Doha, Qatar: Qatar has secured a spot among the top ten affordable tax-free destinations for expatriates in 2024, according to a recent report by expat insurance platform William Russell. The country holds the seventh position in the ranking, reflecting its attractiveness to an increasing number of expats.
The relocation score for Qatar stands at 5.06 out of 10, taking into account factors such as flight costs, rent, and essential utilities for expats. While some countries offer tax-free living, daily expenses are a significant consideration for expats.
The report notes that a one-way ticket from London to Doha costs around $356 (QR1296.37), while a similar journey from New York to Doha is approximately $551 (QR2006.47). The average cost of purchasing an apartment per square meter in Qatar is about $403 (QR1467.52), and the monthly utilities rank the country as the fourth most affordable tax-free destination, totaling around $112 (QR407.85).
Qatar boasts an average net monthly salary of about $4,327 (QR15756.77), with monthly living expenses per person amounting to $939 (QR3419.37).
In the global top 10, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations dominate the leading positions, with Oman securing the first spot and a relocation score of 7.92, followed by Kuwait, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates.
Analysts emphasize the importance of considering various factors when relocating to another country and recommend purchasing international income protection to safeguard an individual’s lifestyle in case of incapacity due to injury or illness.
In 2023, Qatar welcomed over 4 million visitors, contributing to robust growth in the aviation and tourism sectors. The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority anticipates a continued rise in air passengers, expecting nearly 45 million individuals in the coming years, representing a significant increase of over 26 percent compared to 2022.
The authority highlights the addition of 44 airlines by the end of 2023, establishing direct flights from Hamad International Airport to approximately 190 cities worldwide. Officials and experts attribute this growth to the FIFA World Cup 2022, which has opened avenues for tourism, business exploration, investment, and relocation, fostering economic development in Qatar.