When you’re planning to live in Qatar, you should be prepared to have an entirely different experience, far removed from the ones that you have back home. Qatar is such a unique country for several reasons. For one, the country is really a cultural blend of various influences. Also, with its rapid rise in economic progress, there’s a few countries like this one that has traces of traditional aspects but is definitely modern at the same time.
Qatar is not only rich in a daily influx of expats from all over the world, in many cases bringing their cultural heritage with them, it is also rich in natural resources. Qatar has a lot of wonderful beaches. While beaches are often associated with tropical nations, Qatar has beaches in the backdrop of jaw-dropping desert landscapes. With all these attributes, it is no wonder so many people want to live and work in Qatar. But before you do so, you have to ask the following financial questions.
How to be Prepared Financially Before Going to Qatar
1. What kind of lifestyle will I have?
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— Mahira Ahmed Miyanji (@MahiraMiyanji) March 18, 2019
Qatar’s lifestyle is basically hinged in two aspects: money and weather. There are lots of job opportunities for expats in Qatar, especially in the oil and gas sector. It is the wealthiest nation in the world right now, per capita GDP-wise, and it is open to foreign workers, so much so that only about a quarter of the population are locals. There are also many outdoor activities like camping, beach parties, and entertainment destinations like hotels, malls and theme parks.
2. How much is the cost of living?
The amount of money you spend and save in Qatar depends entirely on your lifestyle. It is possible to live a comfortable life in Qatar because of the lucrative jobs available and the fact that you can still adjust your budget so you can save more money. There are affordable apartments and villas and if you really want to go the cheap route, you can try living in a bed space. You can also choose to live near your workplace so you don’t have to pay for transportation.
3. Where will I live in Qatar?
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There is a variety of choices when it comes to accommodation in Qatar. If you want to live a fancy life, you can buy a place among luxurious villas. You can also enjoy living at modern apartments and compounds. If you’re moving to Qatar as a family, then compounds are usually the way to go. In fact, some companies rent entire compounds for their employees and the family of their employees. Some companies also provide housing allowance to their employees, which influences the kind of homes they choose.
4. What is traveling like in Qatar?
If you have your own car in Qatar, driving around is oftentimes cheaper and more accessible than public transportation. That’s because for an oil and gas rich nation, petrol is really cheap in this country. Also, Qatar’s public transportation is not yet as effective as it could be, although progress in this area is quite evident, and the government has made it one of its main priorities.
5. Is healthcare free in Qatar?
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The short answer is no. Public healthcare is subsidized in Qatar, so any cost in treatment is significantly reduced. However, expats are still going to pay some of the costs. Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), the state-run corporation in charge of public medical facilities, has always ensured high quality healthcare, plus Qatar’s private healthcare is also excellent, albeit more expensive.
These, and many other questions, are what you need consider before setting foot in Qatar. Is it worth the effort and preparation? Yes it is, because Qatar is incredibly modern, wonderfully cultural, relatively open and friendly, and one of the best countries to work in for expats.