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Qatar cannot be separated from its tradition of date cultivation, Arabic coffee, bakhoor incense, oud and pearls. Travellers can experience these traditions served by the hospitality of the Qatari people through their cuisines and gatherings.
The country is also well-known for its excellent performance in football among Asian countries. Following their performance, the country is set to host the World Cup 2022, the first country to do so in the Arab region.
Let’s see what else is special in Qatar?
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Good news for travellers from Singapore! Qatar has included Singapore in the Green list countries.
Fully vaccinated travellers or children below 12 years old accompanied by vaccinated family members are exempted from quarantine upon arrival and only required to have a negative PCR test result 72 hours before arrival. This PCR test requirement applies to unvaccinated travellers too.
Additionally, unvaccinated travellers need to complete a 7-day home or hotel quarantine and PCR test on Day 6 after arrival in Qatar.
Other things to know:
Check here for the latest travel advisories.
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Travellers from outside of Qatar can reach the country by air. There are two main airports in Qatar, both of which are situated in its capital, Doha.
Currently, Hamad International Airport caters for all international commercial traffic by air, while Doha International Airport serves as a military and aviation training ground as well as an alternative airport to support the incoming air traffic for the World Cup 2022.
Among the airlines that fly from Singapore to Qatar are Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Gulf Air, SriLankan Airlines and Asiana.
Passengers can choose to either fly directly or transit on the way on these airlines.
Flight ticket prices may vary between SGD 1600-8203 for a round trip on economy class subject to flying dates, transits and flight services.
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Travellers have different options to move around Qatar.
For flexible journeys around the country, travellers may opt to ride Karwa taxis or hire car rentals. Alternatively, travellers may ride on the public bus or rail network to reach their destinations.
If you plan to ride on public buses, be sure to purchase a Karwa Smartcard, which will facilitate your payment for bus fare as cash is not accepted on board.
Meanwhile, Doha Metro rapid transit system offers three network lines that connect the cities to major coastal, educational and cultural attractions.
Travel tips:
Souq Waqif, or "The Standing Market", is one of the most visited attractions by tourists in Doha, Qatar.
The market made its name centuries ago as an important trading place for mainly livestock goods by the Bedouins and the locals.
Due to the decline of visits in the 1990s and fire mishap at the market in 2003, Souq Waqif underwent massive reconstruction and renovation for two years, mainly to restore the authentic traditional Qatari architectural design and old structures that were built before the 1950s.
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Souq Waqif has since become an important tourist attraction in Qatar, with a vibrant interior look and mesmerising illumination of lights at the entire marketplace building at night.
Visitors will be spoilt for choices while shopping at the market, with many handicrafts and souvenirs to purchase from. This market is also an excellent place to shop traditional Qatari garments and ouds.
Things to know:
The National Museum of Qatar was originally the palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al-Thani, former Emir of Qatar, which has been carefully conserved and restored into a home of historical and cultural Qatari heritage for public viewing.
The museum offers a unique touring experience around its eleven galleries by engaging visitors' senses through music, film display and aromatics while unveiling the story of Qatar.
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Since its recent opening in March 2019, the museum has displayed various captivating artefact displays, including the oldest Holy Quran in Qatar and the Pearl Carpet of Baroda.
Adhering to the COVID-19 measures, visitors need to purchase the admission tickets online prior to their visit as the museum is currently limiting the number of visitors in a day.
Things to know:
As one of the strategic locations to view the scenery of Doha city, Doha Corniche is undoubtedly among the top-visited attractions in Qatar.
Visitors can take time strolling down along the seven-kilometre waterfront promenade for sightseeing and leisure activities.
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The entire Corniche is divided into three parts: the Corniche Promenade and Park, Corniche Street, and the Government zone.
Corniche Street connects to the West Bay, the best skyline view of Doha's skyscrapers.
While walking along Corniche Street, visitors will come across a giant pearl monument constructed to signify the importance of pearls to Qatar's history.
Things to know:
Visitors are highly recommended to explore the Katara Cultural Village if you seek for arts and cultural experience.
Situated between the West Bay and The Pearl residential area, Katara was envisioned to be the centre of multi-cultural exchange and guardian to Qatari traditions and heritage.
The cultural village hosts events such as exhibitions, festivals, lectures, music performances, annual programs and many more.
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Do not miss visiting spectacular landmarks located around the village, including its amphitheatre, Katara's Gardens, the Masjid of Katara and its halls and galleries.
In addition, visitors can discover other interesting activities at the Arab Postal Stamp Museum, Katara Art Centre, Planetarium and QM Gallery Katara situated within the village.
Things to know:
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To ensure your safety and convenience while getting around Qatar, travellers may consider the following tips:
Go to a trip in Qatar now and experience its many wonders! Book your flight via Traveloka for the best deals!