Getting a SIM Card at Doha Airport: A Visitor’s Guide
Are you visiting Qatar soon and wondering about obtaining a local SIM card? Don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of acquiring a SIM card at Doha Airport based on my experience in the first week of October 2023.
Why You Need a Local SIM
Upon landing at Doha International Airport, especially if you’re on a visit visa or visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry, one of the most essential items to secure is a local SIM card. This ensures you can communicate with ease throughout your stay.
Free WiFi First
Before you get your SIM card, know that you can access the airport’s free WiFi. Simply connect to the “HIAQatar” network available throughout the airport premises.
Where to Get Your SIM
After collecting your luggage and exiting the gate, look out for the Ooredoo Qatar outlet. Here’s where I purchased my SIM card. As per the Ooredoo website, the following are the locations within Doha Airport where you can acquire a visitor SIM:
- Qatar Duty-Free Store, located in the Baggage collection area.
- Ooredoo Kiosks at Exits 2, 3, and 4 in the Arrivals Hall.
- Day 2 Day Store in the Arrivals Hall.
- If you’re entering from the Abu Samra border, there’s an outlet there, too.
Documentation Needed
The process is quite straightforward. You’ll only need your passport. The staff will scan it and promptly return it to you.
Choosing a Package
There’s a range of plans on offer. When I was there, packages started at QAR 45 (USD 12.36). This particular plan gave you 2GB of data, 25 local minutes, and 15 international minutes, all valid for seven days. There are also longer duration plans, with 30 days of validity, and packages that offer more data and minutes.
Activation Process
In my experience, the salesperson was extremely helpful. They inserted the SIM card into my phone and handled the activation. Within moments, I received an SMS confirming the activation and providing my new Qatari mobile number.
A Note on Qatari Numbers
It might come as a surprise, but Qatari mobile numbers consist of only 8 digits, in contrast to the 10 digits that are standard in many other countries. Remember, the country code for Qatar is +974.
We hope this guide assists you in your travels and ensures you stay connected throughout your visit to Qatar! Safe travels!
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