×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Retire in Doha, Qatar | Expat Exchange
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Doha, Qatar

Retire in Doha, Qatar

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jan 03, 2023

Summary: Doha, Qatar is an attractive destination for retirees due to its modern infrastructure, low cost of living, and year-round warm weather. The average temperature in Doha is around 77°F (25°C) in the summer and 64°F (18°C) in the winter. There are several retirement communities in Doha, offering a range of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Doha is around $200,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home is around $250,000 USD.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

What is it like to retire in Doha?

"Doha is a vibrant and exciting city for retirees. There is an active expat community, with many retirees from all over the world living in the city. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the Museum of Islamic Art, the Souq Waqif, and the Katara Cultural Village. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as golf, tennis, and sailing. For those looking for a nightlife, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore," remarked one retiree in Doha.

Allianz CareAllianz Care
Get Quote

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.

Allianz CareAllianz Care

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.
Get Quote

What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"If you're considering retiring abroad, do your research, compare costs, and make sure all the details are worked out before you move. Consider the language, culture, medical care, taxes and legal requirements. Also look into pensions, currency exchange rates, healthcare, visas, housing and transportation. Make sure to find a safe and secure place and an active community to live in. Talk to expats or recent retirees in the area to learn more. Have a backup plan in case of emergencies. Finally, make sure you have an emergency fund, health insurance and long-term service contracts in place just in case," explained one retiree living in Doha.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Doha?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Doha is the cost of living. The cost of basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation can be quite high, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Additionally, the climate in Qatar can be quite extreme, with temperatures reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius in the summer months. This can make it difficult to stay comfortable and healthy in the heat. Furthermore, Qatar is a very conservative country, and there may be restrictions on certain activities and behaviors that could be difficult to adjust to. Finally, the language barrier can be a challenge, as Arabic is the official language of Qatar and English is not widely spoken," said one retiree in Doha.

GeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

Learn MoreGet Quote

GeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

Learn MoreGet Quote

What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Doha?

"Retiring in Doha offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The city is home to a vibrant culture, with a wide range of activities and attractions to explore. The city is also home to some of the world's best shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The climate is warm and sunny year-round, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, Qatar offers a low cost of living and a high quality of life, making it an attractive destination for retirees," said one retiree in living in Doha, Qatar.

What are healthcare services like in Doha?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Doha. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in Doha are of a high standard, with a range of both public and private hospitals and clinics available. The public healthcare system is free for all citizens and residents, and is funded by the government. Private healthcare is also available, with a range of international hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of services. The country also has a number of specialist medical centers, such as the Qatar Diabetes Center and the Qatar Rehabilitation Institute. In addition, there are a number of pharmacies and health stores throughout the city, providing access to a range of medicines and health products," explained a retiree in Doha.

How do I meet people in Doha?

When we asked people living in Doha about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Doha can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports teams, book clubs, and language classes. Expats can also meet people by attending events hosted by the Qatar British Business Forum, the Qatar-America Institute, or the Qatar-France Institute. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending local festivals, such as the Qatar International Food Festival, or by joining a local gym or yoga studio. Finally, expats can meet people by attending networking events, such as the Qatar Business Networking Group, or by joining online forums and social media groups," said one retiree in Doha.

"There are just too many to list. I joined one of the many Dive Clubs they offer and learned to scuba. I did 40 dives," commented one retiree living in Doha, Qatar.

What is life like in Doha?

When we asked people living in Doha what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Doha is generally quite comfortable. The city is modern and well-developed, with plenty of amenities and services to make life easier. The cost of living is relatively low, and the city is well-connected to the rest of the world, making it easy to stay in touch with family and friends. The climate is hot and dry, but the city is well-equipped with air conditioning and other modern comforts. The culture is welcoming and diverse, with a variety of international restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Expats and digital nomads in Doha can enjoy a high quality of life, with plenty of opportunities to explore the city and its surroundings," said one retiree in living in Doha, Qatar.

"At that time, the open air markets were wonderful. I don't know if they still exist. Shopping was probably the most popular thing people did for entertainment. There were also many "club" activities which required membership of some sort," explained a retiree in Doha.

Allianz Care

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.

Learn MoreGet Quote

Allianz Care

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What do I need to know before retiring in Doha?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Doha, they said:

"Before retiring in Doha, expats should be aware of the country's strict laws and regulations. It is important to familiarize oneself with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. Expats should also research the cost of living in Doha, as it is generally more expensive than other parts of the world. Additionally, expats should be aware of the climate in Doha, which is hot and humid for most of the year. Finally, expats should consider the availability of healthcare and other services in Doha before making the decision to retire there," said one retiree in Doha.

"Explore and then join a club or some organization where you could meet a wide diversity of people from many other countries," commented one retiree living in Doha, Qatar.

What type of recreational activities are there in Doha?

"1. Aspire Park: Aspire Park is a vast green space in Doha, offering a range of recreational activities such as jogging, picnicking, and playgrounds for children. The park also features a beautiful lake, fountains, and various sports facilities. 2. Museum of Islamic Art Park: This park is located near the Museum of Islamic Art and offers a serene environment for relaxation and leisure. It features lush green lawns, walking paths, and stunning views of the Doha skyline and the Arabian Gulf. 3. Aqua Park Qatar: Aqua Park is a popular water park in Doha, featuring a variety of water slides, wave pools, and a lazy river. The park also offers a range of dining options and a dedicated area for children's activities. 4. Katara Beach: Katara Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand located within the Katara Cultural Village. The beach offers a range of water sports activities, such as kayaking, parasailing, and banana boat rides, as well as sun loungers and umbrellas for relaxation. 5. Losail International Circuit: This world-class motorsports venue hosts various international racing events, including the MotoGP World Championship. Visitors can also participate in track days, where they can drive their own cars or motorcycles on the circuit. 6. City Center Ice Rink: Located within the City Center Mall, this ice rink offers a fun and refreshing recreational activity for visitors of all ages. Skating lessons and ice hockey sessions are also available. 7. Al Shaqab Equestrian Center: This state-of-the-art equestrian facility offers horse riding lessons, show jumping, and dressage events. Visitors can also enjoy guided tours of the center and learn about Qatar's rich equestrian heritage. 8. Doha Golf Club: This 18-hole championship golf course offers a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience for players of all skill levels. The club also features a driving range, putting greens, and a clubhouse with dining and leisure facilities. 9. The Pearl-Qatar: This luxurious man-made island features a range of recreational facilities, including marinas, beaches, and a variety of dining and shopping options. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque promenade. 10. Simaisma Beach: Located north of Doha, Simaisma Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and beach sports. The beach also features a family-friendly park with playgrounds and barbecue facilities," explained one retiree living in Doha.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Doha?

"Expats in Doha, often shop for groceries at popular supermarkets such as Lulu Hypermarket (https://www.luluhypermarket.com/), Carrefour (https://www.carrefourqatar.com/), and Al Meera (https://www.almeera.com.qa/). These supermarkets offer a wide range of local and international products, catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of the expat community. For fresh produce, expats can visit the Wholesale Market (https://www.mme.gov.qa/cui/index.dox), which offers a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other food items at reasonable prices. The market is located in the Abu Hamour area and is a popular destination for both locals and expats. For shopping malls, expats can visit the Villaggio Mall (https://www.villaggioqatar.com/), which is one of the most popular malls in Doha, offering a wide range of international brands, restaurants, and entertainment options. Another popular shopping destination is the Mall of Qatar (https://www.mallofqatar.com.qa/), which features numerous shops, dining options, and a cinema. For traditional and local shopping experiences, expats can visit the Souq Waqif (https://www.visitqatar.qa/discover/tourist-hotspots/souq-waqif.html), a historical market that offers a variety of traditional Qatari products, including spices, handicrafts, and textiles. The souq is also home to several restaurants and cafes, making it a popular destination for both shopping and dining. In addition to these shopping destinations, expats can also find numerous smaller shops and convenience stores throughout the city, catering to their daily needs and preferences," remarked one retiree in Doha.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Doha, Qatar

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Allianz CareAllianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Contribute to Qatar Network Contribute
Help others in Qatar by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Qatar.

William Russell
William Russell

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides