Welcome to Qatar, a vibrant destination that seamlessly blends rich traditions with modern advancements. Nestled on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Qatar is known for its stunning skyline, luxurious shopping experiences, and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. From the bustling streets of Doha to the serene deserts and beautiful coastline, there's a wide array of experiences waiting for you.

Whether you're visiting for a short stopover, attending a business meeting, or embarking on a longer adventure, understanding the local customs and practical tips will significantly enhance your experience. Qatar has rapidly evolved into a global hub for business, tourism, and culture, especially following its successful hosting of major international events, including the FIFA World Cup 2022.

Arrival Experience: Hamad International Airport

Your journey starts at Hamad International Airport, often hailed as a mini-city and consistently ranked among the world's top airports. Beyond being a transit hub, the airport offers luxurious amenities, including spa services, diverse dining options, and children's play areas. Conveniently located just 20 minutes from downtown Doha, it sets the tone for a remarkable visit.

For a seamless arrival experience, consider booking the Al Maha Meet & Greet service. This premium service allows you to skip the lines and provides a touch of luxury right from the start.

Recent Enhancements at the Airport

As of 2025, Hamad International Airport has introduced more sustainable practices, including solar energy initiatives and improved waste management. Look out for the stunning art installations throughout the airport, showcasing both local and international artists.

Cultural Insights and Etiquette

Dress Code: Comfort Meets Respect

Qatar's atmosphere is laid-back yet demands respect for its cultural norms. It's advisable to dress modestly; ensure your shoulders and knees are covered while out in public. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended to stay comfortable in the warm climate. A light scarf or shawl is useful for women when entering mosques or more traditional sites.

Greetings: Embrace Local Customs

When greeting locals, be mindful that many Qatari women may not shake hands with men, and the same courtesy may apply the other way around. A friendly smile and nod can go a long way in establishing rapport. It’s also customary to say “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) when greeting someone.

Friday Significance

Fridays hold special importance in Qatar. Most shops close during prayer hours (10 AM to 12:30 PM), with some remaining closed for the entire day. Malls typically open later, so plan your shopping accordingly. Remember, the weekend in Qatar falls on Friday and Saturday.

Celebrating Islamic Holidays

Join in the joy during Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, marked by family gatherings, feasting, and fireworks. While some establishments may close briefly, the overall atmosphere is festive. Be sure to participate in community events if you have the chance!

Respecting Ramadan

During the holy month of Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public from dawn until sunset. Many hotels provide private dining areas for guests, and food delivery services are available to ensure you remain nourished. You can also find special iftar (breaking the fast) events at various venues.

Cultural Etiquette Tips

• Avoid pointing with your feet.
• Maintain a calm demeanor in public spaces.
• Always ask permission before photographing locals.
• Respect personal space at all times.

Currency and Tipping

Currency: Qatari Riyal

The local currency is the Qatari Riyal (QR), pegged to the US dollar at approximately 1 USD = QR 3.64. While many establishments accept credit cards, cash is preferred at some souqs. ATMs are widely available, so cash access is convenient.

Currency Declaration

If bringing in Qatari Riyals or any foreign currency equal to or exceeding QR 50,000, declare it upon entry. This includes valuable items such as jewelry or precious metals, making customs processes smoother.

Tipping Practices

Tipping is not customary in Qatar, but if you receive exceptional service, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated. In restaurants, rounding up the bill is also a common practice.

Safety, Security, and Accessibility

A Safe Destination

Qatar is one of the safest countries globally, ranked 3rd in 2025 with a Safety Index score of 84.6. It's recognized as the safest nation in the Middle East, making it a secure place for travelers.

Emergency Contacts

• Police, Fire, Ambulance: 999
• Traffic Issues: 4890666

Accessibility for All

If you have special accessibility needs, the Accessible Qatar app is an invaluable resource for locating wheelchair-friendly venues and facilities throughout the country. Many public transport systems and tourist sites are equipped with ramps and accessible restrooms.

In case of emergencies for the hearing impaired:

• Use a 3G camera to call 992.
• Send an SMS to 992 with your location and details of assistance needed.
• Email [email protected] (response times may vary).

Health and Utilities

Healthcare Services

For medical attention, Hamad General Hospital offers top-notch healthcare facilities and services. Additionally, several private clinics and hospitals are available throughout the country, ensuring quality care. Make sure to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Staying Hydrated

Tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is readily available. Given Qatar's high temperatures, ensure you stay hydrated, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors. Some handy tips include carrying a refillable water bottle and seeking shaded areas during peak sun hours.

Electrical Standards

Qatar operates on a voltage of 240 V and a frequency of 50 Hz, using UK-style Type G plugs. Visitors from regions with lower voltage should bring adapters or converters.

Connectivity Options

Tourists can purchase prepaid SIM cards from Ooredoo or Vodafone at the airport or in local stores. Affordable data packages enable you to stay connected effortlessly. Qatar has also expanded its 5G coverage, ensuring high-speed internet access across most urban areas.

Navigating the City

Driving and Riding

Qatar drives on the right-hand side. Rental cars are easy to find, and roads are well-maintained with clear signage. New traffic regulations have been implemented to enhance road safety, so familiarize yourself with local driving laws.

Taxi and Ride-Hailing Services

From Hamad International Airport, Karwa taxis are the official metered service, known for their reliability. Various ride-hailing apps also provide convenient, cashless options, making transportation easy. Always check for a fare estimate before getting in.

Public Transportation

The Doha Metro is an excellent choice for first-time visitors. Clean and air-conditioned, it connects the airport to downtown and major attractions. Affordable travel passes are available, making it easy to explore without the hassle of traffic.

Standard Card Fares:

• Single Journey: QR 2
• Day Pass: QR 6
• Weekly Pass: QR 40
• 30-Day MetroPass: QR 120
• Rechargeable Travel Card: QR 10

Goldclub Card Fares:

• Single Journey: QR 10 (QR 2 for Tram)
• Day Pass: QR 30
• Rechargeable Travel Card: QR 100

Travel Tips

• Download ride-hailing apps like Karwa, and the Qatar Rail app for real-time updates on metro and tram schedules.
• Keep small change handy for taxis if not using apps, though most accept digital payments.
• Consider using the Doha Bus service for sightseeing; it offers hop-on, hop-off options that cover major tourist attractions.

Shopping and Markets

Bargaining at Souq Waqif

Shopping at Souq Waqif is an experience not to be missed. Bargaining is expected, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices. A friendly greeting with “Salam” and a casual “Inshallah” can enhance your shopping experience. The souq is also a great place to try local delicacies and enjoy traditional Qatari coffee.

Luxury Shopping Malls

For a different shopping experience, visit luxury malls such as Villaggio, Doha Festival City, and Mall of Qatar. These venues offer a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, all in comfortable, air-conditioned environments. Many malls now feature international brands and local artisans, making it a vibrant shopping scene.

Connectivity and Language

Language Diversity

While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken due to the diverse expatriate population, making communication easier for travelers. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture.

Internet Access

Qatar leads in digital connectivity, having been the first country to launch commercial 5G. Free Wi-Fi is available in select public areas, though coverage may vary. Many cafes and restaurants also offer complimentary Wi-Fi.

Weather and Annual Events

Climate Overview

Prepare for warm, sunny weather year-round. Summers can be sweltering, often exceeding 40 °C, so sunscreen and hydration are crucial. Winters are mild, making them perfect for outdoor activities. If you plan to visit during summer, consider scheduling indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Key Holidays

• Qatar National Day: December 18
• Sports Day: Second Tuesday in February
• Eid Celebrations: Dates vary based on lunar observations, typically lasting three days.

Events and Activities

Qatar hosts a variety of events, from concerts to sports tournaments. Major events include the Qatar International Food Festival and the Doha Film Institute's annual film festival. Stay updated with apps like Qatar Events to ensure you don’t miss out on any happenings.

Alcohol Regulations and Local Laws

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol is strictly regulated in Qatar. It is permitted only in licensed hotels, bars, and private residences. Public intoxication or drinking outside these venues can lead to legal repercussions. Always carry ID when purchasing or consuming alcohol.

Legal Considerations

To respect local laws, avoid:

• Profanity or offensive gestures in public.
• Public intoxication or drinking outside licensed areas.
• Excessive public displays of affection.
• Photographing accidents or government buildings.
• Taking photos of individuals without consent, especially women and families.
• Eating or drinking in public during Ramadan daylight hours.

Useful Tips for Travelers

1. Local SIM Cards: Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for better connectivity and to avoid high roaming charges.

2. Cultural Sensitivity: Always be respectful of local customs, especially in religious sites.

3. Hydration: Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, and take advantage of water fountains in public areas where available.

4. Explore Beyond Doha: Consider day trips to nearby attractions like the Desert Safari or the Pearl-Qatar for a more comprehensive experience of Qatari culture and landscapes.

5. Plan Ahead: Check local event calendars before your trip to align your visit with any festivals or events that interest you.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll enjoy a memorable and culturally rich experience in Qatar. Safe travels!

Dubai Duty Free has once again captured global attention by shattering sales records this August, reaching an impressive Dh646.23 million ($177 million). This marks a 15% increase over August 2024 and nearly a 10% rise from the previous peak recorded in 2018, underscoring the airport retailer’s growing allure among travelers.

On average, Dubai Duty Free welcomed around 275,000 passengers daily throughout August, generating an average daily sales figure of Dh20.8 million ($5.7 million). Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi praised the achievement, noting that sales growth has outpaced passenger numbers by approximately 9%, “a testament to the dedication of our team and the robust retail environment we have cultivated.”

A closer look at shopping habits reveals that confectionery stole the spotlight, with sales soaring by nearly 69%. Chocolates and sweets remain top picks for gifts and personal enjoyment. Gold jewelry followed with a strong 28.5% boost, while perfumes and tobacco products grew by 13% and 11% respectively. Other notable performers included Millennium Millionaire tickets, which climbed 34%, watches up 17.7%, precious jewelry with a 24% increase, cosmetics rising 9%, liquor up 3%, and electronics showing steady yet modest growth at 2.3%. Even without confectionery, the top ten categories collectively recorded a healthy 10.4% increase, illustrating broad-based demand across Dubai Duty Free’s diverse offerings.

Luxury shoppers found much to celebrate in Terminal 3, where fashion boutiques in Concourses A and B enjoyed a 10.86% rise in sales compared to last year. Cartier boutiques impressed with a striking 29.33% surge. The average daily boutique transactions climbed to 254, while customer spend rose to Dh8,004 from Dh7,748, signaling that premium shopping remains a favorite indulgence among UAE travellers.

All terminals experienced strong sales growth throughout the month. Concourses A and B both posted 17% increases, Concourse C followed with a 16.45% uplift, and Concourse D saw sales grow by 7.91%. Terminal 2 Departures reported a 13.6% gain, while Al Maktoum International Airport stood out with a remarkable 56.91% surge. Even arrivals shops maintained momentum, growing 11.72% despite intensified competition at Terminal 3 Arrivals.

Dubai Duty Free’s global appeal was evident, with travelers to the U.S. fueling a 27.94% uptick in spending. Other regions contributing to the growth included the Middle East (+19.78%), the Indian Subcontinent (+17%), Africa (+15.28%), Europe (+13.46%), Australasia (+9.49%), the Far East (+9.15%), and Russia (+3.26%).

Looking ahead, Dubai Duty Free shows no signs of slowing down. Luxury aficionados can anticipate the opening of a new Louis Vuitton boutique in Concourse A later this week, with Cartier slated to open another boutique by the end of September. By December, Concourse A will unveil the ‘Gifts from Dubai’ concept store, promising an even more immersive shopping experience for travelers and residents alike.

With year-to-date sales hitting Dh5.4 billion ($1.48 billion), a 6.93% increase compared to last year, Dubai Duty Free isn’t just setting new records — it’s redefining the airport shopping experience. For residents and visitors in the UAE, the airport transcends its role as a transit hub, emerging as a premier destination for luxury, indulgence, and everyday delights.

London Heathrow Airport has solidified its position as the most expensive and fiercely contested aviation hub in the world, with takeoff and landing slot pairs fetching record prices up to $75 million in 2025. The extreme demand far outstrips the limited supply of slots at the airport, which is capped at approximately 10,500 weekly movements around 40 to 45 takeoffs and landings per hourcreating one of the world's most lucrative and competitive aviation markets.

Key airlines like Oman Air and American Airlines have previously paid sums in the tens of millions for coveted slots, with a recent transaction echoing Oman Air's 2016 record $75 million deal for prime morning slots. These slots, particularly those during early morning and summer peak times, are highly valued due to their potential revenue generation and strategic importance for flight scheduling in one of the busiest travel corridors globally.

The scarcity arises from Heathrow's operational constraints, including a long-standing cap of 480,000 annual Air Transport Movements and strict allocation regulations overseen by Airport Coordination Limited (ACL). British Airways dominates the market, controlling over half of the allocated slots, which reinforces the advantage of incumbent carriers through a system that prioritizes historical usage. Regulatory changes in 2025 aimed to ease entry for new carriers and reduce "ghost flights" have yet to alter the market's fundamental dynamics.

Looking ahead, the proposed addition of a third runway could nearly double the airport’s capacity, introducing up to 276,000 additional flights annually and potentially easing the slot shortage. However, the manner in which these new slots are allocated likely favoring carriers with substantial current usage will determine whether slot prices will decrease or remain near current record highs.

For now, securing a slot at Heathrow remains a high-stakes investment, representing critical competitive leverage and access to one of the world's wealthiest passenger markets, particularly lucrative for carriers targeting premium business and long-haul travel.

British Airways (BA) is pushing the boundaries of loyalty travel by operating exclusive Avios-only flights, allowing passengers to redeem points for every seat on selected routes. The latest—and most ambitious—offering targets the highly sought-after London Heathrow to Cape Town International Airport route during the fiercely competitive Christmas holiday season.

Scheduled to depart on December 20, 2025, with a return on January 2, 2026, these Avios-only flights come with a significant financial trade-off. Industry analysis estimates that BA could sacrifice more than £1 million in revenue by filling entire aircraft with points redemptions rather than cash-paying customers on this premium leisure route.

Since launching Avios-only flights in April 2023 with short-haul destinations like Geneva and Sharm-el-Sheikh, British Airways has steadily expanded the program. By late 2024, long-haul Avios flights appeared on routes to Dubai, followed by Caribbean destinations like Barbados earlier in 2025, and Abu Dhabi during the Easter period.

The Cape Town flights are notably different. Scheduled during peak Christmas travel when fares routinely command premium prices, this route is dominated by leisure travelers willing to pay top-tier prices, unlike some other Avios routes drawing more mixed business leisure demand. This makes the sacrifice in potential revenue especially striking.

Analysts estimate the total revenue opportunity for this roundtrip Avios flight pair at between £1.2 million and £1.3 million, with the outbound, pre-holiday leg holding the most value due to constrained seat availability and strong demand. The loss is softened—at least internally—by Avios Group Limited (part of IAG, BA’s parent company), which likely compensates BA for these seats at market rates, ensuring balance within the group.

Industry commentary highlights the loyalty program growth as the core motivation behind these Avios-exclusive flights. BA’s 2024 annual report spotlighted a 24% increase in Avios earnings and a 20% jump in redemptions, contributing to a strong £363 million profit on £1.585 billion revenue and a 22.9% pre-tax margin. These exclusive flights, with their aspirational redemption opportunities, help attract new members and deepen engagement among existing Avios collectors.

Unlike many 2025 flight releases, which appear 222 to 317 days ahead, the Avios flights to Cape Town were unveiled 142 days before departure. This shorter window likely curbs speculative bookings and cancellations, aligning with travelers’ post-summer holiday planning cycles. The timing also ensures flights sell out rapidly, demonstrating pent-up demand.

Alongside the Avios-only flights, BA operates standard cash fare services on these dates—nearly fully booked—a factor suggesting some reallocation of bookings as passengers choose between cash and points options.
Modeling passenger fare classes using the “shelf” principle, which balances revenue contributions across economy, premium economy, and business/first classes, analysts incorporated demand from European markets where fares tend to be lower than from London. For example, Club World fares ex-Europe range from £5,553 to £9,086 compared to £6,292 from London.

During the Christmas peak, direct fares for Cape Town reach £12,341 to £16,555 in First Class, around £6,292 for Club World, £4,144 to £5,133 for World Traveller Plus, and £2,716 for World Traveller, before taxes—underscoring the premium nature of this route.

Though costly in the short term, Avios-only flights provide tangible benefits. They make expensive holidays more attainable for points-rich travelers, foster goodwill, and encourage passengers to maintain BA credit cards and prioritize the airline for future bookings. Passengers who save money on flights might redirect funds towards hotels, dining, or ancillary services, supporting the wider travel ecosystem.

Cape Town’s appeal is undeniable, even with steep accommodation prices ranging from around £5,000 at The Westin to over £20,000 at Mount Nelson, reinforcing the premium leisure positioning of this route.
In the broader picture, BA’s bold Avios-only approach exemplifies how airlines can leverage loyalty currencies not just as marketing tools but as strategic assets driving long-term customer engagement—even if it means foregoing millions in immediate ticket revenue.

Zurich Airport Ltd. has announced its strongest first-half financial results in history, posting a consolidated profit of CHF 161.3 million for the first half of 2025, reflecting a 6% increase compared to the same period last year. The airport’s revenue rose by 2% to CHF 640.7 million, buoyed by a 4% increase in aviation-related income to CHF 327.3 million. Although non-aviation revenue saw a slight decline to CHF 313.4 million, the company’s operating expenses decreased by 1%, helped by lower electricity costs.

Passenger traffic hit a new milestone with a record 14.96 million travelers passing through Zurich Airport in the first six months—a 3% increase year-on-year. Freight also showed growth, rising 2% to reach 219,410 tonnes. Zurich Airport’s extensive summer schedule now connects travelers to 206 destinations through 63 airlines.

However, commercial and parking revenues experienced a modest decline of 1%, mainly due to ongoing landside construction work. Real estate income, on the other hand, saw a slight improvement. Zurich Airport invested CHF 422.9 million in development projects, including CHF 155 million for the new Radisson Blu building. Significant infrastructure upgrades underway include replacing Dock A, modernizing the baggage handling system, expanding cargo and business aviation facilities, and enhancing passenger areas landside.

In line with its commitment to sustainability, Zurich Airport is progressing steadily towards its ambitious net-zero emissions target set for 2040. Current initiatives include building a new energy centre, testing seasonal energy storage solutions, and piloting innovative technologies like autonomous shuttles, robotic cleaners, and smart restroom systems.

The company’s international ventures also recorded strong results, with revenue climbing 14% to CHF 56.3 million. Development continues at India’s Noida International Airport, while several Brazilian airports under Zurich’s management earned top sustainability rankings. Florianópolis airport was named Brazil’s best, and Vitória and Macaé airports received high sustainability accreditation. Notably, Macaé opened a new runway in June to support increased traffic.

Looking ahead, Zurich Airport expects to welcome around 32 million passengers in 2025, representing a 2.5% growth, reinforcing its position as a vital gateway for Switzerland and highlighting its ongoing efforts to provide sustainable and high-quality mobility solutions for travelers.

In a landmark move set to reshape its fleet and global reach, Korean Air has announced its largest-ever order: a staggering $50 billion investment in 103 Boeing aircraft along with engines and maintenance services from GE Aerospace. The announcement on Monday coincided with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s visit to Washington, underscoring the deal’s strategic significance.

The colossal order includes a diverse mix of Boeing’s 787, 777, and 737 models, valued at approximately $36.5 billion. Complementing the aircraft purchase, Korean Air secured a separate $13.7 billion deal with GE Aerospace for engine purchases and servicing, signaling a major commitment to modernizing its fleet with cutting-edge technology.

Korean Air’s CEO Cho Won-tae, fresh from visiting one of Boeing’s U.S. factories, said the record-breaking deal will enable the airline to expand its service to more destinations across the U.S., Latin America, and South America. Highlighting the scale of the order, CEO Cho revealed that roughly half of the new planes will be 737 MAX 10s, with the remainder comprising 777-9 and 787 models. He added that about 80% of these new planes will replace older aircraft, reflecting Korean Air’s focus on fleet renewal.

Despite Boeing facing challenges in recent years, Cho expressed confidence in the manufacturer’s products and future performance. South Korea’s industry ministry confirmed the Boeing deal’s value at $36.2 billion, separate from the engine agreement with GE.

Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, stressed the partnership’s role in Korean Air’s ongoing growth and integration. “As Korean Air transitions to a larger unified carrier following its acquisition of Asiana Airlines, we are committed to supporting its expansion with one of the world’s most efficient fleets,” she said.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick underscored the importance of the deal for American aerospace exports. “The world recognizes that our aircraft are the most advanced in the world, and this administration is committed to reshoring advanced manufacturing jobs for Americans,” he stated.

This new contract follows an earlier commitment by Korean Air to purchase 20 Boeing 777-9s and 20 787-10s, with additional options, cementing the airline’s strategy of a comprehensive fleet upgrade. Founded in 1969 and a founding member of the SkyTeam airline alliance, Korean Air has grown into South Korea’s largest carrier and continues to expand its global footprint with this ambitious investment.