Welcome to Qatar
We are delighted to welcome you to Qatar, a country that blends traditional charm with modern elegance. As you prepare to attend the 18th Annual MENASA NASPA Conference, we invite you to explore the rich culture, history, and attractions that Qatar has to offer.
Visa Requirements
Qatar is one of the world's most welcoming countries for visitors. You probably don’t need a visa as nationalities from 101 countries can enter visa-free, and all others can apply for an e-visa using the Hayya platform online.
For more information, please visit Qatar's Visa website.
Iconic Places to Visit
A masterpiece of modern architecture housing a vast collection of Islamic art.MIA houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Islamic art in the world, with masterpieces from every corner of the globe representing the diversity found in Islamic heritage.
A masterpiece of modern architecture housing a vast collection of Islamic art.MIA houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Islamic art in the world, with masterpieces from every corner of the globe representing the diversity found in Islamic heritage.
A masterpiece of modern architecture housing a vast collection of Islamic art.MIA houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Islamic art in the world, with masterpieces from every corner of the globe representing the diversity found in Islamic heritage.
A masterpiece of modern architecture housing a vast collection of Islamic art.MIA houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Islamic art in the world, with masterpieces from every corner of the globe representing the diversity found in Islamic heritage.
Transportation
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By Air: Hamad International Airport serves as the main gateway.
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Public Transport: Metro and bus services are available.
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Taxis and Rideshares: Widely available throughout the city.
How to get to QU?
There are several transportation options available to reach the QU campus:
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By Own Car: Driving to QU is a straightforward option. You can use local maps or GPS navigation to find the best route to the university.
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By Metro: The Doha Metro offers a convenient way to travel to QU. The Qatar University Metro Station is part of the Doha Metro's Red Line, which runs mostly underground across the city of Doha. From November 2023, Metrolink services M148 and M149 enhance accessibility to/from the Qatar University Metro Station, with M148 serving the University of Doha for Science and Technology and M149 serving new Immigration Department & Doha Institute for Graduate Studies. The metro system is state-of-the-art and provides an efficient and comfortable journey.
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By Taxi or Limousine: Catching a taxi or limousine (like Karwa) is another mode of transport to QU. While it's relatively easy to take a taxi to the university campus, getting a taxi from the campus can be challenging, and you might need to call a taxi company at least an hour ahead of time.
Local Customs and Etiquette
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Dress Code: Business casual is recommended.
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Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
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Currency: The Qatari Riyal (QR) is the official currency.
Health and Safety
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Emergency Numbers: 999 for police, fire, and medical emergencies.
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Hospitals: State-of-the-art medical facilities are available.
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Insurance: Travel insurance with health coverage is recommended.
Doha's Weather
In Qatar, the climate is marked by year-round sunshine, with warm temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 45°C. The country enjoys a pleasant desert climate with hot summers and mild, enjoyable winters, making it suitable for a variety of outdoor activities and exploration throughout the year.
For more information, you can visit Qatar's Climate Guide.
Doha's Top Shopping Malls
If you are seeking to experience the top shopping destinations in Doha, you'll find several malls conveniently accessible by Metro, offering a seamless shopping experience in the vibrant heart of Qatar's capital:
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Lagoona Mall: A high-end destination in the West Bay Lagoon area, offering luxury retail and dining. Accessible via a short ride from Katara Metro Station on the Red Line.
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Doha Festival City: This expansive mall offers a variety of shopping and dining options. You can reach it by taking the Red Line to the Lusail-QNB Metro station, followed by the feeder bus service (M145) to the mall.
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Mall of Qatar: Featuring a range of shops and entertainment, it's directly accessible from Al Riffa station, the last stop on the Green Line.
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Villagio & Hyatt Plaza: Located in the Muaither Area, Villagio is adjacent to the Aziziyah Metro station on the Gold Line. For Hyatt Plaza, use the Metro Link (M313) from the same station.
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City Centre & Gate Mall: Near the DECC Station on the Red Line, these malls are within walking distance and offer a wide array of shopping and dining choices.
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Place Vendôme Mall: A luxurious shopping destination, it is reachable via the Legtaifiya Metro Station on the Red Line. From there, take the Lusail Tram on the Orange Line to Lusail Central Station, which is right outside the mall.
The Doha Metro system, encompassing the Red, Green, and Gold lines, provides efficient access to these major shopping centers, making it easy for conference attendees to explore Doha's retail offerings.