r/qatar • u/Bitter_Load7555 • Aug 16 '26

Update 15 years next week, 4 more to go.

We only came to Qatar planning to stay 2-3 years... that clearly didn't happen! It's been one of the best decisions we've made as a family. But 2030 will be our last year here as we're now house hunting back home. The last 15 years have been a blur and although 4 years sounds a long time, we know it will fly by with the kids starting their GCSEs. Looking forward to a memorable final 4 years in this wonderful country, may the almighty keep us all safe and in good health.

54 Upvotes

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5

u/classceiling Aug 16 '26

Can you tell us a little more about why you enjoyed living in Qatar so much? Our family is considering relocating there.

26

u/Bitter_Load7555 Aug 16 '26

Positives

  • Tax free
  • Safe
  • Clean (thanks to the massive workforce not due to people cleaning up after themselves)
  • Great infrastructure (road network, metro, taxi services, airport)
  • Good employer package (schooling, flights, accommodation, health care)
  • Multicultural/Multi national

Negatives

  • Air quality and pollution
  • Lack of nature and green spaces, wildlife and landscaping
  • lack of optionality when it comes to phone/Internet and energy providers which leads to overpriced services
  • driving standards are pitiful
  • overpriced accommodation, rates spiked during the world cup and never came down

2

u/hudson117 Aug 22 '26

i am also a uk expat in doha. i have been here over 15 years. thanks for the balanced view.

3

u/Head_Dog2098 Aug 19 '26

I’m an expat in Doha ~7rs. I wish you well in all your future endeavours. I too have a similar “vision 2030”. I’m also incredibly grateful for the opportunities residing here has blessed us with.

Although my plans are not set in stone as I will be keen to see how the technological advances shape the job markets and hence career choices for my children. Perhaps better opportunities may lie outside the UK. I’m thinking out loud now.

I appreciate your message as it is something I can relate to.

1

u/Bitter_Load7555 Aug 19 '26

Absolutely we are also keeping on eyes and ears open for opportunities for our kids to follow apprentiships or higher education in other parts of the world. The UK will be to allow us to connect back with family and for me to finally retire. Wish you good luck also.

2

u/AreYouLadiesMan2one7 Expat Aug 16 '26

Is home the UK? And if so, have you started compiling a survival guide for your bubble babies?

2

u/Bitter_Load7555 Aug 16 '26

Hahah yes UK. My lads are pretty street wise. They're there every summer and most winters and have a tough bunch of cousins who whip them into shape every year 🤣

1

u/AreYouLadiesMan2one7 Expat Aug 16 '26

Like the great wise philosopher said... "Family" - Dominic Toretto