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Is it safe to travel to Qatar right now? Latest travel advice

Qatar has been key to negotiations between israel, hamas and the west. here’s what you need to know about visiting this arab nation, including foreign office advice.

Q atar became the first Middle Eastern country to host the Fifa World Cup in 2022, putting it on the tourist map for those who might be looking for an alternative to the UAE. Like its regional neighbour, there is awe-inspiring architecture to gawk at and traditional souks selling herbs and spices, but the Arabic nation is also a centre for traditional and modern art. Among the highlights are the Museum of Islamic Art and Mathaf (the Arab Museum of Modern Art), both of which are in the capital, Doha.

Since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began, Qatar has also become an important regional mediator, despite the fact that it doesn’t border the countries involved. Here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: Mina District at Old Doha Port, Qatar (Alamy)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Qatar?

The UK Foreign Office (FCDO) does not currently have any travel advisories about Qatar . However, the FCDO says that terrorism in the country can’t be ruled out, and busy areas such as hotels, shopping centres and beaches could be targets.

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You should also be aware of local laws and customs, as well as actions that might cause offence. For example, public displays of intimacy could lead to arrest, while both men and women should dress modestly. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public, as well as swearing, playing music or dancing would be considered offensive.

Has Qatar been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Qatar does not border Israel, so it’s not directly affected by the conflict with Hamas. However, Qatar does have close ties with Hamas and has been an important regional mediator — it was key in the negotiations that secured the release of two American hostages held by Hamas.

Is it safe to travel to Qatar right now?

The high-profile death of British travel industry executive Marc Bennett in 2019 raised questions over whether it’s safe to travel to the country. However, there’s no reason not to travel to Qatar right now. The Arab nation is considered a safe place to visit and crime levels are also generally low.

What are Qatar’s entry requirements?

Those using a full British passport to travel to Qatar for tourism can get a free 30-day visa waiver on arrival. You can extend this through the Qatar Ministry of Interior. However, you will need a confirmed return or onward ticket, and your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the day you arrive.

If you’re travelling on a non-standard British passport, such as one from a British Overseas Territory, you will need a visa. You will also need a visa if you’re visiting the country for another reason.

Is Qatar safe for female travellers?

Qatar is generally considered safe for female travellers. However, you should still take care when walking or travelling alone, especially at night. You should also use reputable taxi firms.

The FCDO says that personal attacks, including sexual assault and rape, are relatively rare but they do happen. However, local laws mean that the burden of proof rests heavily on the victim. If they cannot prove that the sex was non-consensual, it may lead to their prosecution.

Those who have been sexually assaulted are advised to call the British Embassy on +974 4496 2000 for advice. It has also provided written guidance for victims of rape or sexual assault in Qatar.

Is Qatar safe for LGBT travellers?

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar. Same-sex relationships can lead to imprisonment or the death penalty.

• Best hotels in Qatar • Best things to do in Qatar

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Qatar (Middle East)

Advice for all destinations.

Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccinations and malaria risk

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

• How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

• food and water safety
• accident prevention
• avoiding insect bites
• preventing and treating animal bites
• respiratory hygiene
• hand hygiene

Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

• Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: none.
• Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Tetanus.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Hepatitis B; Rabies.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 9 months or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission .

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
• Malaria not normally present unless the illness was contracted abroad.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

• The 'News' section on this page will advise if significant case increases or outbreaks have occurred in this country.

Prior to travel, you should:

• Check the latest government guidance on the FCDO Foreign travel advice and country specific pages for travel to this country and the rules for entering the UK on return.
• Ensure you are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination.
• You can check this in the FAQ's.
• If you are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 you should carefully  consider your travel plans  and consider seeking medical advice prior to making any decisions.

For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

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Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 13, 2023

Qatar - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Qatar.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Qatar, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Qatar.

If you decide to travel to Qatar:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy in Qatar on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Qatar.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Minimum of 2

Not required for tourist stays under 30 days

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Doha

Al-Luqta District 22nd February Street PO Box 2399 Doha, Qatar Telephone: +(974) 4496-6000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(974) 4496-6000 Fax: +(974) 4488-4298 Email:  [email protected]  or  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Tourist visas:  When traveling on a U.S. tourist passport, travelers may obtain a free visa upon arrival, if they have six-months validity in their passport and a return or onward ticket. The visa is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and entitles the holder to spend up to 30 days in Qatar, or multiple entries during the 30-day validity. It may be extended for a further 30 days. See the Government of Qatar’s website for  visa information .

Former Residency Permit Holders:  Former resident permit holders seeking to return to Qatar should carry a “no objection letter” issued by their former sponsor.

For further information on residence permits, see the  Qatari government  or  U.S. Embassy website .

Exit Permits:

• Exit permits are no longer required for U.S. citizens working in Qatar, with the exception of employees deemed “essential” by their employers, who must still be granted an exit permit.
• If you owe money, you will be barred from exiting Qatar. Qatari banks place holds on accounts to ensure all debts are paid before you leave.
• U.S. citizens with family residence visas do not need an exit permit. However, a family member who sponsors their dependents (usually the person employed in Qatar) can elect to receive instant notification if dependents attempt to depart the country.

Qatar does not recognize dual nationality.  If you hold Qatari citizenship, Qatari law requires that you enter and exit on your Qatari passport. Qatari authorities may confiscate your U.S. passport if you hold Qatari/U.S. dual nationality. Should this happen, contact the U.S. Embassy. The seizure does not constitute loss of U.S. citizenship.

Military Personnel  should consult the Department of Defense Foreign Clearance Guide before traveling, since different entry/exit requirements may apply. For further information, call the Host Nation Coordination Cell of the 379 th  Air Expeditionary Wing at 011-974-5551-0815.

Some restrictions  exist for foreign residents of Qatar who test positive for certain communicable diseases, including HIV/AIDs. Medical exams are required for individuals seeking residency in Qatar, but not for transit passengers or short-term visitors.  Qatari authorities will not bar HIV-positive temporary visitors from entry to Qatar based on their health status.  However, Qatar denies residency and employment to HIV or tuberculosis-positive applicants (among other communicable diseases).  Short-term visitors to Qatar with medications on their person are advised to carry a copy of their prescriptions. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of Qatar  before you travel.

Customs  regulations prohibit the import of alcohol over the duty-free cap, narcotics, pork products, weapons or weapons-related articles (hand cuffs, laser pointers, etc.), drones, professional photography equipment to include telescopic lenses, as well as pornographic or sexually-related materials.

See Qatar’s  website  for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: 

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) 
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists 
• Places of worship 
• Schools 
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)  

For more information, see our Terrorism page.  

Exercise normal precautions in Qatar.  See our Travel Advisory for more information. Safety Precautions:

• Practice personal security measures at all times.
• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings and local events.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Monitor local media broadcasts and consular messages.
• Vary travel routes and times when possible.
• Be extra vigilant when frequenting banks or ATMs.

Areas to Avoid:

• Large crowds and demonstrations in case of unrest
• Labor or work camps located outside of cities and major industrial areas.  These areas are highly congested with limited physical and hygiene standards.

Crime : The crime rate in Qatar is generally low. Incidents of violence and petty theft are rare but do occur.  There is a large police presence throughout the country.

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  webpages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime : Report crimes to the local police at 999 and contact the U.S. Embassy at + (974) 4496-6000.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

Victims of Sexual Assault:  Sexual relations outside of marriage are illegal in Qatar and subject to criminal prosecution. Instances can result in arrest, fines, imprisonment, and deportation.  If a U.S. citizen is a victim of sexual assault in Qatar, we strongly encourage you to contact the U.S. Embassy immediately, prior to contacting the local authorities.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are strongly urged to contact the Embassy immediately at + (974) 4496-6000 for assistance. Victims may also seek medical care through Hamad Hospital emergency room at 16060 or +(974) 4439-5777 if you are calling from overseas.

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation   and following its conclusion Provide
• Provide a list of  local attorneys
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport
• Assist in the birth or death of a U.S. Citizen

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

Information on local resources and assistance can be found on the Protection and Social Rehabilitation Centre website and through their hotline: 6693-3999, 6693-3108, or 6693-3919.

Tourism : The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Exit bans prevent those faced with legal proceedings from leaving Qatar until their case is abandoned or resolved.  This can take months or years. The Government of Qatar does not offer any social support for individuals under exit bans.

Reasons for exit bans can include:

• Labor or financial disputes
• Personal debt (including bounced checks, credit card debt, and bank loans)
• Outstanding contracts or leases
• Traffic fines
• Pending legal matters, including cases related to gestures or behavior reported by Qataris that are viewed as “offensive.”

U.S. citizens have been subjected to exit bans and/or placed in prison pending payment of debts.

Always carry a copy of your passport for proof of identity, or authorities may detain you for questioning.

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be arrested, deported, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Criminal penalties for certain offenses are much harsher than those in the U.S.:

• Incidents involving obscene language, gestures, or insulting comments often result in arrest, imprisonment, and/or fines.
• Alcohol-Related Offenses, including public intoxication, can result in severe penalties such as arrest, heavy fines, imprisonment, and/or deportation.  Qatar maintains a zero-tolerance policy against drinking and driving.
• Use of Illegal Drugs can result in long jail sentences and steep fines.

Arrest Notification:  Qatari authorities do not routinely notify the U.S. Embassy of a U.S. citizen’s arrest. If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. If you are not allowed to do so, ask a friend or family member to contact the U.S. Embassy.  See our  webpage  for further information.

For more serious crimes, Qatari authorities may not allow U.S. Embassy officials to visit until the initial interrogation is completed.

Qatari police sometimes arrest U.S. citizens without providing access to legal counsel.  You could be arrested for being a:

• Potential witness to a crime (including traffic accidents involving injuries; slander, traffic arguments, etc.)
• Relative of a suspect
• Criminal Suspect

If arrested—regardless of the charge—you may spend 1-2 nights in jail before a hearing takes place. Once arrested, only the Qatari Public Prosecution and Courts have the authority to grant a release.

See our  webpage  for further information.

Qatari law favors employers over employees.  In the event of a contract or employment dispute, Qatari authorities refer to the Arabic language of a contract. Employees have limited recourse if their employer terminates a contract early. If a sponsor files a complaint against an employee who departed Qatar, the employee may be barred from returning to Qatar, even on a tourist or airport visa. Many terminated U.S. citizens have been barred from departing Qatar because of pre-existing debt.

Despite recent legal changes, transferring employment prior to the end of a contract often requires the permission of the previous employer and is subject to approval by the Ministry of the Interior. Additional mechanisms for transferring employers exist through the Ministry of Interior in cases such as bankruptcy, abuse, or repeated failure to pay an employee on time.

Drug Use: Most drugs that are illegal in the United States are also illegal in Qatar, including marijuana/THC, CBD products, and vape products. The potential consequences for use or possession may be harsh.  

Clothing : Many public areas in Qatar have dress codes that require both men and women cover shoulders, chests, stomachs, and knees, and that tight leggings be covered by a long shirt or dress. Attire standards can vary between neighborhoods and facilities.  Faith-Based Travelers:  Religion is a very sensitive issue in Qatar; treat any discussions on religion with care and caution. The law provides for a prison sentence of up to seven years for defaming, desecrating, or committing blasphemy against Islam, Christianity, or Judaism. Public worship by non-Islamic faiths and atheism are illegal and subject to prosecution.

Proselytizing is against the law.  Attempts to covert a member of another religion or even “share your faith” can be considered “proselytizing.” Penalties cancan include deportation or imprisonment.

While you may import religious material for personal use,  bringing religious materials into the country for proselytizing purposes is prohibited.

Charitable activities, both religious and non-religious, must be approved in advance by the Ministry of Social Affairs.

See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Same-sex sexual relations between men are illegal, even if consensual. Penalties include lashing, lengthy prison sentences and/or deportation.

There is no law criminalizing same-sex sexual relations between women, though cultural norms are conservative.

Businesses are prohibited from selling and individuals are prohibited from distributing rainbow colored merchandise.  

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Qatar prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities, the law is not enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the in the United States.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students : See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  Unaccompanied expatriate women may be verbally and/or physically harassed. In deference to Islamic culture, avoid wearing sleeveless shirts, halter-tops, or shorts. Only wear athletic clothing in public when engaged in sports activities.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Journalists : Journalists, including independent content creators and vloggers, need specific visas and permissions to use photography and videography equipment, or to conduct interviews or reporting within Qatar. There is no legal guarantee of press freedom or freedom of expression in Qatar.

Photography : Photographing local people in Qatar, particularly women, is illegal without permission.

COVID-19 Testing:  COVID-19 tests are available from many local medical providers and hospitals. Testing is paid for by the individual or, in some instances, their insurance plan or employer. Private hospitals charge QR 50 - 160 test. Test results are usually provided by email, but some clinics require you to pick up the travel certificate in person. Please refer to the Ministry of Public Health’s webpage for additional information.

COVID-19 Vaccines:   The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Qatar. Please refer to the Ministry of Public Health’s webpage for additional information.

Visit the FDA's website to learn more about FDA-approved vaccines in the United States.

Modern medical facilities and Western-style pharmacies are available. Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payment for health services.

For information on the Qatari national healthcare system, see the  Qatar Ministry of Health website .

For emergency services in Qatar, dial 999. 

Ambulance services are widely available. 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Some prescription medications from the United States are unavailable or restricted in Qatar, for example, stimulants, strong pain medications, and some medications used by HIV+ patients. Check with the  Qatari customs authority  on proper travel procedures and the  Ministry of Public Health  to ensure the medication is legal in Qatar. Discuss a health care plan with your doctor before you travel.

Contraceptives, Pregnancy, and Prenatal Care:  Sexual intercourse outside of marriage is illegal in Qatar.  As such, pregnant women must present a marriage certificate to receive prenatal care at medical facilities in Qatar.  Unmarried pregnant women should consult the U.S. Embassy prior to pursuing prenatal care in Qatar. Contraceptives are available over the counter with no prescription required. Emergency contraceptives are not available. We advise all travelers to plan accordingly.

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further Health Information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality:  Air quality is poor in Qatar, with frequent dust and particle pollution. Members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects. Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: For current traffic regulations, see the  Ministry of Interior’s Traffic Police  website.

Driving:  The legal minimum driving age is 18.  Holders of a U.S. issued driver’s license can drive in Qatar for two weeks, but most car rental agencies require an international driver’s license. Three-month Temporary Licenses are available.  International Driving Licenses are valid in Qatar for six months from the date of arrival.  Resident expatriates should apply for a full Qatari license. If you are caught operating a vehicle without a valid license, penalties can be severe.  For more information, see the Qatari Traffic Services website .

Traffic accidents  are one of the leading causes of death in Qatar. The extensive use of roundabouts, numerous road construction projects, and high-speed driving can be challenging. In rural areas, poor lighting, wandering camels, and roads without shoulders create hazards.  If you are in an accident without a license, any insurance may be held invalid, and you could be left with extensive bills and legal charges.

Avoid arguments over traffic incidents . Qatari citizens who feel insulted can file a police complaint that can result in your arrest and overnight detention. Drivers are liable for persons injured in a traffic accident. Local police have held U.S. citizens overnight while ascertaining the extent of injuries.

Traffic Fines:  Please be aware that traffic offenses are easily captured via well-placed cameras and the fines can be expensive. Unpaid traffic fines can result in an exit ban until reconciled. 

Public Transportation:  Regulated and registered taxi services (Uber, Karwa, Fox Transportation, and Careem) are widely available and generally safe to use. The Embassy recommends you avoid use unlicensed taxi operators or drivers who approach you and attempt to solicit business. Do not allow the driver to pick up additional passengers along the way. To avoid cultural misunderstandings, females traveling alone should always sit in the back (never the front) seat. 

Qatar Rail : The Doha Metro is safe, modern, and inexpensive.

Mowasalat Public Bus : Laborers and construction workers predominantly use this mode of public transportation. The front seats in the buses are generally reserved for women and children. The U.S. Embassy recommends the use of regulated taxi services rather than public buses.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Qatar’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Qatar should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings . 

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Qatar . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Simple Flying

Qatar airways welcomes new uk travel rules.

In March, Qatar was added to the United Kingdom’s red list of countries, minimizing travel between the two nations. However, the Middle Eastern country has today joined India, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates on the UK’s amber list . Simple Flying caught up with Qatar Airways’ leadership amid this move.

Upping frequencies

Unvaccinated passengers arriving from amber list countries have to take a test within three days before their flight and a take a day two and day eight test after arrival. They also have to home quarantine for ten days unless they pay for an extra test to release test on day five. However, if they are fully vaccinated, they don’t have to home quarantine or take the day eight test.

The UK government concludes who is on the red, amber and green lists for England. Meanwhile, the other home nations decide their own lists. Nonetheless, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland confirmed that they would follow suit with the changes.

Thus, it’s not only in England where there will be service ramp-ups for Qatar Airways. The airline will be adding frequencies at London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.

The frequencies for the next three months will be as follows:

• August: Two flights per week will continue
• September – An increase to three flights per week
• October – An increase to three flights per week

London Heathrow

• August: 21 flights per week
• September: 21 flights per week
• October: 28 flights per week
• August: Three flights per week will continue
• September: An increase to seven flights per week
• October: Seven flights per week

Word from Qatar

Rossen Dimitrov , Chief Officer Customer Experience of Qatar Airways, shared how glad his team is about the change. He highlighted how important the UK market is for his airline.

“We are pleased that and welcome the change of status. The UK is always a very important market for us. Not only for our global travelers but also our local Qatari travelers,” Dimitrov told Simple Flying.

“The UK, and London Heathrow, especially, is a very popular destination. A lot of people are already excited. I have to tell you that when the news broke out I received a lot of messages from people I know around the world and a lot of local Qatari families. Everyone was super excited, and, obviously, we are excited as well, it's a great opportunity and it's a step in the right direction.”

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In the right direction

It’s understandable why Dimitrov emphasized the popularity of London Heathrow, with the other UK destinations only seeing a fraction of the activity of this airport. This comes as no surprise as Heathrow was the busiest airport in Europe before the pandemic.

Altogether, Qatar Airways has shown that it’s willing to be present across the nations as much as it can even during the harshest times of the health crisis. So, with the skies slowly opening up again, the carrier wouldn’t waste time to get in on the action.

What are your thoughts about Qatar Airways’ operations to the United Kingdom? Are you looking to fly with the carrier soon? Let us know what you think of the airline and its services in the comment section.

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As part of the State of Qatar's endeavor to facilitate the travel and accommodation of its citizens and to protect them from any difficulties or obstacles they may encounter while traveling, MOFA is pleased to provide some important guidelines to help those who wish to travel abroad:

• Ensure that the passports and/or identity cards, if required, are valid and effective.
• Obtain visas and entry visas in advance for countries that require such visas.
• Comply with the laws and regulations of the host country and adhere to travel conditions and international aviation regulations, and avoid carrying prohibited items.
• Keep official documents such as passports, airline tickets and personal valuables in a safe place.
• Do not pawn your passport or ID card to any party in any way.
• If you are accompanying servants or non-Qatari companions, the sponsor must inquire about the visas and procedures in this regard.
• It is preferred not to carry golden jewelry and valuables while traveling.
• Watch your children in gatherings and markets.
• In the event of any problem - God forbid - you must immediately inform the nearest embassy or consulate of the State of Qatar and notify the officials of the facts of the problem.
• Do not allow the security services in the host country to search your accommodation without a search warrant from the competent authority.
• If you were, in any case, interrogated with you must inform the mission of the State immediately.
• Ensure the official capacity of the people who ask you to show your identity.
• Keep the numbers of Qatar's Embassy in the host country with you for reference when necessary.
• Keep the number of your passport and ID for reference when calling in the mission in the event of loss of passport.
• Do not carry a large amount of cash during travel and keep any Currency Exchange receipts.
• On arrival at your destination, you should declare any large amount of cash, as failing to do this may result in prosecution.

Qatar is welcoming 102 countries visa-free, check your visa status here .

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Travel tips

Qatar is a destination that offers novel, authentic experiences.  Here are some tips that will help better navigate the local culture and fully enjoy your time in Qatar.

Attitudes towards dress in Qatar are relaxed, but visitors (men as well as women) are expected to show respect for local culture by avoiding excessively revealing clothing in public. It is generally recommended for men and women to ensure their shoulders and knees are covered.

This is widely expected at Souq Waqif and other traditional markets.

The Qatari riyal is the only currency used in the country and can be obtained through ATMs which are widely available in malls, hotels and around Doha. The Qatari Riyal (QR) is pegged against the US Dollar at QAR 3.64

Currency Import regulations

When bringing local currency (Qatar Riyal-QAR) and all other foreign currencies amounts equal to or higher than QAR 50,000 must be declared on arrival. This includes jewelry, precious metals or stones valued at QAR 50,000 or higher.

Customs regulations

To read about customs regulations in Qatar and other related information, click here .

Disabled access

• The Accessible Qatar smartphone app provides information about accessibility and facilities at different public and touristic venues across the country.
• Ooredoo Qatar has partnered with Wheel the World  to offer accessible tourist experiences to differently abled visitors.
• In case of emergency, following specialised services are accessible for the deaf:
• Call 992 using the 3G camera on your computer or cell phone;
• Send an SMS to 992 clearly stating your problem and what service you need (ambulance, fire rescue, police), as well as your name, address, and any details;
• Send an e-mail to  992@moi.gov.qa  (it may take some time before you receive a response)

Drinking water

The World Health Organization estimates that 99% of Qatar has access to drinkable tap water. However, bottled water is widely consumed in Qatar with plenty of local and imported brands widely available.

Electric supply

The standard voltage is 240 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. Plug points are the same as in the UK. To use electric appliances made for the range of 100 V - 127 V (as is in the US, Canada and most South American countries), one needs a voltage converter or a combined power plug adapter/voltage converter.

Emergency telephone numbers

Police, Fire, Ambulance: 

Traffic & Patrol Police Department:

Embassies & Consulates

Doha is home to over 100 foreign embassies and a consulate. These are open for business from Sunday to Thursday and closed on Friday and Saturday, as well as all public holidays of both Qatar and the embassy's home country.

Friday timings

All business and commercial activity shuts down during Friday prayers in the morning (around 10am -12pm).  Several shops remain closed on Fridays while malls open in the afternoon on Fridays.

Qatari ladies will  not  shake hands with men, and many men will not shake a lady’s hand as a gesture of respect.

Healthcare facilities

In case of emergency, visitors can go to Hamad General Hospital’s network of hospitals and healthcare centers for care.

Internet Connectivity

Qatar is the world’s first country to introduce a commercial 5G network. Free WIFI facilities are available at the Hamad International Airport and most public places including shopping malls, restaurants and parks.

Islamic Holidays

Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the month-long period of fasting.  It is spent with family and friends, with much feasting, and goes on for three days, though shops and private businesses may reopen after one or two days.

The Hajj pilgrimage ends with Eid Al Adha , also known as the “feast of sacrifice” and continues for four days.

Home to around a hundred nationalities, Qatar is a melting pot of cultures with numerous languages being spoken. Being an Arab country, the official language is Arabic, but English is commonly spoken at all public places.

Meet & Greet Services

Passengers arriving, departing or transiting through Hamad International Airport can avail Al Maha  personalised Meet & Greet Services at Hamad International Airport.

Official holidays

Qatar National Day is celebrated on 18 December. Sports Day is also a national holiday celebrated on the second Tuesday of February each year. In addition to these two holidays the country is closed for three days during Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha.

Public Display of Affection

As in all Middle Eastern countries, showing overt affection and intimacy in public is frowned upon.

During the Islamic month of Ramadan, visitors are expected to refrain from eating, drinking and smoking in public places during the daylight hours out of respect to those who are fasting.  Hotels continue to cater to guests by opening restaurants that are out of the public’s view.

Qatar is a Muslim country and Islam plays an integral role in daily life. Prayers take place five times per day: at dawn (Fajr), around midday (Duhr), in mid-afternoon (A'asr), at sunset (Maghrib) and about two hours after sunset (‘Esha). The exact timing varies each day according to the sun's position.

Qatar has been ranked first in terms of safety and security, according  Numbeo  Crime Index 2020, the world’s largest database of user contributed data on cities and countries.

Smoking is prohibited in all public spaces including museums, sports clubs, shopping malls and restaurants. Violators can be subject to fines between QAR 1000-3000.

Passengers transiting through Doha can take advantage of Qatar’s unmatched stopover program to explore the destination. The +Qatar program offers great deals at 4- and 5- Star hotels.

Telecom Service Provider

The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) regulates the telecommunications, information technology, and postal sectors, as well as access to digital media. Ensuring balancing consumers’ rights and telecom Service Providers’ obligations is a top priority for CRA. If you have inquiries or complaints against telecom Service Providers, you can contact us through:

· Hotline 103, or +97444069938 from overseas · Email: consumervoice@cra.gov.qa · Complaint Form:  https://www.cra.gov.qa/en/Services/Consumers-Complaints · Social media: @craqatar · Mobile App: “Arsel” on Google Play and App Store For more information please visit CRA’s website: www.cra.gov.qa

Most hospitality outlets in Qatar include a service charge in the bill. However, a tip of 10-15% as a gesture of satisfaction is appreciated. It is advisable to carry cash for tipping.

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Qatar drives on the right hand side of the road.

Qatar has a desert climate with year-round sunshine, extreme temperatures during summer and mild winters. Average monthly temperatures range from 17°C in January to 36°C in July, sometimes reaching highs of 40°C+ during the summer months.

Year of Culture

Conceived of in 2012 The Year of Culture  is an initiative by Qatar Museums. Taking place with another country, the year-long cultural exchange programme invites people to explore a new culture, through a variety of exhibitions, festivals, competitions and events.

Visitors get easy entry to Qatar with Hayya

The Hayya platform makes it easy for visitors to experience a seamless entry process on arrival in Qatar.

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Doha is currently open for tourism.

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Qatar Visa For UK Citizens and Residents (2024)

Doha Guides Team regularly reviews this article to ensure the content is up-to-date and accurate. The last editorial review and update were on 16 January 2024.

The UK and Qatar are strong partners, collaborating on various important matters like politics, business, security, and the economy.

Each year, thousands of people from the UK , including both citizens and residents, come to Qatar for holidays and employment opportunities. Qatar Tourism even ranks the United Kingdom among the top 10 countries that send visitors to Qatar. Moreover, Qatar is home to a flourishing community of British expatriates.

This article explains everything you need to know about getting a Qatar Visa for UK Citizens and the essential things to consider before traveling to Qatar.

Qatar Visa For UK Citizens

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Qatar has a very liberal visa-on-arrival policy that enables travellers from more than 100 countries to visit Qatar without a pre-arranged visa. This approach is commonly referred to as a visa-waiver program .

Now, let’s address the most common question:

Do UK citizens need visa for Qatar?

UK citizens who have regular passports can visit Qatar as tourists for up to 30 days, subject to some entry requirements. They can also extend their visit for another 30 days.

Here are the important requirements to get a visa on arrival:

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after you arrive.
• You should have a return or onward flight ticket.
• You must have a hotel booking or a confirmed accommodation.
• If you plan to stay in Qatar for more than 30 days, you must get a visitor’s health insurance through the MOPH website.

For more information about Qatar’s visa-on-arrival program, check out our Complete Guide To Qatar Visa On Arrival .

Qatar Visa for British Passport Holders

Note that you can get a tourist visa on arrival if you’re travelling on a full British Citizen passport . You must still get a visa if:

• You are travelling for any purpose other than tourism.
• You hold  another type of British passport .

Qatar Visa For UK Citizens Cost

Getting a visa on arrival (visa waiver) in Qatar is free for UK citizens . The visa extension is also free.

The free visa-on-arrival facility applies only to UK citizens and not to UK residents or UK visitors .

• If you are a UK resident with a foreign passport, you should check if your home country’s passport is eligible to get a visa on arrival in Qatar .
• If not, you can apply for ETA Visa (A3) through Hayya Portal.
• You can also enter using other pre-approved visas like Tourist Visa , Family Visit Visa or Business Visa .

If you hold a valid visa to the United Kingdom you can enter the State of Qatar by applying for ETA Visa (A3) through Hayya Portal .

Alternatively you can check if your nationality is eligible for visa-on-arrival .

If you are UK citizen (or citizen of any country) passing through Doha airport and don’t plan to leave the airport, you don’t need a transit visa . For more information about this, read our detailed guide on transit through Doha airport .

The online application service for the Qatar Transit Visa is currently suspended. If you want to explore the city during your layover, you can get a visa on arrival as mentioned earlier. Or, you can ask your local Qatar Airways office if they can help you get a Transit Visa.

UK citizens can also visit Qatar without a visa if they have a tourist visa from Oman. You can read about the Qatar-Oman Joint Tourist Visa here .

If you’re booking flights to Qatar, we highly recommend Qatar Airways. It’s a 5-star airline known for its luxury, comfort, and extensive global network. Booking with Qatar Airways means you’ll have an amazing travel experience. Check out the latest offers from Qatar Airways here .

UK citizens visiting Qatar should respect the local traditions, cultures, and laws. Here are some important things to remember:

• Dress modestly: Cover your shoulders, chest, stomach, and knees. Tight leggings should be covered by long shirts or dresses. Here is a helpful article on how to what to wear in Qatar .
• Driving: UK citizens can drive temporarily in Qatar with their UK driver’s license. The British Embassy recommends getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) from the UK. Read our guide to driving in Qatar for more details.
• Alcohol: Alcohol is allowed but strictly regulated . It’s only available in limited places to non-Muslim, non-Qatari adults who are 21 or older. Public drinking and getting drunk are against the law.
• Drugs: Most drugs that are illegal in the UK are also illegal in Qatar, including marijuana/THC.
• Relationships: Living together while unmarried is illegal in Qatar. Sex outside marriage is illegal for both same-sex and opposite-sex couples.
• Personal ID: You are required by law to carry a physical form of identification at all times.
• Privacy: It’s illegal to take pictures or videos of people without their permission.
• Medical care: Pregnant women should be prepared to show a marriage certificate to get prenatal care. Also, remember that UK health insurance may not work overseas, so it’s smart to get extra insurance for medical emergencies.
• LGBTQIA+ travelers: Homosexuality is against the law in Qatar. Check the official Travel Advice from British Embassy.

If you are a visitor to Qatar, follow these entry requirements:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months to get a visa-waiver.
• Your passport must be machine-readable.
• You must have a confirmed accommodation.
• You need a return or onward flight ticket.
• If you plan to stay in Qatar for more than 30 days, you must have health insurance . The standard insurance premium is 50 Qatari riyals per person, per month.
• In 2023, you don’t need COVID vaccination or PCR testing to enter Qatar.
• If you’re coming from Afghanistan or Pakistan, you need to be vaccinated against polio.

The British Embassy in Qatar maintains and develops relations between the UK and Qatar.

The British Embassy in Qatar is located at West Bay (Dafna Area). Consular services are provided at the embassy by appointment only.

You can phone the Consular Section on +974 4496 2000 (available 24/7). You can also find additional details on the UK Embassy in Qatar website .

Emergency Contacts

• If you need urgent help from British Embassy call +974 4496 2000 (available 24/7).
• If you’re in the UK and worried about a British person in Qatar, call 020 7008 5000 (available 24/7).
• For emergency services within Qatar (police, ambulance, fire) call 999.

READ NEXT: Guide To Qatar Visa On Arrival

Can British citizens travel to Qatar without a visa?

British citizens traveling to Qatar can get a 30-day tourist visa on arrival, subject to certain conditions like six months of passport validity, return flight tickets, and confirmed accommodation.

Do UK residents need visas for Qatar?

Citizens from over 100 countries can enter Qatar without a visa, but UK residents are not granted any special privileges. If your home country qualifies for a visa waiver, you can visit Qatar without a visa; otherwise, you can apply for an ETA visa online.

Do I need Covid vaccination or testing to visit Qatar?

You do not need to undergo COVID-19 vaccination or testing to visit Qatar in 2023, as stated in Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) latest travel policy. Pre-travel and post-travel COVID testing, as well as Ehteraz pre-registration, are not mandatory.

Is travelling to Qatar safe for UK citizens?

Traveling to Qatar is generally considered safe for UK citizens. Nonetheless, it’s prudent to exercise standard precautions, despite the country’s low crime rates, as is recommended for any travel.

Related Articles:

• Carrying Medicines To Qatar: Things To Know
• Qatar Customs Prohibited Items
• How Much Cash and Gold Can Your Bring To Qatar
• Driving in Qatar: Rules For Visitors
• Visiting Qatar: Complete Guide

Copyright © DohaGuides.com – Unauthorized reproduction of this article in any language is prohibited. The information provided on this website is intended for general guidance and informational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional advice, and travelers are encouraged to verify visa requirements and travel advisories through official government sources before making any travel arrangements.

Aneesh, the Founder & Editor of DG Pixels, holds a Master’s Degree in Communication & Journalism, and has two decades of experience living in the Middle East. Since 2014, he and his team have been sharing helpful content on travel, visa rules, and expatriate affairs.

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Hi I am a UK citizen, I want to visit my Brother in Law who is in doha. I know that I will get the visa on arrival. My question is do I need a hotel booking? or Can I stay with my brother in law who is renting a flat and can provide a rental agreement upon request. it is just a shot visit upto 7 day

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Foreign travel advice

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Middle East: Is it safe to travel to holiday destinations as tension escalates?

Are you going to Turkey, Egypt or Israel on holiday? The Foreign Office has warned travellers to several countries to monitor advice after an Iranian attack on Israel pushed tension in the Middle East up another notch.

Thursday 18 April 2024 08:13, UK

Tension in the Middle East has ratcheted up again after Iran's attack on Israel, as the world waits to see how Benjamin Netanyahu's government will respond. 

With the threat of widening conflict, people due to travel through or over the Middle East may be asking if their plans may be impacted.

On Saturday, flight data showed dozens of journeys that would have travelled over the Middle East turned back after Iran fired more than 300 drones and missiles into Israel .

Here is what airlines are saying and the latest safety advice to travellers.

EasyJet scraps Tel Aviv flights

EasyJet has suspended all flights to Tel Aviv over safety concerns.

The budget airline told Sky News it has grounded its flights until 27 October at the earliest "as a result of the continued evolving situation" in the region.

Wizz Air customers could see schedule changes

Wizz Air cancelled flights to Tel Aviv on Sunday 14 and Monday 15 April before resuming its schedule.

But it said customers could experience schedule changes as it closely monitors the situation.

British Airways operating as normal

British Airways - which operates four daily return flights per week between Heathrow and Tel Aviv - said its flights were continuing to operate as planned, but it too was monitoring the situation.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

Turkey is a popular holiday destination for people from the UK with the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism saying that last year 3.16 million Britons made the journey there, according to Travel Weekly.

Yet, it borders a number of countries that the Foreign Office advises against travel to.

The vast majority of the country is considered generally safe for tourists, with some exceptions.

The Foreign Office advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria , and all but essential travel to the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces.

Is it safe to travel to Israel?

Some parts of Israel are considered "red zones" by the Foreign Office, with the government advising against all travel there.

For the rest of the country - including East Jerusalem and Tel Aviv - the advice is to travel only if it is essential.

Tourist Israel says around 220,000 Britons usually go to the country every year and the Foreign Office is advising against travel close to the border with Gaza, within 5km of the border with Lebanon and within 500m of the border with Syria.

You can see the full updated list of "red zones" on the Foreign Office advice pages.

Occupied Palestinian territories

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Gaza and the West Bank.

Don't travel to Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon or Syria - Foreign Office

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Iran, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen.

It advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), where it advises against all but "essential travel".

Can I safely go on holiday in Egypt?

The main tourist areas in Egypt are generally considered safe, including the capital Cairo, cities along the Nile and Red Sea resorts.

Over 1.5 million British Nationals visit Egypt every year, according to analysts Gitnux, and the areas the Foreign Office warns not to travel to include the Governorate of North Sinai, where the Rafah crossing to Gaza is located, and within 20km of the border with Libya.

Read more: Are we heading for World War Three? Experts give their verdicts What are Iran's military capabilities - and where could it strike?

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Check advice on other Middle East states before you travel

Following Iran's attack on Israel, the Foreign Office issued a warning relating to several countries in the surrounding area, telling travellers to check for the latest information.

Included in this are popular destinations like Dubai (visited by more than a million Britons last year according to Travel Weekly) and Marrakech.

"On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast," the FCDO said in a statement.

The countries covered by the warning include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Bahrain, Kuwait, Libya, Jordan and Oman.

Anywhere else of concern?

Cyprus is near the region and has a large UK airbase but, as yet, there is no change in travel advice to the popular country.

Related Topics

• Israel-Hamas war
• Middle East

Is it safe to travel to Egypt? Travel advice from the UK explained

By Olivia Morelli

In light of the ongoing conflict between Israel, Hamas and Iran, there are concerns about the safety of travellers visiting nearby regions. Below, find everything you need to know about the UK advice for visiting Egypt, including the latest update from FCDO.

What does the FCDO say about travel to Egypt?

The UK Foreign Office has updated their advice on travel to Egypt following military activity and explosions in Iran, Syria and Iraq. While it doesn’t explicitly advise against travel to Egypt as a whole, it does advise caution and notes ongoing unrest in the country: “In response to events in Israel and the OPTs, a number of demonstrations have taken place in Egypt and protests have been planned, including after Friday prayers. Demonstrations could take place at short notice, with a heavy security presence in place. You should avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and protests,” says the gov.uk website .

The FCDO website also highlights the following areas as places to avoid travelling to, and reminds travellers that “travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel”. For the full advice, check gov.uk .

• Within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border
• North Sinai
• Northern part of South Sinai
• The eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate
• Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid
• Western Desert (the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, with some exceptions)

Always check FCDO Egypt page for the latest advice, as the situation is changing rapidly.

Are flights still operating to Egypt?

At the time of publishing, flights are still continuing to run between the UK and Egypt. Typically for UK airlines, the flight path crosses over Italy, other parts of Europe and across the Mediterranean before reaching Egypt (instead of crossing over any Middle Eastern territories).

Middle East GCC

• Iran English ایران فارسی
• Iraq English العراق العربيّة
• Jordan English الأردن العربيّة
• Kuwait English الكويت العربيّة
• Lebanon English لبنان العربيّة Liban Français
• Oman English عُمان العربيّة
• Qatar English قطر العربيّة
• Saudi Arabia English المملكة العربِيّة السعودية العربِيّة
• United Arab Emirates English الإمارات العربِيّة المتحدة العربِيّة
• Bahrain English البحرين العربية

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Roadtrip - CA - WA Sept 2024 - advice please! - Road Trips Forum

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Roadtrip - CA - WA Sept 2024 - advice please!

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Hello! My husband and I are planning a roadtrip this September & we're looking for some advice from local experts.

We are flying to SF late August and will have 21 days to travel up to Washington, flying back to the UK from Seattle. We'd like to spend a few city days in San Fransisco, Portland and Seattle, and have a mix of coastal and inland stops.

We'd like to take in Big Sur which means heading south from SF, and then ideally head inland - would travelling to Yosemite be possible? Or would our time be best spend somewhere else?

Also interested in visiting Redwood National Park, Crater Lake, Olympic National Park.

If anyone can provide some tips, advice, places we shouldn't miss or even avoid we'd be delighted to hear from you! Thank you!

5 replies to this topic

Three weeks is a pretty good time to do that trip, although if you are only planning now, you are a bit behind the curve maybe for the odd location, such as Yosemite, but than does not mean it’s not possible.

One possible outline of many is.

2 nights SF.

2 nights Monterey ( tour Big Sur from here due to closure) .

2 nights Yosemite.

1 night Gold country or winelands

2 nights Redwoods.

1 night Bandon or other for south OR Coast

1 night Crater Lake.

2 nights Bend

2 nights Portland via Colombia River Gorge.

3 nights ONP

2 nights Seattle.

Now, that might tell you you don’t have the City time you wanted?

And so, maybe Crater Lake and Bend should go and you just drive up 101 and tour Columbia River Gorge out of Portland?

Make careful plans about where you will be for the holiday weekend. SF could work. I would not choose to visit Yosemite over the holiday, so arrange destinations appropriately.

SF is getting some busier conventions. Check your timing to avoid them.

Yosemite needs a Peak Hours Entry Permit or overnight lodging reservations in the Park on weekends and holidays. Include Mariposa Grove in your itinerary.... Entry day or exit day

In 3 weeks you won’t be able to see it all.

2 days seattle

1 day Portland

2 days olympic np

1 day redwoods

1 day crater lake

2 days monterey/ Big Sur

That’s 11 days…then other days for driving,

Day 1 fly in

Day 2 Seattle / buffer day

Day 3-4 Olympic

Day 5 to Portland

Day 6 Portland

Day 7 to bandon, OR

Day 8 to redwoods

Day 9 redwoods

Day 10 to SF on US 101

Day 11-12 SF

Day 13-14 Monterey/ Big Sur

Day 15 drive to klamath falls

Day 16 crater lake for day, night bend

Day 17 to hood river and columbia gorge

Day 18 to Seattle via Yakima

Day 19 Seattle

Day 20 fly home

By seeing this you don’t have time for Yosemite without sacrificing something else or adding more days you need 2 more days to fit in Yosemite.

The redwoods to SF drive could be turned into 2-3 days with going CA 1 to Mendocino or go to napa valley

You are also skipping Mt Rainier NP near Seattle

Southern oregon coat south of bandon is a very beautiful area to see

You could do a split trip…

Day 1-9 same

Day 10 to crater lake to bend

Day 11 to hood river to Yakima

Day 12 to Seattle

Day 14-15 Monterey/ Big Sur

Day 16 to Yosemite

Day 17 Yosemite

Day 18 to SF

Day 19-20 SF

Day 21 fly home

Hi and welcome to T-A!

Even with three weeks, trips like you're proposing that zigzag between the Pacific coast and inland/mountain areas can become a bit rushed. Our region is blessed with many attractions, and it's understandable that visitors want to see it all, but in reality a plan such as yours runs a risk of feeling rushed. Of course, people ar different, so it might be fine, but a couple of cautions might be in order.

First, this "El Nino" winter has resulted in snowpacks in the Cascades that are way below average. That means that by late summer it's highly likely that conditions will be tinder dry, making for what's already a period when forest and wildfires are common, into one where the risk is VERY high. Now planning a visit around the possibility of fires limiting access, or smoke obscuring the views, is unwise, but since you're probably going to have to make some hard choices just on the basis of your schedule, it might be wise to think twice about detours to places like Crater Lake, which can be right in the middle of the high-risk zone.

Yosemite is another area with similar issues. Although the Sierras haven't been as impacted this year as the Cascades, it's still fairly common for the famous waterfalls in the national park to be trickles, or even dry, by late summer. Combined with end-of-summer crowds, I'm not sure it will give you the best experience, but again, of course, it's your call.

Aside from the scenery and lure of the open road, do you have any particular interests on which you could focus on this trip? For example, you'll be transiting or passing close by several major wine producing areas. Do you like to hike, bike, kayak or, I don't know, windsurf? Art lovers? There might be some areas where several types of landscapes and activities can be experienced from a central base. For example, the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood region, an hour east of Portland, offers waterfalls, windsurfing and kiteboarding, alpine hikes or even summer skiing on the side of a big stratovolcano, all set in an area filled with vineyards and orchards in harvest mode, craft breweries, a remarkable small art museum, even a weird replica of Stonehenge. Is it worth a few days' break from a go-go roadtrip? I'd say so, but you might not agree.

Just some thoughts and suggestions. Again, welcome!

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