One look at Dubai and you’ll know the city thrives in opulence. A good place to splurge? You bet. But there’s more to Dubai than its world-famous shopping culture.
There’s more than enough for families, outdoor junkies, and serenity seekers around Dubai.
So where does Qatar stand?
Apart from its many cultural activities, Qatar is well-known for its beaches and dunes. There’s also plenty of shopping around the country, and although bigger than Dubai, offers fewer attractions.
That said, Qatar has more than meets the eye. And before you decide on Dubai, it’s worth taking a closer look at what each destination has to offer below.
Dubai
If you’ve searched “things to do in Dubai” on Google, you’ll see Dubai Mall often come up. Hailed as the city’s main attraction, Dubai Mall is a shopaholic’s dream.
It’s also the world’s largest shopping mall (about the size of 50+ soccer fields). So, you’re bound to find every retail brand here, especially high-end luxury brands.
If you’re thinking about Dubai as your next vacation, don’t worry. Shopping isn’t the only thing you can do here.
There are desert safaris, beaches, parks and waterfront parks, indoor skiing, aquariums, zoos, and more.
For outdoor junkies, skydiving in Dubai is the most adrenaline-pumping experience. There’s even camel racing, scuba diving, golf, and one of the most highly-rated must-dos, desert safaris.
Although most of Dubai is filled with beautiful skyscrapers and architecture, it’s not without its serenity hotspots.
Dubai’s waterfront parks are exactly that. Man-made waterfront promenades perfect for a relaxing vacation. Not to mention, they’re your best options if you’re thinking of a luxury honeymoon destination.
On that note, the Palm Jumeirah is another man-made feat that deserves every bit of mention in this guide.
The island is home to high-end hotels, posh apartments, and lavish global restaurants. But also, Palm Jumeirah is well-known for its beach clubs, spas, and infinity pools that turn into nightclubs past 6 pm.
Serenity seekers will also feel at home in Dubai. There’s the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk, which is an ideal spot for early morning or late evening walks by the bay.
The ocean views at the Boardwalk are amazing, and you’ll find several cafes and restaurants in case you get hungry.
All in all, Dubai promises tourists more than your average vacation thrill. Around the city, you’ll discover plenty of new and unique experiences. That includes a wide array of entertainment options to keep partiers happy throughout.
What Makes Dubai Unique?
Global Village Dubai
Global Village is one of Dubai’s most popular family-friendly attractions. It’s affordable, full of entertainment for adults and kids, and boasts a fireworks display you can’t miss.
What exactly is Global Village? Imagine a Disneyland cultural theme park minus the roller coasters. Here, you’ll find carnival rides, tons of cultural shows, global pavilions, shopping stalls, and street food stands. Plus, Global Village is also home to Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum.
Touring the 27 global pavilions is a great way to start your adventure in Global Village. You can globetrot the world in just a day, from China to Egypt to Japan and even Yemen.
From here, you can explore the heritage village for more cultural sightseeing. But if you’d rather catch a live performance, head to the main stage for stunt shows.
For the little ones, there’s a kid’s theater, an amusement park (Fantasy Island), and the Peter-Rabbit Adventure Zone.
Part of what makes Global Village an exciting place to visit is also Kiosk Street. The boardwalk is situated right along the bay and features heaps of street food stalls, along with floating markets.
In other words, you’ll never run out of options to dine and drink in this theme park. What’s more, Global Village also has 100+ restaurants, cafes, and kiosks to give you plenty of cuisine options to choose from.
Getting around Global Village is also super convenient. You can walk around the park or ride an electric abra to explore the theme park on water.
For more activities to do around this massive theme park, there’s Road of Asia for souvenir shopping. The Global Village Big Balloon and House of Fear sites are also great options. Lastly, you can also check out the carnival for heart-racing acrobatic and death-defying stunts.
Global Village Dubai is open year-round as well. From Mondays to Thursdays, the theme park opens at 4 pm and closes at midnight. From Friday to Sunday, it’s open from 4 pm to 1 am.
The Palm Jumeirah
Paris has the Eiffel Tower. New York has Central Park. And Dubai has the Palm Jumeirah, a man-made palm-tree-shaped island that serves as a haven for vacationers.
If you’re craving a lavish stay in Dubai, the Palm Jumeirah sits at the top of that list. Visiting the artificial archipelago is also a bucket list attraction.
But believe it or not, this architectural feat isn’t just luxury villas, posh apartments, and lavish hotels. At the heart of the island lies Atlantis, one of Dubai’s most raved-about landmarks.
It’s also home to waterparks, slides, private beaches, and a wide selection of entertainment options.
For more underwater adventure, you can swim with dolphins at Dolphin Bay. Or, you can get up close to sea lions. Even better, the Lost Chambers Aquarium offers snorkel and dive opportunities. The Lost Chambers experience takes you through a lagoon-filled habitat of 65,000 marine animals.
If scuba diving sounds too extreme for you, you can always book a yoga session in the same area. Imagine doing a Shavasana surrounded by marine life, and without getting wet of course.
Underwater adventure aside, you can also book a speedboat excursion at the Palm Jumeirah. The cruise lasts for a good 90 minutes, giving tourists an extensive tour around Dubai Marina, Burj Al Arab, and several royal palaces.
This excursion might sound like it’s only ideal for honeymooners, but it happens to be popular for families too.
Alternatively, and for large groups, you can skip the speedboat ride and hop on a guided kayak tour instead. What’s more, you can switch up the tours for a SUP session or a yoga and Pilates class in the calm waters surrounding the Palm.
Come nightfall, you still have plenty of options. The Pointe, Riva Beach Club, and The Penthouse are all fantastic places to go.
You can visit The Pointe if you’re looking for shopping opportunities and entertainment options for the little ones.
But unlike most shopping malls in Dubai, The Pointe is an open-air shopping district. Nearby, you’ll also find bowling alleys, laser tag arenas, and cinemas great for keeping your kids entertained.
Plus, there are a lot of cafes and restaurants around The Pointe. Many of them have terraces for alfresco dining and beautiful sea views.
Another noteworthy attraction of The Pointe is the waterfront promenade, perfect for an evening stroll. Just before midnight, don’t miss the grand Palm Fountain Show.
Lastly, you can opt for skydiving or do a 25-minute helicopter ride over the Palm and Dubai’s best landmarks.
Desert Safaris
If you want a vacation full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, desert safaris are one of them. They are without a doubt a must-do for adventure seekers. That said, there are several desert safari tours for all travelers.
You can choose between morning desert, evening desert, overnight, and dinner safari tours. The most popular option is the evening desert tour, with dune bashing being the highlight of the itinerary.
Included in the evening desert safari tour are camel rides, a fire show, sunset photography, and much more. In fact, you’ll even learn how to drive a 4×4 through the desert!
But if you still want more adventure, you can book sand skiing and quad biking in the desert for an additional price. Of course, the tour comes with a buffet including extra inclusions specific to the package.
Alternatively, you can opt for the overnight desert safari tour. There are night tents and cozy deluxe rooms perfect for honeymooners, single travelers, and even families.
Eccentric Experiences for All
Amidst towering skyscrapers and record-breaking malls, Dubai is a paradise of novel experiences. The Palm Jumeirah was one example.
A Conde Nest Traveler recommendation is the Aura Skypool. Which is also hailed as the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool.
Thinking about an afternoon date? A quiet morning? Or an uninterrupted evening with alcohol to pair? The Aura Skypool is an opulent choice you surely won’t regret.
For outdoor junkies, you can go diving and explore a sunken city that drops 60 meters (196.9 ft) deep. Deep Dive Dubai is the planet’s deepest pool, and it’s also the largest underwater film studio in the Middle East.
If you’re looking for uninterrupted solitude and sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf, head to Ain Dubai. Officially hailed as the world’s biggest observation wheel, this attraction appeals to everyone, even kids. Although a visit during the day is a great option, riding the observation wheel at night is even better.
When it comes to shopping, many are quick to say “Dubai Mall.” And while it’s the largest shopping center in the world, the Dubai Spice Souk offers the most unique shopping experience.
What will you find here? Everything ranging from spices and handmade goods to souvenirs and clothes. There are even Middle Eastern spice mixes like saffron, barberries, Persian dried limes, and rose hips.
Now if you’re craving outdoor adventures and thrilling experiences, there’s plenty more around Dubai.
Book with Balloon Adventures Dubai for a private hot-air-balloon experience. Sky Views Dubai leans more towards adrenaline-pumping experiences. Here, you can do the outdoor glass slide, do the Eagle Walk, or tread a 25-meter (82 meters) glass-bottom podium. Note that Sky Views Dubai is 219 meters (718.5 feet) high.
Finally, don’t miss out on these spots for more eccentric experiences to try in Dubai, such as:
- Al Seef
- Legoland Dubai
- XLine Dubai Marina
- Adventure Waterpark
- Al Shindagha Museum: Perfume House
Qatar
Qatar is a cultural paradise with similar attractions you’ll find in Dubai. With year-round sunshine, beaches, and sand dunes, Qatar makes for the perfect tropical vacation. But in between, there’s also a generous mix of food and adventure to keep travelers from feeling bored.
Qatar is a country that excels in soft adventure. It’s not exactly as adrenaline-pumping as skydiving, but it does make for a great vacation nonetheless.
If you desire rich cultural experiences, beaches, shopping, and creative districts, Qatar is for you. Unlike Dubai, Qatar is a place truly meant for unwinding and learning more about the Middle East.
Plus, it’s often hailed as the art hub of the Middle East.
Vacationers craving green spaces and open-air landscapes will truly love what Qatar has to offer.
What Makes Qatar Unique?
Souq Waqif
Souq Waqif is Doha’s historic center and makes for a charming neighborhood to spend the day in. The buildings around this area are over 100 years old, giving you a sense of Qatar’s cultural roots.
Around Souq Waqif, you’ll find a lot of market stalls selling top-notch street food and handmade items. If you’re looking for local shopping opportunities, there’s no better place than Souq Waqif.
Alternatively, travelers simply eager to spend the day in peace can wander around and admire the architecture. There are also highly rated restaurants around the area, which deserve a must-try at least once.
During a sunset, staying at any of the benches in Souq Waqif is the most relaxing activity you can do. Anyone that wants to gain a closer insight into Middle Eastern tradition will undoubtedly enjoy Souq Waqif.
Even for shopaholics, there’s a maze of shops that will pique your interest.
Northern Qatar Is the Best Place to Unwind
For a true getaway away from all the noise and busyness of the city, Northern Qatar is perfect. While the center of Qatar is filled with historical beauty, the northern region has an abundance of natural wonders.
Think green spaces, pristine shorelines and beaches, mangrove forests, and mosques.
For any first-timer, spending three or four days in Northern Qatar is a must. Especially if your main purpose for travel is to have solitude, unwind, take a break, or simply enjoy nature.
But where would you even start?
The perfect quiet morning paired with a cup of coffee is found in Arsan Café. Not only is Arsan well-known for its delicious espresso drinks, but also for its outdoor seating and panoramic views of the ocean.
The café opened back in 2019 and since then, it’s been nicknamed the northernmost café in Qatar.
Just in case you aren’t a coffee person, Arsan Café serves delicious Mango Pina Coladas. Also, the deserts here are excellent – a treat any sweet tooth would fall in love with instantly.
From Arsan Café, there are a lot of nature escapes to visit around Northern Qatar. It’s simply a matter of choosing one to your liking or whichever fits your mood for the day.
If you’re thinking of kayaking, sunset adventures, and romantic picnics, head to the Al Thakira Mangroves. There’s nothing more peaceful than kayaking through calm waters, lush greenery, and migratory birds. But for those craving something slightly more adventuristic, you can explore the area via a 4×4.
Nature lovers will also enjoy Al Bayt Stadium Park. The entire area features a man-made lake, green landscapes, running and cycling tracks, and play areas for kids.
Al Bayt Stadium is perfect if you’re looking for a place to stroll and connect with nature. The park is one of the most popular green landscapes in Northern Qatar, so be sure to check it out.
Lastly, there’s one more spot in North Qatar that calls to serenity seekers and nature lovers: beaches. As a matter of fact, this is what North Qatar is popular for.
Imagine pristine shorelines, sugar-soft sand, and clear bluish waters safe for swimming. North Qatar’s beaches all promise these features.
The most popular for locals are Maroona Beach and Fuwairit Beach. Both are also safe to swim in for adults and kids.
But here’s the best part.
The beaches in North Qatar aren’t limited to sun-lounging activities.
Banana Island is the definition of an all-in-one beach, home to waterslides, banana boat rides, and water sports. There are even several pools in the area and plenty of cabanas and beach huts for adults to spend the afternoon sipping cocktails.
If you’re looking for more beaches, here are several worth going to:
- Khor Al Adaid
- Zekreet Beach
- Fuwairit Beach
- Umm Bab Beach
- Al Thakira Beach
The Museum of Islamic Art
Looking for cultural and artistic inspiration?
Visit the Museum of Islamic Art, which sits on its very own island. The museum was purposely built on a standalone island so its beauty wouldn’t be obstructed by any new buildings.
As if its architecture alone wasn’t impressive, the Museum of Islamic Art also hosts a vast art collection. Jewelry, Islamic patterns, calligraphy, and textiles are some of the many artistic finds here.
Every year, the Museum features high-profile rotating exhibits so there’s always something new to check out.
However, people don’t just visit the Museum of Islamic Art for its impressive exhibits.
In the same area, there’s also a café and restaurant that draws in locals and tourists every year.
The ever-famous MIA café is a hotspot for anyone looking for gorgeous views of the city. This café is meant for chilling, enjoying a great cup of coffee, and hanging back and taking in a beautiful sunrise or sunset.
Another memorable experience at the Museum of Islamic Art? Dining at Idam, a luxurious French restaurant with breathtaking views of the Doha skyline.
The cuisine at Idam is a mix of Arabic and French, and is without a doubt, a taste for the senses. Paired with its artistic interior brilliance, Idam is an A+ dining experience worth the try.
The Pearl
Qatar’s version of Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah is known as the Pearl, an artificial island with beautiful architecture.
At the Pearl, luxury, residential living, and recreational activities coexist.
Like the Palm Jumeirah, The Pearl is home to many villas, hotels, and residential towers. All of which exude luxurious vibes any traveler wouldn’t regret staying in.
That said, The Pearl isn’t solely a place for spending the night.
Its most popular attraction is the Qanat Quartier. In a word, the best way to describe the Quartier is picturesque. Every angle and corner of this area is stunning, lavish, and full of vibes that speak volumes of marvelous architecture.
Here, you’ll find colorful apartments, restaurants, cafes, bridges, canals, and pedestrian-friendly squares. It’s very similar to what you’d find in a quaint Venice-inspired neighborhood.
An evening stroll would be perfect at the Qanat Quartier. And so is an early morning jog or a sunset date by the marina.
Apart from the Qanat Quartier, there are two noteworthy areas also worth mentioning.
Porto Arabia in The Pearl is home to the iconic marina and also features a ton of luxurious yachts. Around Porto Arabia are several of the best restaurants serving modern flavors from all around the world.
Finally, Medina Centrale is a family-friendly area and just as beautiful as the Quartier and Arabia. At Medina Centrale, there are play areas for the little ones, gardens, cafes, plazas, shops, and restaurants.
You don’t have to spend the night at The Pearl to enjoy all its luxuries. You can spend your day at the island’s many stylish cafes and eclectic restaurants. Or, in the evenings, stroll around its picturesque marinas and colorful neighborhoods.
Altogether, The Pearl is an unmissable experience.
Qatar vs. Dubai – Which Is Better?
Dubai might seem like the obvious choice. But in the matchup between Qatar and Dubai, Qatar is better in terms of having more naturistic escapes.
Dubai has beaches and parks, too, but doesn’t compare to North Qatar’s offerings. Outdoor cafes with breathtaking views are just one of the many small pleasures the country offers.
Those who truly want a vacation centered on solitude, peace, and unwinding will love Qatar more. The Pearl, Museum of Islamic Art, and North Qatar allow you to experience such pleasures.
In comparison, Dubai is the better choice if you want a busier itinerary for your vacation.
Nightlife, entertainment, attractions, sightseeing – everything you could want in an adventurous escape. Not to mention, Dubai has its share of relaxing opportunities, both for honeymooners and families.
Safe to say, Dubai is the clear winner when it comes to diversity. If you want more things to do and discover new experiences during your vacation, Dubai is a wonderland of eccentric activities.
You have desert safaris, Global Village, world-class shopping, and the Palm Jumeirah. Plus, there are a ton of activities for families too, like Legoland Dubai, Ski Dubai, aquariums, and zoos.
Whereas in Qatar, the country offers more cultural diversity and art galleries and museums. In other words, Qatar is a vacation that appeals more to anyone in need of a serious break.
If you don’t enjoy the busy city life and want slow-paced activities, Qatar is the better choice for you. You can also do a desert safari in Qatar along with a few desert excursions if you want some adventure. However, that’s mostly about it when it comes to anything in the realm of adrenaline-pumping activities.
Overall, both Dubai and Qatar are fantastic places to visit. But if it’s your first time in the Middle East, Dubai might be the better option as there are more choices for everyone. Whether you’re traveling as a family, with kids, or alone.
In Qatar, three to five days is enough to enjoy the country. A week would be great if you plan on spending more time in the Northern Region.
Dubai, on the other hand, could be a vacation that lasts for more than a week at the very least. That is if you want the most bang for your buck and maximize your itinerary.
FAQ
Dubai and Qatar – Which Is More Beautiful?
Dubai and Qatar are among the most beautiful places in the Middle East. But on the topic of which is more beautiful, it depends on your preferences.
Dubai is more beautiful if you want stunning skylines, architectural wonders, and lavish cities. There are plenty of luxurious neighborhoods in Dubai, especially the Palm Jumeirah.
The Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa are two of the most beautiful skyscrapers you’ll find in the Middle East. Even the Dubai Mall and Mall of Emirates feature architectural beauty that’s hard to rival.
Plus, the Dubai Creek, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and the Dubai Marina are all breathtaking places.
From lavish structures and grand mosques to stunning waterfront avenues, Dubai is beautiful no doubt. And it’s no wonder the city is also considered a photographer’s dream.
Qatar is more beautiful if you’re after historic charm and old-fashioned beauty. The Souq Waqif is a prime example of this.
There’s also Qanat Quartier located in The Pearl, which mimics a Venice-inspired neighborhood. Another cultural beauty in Qatar is the Museum of Islamic Art which looks stunning from every angle.
Dubai vs. Qatar Economy
Qatar’s GDP per capita is higher than Dubai’s, and noticeably the highest in the Middle East. But according to the economic data, Dubai has a higher annual GDP overall, roughly twice the amount.
Based on historical stats, Dubai also ranked 25th, while Qatar ranked 40th. Specifically, Dubai had a total GDP of 350 billion whereas Qatar had a total GDP of 160 billion.
Qatar and Dubai – Which Is Richer?
Dubai and Qatar are wealthy places, especially since the Middle East is known for its oil and gas reserves. Both also have strong finances.
That being said, it’s worth noting that Qatar is considered the richest country. This is because it has the highest GDP per capita, even higher than Dubai’s.
When you look at the data found online, Dubai’s GDP per capita is recorded at $74,035. In comparison, Qatar’s GDP per capita is recorded at $128,647.
The significant difference between the two gives a lot of insight into a country’s overall wealth.
While annual GDP is a good measure of wealth, GDP per capita measures the purchasing power per person.
In a nutshell, annual GDP reflects a country’s economic activity and growth rate. Whereas GDP per capita reflects the prosperity of a country.
Is Qatar Cheaper or More Expensive Than Dubai?
Qatar is cheaper to visit for vacation than Dubai. There’s no doubt both are quite expensive destinations, but for tourists, you’ll find that Qatar is more affordable.
With regards to food, whether it be breakfast, brunch, or dinner, meals are cheaper in Qatar. Even high-end restaurants are slightly cheaper in Qatar.
Plus, it’s more affordable to take a taxi around Qatar than it is in Dubai.
As for accommodation, Dubai is also more expensive because of higher demand. You have more options in Dubai, which also means you do get your money’s worth.
Entertainment, attractions, shopping, food, you name it. Because there’s a wider selection in Dubai, it’s safe to say you’re getting more bang for your buck.
But at the same time, it’s also easier to spend more in Dubai overall. This takes into account tours, excursions, and other experiences, be they outdoor or indoor.
Qatar vs. Dubai Tourism
Both Dubai and Qatar rank high when it comes to tourist travel destinations. However, there is an important difference between the two.
Dubai is more of a leisure/pleasure travel destination, while Qatar leans more toward business travelers.
Essentially, Dubai sees more tourists overall. It’s also quite evident seeing as how Dubai has more attractions and things to do, so it’s more catered towards tourists.
For instance, Dubai has a wider range of dining options. The nightlife in Dubai is also more diverse, not to mention there’s plenty to go around for partiers.
You also have more tourist recreational activities in Dubai, along with shopping opportunities.
Between Qatar and Dubai, you’ll find more shopping malls and outdoor centers. Additionally, Dubai offers more high-end retail. In fact, you don’t even have to shop in Dubai to enjoy its malls.
You can simply tour the mall and admire its architecture. With more sights and activities, you’ll spend more in Dubai no doubt. But at the same time, it’s also more enjoyable.
Is Qatar Hotter Than Dubai?
Qatar and Dubai have desert climates, so the weather is generally similar in both places. However, Dubai is slightly warmer than Qatar.
During winter, Qatar is cooler and even during the summer. Because Qatar is more closely situated in the Persian Gulf, the weather is milder and cooler.
Dubai, on the other hand, is hotter, especially during the summer and in August, the hottest month of the year.
Some say August is the worst time to travel to Dubai because of the heat. That said, it also depends on what you’re used to.
For snowbirds, the heat in Dubai might be harder to adapt to. Whereas for tourists used to living in tropical countries, the heat isn’t as bad as you think.
Is Qatar and Dubai the Same?
Qatar and Dubai are not the same, except for the fact that both are considered part of the Middle East. Dubai is considered a city, while Qatar is an independent nation.
You’ll also find that Dubai is more modernized overall. This isn’t to say though that Qatar isn’t a modernized country. Also, Dubai is a leading tourist destination.
With regard to the economy, both have significant differences.
Qatar’s economy largely relies on petroleum and natural gas. Whereas in Dubai, its economy relies on other sectors. Some of these include real estate, commerce, tourism, etc…
Finally, Dubai also has more skyscrapers and is generally more contemporary than Qatar. However, Qatar has been making efforts to adopt a contemporary model and break from older, conventional models.
Is Qatar and Dubai in the Same Country?
Dubai and Qatar are not in the same country but are relatively close to one another. Dubai belongs to one country, United Arab Emirates (UAE). In total, the United Arab Emirates has 7 Emirates with Dubai being one of them.
A few other Emirates worth mentioning include Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman.
Although Qatar shares a naval border with Dubai, it’s an entirely separate country. This also means that Qatar and Dubai are not in the same country at all.
Is Qatar in Dubai?
Qatar is not in Dubai and is an independent country. Dubai belongs to the United Arab Emirates.
Is Dubai Part of Qatar?
Just as how Qatar is not part of Dubai, it also follows that Dubai is not part of Qatar. Qatar and Dubai are two separate places, with Dubai being a city or Emirate of the UAE and Qatar being its own country.
Is Dubai Near Qatar?
Dubai is near Qatar, and the distance isn’t too far so it’s possible to travel via car between the two.
Where Is Qatar and Dubai?
Qatar lies within the continent of Asia, specifically on the Northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Dubai is part of the United Arab Emirates specifically situated on the Persian Gulf Coast.
Where Is Qatar in Relation to Dubai?
Qatar and Dubai are both located on the Persian Gulf Coast, but there is an important note to keep in mind.
One is that Qatar and Dubai are bordered by Saudi Arabia. And two, although both are in the Persian Gulf, Dubai is not an official neighboring country of Qatar.
How Far Is Qatar From Dubai?
Qatar is about 450.8 miles (725.5 km) from Dubai. The shortest distance or air travel route is 253.7 miles or 408.4 kilometers.
Dubai and Qatar Relationship
Geographically, Dubai and Qatar share a naval border. There have been conflicts between Dubai and Qatar in the past.
During the Qatar diplomatic crisis on June 5, 2017, the UAE cut diplomatic ties with Qatar. But on January 2021, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates met and agreed to restore their relations.
Can I Travel From Dubai to Qatar?
You can easily travel from Dubai to Qatar. The two most common and popular ways to travel from Dubai to Qatar are via plane and car.
During the FIFA World Cup 2022, there were 30 daily flights between Dubai and Qatar. If you prefer a faster and more convenient route, traveling via plane is the best option.
But if you would rather enjoy some sightseeing along the way, renting a car is ideal. It’s also better for travelers that enjoy doing long road trips or want to travel at their own pace.
Qatar Airport vs. Dubai Airport
In terms of size, the Dubai International Airport is 3x bigger than Hamad International Airport (Qatar). The same goes for passenger traffic.
In 2019, Dubai International Airport recorded over 87 million passengers. This shouldn’t come as a surprise though. And that’s because Dubai Airport is also the hub of Emirates Airlines, one of the largest in the world. Plus, Dubai International Airport serves destinations on all six continents, so there’s no doubt it’s larger.
An important difference between the Dubai Airport and Qatar Airport is its amenities.
Dubai International Airport, being larger, has more offerings. You’ll even find Shake Shack here. What’s more, passengers with long layovers can take a free shower in Terminal 3 and chill in the zen garden.
Despite Dubai Airport being one of the busiest airports, it rarely feels crowded or packed.
If Dubai Airport is more zen-like and offers relaxing vibes, the Qatar Airport is more futuristic and artistic. Check-in counters are all done via biometric scanning.
And around, you’ll find giant artworks spread throughout the airport. The most iconic is the Untitled Lamp Bear that sits in the Qatar Airport’s grand foyer.
Qatar to Dubai by Train
You cannot travel from Qatar to Dubai via train as there is no rail connection between the two. As a matter of fact, Qatar has no railway, so it’s impossible to travel via train.
Qatar to Dubai Distance by Train
Because there is no rail connection from Qatar to Dubai, it’s not possible to give an accurate travel distance.
Dubai to Qatar by Boat
Although Dubai is relatively close to Qatar, there are no ferry services to travel between the two. The only way to travel by boat from Dubai to Qatar is to rent a boat.
Alternatively, you can book a cruise online to take you from the port of Doha to Dubai and the UAE. From Doha, the distance is only less than 310.7 miles or 500 kilometers.
Dubai to Qatar by Road
It’s possible to travel from Dubai to Qatar by taking route E11. The total distance by road from Dubai to Qatar is 430 miles (692 km).
On average, the travel duration from Dubai to Qatar by road is approximately 6 hours and 31 minutes. Sometimes, your entire road trip can last up to eight hours, depending on the border control.
It’s also worth noting that you’ll pass through two borders if you’re traveling by road.
The first border is from United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Saudi Arabia. The second border is from Saudi Arabia to Qatar.
Dubai to Qatar by Road – Requirements
You’ll need a transit visa if you’re traveling from Dubai to Qatar by road. In some cases, you might also need a Hayya card, like for the FIFA World Cup event.
Because you’ll be passing through the border, it’s important to get requirements to submit in order to pass.
Additionally, if you’re renting a car, you’ll need car insurance as part of the requirements.
Since Saudi Arabia is part of the border you’ll pass through, a transit visa is ideal. The visa only lasts for 12 hours but it should be enough to get you through the border.
One of the first requirements for a transit visa is a valid passport with a validity of at least 6 months. Other requirements include:
- Signed declaration of Saudi laws
- A colored and passport-sized photograph
- A completed and signed Saudi Visa questionnaire
- Residence permit from UAE or your country of residence
- A printed visa application that must be submitted through the Enjaz e-portal
Tourists must also apply for a Qatar visa to present upon entering Qatar. The Qatar visa requirements differ from case to case.
But generally, a few of the most common requirements include:
- Confirmed travel return tickets (if traveling via air)
- Original passport with a validity of at least 6 months
- Confirmed hotel reservations before visa application
It’s best to check the Qatar website to make sure you have all your documents. Or, you can reach out to your travel agency to double-check what the requirements are.
If you have a US passport, you can also apply for a visitor visa upon arrival. The visa is free of charge and has a period validity of 30 days.
Note that this applies to personal or leisure travel. In case you plan to stay longer, you can ask for a visa extension, but this depends on the discretion of the immigration office.
Distance Between Qatar and Dubai by Road
From Qatar to Dubai, the road distance is about 430 miles or 692 kilometers. The quickest drive from Qatar to Dubai is about 6 hours and 30 minutes.
However, depending on the border control and traffic, this might add an additional two hours. So, expect an average travel time of eight hours at the very least.
Dubai to Qatar by Bus
Traveling from Dubai to Qatar by bus is not possible. The best way is to rent a car and drive from Dubai to Qatar.
Dubai to Qatar by Bus – Price
There are no available bus ticket prices as it’s not possible to take a bus from Dubai to Qatar.
Dubai to Qatar by Bus – Distance
The distance from Dubai to Qatar by bus is the same distance if you travel via car: 430 miles (692 km). On average, your entire bus journey from Dubai to Qatar takes between 6 to 8 hours.
However, note that bus services are not available from Dubai to Qatar.
Taxi From Dubai to Qatar
It’s not possible to take a taxi from Dubai to Qatar.
Qatar to Dubai by Car
Traveling by car from Qatar to Dubai is the second most popular option. You can easily rent a car in Dubai to drive from Qatar to Dubai.
Note that when crossing the border, it’s important to have car insurance.
How Far Is Qatar From Dubai by Car?
Qatar is 430 miles (692 km) from Dubai if you travel by car.
How Many Hours From Dubai to Qatar by Car?
On average, it takes about 6 to 8 hours to reach Qatar from Dubai via car. Depending on the traffic situation and border control, this could affect the total duration of your trip.
In most cases, border inspections don’t typically last long. But it’s also important to account for these factors if you want to drive from Dubai to Qatar.
Part of the reason why the trip also takes long is due to a few inspections along the way. This includes the immigration process and a thorough inspection of your luggage.
Qatar Tourist Visa From Dubai
If you’re traveling from Dubai to Qatar, you can apply for a Qatar Tourist Visa online. The requirements are as follows:
- Passport size photo
- Passport information
- Confirmed airline ticket
- Confirmed hotel booking or any relevant documents
Dubai Visa Online From Qatar
Applying for a visa online requires you to fill out and submit your application form, which can be found online. Included in the filling out of your application form is also the submission of any requirements to obtain your Dubai visa.
Take note that it’s also possible that you won’t need to arrange any advanced visa requirements. Instead, you’ll be granted either a 30-day, 90-day, or 180-day visit visa free of charge.
For instance, if you have a passport from Canada, Japan, China, or Australia, you’ll be given a 30-day visit visa.
Passport holders from Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and South Korea are given a 90-day visit visa.
You can find the full list online on the Emirates website. Now, if you have to apply for a pre-arranged Dubai visa, here are the requirements:
- Confirmed airline ticket
- Completed application form
- Photograph of the Applicant (must be colored)
- Applicant’s Passport and colored copy (the passport must be valid for at least 3 months)
Qatar to Dubai by Road – Visa
From Qatar to Dubai by road, you will first need a Dubai visa. This includes a copy of your confirmed hotel booking or reservation.
Second, since you are traveling by road, the car you’re driving should be under your name. If you’re using a rental, make sure to inform the rental company ahead of time you plan to drive to Dubai.
In most cases, you’ll need to have a letter from the company to authenticate your rental. Then, you’ll also need to have the letter certified before traveling.
Alternatively, it’s better to ask the rental company what the requirements are. By informing them you plan to drive from Qatar to Dubai, they can give you a printed document of all the requirements.
It’s even possible that they could take care of all the requirements needed.
