What is the cost of travelling in Qatar?

Item Cape Town Johannesburg Doha Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant R 100.00 R 100.00 R 106.53 Domestic beer (0.5 lt draught) R 25.00 R 25.00 R 142.04 Cappuccino (regular) R 23.32 R 22.34 R 62.57 Taxi 1 km (Normal Tariff) R 10.00 R 10.00 R 7.10 Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) R 39.50 R 37.50 R 35.51

Cheap Flights To Qatar: The Lowest Fares

Popular flights to Qatar

Prices observed in the past 7 days start from R4,479 one-way and R11,089 round trip. Fares and availability may change at any time, and additional terms may apply.

Economy

Doha

R19,909

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Qatar Airways

18 Dec - 27 Dec

JNB

Johannesburg

Round-Trip

DOH

Doha

R53,979

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Popular airlines to Qatar

Etihad Airways

Qatar Airways

Etihad Airways

Qatar Airways

Etihad Airways

Qatar Airways

Etihad Airways

Qatar Airways

Etihad Airways

Qatar Airways

Etihad Airways

Qatar Airways

Etihad Airways

Qatar Airways

Etihad Airways

Qatar Airways

Why visit Qatar

Futuristic Architecture

Qatar doesn’t just build; it creates art in the sky. From the curving Doha Tower to the iconic Tornado and Aspire Towers, this skyline is a masterclass in modern design, bidding an ode to tradition. Every glass pane tells a story of ambition, luxury, and a future that never stops rising.

Charming Beaches

Where the desert meets the deep blue, Qatar’s coastline is a sun-soaked escape lined with luxury. From the calm waves of Katara Beach and Sealine beach to the exclusive sands of the Four Seasons and InterContinental beaches, it’s perfect for sunset swims or seaside selfies that actually flex.

Authentic Arabic Culture

Qatar is culture turned up to full volume. Lose yourself in the rhythm of live music, the scent of spice-filled souqs, and the glow of Doha’s Corniche. From Souq Waqif’s timeless charm to rooftop dining with a view, it’s Arabic tradition with a bold, modern beat.

Experience Qatar in Full Colour

In Qatar, contrasts come alive, skyscrapers rising from desert sands, luxury malls next to buzzing souks, and beaches that glow under city lights. From Doha’s art and cuisine to adventures in the dunes, this Middle Eastern hotspot blends culture and class like nowhere else. Book cheap flights to Qatar and step into a world that’s bold, modern, and unapologetically lavish.

General Information

Essential details you need to know before your trip

Country

Currency

Qatar

Qatari Riyal

LANGUAGE

Exchange Rate

Arabic / English

1 ZAR = 0.219 QAR

AIRLINE

TIME ZONE

Qatar Airways

GMT +3

HUB AIRPORT

Hamad International Airport (DOH)

Destination Review

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Weather In Qatar

Low

High °C

Rain-mm

Average temperature (°C) & rainfall (mm) per month

Frequently asked questions

Overview

Situated off the coast of the Persian/Arab Gulf is Qatar, a destination in the Middle East, best known for its vibrant capital, Doha, and its huge selection of beautiful beaches. Prepare to discover the genuine Arab lifestyle while experiencing the futuristic scene of the country’s top tourist destination.

In Doha, explore a rising world-class destination, which includes breath-taking skyscrapers like the Doha Convention Center Tower and the Dubai Towers. Admire the enchanting avenue that leads to the exceptional Museum of Islamic Art. A visit to the capital would not be complete without visiting the shops at Souq Waqif. Experience more of the Arabian culture with the live music and classic Middle Eastern fare on streets such as Al Corniche Street and Ali Bin Abdullah Street.

Experience the incredible beauty of the coast by spending time at the many beaches in Qatar. One of the best places to relax in style is Four Seasons Beach, which not only includes access to the coast, but additionally pools, shaded lounges and a separate children’s pool. In this country, it’s rare to have the opportunity to wear a bikini, and one location that offers this convenience is InterContinental Beach. On Sundays, escape the crowd and enjoy a walk along this stunning 500-metre beach. For thrilling water sports, the ideal venue is Katara Beach, where you will find many visitors parasailing, water skiing, wake-boarding and more. There are several other gorgeous beaches you can find in Qatar.

Compare several airlines and book your cheap flights to Qatar online at Travelstart!

Best time to visit Qatar

Visa & Customs

South African passport holders can visit Qatar visa-free for up to 30 days, with single or multiple entries allowed. The stay can be extended if needed.

For the latest requirements or extensions, contact the Embassy of the State of Qatar in South Africa:

Address: 1077 Justice Mahomed St, Waterkloof, Pretoria
Phone: 27 12 452 1700

If you need help while in Qatar, reach out to the South African Embassy in Doha:

Address: Saha 100, West Bay Lagoon, Doha
Phone: 974 4485 7111
Fax: 974 4483 5961

Qatar Visa FAQs

Do South Africans need a visa for Qatar?
No. South African passport holders can enter Qatar without a visa for up to 30 days.

Can I extend my stay in Qatar?
Yes. You can apply for an extension of your visa-free stay through Qatar’s Ministry of Interior or by contacting the Qatar Embassy in Pretoria.

Is Qatar safe for tourists?
Yes. Qatar is one of the safest countries in the Middle East, with strict laws and a high standard of hospitality for visitors.

What do I need to enter Qatar?
A valid South African passport (minimum six months’ validity), proof of return or onward travel, and accommodation details.

Health & Safety

Qatar is one of the safest destinations in the Middle East, with low crime rates and a strong sense of public order. Still, it pays to travel smart.

Health tips:
Travel insurance is essential. Medical care in Qatar is world-class but can be expensive without cover.
Tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available.
Protect yourself from the heat: use sunscreen, wear light clothing, and stay hydrated.
Carry any prescribed medication in its original packaging and bring a doctor’s note if necessary.

Safety tips:
Qatar has strict laws around behaviour, alcohol, and public conduct — respect local customs.
Avoid public displays of affection and dress modestly in public areas.
Always carry identification; police checks are routine but polite.
In an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical services.

Qatar is clean, modern, and secure. Just follow local rules, stay aware of the heat, and you’ll have a smooth, stress-free trip.

Where to Stay?

Getting Around

The information on this page is correct as of date of publishing. While every effort is made to keep information as fresh as possible, Travelstart takes no responsibility for any of the information being out of date or incorrectly noted.