Long layover in Doha

[burmans]

It looks like they are about to slightly change the entry requirements as at Sunday, the main change that I can see is they will now allow a supervised RAT test (not just PCR), no indication of any likelihood of restarting STPC at this stage but does make it slightly easier/cheaper to exit, except of course in that World Cup period.

 

[BNEFlyer]

I also found that city tours for layovers can be booked, just need to be approved for entry through the EHTERAZ app. One of the entry questions is around having a QR transit tour booked as they ask for the booking reference. This might be an option for a long layover? Can only complete the form 7 days in advance though.

 

[puchu]

Looks like the transit tours cost money - did they not use to be free?

 

[BNEFlyer]

Looks like the transit tours cost money - did they not use to be free?

Not sure if they were ever free. The city tour is cheap (around $40), the longer sand dune trip is about $180.

 

[Ktan89]

Update on the entry requirements during World Cup .
They have shorten the period for Hayya Card entry requirements to 22nd December now.
And it looks like you don't need a world cup ticket to apply for the Hayya card from the 02/12 - 22/12

• The FIFA World Cup will take place in Qatar from 20 November to 18 December 2022. You must apply for a Hayya Card if you're planning to attend a match at the World Cup. If your visit is more than 24 hours, you must arrange accommodation for your stay before you travel to Qatar. FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 provides further details.
• No standard visas will be issued for Qatar from 1 November to 22 December. To enter Qatar during this period you'll need a Hayya Card. Up until 2 December, to get a Hayya Card, you'll need a ticket to a World Cup match. Tickets are not required for Hayya Cards from 2 December onwards. Hayya Cards can be used for entry to Qatar until 23 January 2023.

 

[Sprucegoose]

What did you end up doing?

 

[Ktan89]

Since entry is allowed, I booked 1 night stay for the two (27hour) stopover. Any recommendations for things to do?

Back in September, QF tried to request QR to place me on a flight ICN-DOH departing a day later so my 27hour stopover (due to QR flight cancelations) is only a 3hour transit but there was no response from them. I waited months... the flight still says "waitlisted/not confirmed" on my PNR but I have given up now and not stressed with the new Hayya requirements.

 

[Sprucegoose]

You could stay local and do the first timers desert/camel thing if that stuff interests you.

On the other hand ..........I hear Fangio is alive and well and runs a quick (three-pointed swastica) service through to DXB - try that.

More fun in a bigger town?

 

[Pablo]

Anyone heard if the STPC has been reinstated from late January? Otherwise, would anyone recommend anything particular to visit - we have a 13 hr layover at the end of Jan. Was going to do one of the 4 hr tours but thought might be better to just go into town ourselves and stay at a hotel for 8 hrs or so.

 

[OZDUCK]

Anyone heard if the STPC has been reinstated from late January? Otherwise, would anyone recommend anything particular to visit - we have a 13 hr layover at the end of Jan. Was going to do one of the 4 hr tours but thought might be better to just go into town ourselves and stay at a hotel for 8 hrs or so.

The Museum of Islamic Art on the waterfront is an absolute must see. One of the best museums that I have ever visited. Beautiful pieces of jewelled & enamelled items plus many historical items. And with an extremely attractive interior.

Museum of Islamic Art - Museum of Islamic Art

Explore the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), see its comprehensive collection & masterpieces from across the globe showing the diversity of Islamic heritage.

mia.org.qa

17th Century Enamelled Gold Falcon encrusted with Diamonds, Rubies, Sapphires, Emeralds & Onyx



Ottoman Armour - around 1500



Souq Waqif is nearby but it didn't really take my fancy as it has been too heavily 'restored' for my taste.

Souq Waqif - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

 

[Pablo]

The Museum of Islamic Art on the waterfront is an absolute must see. One of the best museums that I have ever visited. Beautiful pieces of jewelled & enamelled items plus many historical items. And with an extremely attractive interior.

Museum of Islamic Art - Museum of Islamic Art

Explore the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), see its comprehensive collection & masterpieces from across the globe showing the diversity of Islamic heritage.

mia.org.qa

17th Century Enamelled Gold Falcon encrusted with Diamonds, Rubies, Sapphires, Emeralds & Onyx

Oh wow!! That's amazing. Will put that on the list.

 

[burmans]

Transit Accommodation still on their website but you'd probably need to contact to confirm if available in your case.

https://www.qatarairways.com/tradeportal/en-qa/policies/STPC.html

https://www.qatarairways.com/en/hia-hamad-international-airport/transit-accommodation.html?iid=ALL53419810