Qatar — Shopping
Shopping
In the 1990s one could be forgiven for thinking that Qatar was intent on erasing all signs of its heritage. Now, the country seems equally bent on trying to fetch some of that character back again. One place where this shift in self-presentation can be seen in action is in central Doha’s Souq Waqif. Successfully rebuilt to look old, the new incarnation of ancient Souq Waqif is the place to shop for traditional instruments, silk, giant aluminum pans, nuts and spices. There are also several large modern malls, with cinemas, restaurants and other facilities as well as brand shops.
Shopping hours: Generally Sat-Thurs 0800-1200 and 1600-1900 or later, with the malls open until 2100 or 2200. Many shops are open on Friday evenings as well.
Currency
Qatari Riyal (QAR; symbol QR) = 100 dirhams. Notes are in denominations of QR500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are in denominations of 50 and 25 dirhams.
Note: The Qatari Riyal is tied to the US Dollar.
Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted.
Travelers Checks
Widely accepted. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveler's checks in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling.
Currency Restrictions
There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency. Israeli currency is prohibited.
Banking Hours
Sun-Wed 0730-1200 and Thurs 7000-11.30. Many banks open for longer hours and open on Saturdays too.
Exchange Rate
| 1.00 GBP = 5.85 QAR |
| 1.00 USD = 3.64 QAR |
| 1.00 EUR = 5.14 QAR |
| Currency conversion rates as of 19 July 2011 |
