Police
999
Ambulance
999
Tourist Police
999
Risk Map & Attractions
Common Scams
The 'Broken Meter' Taxi Scam
Unofficial or unscrupulous taxi drivers, especially those waiting at the airport or major tourist spots, will claim their meter is broken or refuse to turn it on. They will then demand an exorbitant, fixed fare at the end of the ride, which is often many times the actual cost.
Always use the official Karwa app, Uber, or Careem. If taking a street taxi, insist the driver uses the meter or agree on a fair price BEFORE getting in. Note the taxi number and driver ID.
The Currency Drop Distraction
A scammer drops a small amount of cash or a valuable item near you and then points it out, asking if it's yours. While you are distracted or bending down, a second scammer will quickly pickpocket your wallet, phone, or bag. In a variation, they may accuse you of stealing their money to cause a scene and distract you.
Ignore anyone who approaches you about dropped money or valuables. Keep your valuables secured in a cross-body bag or inside pocket. Immediately walk away from the situation.
The Fake Online Booking Trap
Scammers create professional-looking, but fake, websites for hotels, apartments, or tour operators offering unbelievable discounts. Tourists pay for the booking via an unsecured link, but the service is never delivered, and the money is lost. This can also include fake discount vouchers for famous brands.
Only book accommodations and major tours through official, well-known websites or directly with the hotel/company. Check for secure payment gateways (HTTPS) and look for recent, verified reviews on multiple platforms.
The Sob Story Beggar
A person or a group (often claiming to be a family) will approach tourists with a sad, elaborate story about being stranded, losing their money, or needing urgent funds for a sick relative. They appear genuine and target the tourist's sympathy to extract a large sum of money.
Street begging is illegal in Qatar. Politely but firmly refuse and walk away. If you wish to donate, do so through official, registered charities.
The Counterfeit Souvenir Hustle
Vendors in popular markets will sell low-quality, mass-produced items, claiming they are authentic, handmade Qatari crafts or high-end branded goods. The prices are inflated, and the quality is poor, leaving the tourist with a worthless item.
Be skeptical of 'too good to be true' deals. Inspect items closely and haggle for a fair price. Purchase high-value items from reputable, established stores rather than street vendors.
The Fake Tour Guide
An individual approaches tourists near a major attraction, offering their services as an 'official' or 'local' guide. They may charge an excessive fee, provide incorrect information, or lead the tourist to shops where they receive a commission for purchases.
Only hire guides through official tour companies or your hotel. Ask to see official identification or licensing. Never pay a large sum upfront.
The Phishing/Customs SMS Scam
Scammers send SMS or WhatsApp messages impersonating official entities like Qatar Customs, the Ministry of Interior (MOI), or local banks. The message claims a fine is due or a package is held, urging the recipient to click a fake link to provide personal details or make a payment.
NEVER click on links in unsolicited messages. Official bodies will not request payments or personal details via SMS. Verify any claims by calling the official, published number of the entity.
The Unlicensed Airport Transfer
Outside the official taxi ranks at HIA, unlicensed drivers or 'limo' operators will aggressively solicit passengers. They charge significantly higher, non-negotiable fares and are not regulated, making the ride less safe and more prone to overcharging.
Ignore all unsolicited offers for transport. Proceed directly to the official Karwa taxi stand or use a pre-booked service like Uber/Careem.
The 'Late Arrival' Tour Refusal
Tourists who book guided tours through third-party platforms or even official channels like Discover Qatar may be refused service or denied a refund if they arrive even slightly late. The fine print is often used to justify keeping the full payment without providing the service.
Read the cancellation and late-arrival policy carefully. Arrive at least 15-30 minutes before the scheduled departure time for all tours. Use a reliable transport method to ensure punctuality.
The ATM Skimming/Shoulder Surfing
While not unique to Doha, tourists using ATMs in less secure or isolated locations are vulnerable to skimming devices placed on the card slot or hidden cameras recording PINs. Scammers may also 'shoulder surf' to watch you enter your PIN.
Only use ATMs located inside banks or major, well-lit shopping centers. Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN. Check the card slot for any loose or suspicious attachments before inserting your card.
Safe Attractions
Souq Waqif
Traditional market with shops and restaurants.
Museum of Islamic Art
Museum located on one end of the Corniche.
The Pearl-Qatar
Artificial island with luxury shops and dining.
Katara Cultural Village
Cultural complex with theaters and galleries.
National Museum of Qatar
Museum dedicated to the history of Qatar.