The Qatari riyal (QAR) is pegged to the US dollar, which gives it great stability. In Doha, cards are accepted everywhere, but a bit of cash remains essential for the souks and the taxis.
The Qatari riyal (QAR) at a glance
The Qatari riyal, international code QAR, is the official currency of the State of Qatar. It is divided into 100 dirhams (not to be confused with the Moroccan or Emirati dirham). It is recognisable by its colourful banknotes adorned with motifs linked to the wildlife, architecture and heritage of the Gulf, issued by the Qatar Central Bank.
Its main distinctive feature lies in its peg to the US dollar, in place since the early 2000s. In practical terms, the value of the riyal moves in step with the greenback rather than independently. For you, a traveller setting off from Paris, this means that the euro/riyal rate depends above all on the euro/dollar parity: when the euro strengthens against the dollar, you get more riyals, and vice versa. This mechanism makes the QAR predictable, without the swings experienced by more volatile currencies.
A relatively low-profile currency in Europe
Unlike the euro, the pound sterling or the dollar, the Qatari riyal is one of the less common currencies in European exchange offices. The banknotes are not always immediately in stock, especially in larger denominations. It is precisely for this kind of currency that booking online in advance makes complete sense: it guarantees that the banknotes will be waiting for you on the day you come in.
Card or cash in Qatar?
Qatar, and Doha in particular, is a very modern country where card payment is widespread. Hotels, large shopping centres such as Villaggio or Mall of Qatar, restaurants and airlines accept Visa and Mastercard without any trouble. Cash machines (ATMs) are numerous and reliable in the city.
That said, cash retains real usefulness in several situations typical of travel:
- Souq Waqif: this iconic traditional market in Doha, with its spices, textiles and crafts, often operates on a cash basis, and haggling is easier with cash.
- Taxis and short trips: while ride-hailing apps accept cards, many traditional taxis prefer cash.
- Tips: common in hotels and restaurants, they are given in riyals.
- Small shops and stalls: neighbourhood stores, markets and street vendors remain attached to cash.
The ideal balance therefore consists of bringing along a reserve of riyals for your first expenses and your purchases at the souk, while paying for the bulk of your stay by card. Also remember to notify your bank of your trip to avoid any card blocking abroad.
Preparing your currency exchange from Paris
Exchanging your euros before departure saves you the queues and the sometimes less favourable rates of airport counters, at Hamad International as well as at Roissy. By preparing your currency purchase ahead of time, you arrive in Doha with riyals in your pocket, ready to pay for a taxi or a tea at the souk as soon as you step off the plane.
At Paris Change, an exchange office approved by the ACPR (Banque de France), you benefit from commission-free exchange and more than 53 currencies available. Our single shop, at 4 Boulevard Saint-Michel (75005 Paris, Saint-Michel metro line 4, RER B and C), is open 7 days a week. For a rarer currency such as the Qatari riyal, we recommend booking online: it secures the availability of the banknotes and lets you simply collect them in store.
Good to know before you leave
The riyal is not an easily convertible currency once you are back in France, and exchanging it outside the Gulf is limited. It is therefore better to adjust the amount you take to your actual needs and to spend or convert the surplus on the spot. As for customs regulations, let us recall the European rule: any transport of cash equal to or above €10,000 (or its equivalent in foreign currency) must be declared when entering and leaving the European Union.
Frequently asked questions
Is the euro/Qatari riyal rate stable?
Since the riyal is pegged to the US dollar, it is broadly stable and predictable. The variations you will observe stem mainly from the movement of the euro/dollar parity. Our counter rates are indicative and updated every day.
Should you book riyals in advance?
Yes, it is advisable. The QAR is one of the less common currencies: booking online guarantees the availability of the banknotes on the day you come into the shop, with no unpleasant surprises.
Can I pay for everything by card in Doha?
For the most part, yes, in hotels, restaurants and shopping centres. Keep some cash, however, for Souq Waqif, traditional taxis, tips and small shops.
Prepare for your trip to Qatar with peace of mind: book your Qatari riyals online and collect them commission-free at our Saint-Michel shop, open 7 days a week. An ACPR-approved team welcomes you for simple, fast exchange at the fair daily rate.
