Brief Introduction to Al Jazeera Academy and Doha.

The following information will hopefully make your arrival and the first few weeks a little easier, especially if this is your first experience of living and working in the Gulf region.

Accommodation – Al Jazeera Academy staff are all allocated either 2 or 3 bedroom apartments , depending on family circumstances. They are furnished to include sofa / dining sets, beds, wardrobes, bookcase etc. Bedding is not provided – the main bedroom has a king size bed, and the other(s) have large singles. It is suggested you bring flat sheets rather than fitted ones. There is a TV and basic cable package. If you wish to subscribe to a better package, then you are free to do so at your own expense. The phone is connected with an international line, but all charges (including connection) are your responsibility. The kitchen has a cooker, fridge/freezer and washing machine. Basic kitchen items are included.

Banking – Bank accounts will be opened for you at the school bank on arrival. All major cards are accepted in Qatar, but the exchange rate will obviously vary.

Shopping – Virtually everything is available in Doha, often at the same price or less than you are used to. You do not need to bring everything with you. There is a vast range of shops depending on your needs. The electrical system is 240v with 3 pin sockets as in UK. Electrical items are all 240v but often have 2 pin plugs fitted. Adaptors are readily available, but it is obviously quicker and safer to refit a 3 pin plug. For bedding, there is BHS, Debenhams and other outlets depending on what you are looking for.

Resident’s Permit – Adults will be required to have a blood test and a chest x-ray which will be organized for you soon after you arrive. Children are exempt from some tests. You also need to have a blood-group test carried out at an approved laboratory. Everyone is also finger-printed. All official documentation requires multiple passport size photos. It is suggested you bring about 20 for each person. They are readily available here, but it will be less hassle if you already have them.

Driving Licences – Despite what you may read, Qatar does not recognise International Driving Permits. You are able to obtain a temporary licence initially, and then a full licence when your Residents Permit (RP) is finalised. Certain nationalities are able to get automatic licences without the need for tuition and/or tests. They include UK, US, Australian, NZ and Canadians. YOU MUST HAVE A VALID HOME LICENCE IN YOUR POSSESSION SO DO NOT FORGET IT.

Car Rental/Purchase – There are various options as far as cars are concerned. There are plenty of used cars available and the banks are very happy to give finance packages when you have your RP. All the main manufacturers have dealers here if you want to buy new. There are lots of rental companies who will negotiate short or long-term deals with you at some very good prices. The other option is to car-share which can work very well.

Personal Effects – Air freight is quicker both to arrive and clear through customs than sea freight, but is obviously more expensive. Bearing in mind the shopping section above, people often only bring their personal effects. Please note that all videos, books, DVDs etc may be subject to censorship, as may computer equipment. What is perfectly acceptable to you and I may not be to the Customs Department here.

Climate – The climate here is extremely hot and humid during July, August and September. You will need clothing to suit the climate, and especially good quality sunglasses.

Clothing – Although a very relaxed, and in many ways, quite liberal place, please remember that Qatar is an Islamic country and that you should dress accordingly. You will quickly get to know what is acceptable.