Goods shipped from the UK to the QATAR must clear customs upon arrival. It’s essential to have the necessary customs documents ready to avoid delays and additional charges.
Qatari customs are imposing duties on all import shipments (especially SEA import) with duties and taxes at 5% on customs declared value. The only exemption relates to personal baggage and gifts accompanied by the shipper at the following conditions:·
Shipments to be declared as used household goods and personal effects. All shipments are subject to 100% physical inspection. Computer equipment requires a separate clearance procedure through Qatar customs. If a computer is included in the shipment, specifications should be sent prior to arrival in order to obtain Qatar Telecommunication approval.
To assist you, City Moving & Storage can provide guidance on which forms and supporting documentation you will need. However, please note that the responsibility for completing and submitting these customs forms to us for approval lies with the customer. It’s advisable to prepare all formalities in advance of your move to ensure a smooth transportation process.
To emigrate to or stay in the QATAR for more than 15 days, you will need a visa. The most straightforward option is securing a job, as your future employer will typically handle the visa process. However, regulations can differ between the various emirates, so it’s recommended to contact the relevant authorities in your chosen emirate to clarify your situation.
If you have a family, verify whether your employer will sponsor them as well. If not, you will need to contact the QATAR embassy in London. According to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, adults traveling with children may need to provide proof of parental responsibility, such as a birth certificate, before entering or leaving the QATAR. Additionally, birth and marriage certificates must be legalized by the UK Foreign Office. For women, sponsoring your family’s relocation may require working in specific professions. Exit visas also need to be granted.
In general, it is in your interest not to import the following items:
Transit times can vary based on your chosen transport method, the size of your consignment, and the destination. Once you provide this information, City Moving & Storage will be able to advise you on expected transit times. Please reach out to them for further assistance.
City Moving and Storage Ltd are members of the British Association of Removers (BAR) and FIDI both operates to a strict code of conduct, using professionally trained staff and provides financial protection. Both of these affiliations ensure that our customers receive the very best removals and storage services that the industry can supply.
FIDI Fédération Internationale des Déménageurs Internationaux (International Federation of International Movers). Established in 1950, FIDI is the global alliance of professional international moving and relocation companies, specialised in the moving of household goods and personal effects around the world.
Accreditation to this organisation requires annual audits on all areas of our business: staff training, health & safety, processes and procedures, constant monitoring, all to ensure a move happens to a very high standard.
To learn more about FIDI please visit https://www.fidi.org/
The official language of Qatar is Arabic. English is however, widely spoken. The currency is the Qatari riyal. Arabia. Qatar’s desert climate means summers are very hot. Winter brings slightly lower temperatures. Rainfall is minimal.
Qataris are known to be very friendly and generous. Islamic principles are adhered to. Dress is to be conservative and modest. No alcohol is to be consumed in public areas. Eating, drinking or smoking during the month of Ramadan in public is strictly prohibited.
