subject: Cost Of Living In Qatar [print this page] This small nation located on the Arabian Peninsula also ranks high in human development index. Qatar Jobs attracts many foreign nationals. Expats prefer working in Qatar and some even after retirement wants to settle in the country. Many of them thinks is living in Qatar is too expensive. What is the cost of living here? Is it more or same as in other American or European nations?
The capital of Qatar, Doha is a beautiful city where standard of living matches with some of the best cities of the world. The cost of living will depend largely on the lifestyle you are used to in the country. Dohas cost of living index is higher and residing here is expensive.
Some factors, which influence the cost of living in Qatar, are as follows:
Accommodation
Those who search for jobs in Qatar usually rent apartments or get accommodation from employers. Expats in Qatar get rented apartments or villas depending upon the position. The residential units here can be furnished or unfurnished. Depending upon this, rental value is decided. Apartments, being part of a housing complex feature amenities like gyms, pools, and playgrounds for children.
For single occupants, there are furnished studio apartments or single bedroom units. The rental values for these are somewhere between 1,370 USD approximately. For candidates coming with families in Qatar, rented 3 or 4 BHK apartments or villas are available. Depending upon the facilities provided, the rent on villas are charged.
Grocery
Cost of food and other household items influences the living standard of people in any country. It is true for residing in Qatar. Depending on the type of purchase, whether buying local stuff or international branded goods, the overall costs varies. Doha has supermarkets that sell all the popular brands in food products and household items. There are also shops selling locally or regionally manufactured products.
Utilities
Water, electricity, cooking fuel and phone are some of the basic utilities required for everyday living. These are given to public at a subsidized rates by the Qatar government. Expenses in utilities will be much cheaper as compared to other nations. Being in an arid region, the temperatures are soaring and electricity costs will be high because of air conditioning in houses.
Healthcare
Health and general well being costs in Qatar will be not a problem if you have health insurance. Many employers provide health facilities and some mentions the same in the Qatar Jobs openings. It is always advisable to have a health insurance if you do not have one.
For a two-member family, a health insurance cover will cost around 360 USD approximately per month. This is an important necessity and should not be ignored.
Clothing
Buying readymade garments is expensive in the country. Being a hot and dry country, cotton wear is advisable.
