Country Guides

Medical Cover in Qatar

If you're planning to relocate to Qatar, you'll probably have accommodation and employment organised, but have you thought about healthcare? Aetna Global Benefits (AGB) can help arrange full health insurance for expatriates, whatever the personal circumstances.

Vaccinations

You should consult your doctor before travelling for current requirements. All travellers should also ensure that their tetanus and polio shots are up to date.

Health Care

If you're planning to live in Qatar, you have to undergo an extensive health test including a chest x-ray and blood test to check for diseases such as HIV. Failing the health test means you will not be granted residency. Qatar is investing heavily in its healthcare infrastructure and has well equipped, first class hospitals in the capital, Doha where most treatments are available including psychiatric and cancer treatment. Medical care may be limited or unavailable outside Doha. Expatriates who have a full residency permit can apply for a Health Card which costs 100 Riyals a year. This entitles them to free treatment at public hospitals and subsidised prescription medicines, however bureaucracy can be confusing and complicated. You are strongly advised to take out adequate expatriate medical cover.

Political Concerns

Qatar is a stable, peaceful state. The country's first elections took place in 1999. The ruling Amir remains committed to a programme of reform to increase popular participation in decision-making, modernisation, openness and media freedom. A new constitution came into force in 2005, providing for elections, the establishment of an independent judiciary, equal rights for men and women and freedom of expression for the press, freedom of assembly and freedom of worship.

Other Risks

Qatari society is conservative. It's a good idea to be sensitive to these different cultural norms. Public consumption of alcohol is only allowed in a handful of hotel bars and women in particular are well advised to keep legs, arms and shoulders covered when visiting public places including shopping malls and restaurants. Summer temperatures are extreme in Qatar so drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and use a high factor sunscreen.