How Much Does It Cost to Live in Qatar? Here Are the Details

Last updated on April 23rd, 2025 at 02:21 pm

Qatar is known as a symbol of luxury, particularly its capital city, Doha, which became the dazzling center of the 2022 World Cup. However, behind the glamour, the cost of living in Qatar can be quite shocking due to its relatively high expenses compared to other Middle Eastern countries, and it rivals major cities around the world.

With costs comparable to those of major cities worldwide, Qatar showcased its grandeur with the most expensive World Cup in history, spending a massive budget of approximately QAR 3.344 trillion (around IDR 3.344 trillion).

As the host of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Doha has long been known for its high living costs, and the event may have pushed those figures even higher. In this article, we will dive into the estimated living costs in Qatar. So, let’s take a closer look at the details below!

What is the Cost of Living in Qatar?

The cost of living in Qatar can vary depending on several factors such as lifestyle, location, and individual or family needs. Below is an estimate of living expenses in Qatar for different situations:

Cost of Living in Qatar for Workers

The rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Doha ranges from QAR 3,000 to QAR 6,000 per month. Outside the capital city, rent can be more affordable. Monthly expenses for food can range from QAR 1,500 to QAR 3,000, depending on dining preferences and food choices.

Monthly transportation costs, including fuel and vehicle maintenance, range from QAR 500 to QAR 1,000. Health insurance typically costs between QAR 300 and QAR 800 per month, depending on the type of coverage and plan.

Cost of Living in Qatar for Families

Rent for a two or three-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from QAR 5,000 to QAR 10,000 per month. Monthly food expenses for a family can range from QAR 3,000 to QAR 6,000, depending on family size and eating habits.

Transportation costs for a family are typically between QAR 1,000 and QAR 2,000 per month, including fuel and vehicle maintenance.

Cost of Living in Qatar for Students

Rent for a room in a dormitory or shared apartment can range from QAR 2,000 to QAR 4,000 per month. Monthly expenses for students range from QAR 800 to QAR 1,500, depending on food choices and dining preferences. Transportation costs for students are approximately QAR 300 to QAR 500 per month.

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Daily Cost of Living in Qatar

Daily living expenses can range from QAR 100 to QAR 300, depending on lifestyle and daily activities.

It’s important to note that the above estimates are general and may change depending on factors such as location, lifestyle, and individual needs.

Daily Expenses

For a family of four living in Doha, the estimated monthly cost is around QAR 11,605, excluding rent. In current exchange rates, this amounts to approximately IDR 51.7 million. For an individual, the estimated monthly living cost is around QAR 3,271 or about IDR 14.5 million, excluding rent.

Accommodation Fees

Renting property in Qatar is known to be among the highest in the world. According to recent reports from Numbeo, Qatar ranks sixth in the world for the highest property rental costs. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Doha is QAR 14,200.

For those seeking more luxurious housing, such as apartments or villas in West Bay, the monthly rent for a three-bedroom apartment in this district can reach up to QAR 45,800.

Despite the high rental prices, these costs are often justified by the quality and amenities provided. Paying for expensive rent can be seen as an investment in enjoying the comfort, luxury, and unforgettable architecture that Qatar offers.

Additionally, Qatar has a housing lottery system, providing residents with opportunities to win homes at more affordable prices, offering more options for those seeking to live in the country.

Meal cost

Although accommodation in Qatar is expensive, food prices are relatively affordable compared to similar countries. For example, making mozzarella pizza at home would cost around QAR 29, which is cheaper than in Switzerland and Norway.

At the supermarket, you can buy 2 liters of water for $0.90, 1.5 liters of Coca-Cola for QAR 4.55, and a 12-bottle pack of beer for QAR 34.59. Dining out is also varied in Qatar. A meal at McDonald's costs around $6.50, while a large menu at Burger King is approximately QAR 27.31.

So, while Qatar is known for its high living costs, there are affordable food options for both home-cooked meals and dining out experiences.

Transportation costs

Transportation in Qatar is modern and affordable. Public transport options like buses and the metro are cost-effective. A single bus or metro ticket typically costs between QAR 2 and QAR 4.

If you frequently use public transportation, consider a monthly travel card, which costs between QAR 100 and QAR 200, offering better value. For those using private vehicles, fuel costs are relatively low compared to other countries, at around QAR 1.85 per liter. However, parking fees and vehicle maintenance should also be considered.

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Insurance Costs 

Health insurance is an essential requirement in Qatar, especially for expatriates. Health insurance premiums vary depending on the plan and coverage selected. Annual premiums for basic health insurance range from QAR 1,000 to QAR 3,000 per person.

For more comprehensive coverage, costs can range from QAR 5,000 to QAR 10,000 per year. Car insurance is also mandatory for vehicle owners, with annual premiums ranging from QAR 1,000 to QAR 2,500, depending on the type of vehicle and insurance policy chosen.

Miscellaneous expense

While living in Qatar, you will encounter various additional costs. For example, if you have children, you will need to account for their schooling expenses. Private schools in Qatar can be expensive, generally costing more than other educational options in the country.

Additionally, if you own a car, you’ll need to factor in registration, insurance, and fuel costs, which can quickly add up.

Also, consider costs for clothing, entertainment, and leisure activities. Qatar offers many free activities like visiting museums and parks, but there are also paid options such as movie tickets (around QAR 43.70) and nightclub entry fees (up to QAR 145.6).

Tips for Saving on Living Costs in Qatar

To save on living costs while staying or settling in Qatar, consider these tips:

1. Choose apartments or houses that suit your budget. You may find more affordable locations in the suburbs rather than the city center.
2. Shop for groceries at supermarkets and cook at home to save more money than eating out daily.
3. Utilize public transport like buses or the metro for daily travel, which is more economical than using a private car or taxi.
4. Opt for low-cost entertainment or recreational activities, such as visiting parks or beaches, or participating in free community events.
5. Compare prices in various stores before making purchases, and look for the best deals and discounts.
6. Set a monthly budget and monitor your spending to control unnecessary expenses.

Cheapest Cities in Qatar

In Qatar, some of the cheapest cities to live in include:

1. Al Khor: Located on Qatar's northern coast, Al Khor offers a tranquil seaside atmosphere. The cost of living here is more affordable compared to larger cities like Doha. Accommodation and daily necessities are generally cheaper.
2. Umm Salal: Situated in the northwest of Qatar, Umm Salal offers a more affordable cost of living than major cities like Doha. Housing options and public facilities here are more budget-friendly.
3. Al Wakrah: This coastal city on the eastern side of Qatar is also known for its more affordable living costs. Despite easy access to Doha’s amenities, the prices in Al Wakrah are generally more pocket-friendly.
4. Mesaieed: Located in southern Qatar, Mesaieed is an industrial city with relatively lower living costs. While more remote, its prices are often cheaper than in larger cities.

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These cities are considered cheaper because they tend to be smaller and less crowded than the capital city, Doha. The availability of more affordable accommodation, lower prices for food and daily items, and less market pressure make these places more budget-friendly for residents and newcomers.

If you’re looking for an affordable place to live in Qatar, these cities are great options. They offer reasonable living costs while providing necessary facilities and a comfortable environment.

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