Originally Posted by
WhiskeyCavalier
Hi, I just want to piggyback off this rather than starting a new thread.
I will have a 15 hour layover in Doha. I have been Pre approved and have a lane 1 - pre registration document. I do not need to quarantine.
I have loaded the app but doesn’t seem to work. Reading through this it seems it will only activate once I am there. Some questions please.
1) how expensive is the cheapest SIM card? I read that some were trying to activate the app with WiFi. Is that possible in the airport? I am trying to minimize delays or surprises. Just wondering if I should bite the bullet and get a SIM card.
2) I am an American. I have read I do not need a visa. So just inputting my passport information should activate the app?
3) I need to present a PCR test upon arrival or do I need to upload it? It needs to be taken no earlier than 48 hours before the flight departure time, correct?
4) I need the app to be green when I return to the airport right? Should I be worried? I saw someone mention that above.
5) any other suggestions to make this a painless layover? Am I missing something? Seems like Uber works there.
6) if you register over WiFi - does it need a phone number? What I mean is will you get some text confirmation? I guess I could use google voice.
7) Apologies, but I am a little confused about the testing within 24 hours, will I need to test again to leave? Sorry it doesn’t makes sense since I am only there for 15 hours but I don’t want to miss a detail.
Thanks. Appreciate your help. If possible could you mention when you were there? It seems like requirements and restrictions seem to be constantly changing. I guess more recent would be helpful, but I will take any advice someone is willing to offer. I’m very excited!
1) You can activate with either a local SIM card or any WiFi in Qatar (just except the one at Hamad Airport).
2) Yes. You can use your own non-Qatari phone number here to receive your OTP for the app.
3) PCR 48 hours before scheduled departure or RTK/ART 24 hours before scheduled departure.
4) Generally yes. Some people might have been able to explain their way through, but I wouldn't bank on it.
5) Uber works here, but I would recommend choosing at least Uber Comfort.
Karwa taxis are also bookable with the Karwa Taxi app, just ask for "Scan & Pay" at end of your ride and use Apple Pay (for iOS) to pay for your ride. Starting fare is QR25 leaving the airport and QR7 elsewhere.
Fares are somewhat similar across these two ecosystems.
6) See point 2.
7) If you are leaving Qatar within 24 hours, you do not need to perform an on-arrival ART test (as shared by other forumers).