Document Attestation
The most tedious part of any Qatar move. Start this immediately — it takes 4-8 weeks.
What needs attesting:
- Degree certificate(s) — all degrees, including PhD if applicable
- Marriage certificate
- Birth certificates for all children
- School reports from previous school
- Employment references (for public sector roles)
The process:
- 1. Notarise/solicitor certification in UK
- 2. Foreign Office apostille (FCDO Legalisation Office)
- 3. Qatar Embassy attestation in London
Pro tip: Use an attestation service. Costs ~£100-200 per document but saves weeks of chasing.
QID (Qatar ID)
Your employer sponsors your QID. You cannot get one independently.
- Medical test: Blood test + chest X-ray. Takes 1 day.
- Fingerprinting: At MOI (Ministry of Interior). Appointment required.
- Processing: 2-4 weeks after medical clears.
Why you need it: Bank account, driving licence, health card, school enrolment. Everything.
Healthcare
Health Card: Download the Nar'aakom app. Register with QID. Choose your health centre. Free or heavily subsidised treatment at Hamad Medical Corporation facilities.
Private healthcare: Most expats use private for convenience. Al Ahli, Doha Clinic, Medicentre are popular. Check what's covered by your insurance.
Paediatricians: Book early — good ones have waiting lists. Ask your compound neighbours for recommendations.
Driving & Transport
Can you use your UK licence? For the first 6 months, yes. After that, you need a Qatar licence.
Getting a Qatar licence: QID + eye test + theory test + practical test. If you have a UK licence, you may be exempt from the practical test — check with your employer.
Buying vs leasing:
- Lease: 2,500-4,000 QAR/month. Maintenance included. Most common for expats.
- Buy second-hand: 30,000-60,000 QAR for a reliable SUV. Better long-term if staying 3+ years.
Road rules: Drive defensively. Indicate early. Roundabouts: give way to left. Speed cameras are everywhere. Fines are steep.
Essential Apps
| App | What It Does | Why You Need It |
|---|---|---|
| Nar'aakom | Health services | Health card registration, appointments, medical records |
| Metrash | Government services | Vehicle transfer, special car card, government transactions |
| Kharmaa | Utilities | Pay DEWA bills, track electricity/water usage |
| Uber | Transport | Reliable when you don't have a car yet |
| Snoonu | Delivery | Food, groceries, pharmacy delivery |
| QNB / Bank app | Banking | Transfers, bills, local payments |
Banking
Popular with British expats: QNB and HSBC International. Both offer QAR/GBP transfers.
What you need: QID, employment letter, proof of address (UK or Qatar), passport.
Timeline: You cannot open an account before arriving. Day 1 priority once you have QID.
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