I have already visited about 5 pharmacies in Doha for a skin ointment (Elocom), but all of them require doctor's prescription. I used to buy this ointment over the counter at pharmacies in UAE.

They say this ointment contains a small dose of steroid and hence prescription is required. So if you are looking for cortisone, then i am sure a prescription will be required (unless you have the so called 'vastha')