Sachin Walls
If you're travelling to Qatar, it's important to know which currency to use. The official currency in Qatar is the Qatari Riyal, often abbreviated to QAR or QR. While credit cards are widely accepted at larger stores, and you can use your ATM card at most machines in Qatar, it's a good idea to carry some cash in the local currency for smaller purchases, tipping, and in case of emergencies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Currency | Qatari Riyal |
| Currency Code | QAR |
| Currency Symbol | ر.ق |
| Banknotes | 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500 |
| Coins | 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 dirhams |
| Exchange Rate | 1 USD = 3.64 or 3.65 QAR |
| Exchange Options | ATM, credit/debit cards, exchange shops, banks |
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What You'll Learn
Qatari Riyal is the local currency
The Qatari Riyal is the official currency of Qatar, with the currency code QAR. The currency is issued and overseen by the Qatar Central Bank. In stores and restaurants, Qatari Riyal prices are likely to use the currency symbol ر.ق. Banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, and 500, while coins are available in 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 dirhams.
When visiting Qatar, it is advisable to carry multiple payment methods, such as cash in QAR and various payment cards. While cards are widely accepted in larger stores and restaurants, smaller shops and markets may prefer cash transactions. Additionally, having multiple payment options can provide backup in case one method is unavailable or stolen.
ATMs are readily available in Qatar and can be used with ATM or debit cards for cash withdrawals in QAR. It is recommended to use ATMs or banks for currency exchange, as they typically offer better exchange rates than airport exchange counters. Credit cards are also widely accepted, with Visa and Mastercard being commonly recognised.
When using a card for purchases in Qatar, it is important to be aware of any fees or charges associated with overseas transactions or ATM withdrawals. Some cards may offer benefits specifically for travellers, such as complimentary travel insurance or rewards points. Additionally, using a travel debit card or a multi-currency card can provide cheap and convenient transactions in QAR.
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Exchanging money at the airport
The official currency in Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (QAR), which is issued and overseen by the Qatar Central Bank. You won't be able to pay in USD when visiting Qatar, so it's essential to plan and get your travel money sorted in advance.
Although exchanging money at the airport is convenient, it may not be the best option in terms of exchange rates. Currency exchange providers are often located in airports, but the exchange shops in a city centre are likely to offer better rates. Some sources suggest that only amateurs exchange currency at the airport.
However, if you need to exchange money at the airport, you can find exchange counters near the baggage claim area or just outside of customs. Using your credit or debit card at an ATM is another option, but be aware of any overseas withdrawal fees or cash advance fees that may apply. When withdrawing cash from an ATM, it is recommended to select the local currency to get the Visa/Mastercard mid-market exchange rate.
If you plan to use a credit or debit card during your trip, it is advisable to bring cards connected with Visa or Mastercard as they are commonly accepted in Qatar. It is also worth considering a travel debit card, which can offer low-cost conversions to QAR and convenient spending and withdrawals. Prepaid travel cards are also useful for storing foreign currency.
In addition to exchanging money at the airport, you can buy Qatari Riyals before you leave home by ordering them online, purchasing them from a bureau de change, or even picking them up at your home airport. However, be cautious of exchange rate differences and additional fees when exchanging currency.
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Using a credit/debit card
The official currency in Qatar is the Qatari Riyal, often denoted by the currency code QAR. It is divided into 100 dirhams. Qatari Riyal banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, and 500, while the coins in circulation are 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 dirhams.
Credit cards are widely accepted at larger stores in Qatar. It is advisable to carry cards connected with Visa or Mastercard as they are commonly accepted. You could bring multiple cards to be better prepared for any unforeseen circumstances. It is recommended to read up on the costs of using your credit card overseas, such as possible overseas withdrawal fees and cash advance fees at the ATM. Some credit cards offer benefits like complimentary travel insurance, reward points, and additional security measures. However, these advantages may come with high charges for overseas usage. Certain cards, like Bankwest Platinum and 28 Degrees, waive currency conversion fees. Prepaid travel cards are also a good option for using and storing foreign currency.
Using a travel debit card in Qatar is usually safe, convenient, and cost-effective. Some providers, like Wise, offer multi-currency cards linked to a payment account. This allows you to convert, hold, and spend in QAR. You can add a balance in your home currency and switch to QAR to lock in the exchange rate and set your travel budget. With QAR in your account, you can make payments without incurring extra fees or foreign transaction charges.
You can use your ATM card at most machines in Qatar. When using the card for purchases, you may be given the option to pay in Qatari Riyal or your local currency. It is generally advisable to choose the local currency, Qatari Riyal, to avoid double conversion and unfavourable rates. Using your card for payments in shops, restaurants, and hotels in Qatar is often possible, but there may be instances where cash is necessary, especially in smaller or standalone local stores and markets.
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Carrying cash
Qatar's official currency is the Qatari Riyal (QAR), which is issued and overseen by the Qatar Central Bank. You can use your credit or debit card for larger purchases in Qatar, but it is recommended to carry some cash in QAR for small purchases, tipping, and in case of emergencies.
If you plan to use your card, bring one connected with Visa or Mastercard as they are commonly accepted. You could bring multiple cards to ensure you are prepared for any unforeseen circumstances. Before travelling, ensure you understand the costs of using your card overseas, such as possible overseas withdrawal fees and cash advance fees at the ATM. Some credit cards offer perks for frequent travellers, such as complimentary travel insurance, rewards points, and additional security measures. However, these benefits may be offset by high charges for using your card internationally.
If you prefer to carry cash, you can buy QAR before you leave home through various options: buying QAR online and having it delivered or picking it up in-store, buying from a bureau de change, or purchasing it at your home airport. Ordering online or picking it up in-store will likely give you the best exchange rate, as bureau de change desks at airports are known for their poor rates.
If you don't want to carry large amounts of cash, you can also withdraw money from ATMs in Qatar. Using your ATM card at most machines in Qatar is an option, but be aware that if you use your card to pay for something in your local currency, the outlet will convert it at a low rate, and your bank will also convert it later, resulting in two conversions. Therefore, it is recommended to always use QAR when given the option.
Additionally, consider ordering a travel debit card or a multi-currency card, which can be useful for low-cost conversions, payments, and cash withdrawals. These cards allow you to add a balance in your local currency and switch to QAR to lock in the exchange rate and set your travel budget. With these cards, you won't have to worry about foreign transaction fees once you have QAR in your account.
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Currency conversion fees
Qatar's currency is the Qatari riyal, which is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 3.64 or 3.65 QAR to USD. At Qatar Airport, you can pay with many types of currencies and use all international payment systems that accept cash in cafes, restaurants, and duty-free shops. There are also Qatari bank branches and exchange offices, as well as ATMs that dispense four main types of currencies: the Qatari riyal, the euro, the US dollar, and the British pound.
When it comes to currency conversion fees, it is generally recommended to avoid exchanging currency at the airport, as the exchange rates may not be favourable. Instead, consider using a credit card or withdrawing money from an ATM, as this will typically provide you with the Visa/Mastercard mid-market exchange rate, which is often more favourable. However, it is important to check with your credit card company or bank beforehand to understand any additional fees or charges that may be incurred when using your card internationally.
When using an ATM in Qatar, you may be given the option to be charged in Qatari riyal or your local currency. It is generally recommended to choose the local currency, Qatari riyal, to avoid being charged twice for conversion fees. Additionally, if you are bringing cash to exchange, ensure you have new dollar bills with the 3D blue ribbon, as older bills may be exchanged for a lower rate.
It is worth noting that the exchange rate between the Qatari riyal and the US dollar is relatively stable, so using a credit card for purchases in Qatar is generally a safe option. However, it is always a good idea to inform your credit card company about your travel plans in advance to ensure a smooth transaction process while abroad.
Overall, by being mindful of potential currency conversion fees and following the above recommendations, you can make informed choices about currency exchange and minimize any unnecessary fees during your time in Qatar.
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Frequently asked questions
The official currency in Qatar is the Qatari Riyal, which is issued and overseen by the Qatar Central Bank. The currency code is QAR.
The exchange rate between the two currencies is pegged at 3.64 or 3.65 QAR to USD.
Currency exchange providers are often in airports and hotels, although the exchange shops in a city centre are likely to be cheaper overall. You can also use your credit/debit card at most ATMs in Qatar.
