How to Go on a Road-trip from UAE to Qatar for World Cup 2022

The World Cup 2022 is happening in Qatar this November 21 to December 18, and many football fans from the Emirates are already planning their trip for the sport's biggest event. After all, the distance from Dubai to Qatar is 690 km, which is only an hour away via plane. It’s a breeze to visit!

But why not take this rare opportunity to embark on a grand exploration of UAE, Qatar, and even Saudi Arabia? Yes—in order to go from Dubai to Qatar by road, you will have to pass through Saudi Arabia, too. So why not make the journey as fun as the destination and go on a Dubai to Qatar road trip? 

Here's the ultimate guide to going from Dubai from Qatar by road:

Your vehicle is the most important element of going from Dubai to Qatar by road. If you don’t have one in the UAE, don’t sweat it. You can still pursue your journey by renting one. It’s easy and convenient, and you can get several types of vehicles that will suit your needs. This means you don’t have to leave behind a friend or family member when you’re travelling in big groups, as you can choose an SUV or van that can accommodate you.

As mentioned earlier, you will need to pass through Saudi Arabia to reach Qatar, and car insurance is required upon crossing the borders. You can buy mandatory vehicle insurance, which is valid for 15 days. If you want to stay longer,  you can also opt to get insurance for six months up to a year.

You’re probably wondering if you need a visa to go from Dubai to Qatar by road. The answer is yes—and no. You don’t need a visa to enter Qatar for 30 days if you’re a UAE resident; just present your official documents stating your profession.

But you will need to secure a visa to enter Saudi Arabia, which you can easily do online. Getting a transit visa is the easiest way to do this, which allows short stays of up to 12 hours, giving you enough time to drive through it. 

Another essential during your trip from Dubai to Qatar by road is the Hayya Card. While you don’t need a visa to enter Qatar if you’re a UAE resident, you will need to use a Hayya Card for all World Cup 2022 events. It is a fan ID, or personalized document, you need to attend any of the matches in Qatar. You only need one per person. Aside from this card, you will also need a match ticket to enter the stadium and watch the games

A road trip is all about visiting stops along the way as you head to your destination. During your journey from Dubai to Qatar by road, you can try these activities and tours you can try as you await the World Cup 2022 games:

Marvel at the city of Dubai from the world’s tallest building: Burj Khalifa. Step into its observatory deck and even peek through the telescopes to see iconic Dubai landmarks such as Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and more. This way, you can see all of Dubai from one vantage point!

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the UAE through one of its architectural marvels: the Qasr Al Watan Palace. Explore its majestic hallways, its picturesque gardens, and exhibitions. You can even watch the Palace in Motion light show and learn more about the opulent monument.

Explore the desert of Doha by camel riding and dune bashing (a thrilling way to feel the desert’s roughness!). Ride to the Inland Sea near the Saudi Arabian border, then capture IG-worthy photos of the sands and sea on the Desert Safari and Inland Sea Tour. 

Check out the city's highlights on the Doha Half-Day Tour, which includes Souq Waqid’s marketplace (one of the oldest in Doha) and the famous Msheireb Museums. Take fantastic photos at Dhow Harbor and The Pearl Island during an exclusive visit. You’ll also visit Kantara Cultural Village to further acquaint you with the local culture.

Journey 60 kilometers from Doha and visit the Inland Sea, one of Qatar’s best natural wonders. Check out traditional Qatari tents and explore the desert via camel. Go dune bashing on a 4x4 and enjoy a 360-degree view of the sand formations.