Foreign travel advice

Qatar

Health

Before you travel, check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

  • the latest information on health risks and find out what vaccinations you need for Qatar on TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre)
  • where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. See bringing medication into Qatar

TravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines.

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.

Healthcare facilities in Qatar

Emergency medical treatment is excellent but can be expensive. Routine treatment is available but expensive for visitors. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation to the UK or the country where you live. Read more about what your travel insurance should cover.

FCDO has a list of English speaking doctors in Qatar.

Bringing medication into Qatar

Some prescribed and over-the-counter medicines may be controlled substances in Qatar. If you need to bring controlled or prescription medication into Qatar, make sure you carry it in its original packaging, accompanied by your prescription and an official letter signed and stamped by your doctor. The letter should include:

  • name of the medication
  • quantity prescribed
  • dosage
  • why it’s required

The letter should be signed by the doctor / consultant and stamped by the hospital or surgery.

For more information, visit the Ministry of Public Health website for their guidance documents.

Qatar has guidance on medications that can and cannot be brought in by travellers. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, contact Qatar’s embassy or consulate in the UK.

COVID-19 healthcare in Qatar

If you are confirmed to have COVID-19, you are expected to self-isolate for 5 days. You do not need to do a follow-up test at the end of your isolation unless advised by a healthcare practitioner.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro.