COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution in Qatar due to the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).

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Qatar

Terrorism
Terrorists have, and continue to threaten to carry out attacks in the Gulf region. These include references to attacks on Western interests, including residential compounds, as well as places of worship, military, oil, transport and aviation interests.  Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Qatar.

New Zealanders in Qatar are advised to maintain a high level of personal security awareness, particularly during significant high-profile events.  Public and commercial areas known to be frequented by foreigners could be potential targets.

The regional security situation remains unpredictable and tensions could flare up any time. Conflicts in the Middle East and Gulf region could affect Qatar.

Civil unrest
New Zealanders in Qatar are advised to avoid any protests and demonstrations, as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent. 

Crime
While the crime rate in Qatar is low, female visitors are advised to take extra care when travelling alone, especially at night. Men have been known to occasionally verbally and physically harass women on their own. Incidents of petty crime and violence is rare, but can occur. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. Banking and credit card fraud has occurred. 

Local travel and maritime safety
Travellers entering the Gulf area by sea should be aware that many areas of the Gulf are highly sensitive, including near maritime boundaries and the islands of Abu Musa and the Tunbs in the southern Gulf. Vessels entering these areas have been detained and inspected. Mariners are advised to make thorough enquiries with local authorities before entering these waters or visiting  ports. 

Road Travel
Traffic accidents are one of the leading causes of death in Qatar. Speeds are high, roads are commonly under construction and road discipline is very poor. Be particularly careful if driving on rural roads. If you have an accident, stay with your vehicle, it’s an offence to leave the scene of the accident. 

It's also illegal to use obscene language and hand gestures in traffic. Even minor expressions of ‘road rage’ can attract significant penalties. Avoid arguments over traffic incidents.

General travel advice
It is recommended that New Zealanders travelling to Qatar familiarise themselves with local laws and customs. There are serious penalties for acts that may not be illegal or inappropriate in New Zealand. 

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Qatar to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour, particularly in relation to personal conduct and sex and relationships. Any intimacy between men and women in public can lead to arrest. It is illegal to engage in same-sex relationships.

Obscene language or gestures, defamation, behaviour that disrespects the Government, local culture or Islam, and alcohol-related offences may result in complaints and charges being laid by local authorities. This includes offence caused via online mediums, and taking photos of people without their permission.  

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines, even for residual amounts.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Qatar should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Qatar are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

• For current health alerts

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The New Zealand Embassy Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is accredited to Qatar

Street Address Level 25, Suite 2503, International Tower, Capital Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE Postal Address PO Box 62292, Abu Dhabi Telephone +971 2 496-3333 Fax +971-2-496-3300 Email nzembassy.abu.dhabi@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/united-arab-emirates Hours Mon-Wed 0900-1600, Thu 0900-1530, Fri 0900-1130 Notarial Services: By appointment only, please email to arrange Note Facebook: @nzembassyuae Twitter: @nzinuae

See our regional advice for the Middle East