Qatar is famous for its vast oil reserves, modern architecture, and luxurious lifestyle. However, the cost of living in Qatar can be high, and it is essential to understand the expenses associated with living there before deciding to move there.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when considering the cost of living in Qatar:
- Qatar is an expensive country to live in, but the cost of living can vary depending on where you live and your lifestyle.
- Housing is Qatar’s most significant expense, and finding affordable living in popular areas is challenging.
- Other expenses to consider include transportation, food, healthcare, and education.
Housing and Accommodation
Renting in Doha
When it comes to housing and accommodation in Qatar, Doha is the most expensive city. The cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the center of Doha can cost around QAR 7,300 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment can cost around QAR 11,300 per month. However, the cost of renting outside the city center is relatively cheaper, with a three-bedroom apartment costing around QAR 7,300 per month.
Utilities and Services
Apart from rent, utilities, and services are also essential aspects to consider when determining the cost of living in Qatar. The cost of utilities such as electricity, water, and gas for a two-person flat can be around QAR 400 per month.
For expats moving to Qatar, it is essential to note that some companies offer a housing allowance as part of the employment package. Depending on the company’s policy, this allowance can cover a significant portion of the rent or even the entire amount.
Here are some key points to consider when it comes to housing and accommodation in Qatar:
- Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the center of Doha can cost around QAR 7,300 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment can cost around QAR 11,300 per month.
- The cost of renting outside the city center is relatively cheaper, with a three-bedroom apartment costing around QAR 7,300 per month.
- Utilities such as electricity, water, and gas for a two-person flat can cost around QAR 400 per month.
- Some companies offer a housing allowance as a part of the employment package.
Transportation
Public Transport
Public transportation in Qatar is relatively new, but it is constantly expanding. The Doha Metro, which opened in 2019, is a reliable and efficient way to get around the city. It has three lines, and more stations are being added regularly. The Lusail Tram is another option for getting around Doha. It currently has four stations, but more are planned for the future. A one-way ticket for the Doha Metro or Lusail Tram costs 2 Qatari riyals, while a monthly pass costs 200 Qatari riyals.
Mowasalat operates the public bus system and the Karwa taxi service. The buses are air-conditioned and comfortable and go to most areas of Doha. A one-way ticket costs 2 Qatari riyals, while a monthly pass costs 50 Qatari riyals. Karwa taxis are widely available and are a good option for getting around if you want to use something other than public transportation.
Private Transportation
If you prefer to have your vehicle, buying a car in Qatar is relatively easy. There are many car dealerships in Doha, and you can find both new and used vehicles. The most popular car brands in Qatar are Toyota, Nissan, and Mitsubishi. The price of a stock Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI 150 CV (or comparable) in Qatar is around 85,534 riyals.
Fuel Costs
Gasoline in Qatar is relatively cheap compared to other countries. The current price for gas is 1.55 Qatari riyals per liter. This means that it is affordable to drive a car in Qatar, especially if you have a fuel-efficient vehicle.
Food and Groceries
Supermarket Prices
When it comes to buying groceries in Qatar, it’s essential to keep in mind that much of the food is imported, which can drive up prices. Here are some average prices for everyday grocery items:
- Milk (1 liter): 5 QAR
- Rice (1 kg): 7 QAR
- Eggs (12): 7 QAR
- Bread (1 loaf): 5 QAR
- Tomato (1 kg): 7 QAR
- Potato (1 kg): 5 QAR
- Banana (1 kg): 5 QAR
- Coca-Cola (2 liters): 6 QAR
These prices can vary depending on the supermarket and the brand, but they should give you a general idea of what to expect.
Eating Out
If you’re looking to dine out in Qatar, there are plenty of options available, from local street food to high-end restaurants. Here are some average prices for eating out in Qatar:
- Primary lunchtime (including a drink) in the business district: 32 QAR
- Fast food restaurant combo meal (Big Mac or equivalent): 25 QAR
- Mid-range eatery serving a three-course dinner for two people: 200 QAR
- Local cheese (1 kg): 50 QAR
- Cappuccino: 16 QAR
- Beer (0.5 liter): 30 QAR
It’s worth noting that alcohol is only available in licensed hotels and restaurants, and prices can be pretty high due to taxes and import fees.
Overall, while food and groceries in Qatar can be more expensive than in some other countries, there are still plenty of affordable options available for those on a budget.
Healthcare and Education
Medical Services
Access to affordable and subsidized healthcare is one of the significant advantages of living in Qatar. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, and the government has made substantial investments in the sector.
- Qatar has both public and private healthcare facilities.
- Public healthcare is provided by the Hamad Medical Corporation, which offers free or low-cost medical services to all residents holding a Hamad Health Card.
- Private healthcare facilities are also available in Qatar, and they offer high-quality medical services.
To access public healthcare services, residents need to apply for a Hamad Health Card, which is available to all residents, including expats. The card allows residents to access a range of medical services, including consultations, diagnostic tests, and medications, at subsidized rates.
Schooling Costs
Qatar has a high-quality education system, and the government has made significant investments in the sector. The country has both public and private schools, and the education system follows the British curriculum.
- The cost of schooling in Qatar varies depending on the type of school and the level of education.
- Kindergarten fees in Qatar range from QAR 5,000 to QAR 18,000 per year, depending on the school and the level of education.
- Primary school fees range from QAR 10,000 to QAR 35,000 per year, while secondary school fees range from QAR 15,000 to QAR 50,000 per year.
- Private international schools are generally more expensive than public schools, with fees ranging from QAR 50,000 to QAR 100,000 per year.
Overall, the cost of living in Qatar is relatively affordable, and the country offers high-quality medical and education services.
Lifestyle and Leisure
Entertainment and Recreation
Living in Qatar offers a wide range of entertainment and recreation options to its residents. Here are some of the most popular activities:
- Fitness Clubs: Numerous fitness clubs in Qatar offer state-of-the-art facilities and fitness classes, including yoga, Pilates, and spinning.
- Cinemas: Qatar has several modern cinemas where movie-goers can enjoy the latest blockbusters from Hollywood and beyond.
- Sports: Qatar is home to several world-class sports facilities, including the Aspire Zone, which offers a range of sports activities, from football to track and field.
- Beaches: Qatar has several beautiful beaches where residents can enjoy themselves and sunbathe.
Clothing and Personal Items
Qatar has a diverse range of shopping options, from traditional markets to modern shopping malls. Here are some of the most popular items and their average prices:
- Jeans: A pair of jeans costs around QAR 250.
- Apples: A kilogram of apples costs around QAR 8.
- Cigarettes: A pack of cigarettes costs around QAR 20.
- Wine: A bottle of wine costs around QAR 100.
- Summer Dress: A summer dress costs around QAR 150.
- Leather Business Shoes: A pair of leather business shoes costs around QAR 400.
Residents of Qatar can expect to pay slightly higher prices for clothing and personal items compared to other countries. However, the quality of the products is generally high, and there are plenty of options to choose from.
In terms of childcare, there are several nurseries and kindergartens in Qatar that offer high-quality care and education for young children. The cost of childcare varies depending on the facility, but parents should expect to pay around QAR 2,500 per month on average.
Qatar MLS
Qatar MLS emerges as an outstanding platform, facilitating connections for real estate professionals and the identification of potential clients. Aligned with Arab MLS as its subsidiary, it establishes itself as the paramount center for innovation and excellence in the real estate domain. Subscribing to Qatar MLS not only opens doors to unparalleled opportunities but also marks a groundbreaking milestone in Qatar’s real estate evolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average monthly cost for a single person living in Qatar?
- The average monthly cost for a single person living in Qatar is around $928.2 (3,382.0 Qatari Riyal), not including rent.
How much does a family of four typically spend per month in Qatar?
- A family of four typically spends around $3,309.1 (12,057.4 Qatari Riyal) per month, not including rent.
What are the average rental prices in Qatar?
- The average rental prices in Qatar vary depending on the area and type of accommodation.
- The rent for an 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in an average area is around 12,174 Qatari Riyal a month.
- For a 45 m2 (480 sqft) furnished studio in an expensive area, the monthly rent is around 1,063 Qatari Riyal.
How does the cost of living in Qatar compare to Dubai?
- The cost of living in Qatar is generally considered to be lower than that of Dubai.
- According to the 2023 Mercer Cost of Living Index, Doha (the capital of Qatar) is ranked 126th out of 227 cities surveyed, while Dubai is ranked 21st.
What salary range is considered sufficient for a comfortable life in Qatar?
- A salary range of $5,000 to $10,000 per month is sufficient for a comfortable life in Qatar.
What are the typical living expenses for expatriates in Qatar?
- The typical living expenses for expatriates in Qatar include accommodation, transportation, food, utilities, and entertainment.
- Accommodation and transportation are usually the most significant expenses for expatriates in Qatar.
- Expatriates can also expect to pay for health insurance and schooling for their children if they have any.
