What Should You Pack for Doha?
Doha’s weather is hot for most of the year, so lightweight, breathable clothes are a must. Spring, summer, and fall can be extremely warm, so pack short sleeves, tank tops, and flowy dresses. During the winter months, you’ll want a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings. It’s also important to keep in mind Qatar’s cultural norms—modest clothing is expected in public spaces, so pack long sleeves and pants for visiting markets and religious sites. Don’t forget your sun protection!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting the Museum of Islamic Art, strolling along the Corniche, relaxing at Katara Beach, and exploring Souq Waqif.
Dress Code
In Doha, modest dress is expected in public, though you can wear swimwear at private beaches and hotel pools. For men and women, it’s recommended to cover shoulders and knees in public spaces, such as Souq Waqif or when visiting museums. If you’re attending cultural events or dining at upscale restaurants, opt for smart-casual attire. Whether you’re at Katara Beach or exploring the Corniche, be respectful of local customs while dressing comfortably for the heat.
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Spring
70 – 90°F
(21 – 32°C
)
Summer
95 – 110°F
(35 – 43°C
)
Fall
80 – 95°F
(27 – 35°C
)
Winter
60 – 75°F
(16 – 24°C
)
Spring: Warm and sunny
Summer: Hot and humid, with clear skies
Fall: Hot during the day with cooler evenings
Winter: Pleasant with mild temperatures and sunny days
Spring
0.5 inches of rain
Summer
0 inches of rain
Fall
0.1 inches of rain
Winter
1.2 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for exploring Souq Waqif or the Corniche—I loved how breathable these were!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for cooler evenings or when visiting air-conditioned malls.
3. Tank Tops: Perfect for private beaches and lounging by the hotel pool.
4. Sweater: Bring a light sweater for winter evenings or highly air-conditioned places like museums.
5. Casual Jacket: Perfect for cooler winter nights and evenings on desert safaris.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and modest for visiting cultural sites—I really liked these for their versatility in Doha’s hot climate.
2. Leggings: Great for layering under long tops or dresses for modesty.
3. Shorts: Perfect for lounging at the hotel or pool, but keep modest shorts for public areas.
4. Dresses: Light, flowy dresses are ideal for evenings out or relaxing at Katara Beach—I loved having these for dinner by the Corniche!
5. Skirt: Stylish and comfortable for exploring museums or shopping.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable shoes are a must for walking around Souq Waqif or along the Corniche—I loved how reliable they were for exploring.
2. Sandals: Ideal for casual days at Katara Beach or lounging by the pool.
3. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat is perfect for sun protection while exploring outdoor attractions.
4. Sunglasses: Essential for protecting your eyes from the bright desert sun.
5. Swimsuit: Great for enjoying the pool or private beaches.
6. Sarong: Perfect for covering up when transitioning from the pool to public areas.
7. Beach Coverup: Stylish and modest for wearing by the pool or beach.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for weekend getaways or shorter trips.
2. Daypack: Great for carrying essentials while exploring Souq Waqif or visiting museums.
3. Purse: A stylish yet practical purse for shopping or dining out in Doha’s malls.
4. Tote Bag: Perfect for carrying beach essentials or extra shopping items from the souks.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Modest clothing: It’s important to cover shoulders and knees in public spaces, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites.
- Light fabrics: Doha’s weather is very warm, so pack breathable clothing to stay comfortable.
- Comfortable shoes: With plenty of walking along the Corniche and in the souks, comfortable footwear is essential.
- Sun protection: Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong desert sun.
Doha Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT DOHA?
The best time to visit Doha is from November to March, when the weather is cooler and pleasant, ranging from 60 to 75°F (16 to 24°C). November’s also great because it coincides with the FIFA World Cup season and cultural festivals, making the city vibrant with events and perfect for sightseeing.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN DOHA?
Doha Tribeca Film Festival (November): A large event showcasing international films, perfect for solo travelers and film buffs.
Qatar National Day (December): A huge celebration with fireworks, parades, and cultural performances—great for families and groups.
Eid Al-Fitr (dates vary): Celebrating the end of Ramadan with feasts and activities, ideal for experiencing local culture with friends and family.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN DOHA?
Doha is a fascinating mix of modern and traditional attractions. One of my favorite places is the Museum of Islamic Art, which offers incredible views of the skyline and the Corniche. For relaxation, head to Katara Beach or explore the lively Souq Waqif, where you can shop for traditional items and enjoy local cuisine. The Corniche is also perfect for a scenic walk by the water, especially in the evening when the city lights up. Don’t miss a desert safari to experience Qatar’s natural beauty!
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT DOHA?
3-5 days is ideal to see Doha’s highlights, including Souq Waqif, Katara Beach, and a desert safari. Shorter trips can focus on the city’s main cultural sites.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit the Museum of Islamic Art, explore Souq Waqif, and take an evening walk along the Corniche. Spend day two at Katara Beach, followed by a desert safari.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the Pearl-Qatar and enjoy lunch at a waterside restaurant. Spend day four visiting the National Museum of Qatar. On day five, explore Katara Cultural Village and relax at Katara Beach.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, take a dhow cruise along the Corniche. Spend day seven shopping at Villaggio Mall and visit Aspire Park for some relaxation.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit Al Zubarah Fort for a glimpse of Qatar’s history. Spend day nine at the Falcon Souk. On day ten, relax at the Banana Island Resort for a luxurious experience.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, visit Al Khor for a day trip by the beach. Spend day twelve kayaking in the mangroves at Al Thakira. On days thirteen and fourteen, take a longer desert safari with overnight camping to experience the beauty of Qatar’s desert.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN DOHA?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR DOHA?
Heavy winter coat: Doha’s winters are mild, so a light jacket will suffice.
Revealing clothing: Modesty is key, especially when visiting public spaces or cultural sites.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO DOHA ?
Airfare: $600-$1,500 depending on the season and departure city. Prices rise during peak holiday periods.
Accommodation: $100-$300 per night, with higher prices at luxury hotels.
Transportation: $10-$30 per day for taxis or ridesharing services, with affordable public transport options.
Meals: $30-$80 per day, depending on where you choose to dine, with affordable street food and high-end dining options available.
Activities: $20-$100 per day for entry fees, dhow cruises, or desert safaris.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN DOHA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is appreciated in Doha, especially in restaurants and for hotel services. It’s typical to tip 10-15% in restaurants, and a small tip is welcome for taxi drivers and hotel staff.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT DOHA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Dress modestly: Covering shoulders and knees is recommended when visiting public spaces and cultural sites.
- Stay hydrated: Doha’s desert climate can be intense, so always carry water.
- Plan for heat: Avoid outdoor activities in the middle of the day during summer months.
- Use public transport: Doha’s metro is clean, efficient, and a great way to avoid traffic.