Money and banking basics

Who this is for

Visitors who need cash or want to use their cards in Qatar, and residents who want to open a bank account or send money home. This is general information, not financial advice; for products and fees, ask the bank or exchange house directly.

Before you start

• Your passport (visitors and new residents).
• A bank card that works abroad, if you are visiting. Check with your home bank about foreign transaction and ATM charges.
• For a bank account: a copy of your visa or residence page, passport photos and the bank's signed application form. Each bank may ask for more.
• If you carry QAR 50,000 or more (in any currency, or in jewellery, precious metals or stones), be ready to declare it when you arrive.

Steps

1. Get to know the Qatari riyal

   The Qatari riyal (QR or QAR) is the only currency used in Qatar. Qatar Central Bank keeps it fixed against the US dollar at about QR 3.64 per dollar, a peg in place since 2001. Current banknotes are QR 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200 and 500.

2. Get cash

   ATMs are easy to find in malls, hotels and across Doha. You can withdraw riyals with an international bank card, but expect a charge for the transaction. You can also exchange money at banks or at exchange houses licensed by Qatar Central Bank.

3. Pay by card

   International debit and credit cards are widely accepted, especially for larger purchases. Keep some cash for small purchases, traditional markets and tips.

4. Open a bank account (residents)

   Choose a bank licensed in Qatar and visit a branch or its official website. Bring your passport, a copy of your visa page and passport photos, and fill in and sign the application form. Requirements vary from bank to bank, so check the bank's own page first. Setting up the account can take a few days, so keep enough cash meanwhile.

5. Send money home through licensed providers

   Use a bank or an exchange house licensed by Qatar Central Bank. QCB supervises exchange houses operating in the country. If you are not sure whether a company is licensed, check with QCB before handing over money. Compare fees and exchange rates with the provider directly.

6. If something goes wrong, complain

   Raise the problem with your bank or exchange house first. If it is not solved, contact Qatar Central Bank's Customer Protection Department: call 8000700 for complaints about financial institutions, email cp@qcb.gov.qa, or visit QCB in West Bay from 8am to 1pm on working days.

Useful numbers and apps

• QCB Customer Protection: complaints about financial institutions 8000700 Source
• QCB Customer Protection: complaints about insurance companies 4445 6377 Source
• QCB Customer Protection email cp@qcb.gov.qa Source

Good to know

• Bank holidays for Eid can differ from government holidays: the Amiri Diwan says the QCB Governor sets the Eid holiday for banks and financial institutions.
• Most hotels and restaurants add a service charge to the bill. Visit Qatar notes that a tip of 10 to 15% is appreciated and suggests carrying cash for it.
• Never share your card PIN, one-time passwords (OTP) or online banking details with anyone who calls or messages you, even if they claim to be from a bank.
• Visit Qatar notes that all banks in Qatar offer services in English and Arabic.
• Banks and exchange houses are private businesses. This guide does not recommend any of them.