Qatar

Overview

The threat of military action in the region has reduced as the United States and Iran have come to an agreement to end hostilities.. The Qatari government partially reopened to limited traffic on March 7, 2026, for flights operated by the national carrier, Qatar Airways. Operations were subsequently expanded to allow foreign airlines to gradually resume flights to Hamad International Airport on April 20, 2026.

Between 28 February and 8 April, Iran launched approximately 300 drones or missiles at Qatar targeting civilian infrastructure, industrial sites, oil production facilities, ports, and military facilities. While Qatari defence forces intercepted the vast majority of these attacks, a small number resulted in civilian injuries. Strikes also caused extended airport closures, significantly disrupting travel. 

There remains a threat of attacks against United States linked locations, Israeli and Jewish communities in the region, including in Qatar.

Significant travel disruptions, including for travellers transiting through Doha, should be expected if the security situation in the Middle East deteriorates again. Monitor the media to stay informed about current events in your travel destination.

There are more significant safety or security concerns than you would usually find in New Zealand. There is a threat of terrorism in the Gulf region, including Qatar.

Some things that New Zealanders travelling or living in Qatar should be aware of are:

• Local laws and customs - Qatar is an Islamic country with a different law enforcement system than in New Zealand. There are serious penalties for some acts that may not be illegal or inappropriate in New Zealand. 
• Entry requirements - Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) are not accepted for entry into or departure from Qatar. Passports showing ‘X’ in the sex field are not accepted for entry or transit through Qatar. You can only enter or transit Qatar if you carry a passport that shows the sex specified as ‘F’ or ‘M’.
• Extreme weather - From June to September, temperatures can reach over 50˚C. Flash flooding can sometimes happen. 
• Insurance - If you're staying longer than 30 days in Qatar, you must purchase health insurance from companies approved by the Qatari Ministry of Public Health at a standard cost of 50 Qatari Riyals per month. This is separate to travel insurance.

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

See below for detailed travel advice. 

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