for more than six months will have to
apply for a Qatari driving license or a temporary Qatari
driving license. In case the visitor is a foreigner, and
have already done an accident, he will be deported back to
home country, instead of a fine, as in other countries.
Hence, opting for a taxi would o be best, rather than risk
oneself with driving at a new place.
|
|
|
|