Doha - Post Report Question and Answers
What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
The American Women's Association is a great place to begin, for those who won't be working. They are in transition at the moment, which has placed the group on hold, but in the past, they have offered a variety of great things to see and do in Doha. The compound offers opportunities to meet others and branch out from there. ASD volunteering is also a great way to make friends. We sometimes get together through work-related events but it all depends upon how robust one's work group is. - Oct 2023
Doha is a make your own fun Post. - Jul 2022
Drinking. I mean it - I've never seen the kind of aggressive, heavy drinking that happens here every weekend. It's been a fundamental part of every social gathering we've been to. And we've been to a lot.
Weekend brunches are without question the go-to for western expat socializing. Doha Moms is a large, mafia-like group that's extremely popular with mothers. There are lots of Facebook meet-up groups, or so I've heard. With that said, there are still a lot of people here who lack real friendships and human connection.
If you're looking to socialize with the Qataris, good luck. Please let me know if you find a way, as we certainly haven't. - May 2017
The aforementioned Friday brunches are hugely popular. I avoided them for a long time because they're so expensive (~$120 for all you can eat and drink), but eventually gave in and chalked it up to the price of socializing. Overall, I'm happier for it. There are groups and clubs for expats, but you have to be proactive here about making friends. These groups are easily found online. - May 2017
leave for a short break - May 2015
Good question... Go out for tea at a fancy hotel seems to be the main form of "entertainment." - Feb 2015
We dine out at the hotels about once a week (the only place you can buy a beer or a glass of wine).We get together with friends at home, meet up with friends at the pool, spend a day at the beach, etc. It's low-key and lovely. - Apr 2012
None. - Mar 2012
A lot of socializing centers around kids. Drinking is expensive in bars - expect to pay as much as $15 for a heineken - so people often have parties at home. Some of my single friends have active social lives, and others seem rather bored. - Mar 2012
We tend to dine out at one of the many luxury hotels about once a month. You can expect to spend about $100+ per person if you include cocktails. Otherwise, we like to entertain at home. It's easy to strike up impromptu gatherings at the compound pool or to drop by a neighbor's house with a bottle of wine. The embassy offers a calendar of social events, too, but we prefer to branch out as much as possible. There are lots of interesting people to meet here. You just need to get out there and make some friends. - Jan 2012
Hotels, clubs. Lots of parties at houses. - Oct 2010
Mostly done at homes. - Dec 2009
Most people entertain in home. Sometimes there will be an event - Placido Domingo gave a one night only concert. It was nice. - Sep 2008
