Cost of Living in Qatar

Qatar’s wealth is on par with other Gulf regional power players, and the country is among those nations with the highest GDP per capita in the world, creating the impression that all residents benefit from a high standard of living. In reality, though, there is a huge wealth gap in Qatar, with the highest echelons of society mostly made up of locals. Below them are wealthier expats, middle management and unskilled workers.

Lucrative employment packages are the main draw for many expats, but salaries in Qatar are not as attractive as they once were, while goods and services have become more expensive. Recent reports of pay cuts for expats, primarily those working for the government, are even more worrying.

This might make the country seem less appealing but, in the wake of financial and economic issues, there are still opportunities to make and save money in Qatar.

Cost of accommodation in Qatar

Rent prices in Qatar depend on the type of property and its location, and can be ridiculously high for expat accommodation. Prices also depend on whether a place is furnished or unfurnished, but it doesn’t hurt to try to negotiate a lower price.

Most expats in Qatar are based in Doha and choose to live in an area based on availability and its proximity to work or their children's school. Of course, some areas are more expensive than others.

Some expat salaries include a housing allowance that is either paid in monthly instalments or in one lump sum, so it is good to double-check this. Others might include a shipping allowance, which could be used to bring over larger or more expensive items, depending on how long an expat intends to stay. Furniture, home accessories and electronics are expensive in Qatar, and local stores may not have the range or quality expats are used to.

Utilities are reasonably priced, but extra accommodation costs can add up. Some apartments have maintenance fees, so expats should find out whether the tenant or the landlord is responsible for paying those.

Cost of transport in Qatar

Petrol in Qatar is cheap, which adds to the enthusiasm people have for cars in this part of the world and may explain the limited public transport system.

Hiring a driver and buying or renting a car are all viable options. While drivers might be less hassle, they may not allow as much freedom. Still, they might be economical for expats who only plan on travelling for work and grocery shopping. There are plenty of car rental companies in Qatar, many of which offer better rates for longer lease periods.

Buying a new car is not a problem, but the high turnover rate of expats means that there are very good deals on used vehicles. When deciding on a car, it is important to note that most European and American car parts are more expensive and harder to source than Asian brands.

Free parking in Qatar is available in certain public places and shopping centres, but parking and speeding violations come with hefty fines.

It is also important to remember that Qatar is not the cheapest travel destination. Most employment packages offer expats a travel allowance or annual flights to their home country, but getting there is often expensive, especially during the summer and at the end of the year.

Cost of education in Qatar

The free public school system in Qatar is almost exclusively for locals, so foreigners will have to pay for their children’s education. Although the quality of private education is good, it can be costly.  

Many employers offer an education allowance, but it's good to verify this. School fees vary depending on the school and the child’s grade level. There will also be additional costs such as application costs, excursions, uniforms and transport fees.

Cost of groceries in Qatar

Qatar imports most of its food products, so while expats may be able to find familiar brands, they will be far more expensive than local equivalents. Organic produce, meat and dairy products are available but come at a price.

A small selection of local fruit, vegetables and fish can be quite reasonable, while fresh Qatari flatbreads are downright cheap. Depending on the size of their family, expats may spend at least 10 percent of their salaries on food.