Cost of Living in Doha

With one of the highest per capita incomes in the world, it’s expected that Doha’s cost of living might be quite high. However, it remains relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the Gulf region. Prices are competitive, and day-to-day expenses can be manageable, particularly for those with well-structured employment packages.

With tax-free incentives, the cost of living in Qatar’s capital can be quite attractive, but expenses ultimately depend on your employment package, lifestyle choices, and spending habits.

Cost of accommodation in Doha

Accommodation in Doha is generally financed by your employer, particularly if you work in sectors like oil and gas, healthcare, or education. However, not all industries offer housing benefits, so it’s important to check your contract.

Within expat compounds, rent often includes access to communal areas, such as a gym, pool, and even mini-markets and nurseries. The prices of stand-alone villas are set by the landlord or owner. Rents have remained relatively stable, with high demand keeping occupancy levels high.

There are areas in Doha where expats can own property. Among the most popular is the Pearl development project, a mix of commercial, retail, and residential space (including apartments and villas) built on reclaimed land. Buying property is expensive and complicated, so most expats prefer to rent. Expats looking to buy can only do so in designated freehold zones such as The Pearl and Lusail.

Renting Accommodation in Doha
Best Places to Live in Doha

Cost of transport in Doha

Doha has been upgrading its transport network recently and has well-established and maintained bus routes powered by Mowasalat. Buses, along with the new metro system, are a great and affordable way of getting around in Doha. The city’s local government also has plans to develop an integrated rail structure.

Taxis, both private and public, are widespread. Public taxis (Karwa) are metered, and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem are available. Uber and Careem tend to be cheaper for short distances, but surge pricing applies during peak hours.

Quality used cars tend to have a high resale value in Qatar. Car insurance rates in Doha are generally lower than in Dubai but slightly higher than in Oman and Bahrain. Comprehensive insurance is required for new car owners until the loan is paid off. Employment contracts may sometimes cover travel expenses, including initial flight tickets and even a car.

Getting Around in Doha

Cost of groceries in Doha

Qatar relies heavily on imports for nearly everything, from fruit and vegetables to meat and other goods, making food prices in Doha high. Buying local will always save a buck or two. It’s best to shop around for certain items, as they vary by several riyals depending on the outlet. Prices remain stable, and supermarkets offer discounts on over 1,000 essential products during Ramadan. Hydroponic farming has been expanding, increasing the supply of local vegetables.

There is a range of grocery shops, from the bargain-favourite Carrefour to the pricier Mega Mart, which tends to feature international brands and speciality items, such as organically farmed eggs. More affordable options include Lulu Hypermarket and Safari Mall.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Doha

Eating out and entertainment in Doha can be expensive compared to your home country. Doha is known for its high-end dining options and luxury leisure activities, which come at a premium. More affordable options are also available for those looking to save money.

In terms of entertainment, you can expect to find a diverse range of options, including cinemas, shopping centres, museums, and theme parks. There is also a lively nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and lounges offering a variety of music and entertainment options, and rooftop lounges and private social clubs becoming more common.

Lifestyle in Doha

Cost of education in Doha

Some employee packages include schooling for children; many have a maximum number of children they will fund. Some policies afford school compensation for children from three years of age and others only from age five. These details vary, so it’s best to check with your recruiter or the hiring business’s human resources department from the onset of contract negotiations.

Tuition at international schools is expensive and can increase by 5 to 10 percent annually, depending on the school and the child’s age. Some of the most sought-after schools often have waiting lists of one or two years.

Additional costs beyond tuition – such as uniforms, transport, and extracurricular activities – can add 10 to 20 percent to your total school-related expenses.

Education and Schools in Doha
International Schools in Doha

Cost of healthcare in Doha

Qatar’s Hamad hospital and clinic system provides free healthcare to citizens and residents. To use these services, you must obtain a health card from your employer’s Human Resources office or via the hospital system. Emergency services are free, while visits to government clinics without a health card will incur a fee. The health card is issued at PHCC centres.

Because everyone in the country has access to these services, lines can be agonisingly long, and the appointment system is not always punctual. Wait times for public hospitals can range from weeks to months, especially for specialist services.

There are a variety of private hospitals in Doha that offer excellent outpatient and surgical care. More employers are now covering private health insurance in mid to high-tier jobs, reducing out-of-pocket medical expenses.

Healthcare, Medical Insurance and Recommended Hospitals in Doha

Cost of living in Qatar chart

Prices may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Doha in March 2025.