Qatar mobile internet: best options for travellers

Qatar, a small country on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travellers. From its dazzling skyline to its rich cultural heritage, there is no shortage of experiences to be had in this Middle Eastern destination. Thus, having a way to remain in touch with loved ones and use the Internet while in Qatar is really necessary.

In this blog, we will explore the best mobile internet options for travellers in Qatar, including SIM card options, data plans, and tips for maximizing your connectivity during your visit. Whether you're in Doha for business or exploring the desert landscapes, we've got you covered with all the information you need to stay connected in Qatar. Let's dive in!

Qatar SIM cards for tourists

There are four options available to travellers in Qatar for getting mobile data:

• Local SIM Card. One of the most often used ways to remain connected is to get a local SIM card in Qatar. The cost and dependable coverage this option provides throughout the nation make it popular. Simply put a SIM card purchased locally from Ooredoo or Vodafone into an unlocked mobile phone. Because it doesn't depend on public Wi-Fi and offers quicker and more reliable internet connection, this approach is very beneficial. It is cheap mobile internet Qatar option
• International Roaming. Using international roaming with their current home country cell service is another option available to visitors visiting Qatar. Using the same phone number when overseas and seamless connection are made possible by this approach, which does not need buying a new SIM card. This is the most practical choice, yet because of the high roaming fees, it may be rather expensive and, depending on the roaming agreements between the home and local networks, the internet rates may sometimes be restricted.
• Public Wi-Fi. All around Qatar, there is easy access to public Wi-Fi at cafés, hotels, and airports. It is convenient and cheap mobile internet Qatar option. The main disadvantages, however, are the possible security hazards since internet speed and coverage may vary and public networks might not be safe.
• eSIM. Using an eSIM is a contemporary and very flexible option available to individuals with eSIM-capable devices. Travellers may download a mobile network profile straight to their smartphone using an eSIM instead of a real SIM card. Regular travellers who want to change network providers without changing SIM cards may find this very handy.

Moreover, Yesim offers available data and mobile internet packages in Qatar for travellers, businessmen and digital nomads.

Roaming in the Qatar

You should have no trouble using your GSM-compatible phone in Qatar. Having said that, check to see whether it is unlocked, meaning it is not tied to the network of any one carrier. You can simply purchase SIM cards in Qatar and use them on your phone if it fits both of these conditions. Your standard SIM card should also have the option to utilize it for international roaming. But unless your carrier offers cheap roaming data bundles, you should expect to pay a significant penny.

Qatari mobile phone companies

Just two companies provide mobile phone service in Qatar. Over 100 million people in the MENA, Southeast Asian, and Middle Eastern regions rely on Ooredoo — best SIM card in Qatar. But they're the go-to for landlines, mobile phones, internet, and television in Qatar. One of the world's most well-connected cities might soon be Qatar, thanks to Ooredoo's ongoing Supernet network construction.

There is a second mobile internet provider in Qatar that you may be familiar with. Vodafone is a London-based multinational telecommunications corporation. In addition to its operations in 25 countries, the corporation has partnerships in an additional 47. With almost 313 million users in 2018, Vodafone is regarded as the fourth-largest mobile provider in the world due to this. In addition to home television and internet services, it provides several options for mobile phones in Qatar.

An explanation of roaming and its cost

Using a roaming service, people whose mobile phones aren't physically located in their home country may still make and receive calls and surf the web. It allows for easy communication when travelling, although it's usually pricier than local alternatives.

Roaming with Vodafone

A traveller visiting Qatar who would want to continue using their domestic Vodafone service may do so by activating international roaming. Through this service, customers may make domestic phone calls from their mobile device in Qatar. Compared to local rates, the starting price for data consumption is $27.47 for 1 GB and 100 minutes of call time. This choice is practical since it keeps the same phone number and does away with the need for a new SIM card, facilitating easy connection with friends and family back home as well as those abroad.

Roaming with Ooredoo

Tourists visiting Qatar may use Ooredoo's roaming services, which are similar to Vodafone's. Using one's home cell number and skipping the trouble of exchanging SIM cards comes at a cost, and the fees reflect that. They start at $41.21. Roaming with Ooredoo is expensive, but it provides constant service and bills the customer directly via their original plan.

Pocket Wi-Fi service providers

Using a pocket Wi-Fi device instead of a local SIM card or paying for roaming is a great method for travellers to stay connected. Tourists visiting Qatar with a need for mobile internet connectivity across several devices or travelling in groups may find renting a Pocket Wi-Fi device to be an especially practical option.

Where to rent Pocket Wi-Fi?

Here’s how you can rent a Pocket Wi-Fi device in Qatar, including where to find them:

• Airports. The Doha International Airport's Hamad International Airport is the best spot to rent a Pocket Wi-Fi gadget. You may easily pick up a gadget as soon as you arrive, since rental kiosks or telecom counters are usually placed in the arrivals hall. Independent rental service providers who focus on mobile internet solutions for visitors or local telecom carriers like Ooredoo and Vodafone typically run these counters.
• Hotels. You may hire a Pocket Wi-Fi from a few hotels in Al Khor or Dukhan. Since you may arrange the rental directly with the hotel, either when you reserve or when you check in, this might be a handy choice. An additional perk of renting via a hotel is the inclusion of support and help provided by hotel personnel.
• Tourist Spots. Pocket Wi-Fi device rental facilities may be available at some of Qatar's most popular tourist attractions, however they are less prevalent than those at airports and hotels. These could be found in travel agency agencies, tourist information centers, or prominent landmarks. You should probably call ahead of time or go online to get exact information, as availability at these places could change.

Free Wi-Fi in the Qatar

The widespread availability of free Wi-Fi in public spaces in Qatar is a testament to the country's dedication to expanding access to the internet and its highly developed digital infrastructure.

You could easily find free Wi-Fi in the Qatar at these spots:

• Cafes and Restaurants. Free Wi-Fi is available to patrons of many restaurants and cafés in Qatar, especially in larger cities like Doha. Many restaurants, from mom-and-pop shops to large chains, provide this perk because they believe it will bring in more customers and keep them around for more.
• Shopping Centres. You can remain connected as you shop or relax in the common areas of major Qatari malls thanks to the free Wi-Fi. In big shopping malls, this service is especially helpful since it allows customers to use their smartphones to find their way around, read reviews of stores, and engage with digital directories and promotions.
• Airports. Free Wi-Fi is available in all terminals of Doha's Hamad International Airport. By allowing users to remain connected even as they wait for their flights, this service aims to enhance the passenger experience. Because of the large number of passengers who use the airport every day, the Wi-Fi is usually rather strong.

Limitations of free Wi-Fi

Although there are many advantages to using free Wi-Fi, you should be aware of the restrictions in terms of speed, security, and quality.

• Quality and Speed. Even while free Wi-Fi is common, the speed and quality might vary greatly based on where you are and how many other people are using the network. Internet speeds may decrease in crowded places like cafés or huge shopping malls during peak hours owing to heavy traffic, which might impact activities that use a lot of bandwidth, such downloading massive files or streaming films.
• Security. Security is a major issue with public Wi-Fi networks. Cybercriminals may be able to intercept data or break into these networks since they are not as secure as private connections. It is not a good idea for users to submit sensitive information, such as credit card numbers or bank account numbers, when connecting to public Wi-Fi, especially while banking or shopping online.
• Temporary Disconnects. To better manage bandwidth or encourage users to move around, some locations may put time limitations on free Wi-Fi. As a precaution against overloading the network, users may be asked to check in again after a certain amount of time has passed, or their speeds may be reduced.

To mitigate some limitations associated with free Wi-Fi, users can:

• Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt their internet connection, enhancing security when accessing public networks.
• Limit the types of activities carried out on public Wi-Fi, avoiding the transmission of sensitive personal data.
• Plan for potential connectivity issues by downloading important documents or entertainment ahead of time, especially when anticipating high-traffic periods in public places.

eSIM options for travellers

The mobile network providers in Qatar provide eSIM services. Therefore you may buy one from them. To find out whether they sell eSIMs and how to activate them, visit their official websites or shop locations.

Read also: What is eSIM and how does it work

Yesim

This industry-leading operator works with 800+ network carriers worldwide to ensure quality and deliver seamless connectivity anywhere, anytime. Their offers will be the best option for tourists and backpackers, digital nomads and remote workers, bloggers and broadcasters, business needs, holiday trips with family and friends.

Unlimited:

• 7 days: unlimited data for $37.40
• 15 days:unlimited data for $53.00
• 30 days:unlimited data for $70.40

Standart:

• 3 GB for 7 days: $14.30
• 5 GB for 15 days: $20.90
• 10 GB for 30 days: $35.20
• 20 GB for 30 days: $52.80

All of these data plans could be used for international internet calls (online only), browsing, audio/video broadcasting, texting (SMS/messages), voicemail, downloading / uploading files and data.

Ooredoo

When it comes to compatible mobile devices, tablets, and wearables, Ooredoo Qatar offers travel SIM card for tourists . This encompasses well-liked devices that come equipped with eSIM capabilities, such as those made by Apple, Samsung, and Google. Data, call, and text limits on Ooredoo's eSIM plans are identical to those on their regular SIM plans. Customers have the option to activate their service either online or at any of Ooredoo's retail locations. Ooredoo provides postpaid and prepaid plans for tourists in Qatar.

Postpaid Plans:

• Shahry+ Active: 10 GB+5 GB local data; 500 mins local calls and SMS, WhatsApp data included;
• Shahry+ Max: 28 GB+ 22 GB; 700 mins local calls and SMS, WhatsApp data included;

Prepaid Plans: Hala Prepaid SIM: local call will cost you 0.69 QR and local SMS will take up to 0.39 QR. Note that 1 QR is approximately 0,2 Euro.

Vodafone Qatar

Vodafone provides eSIM technology with various plans that are appropriate for both locals and visitors. While staying in Qatar, you may choose one of these data packages for visitor SIM card for Qatar:

• New prepaid SIM with Combo 65: 8 GB of Mobile Internet, 240 mins for local calls and 20 mins for international calls.
• Unlimited: 5 GB of Internet per day, 100 mins for local calls, extra 25 Gb for 6 months.

There is no need to physically change out SIM cards when using compatible devices to convert to a Vodafone eSIM; just visit any of their shops and a member of staff will help you set up and transfer your mobile internet services.

Read also: TOP 8 Best eSIM Providers for Travelers in 2024: Review of Services

Advantages of using an eSIM

Purchasing an eSIM from Qatar carriers has the following advantages:

• You can be certain that your eSIM will function with the network and services offered by Qatar operators if you purchase it from them.
• eSIM makes it easy to add, remove and switch operators via software without having to physically replace the SIM card.
• eSIM allows you to manage multiple connection profiles on a single device, which provides greater flexibility in choosing an operator and tariff plans.
• The eSIM significantly reduces the chance of losing or damaging the SIM card as it is embedded in the device and does not need to be physically removed.
• eSIM simplifies the process of connecting and providing operator services, which saves time and money on the purchase and activation of a physical SIM card.
• The eSIM helps reduce the use of plastic and other materials, making it a more environmentally friendly solution.
• eSIM supports an increasingly wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, cars and other devices, making it a convenient and versatile connectivity solution.

Disadvantages of using an eSIM

There are disadvantages to purchasing an eSIM from Qatar carriers:

• If you purchase directly from Qatari carriers, you are limited to the eSIM plans and services that they provide. When compared to third-party eSIM providers that cover numerous countries, you could find that your choices are more limited.
• Operator-provided eSIM plans could be pricier than expected.
• If you buy an eSIM from one operator and then decide you want to use it with another, you'll have to buy another eSIM from the other operator. To solve this problem, you can join Yesim, which partners with all national ISPs, so you don't have to worry about switching between different cards and enjoy stable internet in 160+ countries around the world.

How to purchase an eSIM?

Because it is only compatible with certain newer models of smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, you should check that your gadget can use an eSIM before you buy one. Select an eSIM-enabled mobile carrier once you've verified compatibility.

To choose a package, get in touch with the service provider or check out their website. Most service providers allow for remote activation; all you need is a QR code, which you can scan with your phone to get your eSIM profile. This method establishes a connection to the network instantly, doing away with the need for a physical SIM card and facilitating the switching of plans or carriers via the device's settings. People who are always on the go or who have many service plans to keep track of would appreciate this feature the most.

Additional options

While eSIM cards provide the most benefits and are the most convenient way to get the internet in Qatar. As a part of their hospitality offerings, some hotels in Qatar, particularly those that cater to foreign guests, provide guest SIM cards. Guests may have instant access to local cell networks with this hassle-free service—all without ever having to set foot in a shop. To facilitate communication with local services and return home, these SIM cards usually include a balance pre-loaded with data, local, and sometimes international calling minutes.

Read also: How to book a hotel yourself: a complete guide

What are the best options for Mobile Internet in Qatar?

Your individual requirements, device compatibility, duration of stay, and budget will determine the optimal mobile internet choice in Qatar. Tourist SIMs and mobile Wi-Fi devices are great options for short-term visitors that want rapid and flexible internet connection; nevertheless, local SIM cards and Qatar unlimited internet mobile eSIM options give the greatest combination of coverage and ease for most individuals.

This cutting-edge method of mobile communication discharge the need for actual SIM cards, providing a more convenient and adaptable means of staying connected on the go. Yesim is the best mobile internet provider Qatar, so travellers can simply subscribe to the data package that meets their requirements straight from their smartphones.

Seamless mobile internet in 200+ countries –– at a cup of coffee price! Take away!

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