Questions before leaving for Qatar
Hi,
I got a 6-month contract (renewable) with Rasgas in Ras Laffan and will be coming over to Qatar soon with my wife and 2-year old son.
I'd like to know whether I should get accommodations in Doha or Al-Khor?
Is it far to drive from Doha to Ras Laffan? How long will it take me to drive between those places?
I may be expected to work shifts, is it dangerous to travel the roads at night?
I'd also like to know how much rental deposit I'm expected to pay, do the house agents/owners ask for 1+1 rent or 2+1 rent on the onset? Can I pay using credit card for the initial rent and deposits?
How much cash (Qatari Riyal) do I need to bring initially? Is QR3000 enough?
Is it worth it to pay for the Maha Service at the airport on this first visit?
Sorry for the many questions but I'd like to be prepared.
Thank you for your help.
Hi,
Firstly, thanks for all the tips!
In my contract, it states that I'm to find my own accommodation and transport as I'm getting a lump sum deal.
Okay, so I guess accommodation in Al-Khor would be the better choice than in Doha.
What about Al-Dhakira? I've found a few ads in the classifieds for 2 bedroom apartments there.
Thanks again in advance.
Yes Al Maha service will help a lot. But i suggest don't come here at the same time that your wife and kids. Try to arrange everything here first before bringing them over. That way, you have adjusted and have settled a bit and you can help them more in their adjustment to their new home.
with regards to the accomodation i agree with windsunsilent. . better ask your recruiter or agency if RasGas will provide accomodation for you, bcoz i believe they have their own community in Al Khor its like a compound exclusive for RasGas employees. . if not provided you have to pay 2000 to 2500 QR for one room in a villa which you will share with other family.
with regards to transpo i think rasgas provides transportation for their employees, but as ive said better check your contract with them. . just for info. . doha to raslaffan is about 1 and 1/2 hour drive, but you have to be careful theres a lot of crazy drivers. . al khot to ras laffan is 30-45 minutes drive. . duration depends on the traffic and your speed, speed limit in the highway going to ras laffan is 120 kph. .
lastly i think better bring more money. .
Hi... hope this gives you an idea.
First, It would be best if you clarify with your company if your getting FAMILY accommodation or housing allowance.Rent either in Doha or al khor is a little bit costly. QR 3000 as you mentioned would only mean 1 room with attached bathroom in a portion of a villa. Do the numbers on how much a villa or flat would cost.
Rent policies is usually 1 month advance & 1 month deposit.
Second, it is advised to stay near working place. Doha to Al Khor distance wise is 1-2 hour drive(excluding traffic in Doha city. You can always roam around in Doha on a weekends.
Third, Cash is very important but you do have options to get money through machines.
Lastly, It would be best to get pre arranged services on transportation & hotel. Roaming around Doha with a map and a excited family would be a little bit tricky.
Good luck!!!