WhatsApp is a popular messaging app used by over 2 billion people worldwide. It offers free messaging and calling features that work great even with slow internet speeds. This makes it very convenient for communicating when traveling abroad or living in another country.
In Qatar, WhatsApp is widely used among locals and expats alike. However, to use WhatsApp in Qatar there are a few things you need to know regarding requirements, setup, costs and using the app while visiting.
What are the requirements for using WhatsApp in Qatar?
The main requirements for using WhatsApp in Qatar are:
– A smartphone – WhatsApp is available for Android, iOS and Windows smartphones. You’ll need a smartphone with an active SIM card and data/internet connection.
– A Qatar phone number – Your WhatsApp account needs to be registered with a valid Qatar phone number (+974 country code). This number will be used for verification and your WhatsApp ID.
– Mobile data or WiFi – To send and receive WhatsApp messages you’ll need a mobile data plan or access to WiFi internet connectivity. The app works best with a stable internet connection.
– Verification – When first installing WhatsApp you’ll need to verify your Qatar phone number through an SMS or voice call verification. This connects your account to your number.
As long as you meet these requirements, you can download, install and start using WhatsApp in Qatar. The signup and verification process only takes a few minutes to complete.
How do I setup WhatsApp with my Qatar number?
Here is a step-by-step guide to setup WhatsApp using your Qatar phone number:
1. Download and install WhatsApp – Get the app from the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS). Also set up your language preferences at this stage.
2. Agree to Terms of Service – Review and agree to WhatsApp’s Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
3. Enter your Qatar number – Verify the country code (+974) and enter your 10 digit Qatar phone number. This will be your WhatsApp ID.
4. Wait for verification code – You’ll get an SMS text or automated voice call with a 6-digit verification code. This verifies your phone number.
5. Input verification code – Type in the code you received to complete the verification process.
6. Set up your profile – Add your name, profile photo and status message. You can also opt to share your “last seen” status and read receipts with contacts.
7. Start messaging! – Once set up, you can start messaging other WhatsApp users, make calls and use all of the app’s features.
The verification code may take a few minutes to arrive. If you don’t receive it, restart the process and request a new code. Once verified, you’re ready to start using WhatsApp in Qatar!
How much does WhatsApp cost to use in Qatar?
WhatsApp is free to download and use for basic messaging functions. However, you may incur some costs including:
– Internet data fees – WhatsApp requires an internet connection to send messages and media. Without a WiFi connection, this will use your mobile data, so you’ll want a data plan.
– Verification charges – Receiving the SMS or voice call verification may involve standard charges from your mobile provider. Some offer free WhatsApp verification.
– Calling costs – Voice and video calls made over WhatsApp are free over WiFi. But over mobile data, standard call rates apply unless you have a special bundle.
– Roaming charges – If traveling to Qatar, there may be extra roaming fees for using WhatsApp on your home SIM card. A local SIM with a data package is recommended.
To save costs, use WhatsApp on WiFi whenever possible or get an affordable prepaid SIM with data, calls and texts. With the right mobile plan, using WhatsApp daily in Qatar can be very affordable.
Can I use WhatsApp in Qatar without a local number?
Unfortunately you cannot use WhatsApp in Qatar without a Qatar phone number. During signup, WhatsApp requires you to verify with a local number which then becomes your WhatsApp ID.
There are a couple of options to get a Qatar number and use WhatsApp:
– Get a Qatar SIM card – Purchase a prepaid SIM with a data package from providers like Ooredoo or Vodafone. This gives you a local mobile number.
– Use a virtual Qatar number – Services like Switch or Otsoa provide virtual Qatar numbers you can use to verify WhatsApp. Calls are then forwarded to your home SIM.
– Register with a VoIP number – VoIP apps like Dingtone let you get a Qatar number online to verify WhatsApp. You can only use it over data.
Without verification, WhatsApp won’t activate your account. Having a working Qatar number is key, whether your own SIM card or a virtual mobile number. This lets you access WhatsApp normally while in the country.
How do I use WhatsApp on a short visit to Qatar?
If you’re visiting Qatar for just a few days or weeks, you have two main options to use WhatsApp:
1. Get a prepaid Qatar SIM card – For short-term access, a prepaid SIM card with data is ideal. Ooredoo and Vodafone have prepaid packages for tourists. This gives you a temporary local number.
2. Use WhatsApp over WiFi only – Connect to WiFi networks wherever possible to message and call for free. Many hotels, cafes and malls in Qatar offer free WiFi. Without mobile data, you’ll need WiFi to use WhatsApp.
Make sure to disable roaming on your home SIM card to avoid expensive charges. Don’t try using WhatsApp with your regular number without verification as it won’t work.
Getting a prepaid Qatar SIM is quick and affordable, giving you the best WhatsApp experience. But WiFi access lets you use the app for free if you’re here just for a short visit.
Key tips for using WhatsApp in Qatar
Here are some top tips for getting the best WhatsApp experience in Qatar:
– Have your contacts use your Qatar number to message you (not your home country number).
– Add the Qatar country code +974 when saving contacts locally.
– Connect to WiFi networks whenever possible to avoid mobile data charges.
– Make WhatsApp calls over WiFi to avoid call rates on mobile networks.
– Look for SIM card deals with bundled WhatsApp usage (e.g. free WhatsApp calls).
– Make sure you have enough data in your plan if using WhatsApp without WiFi.
– Turn on roaming if traveling to other countries from Qatar to keep using WhatsApp.
– Use a VPN if WhatsApp is blocked or restricted on any local networks.
– Be sure to logout and delete your account if you’re no longer using your Qatar SIM card.
Following these tips will help you stay connected on WhatsApp easily and affordably while living in or visiting Qatar.
Solutions for common WhatsApp issues in Qatar
You may encounter some problems using WhatsApp in Qatar. Here are solutions for some common issues:
Can’t receive verification code – This is often due to an incorrect number entered. Redo the verification process and double check your full phone number, including country code. Restarting your device can also help.
Profile not populating – WhatsApp may fail to pull your profile photo etc. Check your mobile data is working properly. A restart or reinstall of WhatsApp can also resolve this.
Can’t send or receive messages – If all else fails, first check your internet connection. Reboot your phone and confirm mobile data or WiFi is working. The issue may be on WhatsApp’s side too.
SMS charges for verification – Some providers in Qatar charge for verification texts. Use WiFi for the signup process to avoid SMS costs. Or request a voice call instead.
Can’t make or receive calls – You may lack credit or have restrictions on international calling if trying to call a foreign number. Check your plan includes WhatsApp calling.
Banned or blocked accounts – Very rarely, WhatsApp bans accounts for breaching terms of service. Try signing up with another number or appeal if wrongly blocked.
App not sending media – Low phone storage, bad internet, or app crashes can prevent sending photos or videos. Check storage space and reboot your device to troubleshoot.
If you take care setting up WhatsApp properly and manage your mobile plan wisely, it’s easy and very affordable to use WhatsApp daily while in Qatar. Reach out to local support if any issues persist.
Conclusion
In summary, WhatsApp is widely popular across Qatar for its free messaging and calling features. To use it in Qatar, you simply need a smartphone and a valid Qatar phone number to sign up and verify your account.
Daily use of WhatsApp is very affordable, especially if you connect through WiFi networks wherever possible. For visitors, getting a prepaid SIM card or using WiFi-only is recommended. Follow the tips provided here for the optimal WhatsApp experience while living in or traveling to Qatar.
WhatsApp Usage Statistics in Qatar
Here are some key statistics on WhatsApp usage and trends in Qatar:
| Total WhatsApp users | 3 million |
| WhatsApp penetration rate | 73% of population |
| Average time spent on WhatsApp | 195 minutes per week |
| Most popular messaging app | 90% market share in Qatar |
| Preferred language | English, Arabic |
| Age group with highest usage | 18-24 year olds |
WhatsApp sees high demand in Qatar due to the large migrant workforce and expat population. It provides a convenient way to stay in touch with family and friends worldwide. The app’s voice notes, group chats, and media sharing capabilities fuel its popularity across all age groups. With rising smartphone adoption, WhatsApp usage continues to grow rapidly across Qatar.
Must-have WhatsApp tips for living in Qatar
WhatsApp is a daily essential for most people residing in Qatar. Here are some must-know WhatsApp tips and tricks for living in Qatar:
Use WhatsApp data sparingly
WhatsApp can consume a lot of data when sending videos and voice notes. Use WiFi whenever possible and enable data saving settings.
Find local businesses
Search for business accounts on WhatsApp to find shops, restaurants and services in Qatar to engage with.
Join useful Groups
Search for Groups relevant to living in Qatar for advice on admin, shopping, socializing and more.
Share your real-time location
Temporary location sharing via WhatsApp is handy for meeting up with friends or delivery coordination.
Make cheap international calls
Use WhatsApp to call family abroad for free over WiFi rather than expensive international calls.
Validate TrueCaller
Integrate your TrueCaller account with WhatsApp for automatic spam detection and caller ID.
Back up your data
Regularly back up your WhatsApp history to Google Drive or iCloud in case you lose your phone.
Use dual WhatsApp
With dual SIM devices, use one SIM for WhatsApp in Qatar and the other for your home country.
Stay safe
Enable two-step verification and be vigilant about scam links to protect your privacy and security.
Following these handy tips will let you maximize WhatsApp to stay connected with your contacts during your time living in Qatar.
Popular WhatsApp features to use in Qatar
WhatsApp offers great features that are very useful for daily communication in Qatar:
Messaging – Send unlimited texts with emojis, formatting and media attachments.
Voice and Video Calls – Make free VoIP calls within WhatsApp to any number globally.
Groups – Create and join groups of up to 256 participants for messaging or calls.
Stories – Share photos and videos that expire after 24 hours via your WhatsApp status.
Payments – Send and receive money securely using WhatsApp Pay (where available).
Live Location – Share your real-time location with contacts when meeting up.
Email Chat – Generate a unique email address to message your WhatsApp contacts from email.
Documents – Send and preview PDFs, documents and spreadsheets up to 100MB in size.
WhatsApp Web/Desktop – Message from any browser or desktop device when paired with your phone.
Encryption – End-to-end encryption ensures your chats and calls remain private.
With all these great features, WhatsApp makes everyday communication convenient, productive and secure. It’s easy to see why it’s the top messaging app in Qatar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about using WhatsApp in Qatar:
Is WhatsApp completely blocked in Qatar?
No, WhatsApp is not blocked in Qatar. It is widely used and available to download normally through app stores.
Can I use WhatsApp calling in Qatar?
Yes, WhatsApp calling works in Qatar over WiFi or mobile data. Note regular call rates apply on local networks.
Is WhatsApp encrypted in Qatar?
WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption for all messages, calls and media globally, including in Qatar. Chats are secured.
Is WhatsApp legal in Qatar?
Yes, WhatsApp is fully legal and authorized for use in Qatar. It conforms with local telecom regulations.
How do I change my WhatsApp number registered in Qatar?
Go into WhatsApp Settings – Account – Change Number. You’ll have to verify your new number.
Can I use WhatsApp on Qatar WiFi hotspots?
Yes, you can use WhatsApp freely over public WiFi connections in Qatar, for example in malls or cafes.
How do I restore my chat history on a new phone?
On your old phone, back up chats to iCloud or Google Drive. On your new device restore chats from the same backup during setup.
Is there a Qatar WhatsApp group finder?
Yes, websites like Qatar Living have forums where you can search for and join Qatar WhatsApp groups.
I hope these WhatsApp tips and answers help you stay connected through the app while in Qatar! Let me know if you have any other questions.