Need cash when I land, best place in Qatar? Airport or places in the city?
On my first trip to Doha, I exchanged $100 at the airport counter and felt ripped off. The next time, I used a QNB ATM at Hamad International and withdrew 400 QAR - it worked perfectly. I spent that on taxis, food at Souq Waqif, and tips. Everywhere else I just used my card, even in small cafés. I noticed the exchange offices in City Center Mall had better USD rates than the airport. Now I always stick to ATMs for cash.
Airport exchange desks in Doha are convenient but not cheap. ATMs from QNB, Doha Bank, and Commercial Bank are better for withdrawing QAR at official rates. They’re located in arrivals and around the city. Since Qatar is very card-friendly, keep just 200-400 QAR for taxis, tips, and small shops. If you’re carrying USD, city exchange counters at malls or Souq Waqif often offer better deals. Use airport ATMs for immediate needs, then cards for the rest of your trip.
When I arrived in Doha, I ignored the exchange counters in Hamad Airport because they charged a margin. I went straight to a QNB ATM in arrivals, withdrew 500 QAR, and it worked fine with my Visa. Later in the city, I saw money changers in West Bay with slightly better rates for USD, but I didn’t need them. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, so you don’t need much cash. For me, an ATM withdrawal at the airport is the most practical.
Hamad International in Doha has plenty of exchange counters, but rates are weaker than the city. I usually withdraw riyals from ATMs instead. Qatar National Bank (QNB), Doha Bank, and Commercial Bank ATMs are all over the airport and accept foreign cards. I take out 200-300 QAR for taxis and food, then use my card for hotels and malls. If you bring USD, exchange it at licensed counters in Doha City Center Mall for better rates than at the airport.