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Moving to Doha, Qatar from UK

Costs, Top Moving Companies and Lifestyle

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From the high-end shopping malls to fancy restaurants, desert safaris, and cricket communities—there’s a lot to explore in Doha and expats know it. If you’re moving to Doha from the UK, this guide is for you. Read on the costs of moving, the best movers, life in Doha as an expat, and other things to know before relocating.

Cost of Moving to Doha from the UK

The average cost of moving to Doha from the UK ranges from £3,030 to £8,411 and takes approximately two weeks with sea freight. Air freight can move your belongings within days, but the costs are significantly higher—from £7,610 to £8,411 for a one-bedroom.

The moving costs to Doha often include door-to-door transport and customs clearance, but exclude services like insurance and storage. Prices between movers can change based on seasonality, exact distance and volume, and your needs.

VolumeAverage cost
One-bedroom apartment£3,030 – £4,416
Three-bedroom house£6,147 – £8,411

Disclaimer: The prices above are estimates.

Are you relocating to Doha from the UK? It’s time to declutter and pack your belongings! Get an idea of what your moving volume will be like with the calculator below.

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Best Companies to Move to Doha, Qatar

You’re moving to Doha, Qatar but now what? Let’s start by researching the best moving company for your needs. At Sirelo, there’s a large database of trustworthy, renowned international movers that can help ship your belongings. Browse their location, services, and reviews. Select your preferred movers and get free quotes to compare!

These are our preferred movers to relocate from the UK to Doha, Qatar.

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Work Visa for Doha, Qatar

Under the Visa Waiver Programme, UK citizens can stay visa-free in Qatar for up to 30 days. This visa does not permit employment or long-term residence. If you plan a permanent move to Doha, Qatar, you’ll need a valid work or residence visa.

Do I Need a Visa for Doha From UK?

UK citizens who would like to work in Doha need a visa. There are several options:

  • Work visa with sponsorship by a Qatari employer.
  • Temporary work visa for short-term employment contracts (up to 6 months) with sponsorship and approval from the Ministry of Labour.
  • Business visa for short visits to attend meetings or conferences.
  • Family visa for dependents of expatriates who have a Residence Permit.

Most British expats moving to Doha will go the work visa route. They’ll secure a job in Qatar, after which the employer handles most of the visa application process. This includes submitting documents (passport, job contract, authenticated certificates, etc.), a medical check-up, fingerprints, and ID registration.

Living in Doha, Qatar

Doha, Qatar has been attracting expats from around the globe for a while now! The British Embassy often hosts events to help UK nationals settle in. Foreigners who settled in Doha love the mix of modern luxury and heritage, as well as Qatar’s booming economy. Let’s look at what to expect from life in Doha as an expat.

Average Cost of Living in Doha, Qatar

You’re probably curious about the living expenses in Qatar. The good news is that you spend way less in Doha, Qatar! Without rent, the cost of living in Doha is around 38% lower than in London. And your local purchasing power is almost 43% higher! Plus, there’s no income tax.

We’ll look at the cost of living in Doha compared to London below.

ItemLondon, UKDoha, Qatar
Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant)£20.00£5.75
Pint of Beer£6.00£8.91
Regular Cappuccino£3.75£4.09
Eggs (dozen)£3.52£2.07
Single Transport Ticket£2.80£0.45
Monthly Rent (1-bed, City Center)£2,205.32£1,280.13
Monthly Rent (1-bed, Outside Center)£1,614.38£846.77
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)£3,252.58£2,740.50

Source: Numbeo

Best Areas to Live in Doha

When moving to Doha from London, you’ll probably upgrade your apartment to a luxury condo with a view! Here’s where most expats settle when relocating to Doha, Qatar.

  • The Pearl Qatar: Luxury apartments with waterfront views are what you’ll find on this man-made island. There are plenty of recreational activities, international cuisines to try, and boutiques to shop at. It’s vibrant and close to schools and workplaces.
  • West Bay: This business district has high-rise apartments with beautiful city and sea views. The central location makes traveling to offices, malls, and parks easy.
  • Al Waab and Al Sadd: These more residential areas are known for their villas, schools, and family-friendly facilities.

Living and Working in Doha

Many Brits are attracted to living and working in Doha because of the tax-free income and career opportunities. Industries like construction, education, and oil and gas are all booming. Foreigners moving to Doha often work in senior positions in healthcare, education, and hospitality sectors.

Living in Doha as an Expat

Many expats who have moved to Doha, Qatar rave about the safety, modern infrastructure, and high standard of living. While rent prices can be steep, the lack of income tax makes up for it, as well as the stunning views that the many luxury high-rise apartments offer.

Many expats need time to adapt to the more conservative dress codes and public behaviour, including alcohol usage. That said, locals are welcoming and schools with British curriculum are widely available.

Pros and Cons of Living in Doha

Advantages

 No income tax
 High standard of living
 World-class healthcare system
 Safe and family-friendly
 Wide range of international schools
 Mild winters
 Affordable utilities and transportation
 Fun outdoor activities
 Thriving British expat community
 Well-connected travel hub

Disadvantages

 High cost of living
 Conservative cultural norms
 Alcohol regulations
 Language barrier
 Extremely hot summers
 Limited green spaces
 Traffic and congestion
 Visa depending on sponsorship

Checklist: Moving to Doha What to Bring?

So you’re moving to Doha, what do you bring? In this packing checklist, we’ve listed all the important things to know before moving to Doha.

  • Essential documents: Valid passport, Qatar residence/work visa, copies of certifications and important documents, vaccination records.
  • Modest clothing: Pack light and breathable clothes with long sleeves, formal wear, comfortable shoes, and layers for the cooler winter evenings.
  • Electronics: Take your smartphone, laptop, chargers, and other devices. England and Qatar both use type G plugs, so you don’t need an adapter.
  • Household items: While you can easily buy household items in Doha, you could bring your favorite kitchen essentials, linens, or typically British products (like tea).
  • Leisure items: Bring your gear if you’re an outdoor enthusiast. Think golf clubs, tennis rackets, and swimwear.

Frequently asked questions

In Which Country Is Doha?

Is It Safe in Doha?

Should One Move From London to Doha?