Qatar

Singaporeans are eligible for visa on arrival in Qatar. The visa on arrival is typically valid for 30 days from the date of issuance, and can be extended for an additional 30 days. Singaporeans are advised to adhere to the validity period on their visas on arrival.

Singapore passport-holders who wish to extend their stay in Qatar beyond 30 days are required to purchase a mandatory health insurance policy.

Please refer to the website of Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health for more information on the mandatory health insurance and for the list of insurance companies registered with the Qatar Ministry of Public Health: https://www.moph.gov.qa/english/derpartments/policyaffairs/hfid/hirs/insurancecompanies/Pages/default.aspx

As visa and entry requirements could change at short notice, we advise you to contact your travel agency or the Embassy of Qatar in Singapore for the latest information.

Singaporeans are advised to maintain the usual vigilance in public, be aware of local developments, and take appropriate steps for personal safety at all times. Although crime levels are low, female visitors should take extra care when travelling alone at night.

Speeding and minor road accidents are common in Qatar. Singaporeans are advised to exercise safety precautions when driving. The driver and passengers should wear a seat belt at all times. Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited. “Road rage” manifested in rude gestures or expressions can attract significant penalties. Offenders may be fined, imprisoned, or deported.

For those who prefer walking, please be extra careful when using zebra crossings. The local driving culture does not require mandatory stopping or slowing down at zebra crossings for pedestrians. Pedestrians should be alert, and wait for oncoming vehicles to slow down and assess that it is safe before attempting to cross at zebra crossings.

Qatar is a Muslim country. Singaporeans are reminded that they should respect the local traditions, customs, laws, and religions, and to adhere to them at all times while in Qatar.

It is illegal to import alcohol and pork products into Qatar. All luggage is scanned at the arrivals hall of Hamad International Airport.

Expatriates living in Qatar can buy alcohol via a permit system provided by the Qatar Distribution Company. It is also available in licenced restaurants and hotels which may sell alcohol to adult, non-Muslim customers in restricted areas.

It is an offence to drink alcohol or to be drunk in a public place. Offenders may be fined, imprisoned and/or deported.

1.      Alcohol should not be transported within the country, except to take it home from the Qatar Distribution Company on the day of collection.

2.      It is an offence to offer alcohol to Muslims and minors.

3.      Muslims caught drinking may be subjected to corporal punishment.

4.      It is illegal to sell, donate, or give away alcohol.

5.      It is a very serious offence to drink and drive in Qatar. Driving under the influence of alcohol is punishable by a jail sentence, fine, or both. Offenders will also be deported.

Penalties for possession, consumption and trafficking of illegal drugs are severe in Qatar, and offenders will have to undergo long-term imprisonment and pay heavy penalties. Depending on the severity of the offence, the mandatory death penalty may also be meted.

Singaporeans in Qatar should dress modestly. Qatar punishes and forbids the wearing of revealing or indecent clothes in public. In public places, women should avoid sleeveless or low-neck tops, tops with short sleeves that are above the elbows, as well as shorts or tight-fitting dresses above the knee. Men should note that wearing shorts or sleeveless T-shirts in public is generally frowned-upon and considered offensive.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims observe a daily fast from dawn to dusk, refraining from food, drink, and smoking. Qatari law strictly prohibits eating, drinking, chewing gum or smoking in public (including in your car) during daytime in Ramadan. While young children and pregnant or nursing women, regardless of religion, are exempt from the provisions, discretion in public is still advised. Violations may result in a fine or imprisonment. Singaporeans should be aware of the strict level of observance and enforcement of this during their visits to Qatar on the month of Ramadan. Most restaurants will be closed during the daytime, and only open after dusk.

Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe

Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters, or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws and customs.

Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations, and heed the advice of the local authorities.

When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.

For those planning to travel, here are some tips:

Before travelling

• Familiarise yourself with our network of Overseas Missions.

• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.

• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws, and customs.

• eRegister with us on our website (https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.
  

While travelling

• Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant, and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments.

• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.

• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrest, or terror attacks.

• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.

• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.
  

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously. Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance. If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request. It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc. Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails. Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately. Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.