How to buy a SIM Card at Doha Airport & City 2024: Best Plans + Updated Price

Doha Airport is one of the largest and most modern international airports in the world. Visitors can experience a variety of amenities including buying a Qatar SIM card in Doha Airport.

However, if you are a first-time visitor to Doha, you will likely have difficulty finding information about suitable Qatar SIM Card shopping addresses or prices of packages.

Don’t worry, this article can help you by providing all the necessary information about buying SIM Card at Doha airport. Follow us to explore every corner of Qatar airport!

I. Should You Buy a SIM Card at Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH)?

Yes. Buying a SIM card at Doha Airport can be a convenient option for travelers visiting Qatar. It allows you to have immediate access to mobile data and communication services upon arrival with assistance of well trained staff. However, there are a few factors to consider:

  • Cost: SIM cards at airports tend to be more expensive compared to buying from local providers outside the airport. Therefore, if you’re looking for the most cost-effective option, it might be better to purchase a SIM card from a local store.
  • Coverage and Plans: Plans sold at Doha Airport may be not as diversity as those sold online or by third party 

Advice: Those who can’t buy a Qatar SIM Card before departure should consider this option as you can immediately have the internet without any disruptive experience. 

II. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Doha Airport?

1. In official kiosks

You can easily find Ooredoo Qatar and Vodafone Qatar SIM cards in the arrivals hall of Doha-Hamad International Airport. Since the airport has only one terminal, everyone arrives at the same baggage claim and arrivals hall.

You can even get Ooredoo SIM cards from the duty-free store. 

In the arrivals hall, both mobile operators have two booths where they sell SIM cards. You’ll notice two booths right in front of you after going through customs.

On the left, Vodafone Qatar has a booth.

And on the right, Ooredoo Qatar is chilling.

Vodafone kiosks in Doha Airport
Vodafone kiosks in Doha Airport

2. In Retail stores 

You can find prepaid SIM cards from Ooredoo and Vodafone at small retail stores like Qatar Duty Free and News & Books in the airport. These shops offer basic connectivity packages, although the sales associates may not have extensive knowledge about the specific plan details.

Although these shops may not provide as much information, they are convenient if you need to quickly purchase a SIM card at the airport. Depending on your usage needs, you may need to top up your SIM card shortly after activation.

III. What to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Doha Hamad International Airport – Registration Process

Buying a local prepaid or postpaid SIM card at Doha International Airport is convenient for staying connected in Qatar. Just make sure you have the necessary documents with you to make the process go smoothly.

Some items to buy SIM Card in Qatar
Some items to buy SIM Card in Qatar

1. For Prepaid Tourist SIM Cards

If you’re a tourist looking for a prepaid SIM card, all you need is a valid passport from an eligible country. No registration or residence permit is required.

Just bring a printed or digital copy of your passport photo page for verification. Keep in mind that some cheaper basic prepaid packs may have limitations on eligible nationalities.

Note: Eligible nationalities typically include citizens from the USA, UK, Europe (Schengen Countries), Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. 

2. For Postpaid Monthly Plans

Postpaid plans work on a 12-month contract basis with auto-renewal. They offer larger data bundles and longer validity periods.

To purchase a postpaid SIM card at Doha International Airport, you’ll need your passport, a valid QID issued by Qatar authorities, and proof of address in Qatar. However, for most tourists on shorter trips, prepaid SIM options are usually more practical.

So, whether you’re looking for a prepaid tourist SIM or a postpaid monthly plan, having the right documents will make buying a SIM card at Doha Airport a smooth experience. Stay connected and enjoy your time in Qatar!

IV. Best Tourist Doha Airport SIM Cards Options and Price

Note: $1 USD = 3.64 QAR.

We will explore some popular plans sold by Vodafone adn Ooredoo in Doha Airport.

1. Ooredoo SIM Card

Ooredoo in Doha Airport
Ooredoo in Doha Airport

Let’s take a look at the Ooredoo combo plans, which offer you a choice of six options:

PriceDataLocal MinutesInternational MinutesValidity
45 QAR3 GB25 minutes15 minutes7 days
70 QAR5 GB 1145 minutes15 minutes30 days
100 QAR10 GB 2265 minutes15 minutes30 days
135 QAR18 GB 2385 minutes15 minutes30 days
235 QAR34 GB 31025 minutes15 minutes30 days
535 QAR302 GB 340 025 minutes15 minutes30 days

Notes

  • The operator also offers Data-only packages for tourists who need it. 
  •  The Ooredoo store at the airport is unable to provide Ooredoo eSIMs. You can only obtain eSIM online or at an actual Ooredoo store.

2. Vodafone SIM Card:

Vodafone in Doha Airport
Vodafone in Doha Airport

You can see some packages often bought by travelers: 

OperatorPackagePrice (USD)DataMinutesValidity
VodafonePrepaid Tourist SIM100 QAR15 GB100 Local + International30 days
VodafoneMonthly Postpaid Plan100 QAR15 GB12 month contract
VodafoneMonthly Postpaid Plan200 QAR50 GB12 month contract

When buying a tourist SIM card at the airport, the data and rates included are usually enough for shorter trips. However, for those staying longer in Qatar, it’s possible to top up or purchase local SIM cards with monthly packages once you have settled down.

V. Qatar eSIM for Doha – an Alternative to Prepaid SIM Card at Doha Hamad International Airport

eSIM offers several advantages compared to traditional physical SIM cards.

  •  Firstly, eSIM eliminates the need for a physical SIM card activation, making it more convenient and flexible. 
  • Secondly, You can easily switch between different mobile operators or plans without needing to physically swap SIM cards.
  • Additionally, eSIM allows for remote activation, meaning you can activate your eSIM without needing to visit a store or wait for a physical SIM card to be delivered. 
Qatar eSIM plans in Gigago
Qatar eSIM plans in Gigago

Gigago is a leading provider of Qatar eSIM services for tourists visiting the country. They offer various eSIM plans designed to provide data connectivity and calling options for different durations.

For Qatar, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days with $5.50 . What is great about Gigago’s Qatar eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $5.50$53.90 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Qatar, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VI. Where to Buy a SIM card Outside Doha Hamad International Airport?

Ooredoo stores in the city centre
Ooredoo stores in the city centre

If you prefer to buy a SIM card outside Doha Hamad International Airport, visit some locations such as:  physical official Stores, Convenience Stores and Retailers or Gas Stations

When buying a SIM card, it’s important to consider the following:

  • Compatibility: If your phone supports eSIM technology, you may have the option to purchase an eSIM instead of a physical SIM card.  
  • Cost: Prices of Qatar SIM Card in these locations can be lower than those in Doha Airport. Compare the costs of different SIM cards and plans to find the one that suits your budget and usage needs. 
  • Location: Ffind the nearest locations where you can purchase a SIM card.

VII. FAQs 

Which mobile service providers are available at Doha Airport?

The major mobile service providers in Qatar, such as Ooredoo and Vodafone, have kiosks at Doha Airport where you can buy their SIM cards and choose from various prepaid plans.

Are there different prepaid plans available for SIM cards at Doha Airport?

Yes, there are various prepaid plans available at Doha Airport to suit different needs. You can choose plans that offer data, calling minutes, or a combination of both, depending on your requirements.

What documents do I need to buy a SIM card at Doha Airport?

Typically, you will need a valid passport to purchase a SIM card at Doha Airport. The process is straightforward, and the staff at the kiosks will assist you with the necessary requirements.

VIII. Conclusion 

Buying a SIM card at Doha Airport is a totally easy and convenient option for travelers. You can find kiosks or shops right at the airport where you can get a SIM card and activate it right away. It’s a great way to stay connected, make calls, and use the internet while you explore Qatar.