When planning a trip to Qatar, one of the most important things to consider is the local currency and how you can make payments during your stay.
Whether you are traveling for business, leisure, or a stopover, understanding the financial system can make your experience much smoother.
At BFD Global Travels, we provide all the necessary travel information to ensure a hassle-free journey, including currency exchange tips and payment options.
What Is the Local Currency in Qatar?
The official currency of Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (QAR). The riyal is abbreviated as QAR and is further divided into 100 dirhams.
The currency is issued and regulated by the Qatar Central Bank and is available in banknotes of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 riyals.
One of the key things to note about the Qatari Riyal is that it has been pegged to the US dollar at a fixed exchange rate of 1 USD = 3.64 QAR.
This means the value of the riyal remains stable against the US dollar, providing financial consistency for travelers and businesses.
Can You Use US Dollars in Qatar?
While Qatar primarily operates on the Qatari Riyal, US dollars are widely recognized but not commonly accepted for direct transactions.
Here are some important points to keep in mind:
- Hotels and High-End Establishments: Some luxury hotels, international businesses, and major tourist attractions may accept US dollars, but this is not standard practice. Even if they do, the exchange rate may not always be in your favor.
- Local Shops and Markets: Small businesses, local markets, and public transport systems only accept payments in QAR, so it is always best to carry local currency.
- Credit and Debit Cards: International credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and American Express) are widely accepted in malls, restaurants, and hotels, making it easy to pay without cash.
- Currency Exchange: Exchanging US dollars for Qatari riyals is simple and can be done at banks, exchange houses, and airports. Since the exchange rate is fixed, you won’t have to worry about fluctuating currency values.
Where to Exchange US Dollars for Qatari Riyals?
If you need to exchange your US dollars upon arrival in Qatar, there are several convenient options:
- Hamad International Airport: Currency exchange kiosks are available in the arrivals and departures terminals.
- Banks: Major banks such as QNB, Doha Bank, and Commercial Bank offer currency exchange services.
- Exchange Houses: Money exchange centers like Al Fardan Exchange, UAE Exchange, and Al Zaman Exchange provide competitive rates and quick service.
- Hotels: Some hotels offer currency exchange services, though rates may not be as favorable as banks or exchange houses.
At BFD Global Travels, we always recommend exchanging a small amount of QAR before your trip or upon arrival to cover initial expenses like taxis and food.
Best Payment Methods for Travelers in Qatar
To make payments easy while traveling in Qatar, consider these options:
- Cash: Always carry some QAR in cash, especially when visiting local markets or using taxis.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Widely accepted at malls, hotels, and restaurants.
- Mobile Payments: Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are commonly used.
Why Choose BFD Global Travels for Your Qatar Trip?
At BFD Global Travels, we ensure that your trip to Qatar is seamless and stress-free. Our services include:
Personalized Travel Packages – Whether you’re visiting for leisure, business, or an event, we tailor trips to suit your needs.
Currency Exchange Assistance – We guide you on the best places to exchange money.
Accommodation & Transport Booking – From luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays, we handle it all.
24/7 Support – Our team is always available to assist you with your travel queries.
Final Thoughts
While the Qatari Riyal (QAR) is the primary currency used in Qatar, US dollars are not widely accepted for direct purchases.
To ensure smooth transactions, it is best to exchange your USD for QAR upon arrival.
For a stress-free travel experience, let BFD Global Travels take care of all your travel arrangements.
Planning a trip to Qatar? Contact BFD Global Travels today for the best travel deals and expert guidance!
At BFD Global Travel & Tour, we believe in crafting the perfect holiday experience.
It is tailored specifically to you. We turn your travel dreams into cherished memories. Your journey begins with us, where every destination offers an exciting opportunity waiting to be explored.
We provide a comprehensive range of services designed to enhance your travel experience, including:
Qatar Tourist Visa Assistance
Qatar Entry Visa Assistance
Flight Booking B2B and B2C
Destination Management from Atoz
Vacation Homes and Hotel Reservations
Visa Assistance for any Country from Qatar
Car Rental Services/ Logistics Support
Airport Pickup and Drop Services
Exciting Tour Activities (including group and family tours)
- Desert safari
- Water Activities
- Air activities
- City tours to heritage and ICONIC Sites
- Group tourism
- Educational tourism
Event and Conference Managements such as
- Government conferences
- Leadership conferences
- Religious conferences
- Educational conferences
- Business meetings
Ceremonial Events such as
- Wedding
- Family reunion parties
- Honeymoon etc.
We specialize in organizing and hosting events in Qatar. This includes weddings, family reunification, and birthday parties. We guarantee each special occasion is unforgettable.
Trust BFD Global Travel & Tour to make your travel experience seamless, stress-free, and truly memorable. Let us help you explore the world, one destination at a time.
The Most Common Questions People Ask About Qatar Visas, Travel, and Tours
