TOTAL_YA_HALA_KIT_2018

YA HALA KIT

A WELCOME GUIDE FOR NEW EMPLOYEES

2 13
I QATAR II VISA, TRAVEL
IMMIGRATION
OVERVIEW
Geography 2 ID (Resident Permit), Family Visa 14
Climate 2 E-Gate 15
Demographics 2 Parents’ and Family’s Visit Visa 16
Government 2 Additional Information 16
Culture 3 Metrash2- Services 17
Cultural Do’s & Don’t 4 Leave Notification 18
Arabic Courtesies 9
National Holidays 11
Embassies in Qatar 12
V BANKS & VI FACILITIES
FINANCES
Bank & Finances 34 Medical Care 36
Public/Government 36
Health Card 37
Private Hospitals and Clinics 38
Hiring a Maid 39
Hiring a Fulltime Maid on Your Personal
Sponsorship 39
Hiring a Part time Agency Maid 40
Education 41
Arts 45
Places to Visit, Dining & Restaurants 51
35 77

19 25 33
III TOTAL IN QATAR IV DRIVING IN
QATAR
OVERVIEW
Facts & Figures 20 Roads & Transportation 26
Historical View 21 Driving License 27
Expatriate Employees Driving Test 28
Work Locations 23 Traffic Violations 29
Expatriate Employees Vehicle Registration and
Accommodation and Security Traffic Incidents 29
Contact Information 24 Car Dealers 31
Used Cars 32
Car Insurance 32
VII ANIMAL ENTRY VIII LAW ABOUT
ALCOHOL
& CARE
Animal Entry & Care 78 Law About Alcohol 82
IX & COMMUNITYPLATFORM X REFERENCE
JOB SEARCH, NEWS
Job Search, News and Community 84 Reference 87
81 83 87

I
QATAR
OVERVIEW












1 | YA HALA KIT

Qatar Overview






GENERAL
INFORMATION


GEOGRAPHY DEMOGRAPHICS (2017)
The State of Qatar is a peninsula located in
the western coast of the Arabian Gulf. It Capital Doha
includes several islands, the largest of which Population 2,668,415
are, Halul, Shraouh, and Al-Asshat. At the
same time, Qatar shares its southern border
with Saudi Arabia and a maritime border Area 11,521 square kilometers
with Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Local Time AST (UTC3+)
Iran. (1)
Currency Qatari Riyals (QAR)
CLIMATE Driving on the Right
Official Language Arabic and English
Qatar has a moderate desert climate with Official Religion Islam
mild winters and hot summers. Winter nights Legislator Sharia Law (Islamic)
can be cool, but temperatures rarely drop
below °7C. Humidity levels can be very high Electrical Current 6+ 240 – 220V/50Hz
on the coast during the summer, whereas, A mix of plugs:
rainfall is scarce (average 70 mm per year), -3pin square and
falling on isolated days mainly between -2pin round designs. (1)
October and March. (1)
YA HALA KIT | 2

GOVERNMENT


THE RULING FAMILY
His Highness
Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani
Emir of the State of Qatar
His Highness
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani
Father of Emir
His Highness
Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani
Deputy Emir
His Excellency
Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani
Prime Minister and Minister of Interior
3 | YA HALA KIT

Qatar Overview







CULTURE


CULTURAL
DO’S &
DON’T


DO’S
DRESS MODESTLY
Qataris are proud of their traditional clothing and wear it with grace on a daily basis. Although there is no
dress code as such, it could be best described as modest and conservative. Foreign visitors are not
expected to wear Qatari attire, but should note to dress in a style that is culturally sensitive to Islamic
culture.
YA HALA KIT | 4

DRESS CODES FOR
NATIONALS AND NON-NATIONALS










FOR MEN FOR WOMEN
Qatari men usually wear a long white Qatari women usually have their hair
garment called the “Thobe” over loose covered with a black head-dress called
pants, and a head-dress called “Gitrah” in “Shayla”, their bodies are covered with
white, held on with a black rope called black dress called “Abayah”. Some women
(Iqaal). also cover their face with a black “Niqab”
which may or may not leave the eyes area
Expatriates are expected to respect the uncovered.
modesty by avoiding shorts above
knee-length and sleeveless shirts in public. As for expatriates, the hot climate in Qatar
calls for informal but nonetheless smart
dressing. Women should avoid wearing
spaghetti-strap or see-through blouses and
short skirts.
Watch out for gender-specific queues and counters namely, note the separate
waiting areas for men and women in health centers, counters in banks and
the government sector.
5 | YA HALA KIT

Qatar OverviewQatar Overview


















Enjoy Qatar at night Qatar is considered one of the safest places in the world. Those wishing to socialize
in hotels can do so until the late hours of the night. Moreover, during the Holy Month of Ramadan, you
will see people around town well into the early hours of the morning. However, please note that alcohol
is not served in hotels during Ramadan.
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DONT’S
For cultural reasons, do not
be offended if your
handshake is refused by a
member of the opposite sex,
especially local or modest
women. It is nothing
personal; rather, it’s a
religious prohibition
applicable to Muslims and
non-Muslims alike.
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Qatar Overview








DO NOT TAKE
PHOTOGRAPHS
without permission of people
(including the police or armed forces),
luxury cars, sensitive sites or
accidents. Many people, including
Arab women, strongly object to being
photographed.
DO NOT DRINK TOO
MUCH ALCOHOL
to an extent that it affects your
behavior in public. Alcohol in Qatar is a
strictly regulated concession and there
is zero tolerance for DUI or rowdy
behavior. Please refer to Chapter VIII
DO NOT GO
BAREFOOT IN THE SEA
as there may be stonefish that lie
camouflaged along the shoreline.
Although rare, their poisonous
defense mechanisms cause
excruciating pain and require a
hospital visit.
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ARABIC
COURTESIES







Hello Assalam Alaykom Good afternoon/ Masaa al khair
(lit. Peace be evening
upon you)
Bye Ma’assalaamah Reply to Masaa al noor
good afternoon/
evening
Goodmorning Sabah al khair Thank you Shukran
Reply to
Goodmorning Sabah al noor You’re welcome Af-wan

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Qatar Overview












Yes Na’am or Aiwa Congratulations Mabrook
No La Eid Blessings Eid Mubarak

Please Min fadlak or Ramadan Blessings Ramadan Mubarak
Lo samaht / esmahli
I’m sorry Ana asif (male),
Ana asifa (female)

YA HALA KIT | 10

QATAR NATIONAL
HOLIDAYS










Weekend : Fridays and Saturdays Both Eid holidays occur on dates in the
Qatar National Day : December 18 lunar Islamic calendar, and thus their
National Sports Day : The second Tuesday of February dates in the solar Gregorian calendar
The Holy Eid Al-Fitr : 3 working days change each year.
* at the end of Ramadan, the
Islamic holy month of fasting Additionally, Total employees in Qatar
The Holy Eid Al-Adha : 4 working days enjoy holidays on Christmas Day
* to mark the completion of the (December 25) and New Year’s Day
annual Hajj pilgrimage (January 1). However, please note that
these are not national holidays in
Qatar.
11 | YA HALA KIT

Qatar Overview


EMBASSIES ARGENTINA
[email protected]
AUSTRALIA
IN QATAR http://qatar.embassy.gov.au
BELGIUM
Diplomatie.belgium.be/qatar
CANADA
[email protected]
CHINA
http://qa.china-embassy.org
FRANCE
https://qa.ambafrance.org
INDIA
http://www.indianembassyqatar.gov.in
INDONESIA
www.kemlu.go.id/doha
ITALY
http://www.ambdoha.esteri.it
NETHERLANDS
http://qatar.nlembassy.org
NIGERIA
http://www.nigerianembassy.qa
PHILIPPINES
http://dohape.dfa.gov.ph
SPAIN
http://www.spanish-embassy.com/doha.html
UNITED KINGDOM
http://ukinqatar.fco.gov.uk
UNITED STATES
https://qa.usembassy.gov
VENEZUELA
[email protected]
YA HALA KIT | 12

II
VISA, TRAVEL &
IMMIGRATION












13 | YA HALA KIT

Visa Travel & Immigration


ID (RESIDENT PERMIT),
FAMILY VISA


Qatar adopts a visa-exemption policy for citizens from more than 80 countries (including France and the
UK) in order to boost tourism. Visas are renewable every month. A tourist can get a visa upon arrival at
the entry points in the country or from Qatar’s embassies abroad. A joint-entry visa of Qatar and Oman
could also be used, which permits visits to either country. (2)
Total’s Immigration Officer is authorized to issue When applying for a Family Residence Visa,
the resident visa for expatriate employees and expatriate employees will need to prepare the
their families, and follow up with the process. following document. (2)
The employee and their spouse are both
required to provide the following to obtain the
Resident Permit: 1
Copies of all family members’ passports
1
Medical Check-up 2
A blood test for HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B and Marriage certificate in/translated into Arabic
C, and a chest X-ray for TB
3
2 Children’s birth certificates in/translated
Fingerprinting into Arabic
Once employee’s medical results are
published online, their fingerprints must be
delivered to the Criminal Evidence and 4
Investigation Department (CEID). Resident
Permits take around 6-2 weeks to be issued, In the case of adopted children, statements
of adoption and reason(s) for adoption
and the employee must not leave Qatar
during that period. are required
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E-GATES
Easing the entry and exit
process for resident
expatriates through the
Hamad International Airport,
the Ministry of Interior has
activated e-gate services on
their ID cards and passports
free of charge.
This service can be
accessed by resident
expatriates with ID cards and
their children above 18 years
without the need for prior
registration. They are
required to scan the ID card
on the card reader machine
installed at e-gate followed
by fingerprint or eye scan
(retina scan). If the data on
the ID and biometrics/ retina
match, the system will open
the gate.
Further details can be found
on Metrash 2 App.
15 | YA HALA KIT

Visa Travel & Immigration
PARENTS & 1 Download and fill out the application form
FAMILY VISIT 2
VISA Attach the following documents in case
of applying visa for wife
Copies of personal ID or passport of
the resident husband and wife's
valid passport
Letter from husband's employer
citing profession and salary
Copy of attested marriage contract
3
Attach the following documents in case
of applying visa for other relatives
Copies of personal ID or passport
of the sponsor and valid passport of
the visitor
Copy of sponsor's wife's passport
with valid residence permit or
residential tenancy contract
Letter from employer of the sponsor
citing profession and salary
Document to prove relationship
Residents can apply for a short-term family visit visa for their families to enter Qatar. The visa is valid for
one month. However, relatives who wish to stay beyond one month may undergo a medical examination
within the first 72 hours of arrival to apply for an extension.
The visa can be extended for another five months for first and second degree relatives and in-laws
(Father, Mother, Sister and Children) and can be extended for only two months in case of other relatives.
Foreign employees who wish to bring their families to live in Qatar should refer to the Family Visa. (2)
YA HALA KIT | 16

METRASH 2 SERVICES

The Ministry of Interior (MOI) constantly TRAFFIC SERVICES
improves and simplifies its services delivery
channels and procedures. In the light of this,
MOI introduces its unique service “Metrash 2” LEAVE NOTIFICATION
that enables Qatari nationals and residents to
apply for and obtain more than 100 services ENTRY VISA
that save their time, effort and money, while
enjoying the convenience of using their smart
phones. The app offers several services E-GATE
including:
HOW TO INSTALL
METRASH 2
1 under your own name 2 Download the app Once you open the
App 3
Make sure the mobile
Play
Google
number you use is
from
app, enter your Qatari
Store.
date.
STEP and Qatari ID number. STEP Store/Apple STEP ID number and expiry
4 click send. No need to 5 codes (Part 1 and 6 Open the app and ID
You will receive an
The app will draft an
SMS with 2 activation
SMS to 92992. Simply
enter
Qatari
STEP modify. STEP Part 2). Note them STEP number and both
activation codes.
7 choice (this will be 8 You will receive a 9 Now you can login to
In PIN Code, enter
confirmation SMS.
the app with your
any -4digit pin of your
using it.
STEP your password). STEP STEP PIN Code and start
17 | YA HALA KIT

Visa Travel & Immigration











LEAVE
NOTIFICATION

All expatriates except wives and children under the sponsorship of their family members are required to
obtain a business leave notification when leaving Qatar. The employer is responsible for arranging the
business leave notification. Authorized users may complete the procedure online, through the MOI
self-service machine, MOI website’s E-service, or in person through General Directorate for Borders
Passports and Expatriates Affairs.
Please also note that Total in Qatar requires that employees should send a POB email to as notification
[email protected]
when leaving the counwhen leaving the country.
For assistance or inquiries regarding any of the services above, please contact Total E&P Qatar’s
Immigration Officer. (2)
YA HALA KIT | 18

III
TOTAL IN
QATAR OVERVIEW












19 | YA HALA KIT

Total In Qatar Overview
40% 30%
Operator and Shareholder North
Shareholder Oil Company
Al-Khalij Field
20% 10%
Participant Shareholder Qatargas
Qatargas 1 1 Liquefaction Plant
Upstream North Joint Venture
16.7% 10%
Shareholder Shareholder Ras
Qatargas 2 Train 5 Laffan Refinery
2 & 1
FACTS 20% 48.6%
& FIGURES
Shareholder Shareholder
Qapco Qatofin
24.5%
Total is the only international oil company (IOC) in the
country to operate along the entire oil and gas value chain,
from exploration and production to refining petrochemicals
and lubricant retailing. All three business segments are Shareholder
presently located in our Al Fardan Tower offices. Dolphin Energy
YA HALA KIT | 20

1936 1938 1940
Total becomes a Qatar’s first oil and gas The production on
shareholder in Iraq discovery, Dukhan, is Dukhan field starts.
Petroleum Company (IPC), made on the concession
which establishes Qatar held by the IPC’s
Petroleum Company (QPC). subsidiary QPC.
2002 2001 1997
Total’s %10 interest in Dolphin Energy project First oil production from
QAPCO is raised to is launched to provide Al-Khalij Field.
%20. UAE and Oman with
natural gas from Qatar’s
North Field.
2006 2008 2009
Total acquires %16.7 Total partners with Qatar Total acquires a %10
interest in Qatargas 2 - Petroleum International interest in the Ras
Train 5. (QPI), with %20 stake in Laffan condensate
Total acquires a %36 two exploration blocks in refinery (LR1).
interest in QATOFIN. Mauritania.
HISTORICAL VIEW



21 | YA HALA KIT

Total In Qatar Overview
1949 1974 1980
Qatar’s first oil exports QPC is nationalised and Dukhan Qatar reopens its oil
field’s operator status is transferred to and gas fields to
Qatar General Petroleum Company international oil
(QGPC), later renamed Qatar companies.
Petroleum (QP). Total takes a %10
stake in Qatar Petrochemical
Company (QAPCO), producing
ethylene and polyethylene.
1996 1991 1984
Total pioneers first LNG Total discovers the QP, Total and BP form the
production in Qatar with Al-Khalij oilfield offshore Qatargas joint venture
the completion of the Halul. (involving gas production,
Qatargas 1 project. liquefaction and export) to
develop LNG from Qatar’s
giant North Field.
2012 2013 2015
Total and QP sign a Total enters into a new Total reaches a
heads of agreement to joint venture with QP by milestone sum of 200
extend Al-Khalij Field acquiring %10 interest million barrels of oil
license by 25 years. in a new condensate production in Al-Khalij
refinery in Ras Laffan Field.
(LR2).
QPI acquires %15
interest in Total E&P
Congo.
2017 2016
Total and Qatar Petroleum will take over the operatorship of Total celebrates 80 years of
the giant Al-Shaheen offshore oilfield for a period of 25 years partnership with Qatar.
beginning July 2017 ,14. The concession is to be operated by Total obtains %30 stake in
the North Oil Company (NOC), which was established in 2016 the giant Al-Shaheen field
as a partnership between Total (%30) and Qatar Petroleum concession for 25 years.
(%70)
YA HALA KIT | 22

3 6
Dolphin Energy Tower P .O. Box 22275 P .O. Box 3212, West Bay, Doha, Qatar

1 Qatar Gas Doha Head Office, West Bay, Doha
Dolphin Energy West Bay, Doha, Qatar Qatar Petroleum
4 Qatar Gas
4 5 6
5

Total EP Qatar (TEPQ) and Total Petrochemicals France –Qatar Branch Office (TPF QBO) Al Fardan






2 North Oil Company (NOC)
1 2 3
23 | YA HALA KIT

Total In Qatar Overview
EXPATRIATE EMPLOYEES
ACCOMMODATION AND SECURITY
CONTACT INFORMATION
Alfardan Alfardan Call Centre Alfardan Office Tower Alfardan Residential
Tower +974 4440 8558 Reception Tower Reception
From 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM +974 4498 0779
+974 4498 0778 +974 4420 8858
+974 4420 8859
Alfardan Security Safety and Security Maintenance
Control Room Executive Abdul Kalam
+974 6689 8413
+974 4498 0797 +974 3372 7351 (in charge of maintenance)
+974 6693 5975
(night duty for maintenance)
Al Jazi Reception Gate Security -
Compound +974 4483 3102 - +974 4487 4337
Total Holine:
+974 5090 6414
Al Messila Compound Manager: Maintenance
Compound Ajith Nair +974 5526 4078
+974 5585 7682
Total Holine:
+974 5090 6414
Gulf - Compound Manager:
Garden +974 4483 4405 Mr. Imran
Total Holine: +974 5588 9204
+974 5090 6414
Al Gassar Mr. Nomen
+974 3008 2284
Total Holine:
+974 5090 6414
City Center
For inquiries, kindly contact
Rotana General Services team at Al Fardan Office Tower.
Al Areen Total Holine: +974 5090 6414
Christian Le-Moine Muhammed Ashique Souher Al-Humesh
Marriott City [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
+974 4420 8226
+974 4420 8338
+974 4420 8704
Center Hotel
W Doha Hotel
& Residences
YA HALA KIT | 24

IV
DRIVING IN
QATAR












25 | YA HALA KIT

Driving in Qatar
ROADS IN Qatar’s roads are divided into three categories.
Main roads are three-lane highways that link the
capital with other large regional centers. Minor
QATAR roads link major roads with each other and serve
the purpose of getting smaller towns and cities
connected to the major system. Access roads serve
to prevent traffic from jamming on main roads;
however, traffic is frequently very congested even
on these access roads, especially around Doha. (3)
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Getting around in Qatar is easy, as Doha is a fairly
compact city. Public transport services provided
by Mowasalat are safe, comfortable and relatively
inexpensive. Both taxis and buses are easily
identifiable by their turquoise-and-silver color and
Karwa designation.
KARWA TAXI
A Karwa cab can be ordered through the official
Karwa App on Apple and Google Play stores.
KARWA BUS
Mowasalat operates a large fleet of brand-new,
air-conditioned public Karwa buses that run
several routes within Doha and to other towns.
The starting point for all routes are the Grand
Hamad Street and Al Ashat Street, close to the
Doha Corniche. Bus service is available daily
between 05:00 and 23:00. Fares are QAR2 for an
inner-city ride and up to QAR7 for long-distance
journeys to towns outside Doha, including the
very north of the peninsula. Besides tickets for
individual journeys, you can buy day or weekly
tickets, which are discounted.
Whether you are headed to work, Hamad
International Airport, or out of Doha, Uber
and Careem car booking apps connect you
with a reliable ride in minutes at an
affordable rate and flexible payment
methods.
Doha Metro project will be one of the most advanced
rail transit systems in the world. It will have four lines
with an approximate overall length of 300 km and 100
stations.
YA HALA KIT | 26

DRIVING
LICENSE
Temporary (valid for 3
months) and international
(valid for 6 months) driving
licenses’ holders are
restricted to driving rental
vehicles; as insurance
companies require drivers of
privately-owned vehicles to
hold a full license. Once you
become a resident, you may
apply for a Qatari Driving
License. The license fee for
Qataris is QR500 (valid for 10
years) and QR250 for
non-Qataris (valid for 5
years). Additional fees apply
for driving and vision tests.

If you are caught driving
without a license, the penalty
can start at QR 1000 and
possible imprisonment; as
driving without a license is a
criminal offence. Holders of
GCC driving licenses can
obtain a permanent Qatar
driving license automatically,
regardless of their country of
origin. The majority of
European and western
licenses can also be
automatically exchanged;
however, due to the
constantly changing
regulations, it is prudent to
check with the traffic
department at the time of
applying. (3)
27 | YA HALA KIT

Driving in Qatar
The minimum age for learning to drive is
18 years old. Those who are applying for THE DRIVING
a driving license for the first time should
register with one of the Authorized TEST
Driving Schools. There is a requirement
to pass an eye test before applying to
the Driving School. To be able to take
the test, a learner must have had at
least 15 hours of theoretical classes and
a minimum of 35 hours of driving
lessons.
Most driving schools offer male and
female instructors and the test may be
taken in English or Arabic. A choice of
manual or automatic transmission
vehicles is available – check with the
Driving School for details. Please be
aware that there are restrictions and
conditions with an automatic
transmission license. (3)
The driving test comprises:
THEORETICAL TEST
PARKING TEST
ROAD TEST
You will take all parts of the test and will You can register at one of the following government
be informed at each stage whether you
have passed or failed. If you fail one part approved Testing Centres:
of the test, you will not proceed to the
next. Female applicants will most likely Al Rayah Driving School
take the test with a female Traffic Police http://alrayahdrivingschool.com/
Officer.
Doha Driving Academy
A driving license is issued immediately http://dohadriving.com/
after successfully passing the test.
Gulf Driving School
If you fail the test you can retake it within http://gdsqatar.com.qa/
a specified time frame without additional
charge. Parts of the test that were
successfully passed previously do not United Driving Company
have to be retaken. http://udqatar.com/
The driving license is issued immediately after passing
the test and is valid for five years for residents, and ten
years for citizens.
YA HALA KIT | 28

For details regarding different traffic violations in
Qatar, check the Ministry of Interior’s website on TRAFFIC
https://portal.moi.gov.qa/wps/portal/ar
https://portal.moi.gov.qa/wps/port /.There are
violations that can be settled by paying fines; and
some that cannot be settled by fines and are to VIOLATIONS
be viewed by the concerned court(s). Fines can
be paid directly through the Metrash 2 App.
VEHICLE REGISTRATION
AND TRAFFIC INCIDENTS
Vehicle owners are required to register their
newly purchased vehicles with the Ministry of
Interior. Registration is mandatory for both new
and used vehicles.
Fill out vehicle registration application form
in Qatar’s e-Government (hukoomi.qa)
portal
Insurance document valid for one year
Qatar ID
Bring your car along with all records and
papers to the Ministry of Interior’s Traffic
Department
Registration fee of QR100
Provide signed No Objection letter from
sponsor/company
At the scene of the incident you will be asked to
provide your license, vehicle registration and
insurance documents.
They will then inform you of the date that you
need to go to the Traffic Department to collect the
police report. This is usually done on the same
day or the next day.
29 | YA HALA KIT

Driving in Qatar
PROCEDURE FOR
TRAFFIC INCIDENTS
For the below scenarios, it is strongly recommended to
take photo(s) of the vehicle(s) involved.
CASE A
Minor accident both parties agree on who is at fault.
Move the vehicle to the roadside to prevent traffic
congestion
Call the police (999)
CASE B
Minor accident both parties agree on who is at fault
and meet later
Exchange phone numbers
Take down their name and license number
Make an arrangement to meet at the nearest Traffic
Department
CASE C
Injury/major damage/parties do not agree on who
is at fault
Do not move the vehicle no matter the obstruction they
may cause to the road
Call the ambulance if someone is injured
Call the police as they need to see the position of
vehicle(s) to assess responsibility
CASE D
Hit and run/accident or scratch while at parking
Go to the Traffic Department closest to the scene of the
accident
The Traffic Department officer will open a file and you
will have to wait for a week in case someone comes
forward to claim responsibility
Thereafter you will receive a police report which will
enable you to fix your car
CASE E
Accident without another party (hit on stationery
object)
Go to the Traffic Department closest to the scene of the
accident
You will receive a police report which will enable you to
fix your car
You can claim insurance if your car is fully insured
YA HALA KIT | 30

CAR DEALERS
As you transition to life in Qatar and consider vehicle
ownership, you'll want to keep some key factors in mind –
affordability, type of vehicle and age of vehicle. Whether,
you're considering buying new or secondhand. Big 4WD
cars are very popular in Qatar and recommended if you
have children.
Most common car brands in Qatar are Toyota, Nissan,
BMW, Honda, Mitsubishi, Kia and Ford. Below are the
showroom locations:
TOYOTA
Abdulghani Tower, C Ring Rd, Doha, Qatar
http://www.toyotaqatar.com/

NISSAN
Al Sadd St, Doha, Qatar
https://en.nissanqatar.com/
BMW
Al Fardan Tower, 61 Al Funduq Street, West Bay
https://www.bmw-qatar.com/

MITSUBISHI
Al Sadd St, Doha, Qatar
http://www.mitsubishiqatar.com/

KIA MOTORS
Al Rayyan Rd, Doha, Qatar
http://www.kiaqatar.com/
HONDA
Khalifa St, Doha, Qatar
http://www.honda.com.qa/

FORD
Najma St, Doha, Qatar
https://en.almanamotors.com.qa/
31 | YA HALA KIT

Driving in Qatar
USED CARS CAR INSURANCE
There are several helpful websites that simplify All cars in Qatar must have insurance valid for
the process of finding the right used car, such as: 12 months before they are registered. Driving
without at least third party insurance is strictly
QATAR LIVING prohibited and illegal.
http://www.qatarliving.com/
The cost of insurance is calculated based on the
MZAD QATAR value of the vehicle; usually at a rate of around 6
http://en.mzadqatar.com/ % of the value of a saloon car, although it is
more expensive for high performance vehicles.
OLX Car insurance becomes invalid if the driver was
https://olx.qa/en/ found to be driving off-road or drinking alcohol,
however, some insurance agencies cover
QATAR SALE off-road accidents.
http://www.qatarsale.com/EnMain.aspx
Below is a list of top car insurance agencies in
Qatar:
Qatar Insurance Company
http://www.qatarinsurance.com/corporate/
Arabia Insurance Company
http://www.arabiainsurance.com/
Doha Insurance Company
http://www.dicqatar.com/en-us/
Qatar Islamic Insurance Company
http://www.qiic.com.qa/
General Takaful Insurance
http://www.g-takaful.net/
Beema Damaan
http://beema.com.qa/
YA HALA KIT | 32

V
BANKS & FINANCES













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Banks & Finances
To open a bank account in
Qatar, you must be holder o f
a Residency Permit (RP). You
also need to provide a
photocopy of your passport,
your RP, two photographs,
your Qatari mobile number
(registered under your Qatar
ID) and a salary certificate
from your employer.
QATAR NATIONAL BANK
City Center Doha Mall
FREQUENTLY www.qnb.com
USE BANKS
COMMERCIAL BANK
OF QATAR
City Center Doha Mall
HSBC
City Center Doha Mall
(If you already have an
HSBC account, it will be
easier to transfer it to here)
www.hsbc.com.qa
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VI
FACILITIES













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Facilities






MEDICAL CARE




PUBLIC / GOVERNMENT
Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) is the main provider of secondary and tertiary healthcare in Qatar
and one of the leading hospital providers in the Middle East. For more than three decades, HMC has
been dedicated to delivering the safest, most effective and compassionate care to all its patients.
HMC manages ten hospitals – Hamad General Hospital, Women’s Hospital, Al Rumailah Hospital, Heart
Hospital, Al Wakrah Hospital, Al Khor Hospital, Cuban Hospital, The National Center for Cancer Care &
Research (Al Amal Hospital), Communicable Disease Center and Enaya Specialized Care Center – as
well as 23 primary health care centers, the National Ambulance Service and home and residential care
services.
Health care services are available to citizens and residents of the state of Qatar at a heavily subsidized
rate at HMC hospitals and clinics. These subsidized services are accessed using government-issued
Health Cards. The card provides access to all personal medical data saved in the nearest healthcare
center for rapid treatment. The health card also provides access to all public services at any of the HMC’s
run facilities. (4)
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HEALTH CARD
Eligibility:
All citizens and residents of the State of Qatar are eligible to apply for a Health Card.
Validity:
One year, subject to renewal.
Outpatient Information:
To see one of the physicians, you must have an appointment. If this is your first appointment at one of
HMC hospitals, you must have a referral from your primary health care doctor or private clinic.

All referrals from Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) will go straight to the Referral Management
Office at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC). There, a specialist will review your case and determine the
level of urgency. A hospital representative will then call you to arrange an appointment within the clinically
advised time frame and at a convenient time for you.
For patients referred to HMC by a private provider, you will need to bring the referral to the clinic in
question and they will be able to send it to the Referral Management Office for the appointment booking
process to start.
Follow up appointments will be made by the booking clerks in the HMC outpatient clinic you are
attending Patients will not be seen as outpatients at HMC without an appointment. (4)
FOR MORE DETAILS HMC CALL PHCC CALL
CHECK: CENTER: CENTER:

Hamad Medical Corporation: If you need to cancel or If you need to cancel or
https://www.hamad.qa/EN/ change your appointment at change your appointment
one of HMC’s outpatient at one of PHCC centers,
Primary Health Care clinics, please call 5777 4439 please dial 107.
Corporation (PHCC): as soon as possible.
https://www.phcc.qa/
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Facilities
PRIVATE HOSPITAL
AND CLINICS
Sidra Outpatient Clinic (OPC)
Education City, Al Luqta St, Ar-Rayyan, Qatar
Phone: +974 4003 3333
Al-Ahli Hospital
Ahmed Bin Ali St, P.O. Box 6401, Doha, Qatar
Phone: +974 4486 8888
Al Emadi Hospital
Al Hilal West, P.O. Box 5804, Doha, Qatar
Phone: +974 4466 6009
Hours: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Doha Clinic Hospital
Al Mirqab Al Jadeed St, Frieg Al Nasr, P.O.Box 9958,
Doha, Qatar
Phone: +974 4438 4333
Email: [email protected]
Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital
Sport City Street (Near Khalifa Stadium), P.O. Box 29222,
Doha, Qatar
Phone: +974 4413 2000
Email: [email protected]
www.aspetar.com
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HIRING A MAID
HIRING A FULLTIME MAID ON YOUR
PERSONAL SPONSORSHIP
1 7 11
The rules for hiring maids You have to submit an The maid will have to undergo
can change quite frequently, application for approval to the medical testing to check for
so do keep an eye on local Immigration Department to HIV, TB and pregnancy as
news for updates. hire a maid. Afterwards, you well as fingerprinting.
will be told whether you are
eligible to sponsor a maid and 12
2 what nationality of maid your
Only a resident family can family will be allowed to If possible, see if the
Immigration Officer at Total
employ. Don't line someone up
sponsor a maid (not E&P Qatar can help you
divorced or single parents). until you have been told which
nationality. process all the paperwork.
3
8 13
To hire a full time live-in Applications can be rejected for There are also Maid
maid, you must be the sole various reasons, such as size Recruitment Agencies that
sponsor. of family, whether one parent can handle the whole
will be working or at home process for you. They have
4 during the day. potential candidates on their
books and they will do the
You have to show 6 months flights, visa, etc. This can be
of bank statements to get 9 a much easier, if slightly
approval to hire a live-in Once you have received more expensive option.
maid.
approval and have found a
candidate, the residence visa 14
5 procedure can start. Agencies tend to offer
You will need a no objection -2year contracts with a
certificate (NOC) from your 10 -3month trial period. If you
employer to hire a maid. If are not happy with the maid
obtained from the husband's You can bring a maid from or she is not happy with you
company, this can only be outside of Qatar or find during this time, a
done after the wife has someone who is already in replacement maid will be
gotten her Residence country with a transferable arranged free of charge.
Permit. visa. You must make sure that
her visa status is legal and the
6 current sponsor has no issues 15
You will also need to provide with the transfer to save It can take a month to three
a copy of your marriage yourself any headaches. months for all of your maid's
certificate, copies of both of paperwork to be processed
your Qatari IDs, passport so take this into account
photocopies with Residence when making the
Permits of all the family applications. (5)
members.
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HIRING PART TIME
AGENCY MAIDS
Another option is to use a part time maid who
would come to your house a set number of hours
and days a week to help you with your cleaning.
Some agencies also offer babysitting services.
The average rate is QR 45 - 35 an hour. This can
be a much easier arrangement than employing a
live- in maid for some. Make sure that the agency
is registered and legal. Word of mouth
recommendations are also good.
The service is charged for at an hourly rate with
the minimum usually being 4 hours per week. It’s
up to you how often you want a maid. For an
apartment, 4 hours per week is probably long
enough. For a villa, 8 hours a week should do it,
but you can have someone every day as most
services are fully flexible. It also depends on what
services you want- floor cleaning, washing,
ironing, tidying, dusting, cooking etc. (5)
A basic house cleaning service will normally
cover the following:
Floors: Thorough mop and vacuum as needed
Kitchens: Clean surfaces, dust appliances, wipe
cupboards, clean oven and fridge, and wash
floors
Bathrooms: Sanitize sinks, baths, toilets, floors
and counters
All Rooms: Vacuum and mop throughout, replace
bed linen, clean lampshades, furniture, and light
fittings
Part-time agencies:
Qatarmaids.com: 2999-7736 (Al Shafi Road)
Eurabia: 80668-445 or 1227-5556 (Salwa Road,
Near Qatar Islamic Bank)
Facebook Pages:
Maids in Qatar
Maid/Nannies in Qatar
Filipina Maid/Nannies in Qatar

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EDUCATION











For a detailed map of all
schools in Qatar for all
nationalities, please visit the
Ministry of Education’s
website:

http://www.edu.gov.qa/En/Ser
vicesCenter/PSO/Pages/defau
lt.aspx
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Facilities







LIST OF NURSERIES WE RECOMMEND
Perles d’Avenir Nursery Petits Pas Nursery
Perles d’Avenir’s philosophy is to blossom for Petits Pas base their work on helping children
better growth. General motor skills, become successful learners, confident and
socialization, autonomy, fulfillment and independent individuals, responsible citizens
creativity are essential bases to bring the child and effective contributors to society. Children
to develop himself and to discover the world will learn through a balance of free and guided
which surrounds him/her. The child has to be an play times. The program is adjusted to the
actor of his/her development to blossom, assure needs and abilities of each and every child, and
his/her first steps towards the future with will be provided for them in a safe, caring
confidence and build the solid bases of his/her environment involving continuous coordination
personality. For that, they offer many wonderful with their parents.
activities adapted to each age group in a warm,
safe and healthy environment around a International Affiliation: Petits Pas represents
multidisciplinary French team. the State of Qatar in the World Forum
Foundation. They have been present in 2009 in
Nationality of management: Belfast and in October 2010 in Nebraska City,
French USA for the training regarding connecting
Nursery curriculum: children with nature, under QP sponsorship.
French
Nationality of management:
Area of Doha: American-French
West Bay
Phone: Nursery curriculum:
+974 4481 7611 American-French
Website Area of doha:
www.perlesdavenirqatar.com West Bay
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Le Petit Prince Nursery – Doha Little Genius Nursery
Le Petit Prince Nursery – Doha has a At Little Genius, children are taught,
learn-through-play approach, providing a warm encouraged and supported to become
and friendly environment encouraging each independent little learners.
child to achieve their full potential at his/her own Little Genius Nursery provides a happy, secure
pace. Children deserve to receive all the support environment for children to learn and play
and respect it takes to establish a solid together, regardless of gender, race or religion.
foundation for their future. Le Petit Prince A place where children are treated as
Nursery – Doha does that in a safe and nurturing individuals, feel respected and valued and
environment. Thus, making learning fun and where best practice is paramount. Under the
exciting developing each child’s potential. The guidance of fully qualified and experienced
nursery accepts children from 2 months of age nursery teachers, they introduce the children to
to 4 years. early education, with spacious classrooms,
learning centers and an on-site clinic.
Area of doha:
West Bay Nationality of management:
Lebanese/ British
Nursery curriculum:
French Area of doha:
West Bay
Languages spoken and/or taught to children:
French, English and Arabic in their respective Curriculum taught:
classrooms The curriculum is based on the EYFS approach
to early years education. This will offer the
Koala Nursery children a broad and balanced learning
experience.
Mission
Provide the child with emotional and physical Languages spoken and/or taught to children:
security. To trust the child’s ability and creativity. Classes are taught in English, which is the
spoken language across the nursery throughout
Involve the parents in the core of the
pedagogical project. Follow the child’s rhythm. the day. French & Arabic classes are scheduled
Ensure to the child an individualized care.
Promote the child’s awareness and autonomy.
Support the child in his emotions and needs.
Ensure a smooth socialization while preparing
for school
Nationality of management:
Lebanese
Area of doha:
West Bay
Nursery curriculum:
British
Languages spoken and/or taught to children:
French and English in their respective
classrooms
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Facilities
LIST OF SCHOOLS Lycée Bonaparte
WE RECOMMEND Lycée Bonaparte is a French international
school in Doha, Qatar. It includes levels
Doha English Speaking School maternelle (preschool) through lycée (senior
high school). The École Française de Doha was
Doha English Speaking School (DESS) is one established in a rented villa in Slata Al Jadida in
of the oldest British schools in Doha where the 1970s.
children aged 11-3 reach their full potential
academically and beyond. The children at Website: lycee-bonaparte.fr/
DESS achieve academic results which are
significantly above those demonstrated in the Lycée Franco-Qatarien Voltaire
UK national average statistics and their
sporting achievements are outstanding. The A French international school in West Bay,
school’s wide range of extracurricular provision Doha, Qatar, in proximity to the Institut français
also helps the children to become well rounded du Qatar and the University of Qatar. As of 2015
individuals but most importantly, children are it has 518 students.
happy and confident individuals who are a joy The school was established on 15 January
to work with. Students at the end of Year 6 2008. It originated from an international
leave DESS well prepared for UK independent convention agreed upon between the French
schools, grammar schools and local schools and Qatari governments on 3 May 2007 which
they then go on to attend. stipulates the establishment of the school.
Nicolas Sarkozy and Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani
Website: http://www.dess.org/ attended the inauguration.
Compass International School Doha Website: www.lyceevoltaire.org/
Compass International School Doha is a private, Doha College
co-educational school in Doha, Qatar. It is an
International School with campuses located in One of the oldest British curriculum schools in
Gharaffa, Madinat Khalifa, and Rayyan. It was Qatar, Doha College is home to 1,200 students
founded in 2006 by Fieldwork Education to aged between 3 and 18 years, who represent
provide learning to both local and international over 50 nationalities. Alongside academics, the
students and has rapidly expanded to provide to college also offers a diverse extracurricular
over 1400 students over three campuses. The programme which includes International Award,
school is now part of the Nord Anglia group of Model United Nations, debating, sport, music
schools. and drama as well as local and international
trips. There school has two campuses, one in
All the Subjects in the school are: West Bay and the other in Al Waab.
English, Maths, Biology, Science, Chemistry,
Physics, PE, PSHE, Psychology, Geography, Website: www.dohacollege.com
Business Studies, Economics, Music, History, American School of Doha
Dutch, French, Spanish, Arabic, ICT, Art, Qatar
History and Islamic studies.
The American School of Doha is an
Website:http://www.nordangliaeducation.com/o independent, U.S. accredited, college
preparatory school, that uses the American
ur-schools/doha/compass-international-school Education Reaches Out standards as the basis
for curriculum design, which is closely aligned to
current best practices in the United States.
Website: www.asd.edu.qa
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ARTS

INSTITUT FRANÇAIS
DU QATAR
The Institut Français of Qatar, the
official French Institute, is the
successor to the French Cultural
Centre (CCF), founded in 1989. It
is located in a detached villa in
the West Bay district of Doha.
The Institut Français carries out
the missions given to it by the
French Ministry of Foreign and
European Affairs. These are:
To promote and disseminate
French language and culture.
To facilitate cultural exchanges
(in both visual and performing
arts), to co-produce shows and
performances in Qatar
connected with French creativity,
and to create partnerships with
institutions.
To participate in student mobility
and the promotion of graduate
studies in France.
Thus the programme of the
Institut français covers the entire
field of cultural, artistic, literary,
scientific, educational and
linguistic cooperation through
numerous actions: exhibitions,
lectures, debates, films,
concerts, dance and drama, etc.
Website:
http://institutfrancais-qatar.com
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Facilities











MUSEUM OF
ISLAMIC ART

MIA provides regular learning
opportunities for all age groups,
including calligraphy and art
workshops and courses, talks
and tours for young people and
adults, and family walk-in
activities. Tailored programs,
tours and materials are created
for each of our special
exhibitions.
Website:
http://www.mia.org.qa/en/learni
ng
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SOUQ WAQIF
ARTS CENTER
The Souq Waqif Art Center is
housed in an attractive building
that fronts onto the main souq
streets. This center for arts not
only features an impressive
collection of local and
international artwork but also
offers classes in fine arts,
calligraphy, pottery, ceramics
and other artistic pursuits.
Website:
http://www.swac.qa/

https://www.facebook.com/souq
waqifartcenter/






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