F1Qatar
Some useful information for the Formula 1 Grand Prix of Qatar
Grand Prix of Qatar
Welcome to Doha, Qatar’s ultramodern capital. Located in the east of the country, Doha is home to approximately 646,000 people from all over the world. It’s the country’s fastest-growing city and its business centre.
From a pearling and fishing village of great importance, with around 350 pearling boats at the beginning of the 20th century, Doha underwent a complete economic transformation and became a modern and prosperous city.
Qatar Information
Qatari currency is the riyal (QAR) – there are approximately 4.92 QAR to the pound.
ATMs can be found in many locations, and most shops and restaurants accept major credit cards.
Whilst the attitude to dress is quite relaxed, visitors should dress appropriately for their surroundings (for example, beachwear is fine around the pool, but not in public places such as shopping malls).
Plug sockets are square three-pin plugs as we use in the UK.
Qatar is three hours ahead of the UK.
Friday circuit trip?
If you’re heading to the circuit on Friday, then the easiest way is by Metro. The Doha Metro system is relatively new, and is quick, cheap and efficient. The closest Metro station to your hotel is DECC station, from where you can take the train 5 stops to Lusail Metro station – from here you can take a complimentary shuttle to the circuit. A single journey costs 2QR, or 10QR if you want to travel in Gold Class, and a Day Pass is just 6QR, or 30QR in Gold Class.
Circuit Transfer Information
Intercontinental Doha The City
Saturday
Depart hotel – 12:30
Depart circuit – 18:30
Sunday
Depart hotel – 13:30
Depart circuit – 19:15
Losail International Circuit
Parking at the circuit is located towards the front of the circuit. On arrival, please take note of the bus location as this will be the same departure point in the eveningÂ
Friday Schedule
13:30 – 14:30
Practice 1
17:00 – 18:00
Practice 2
Saturday Schedule
14:00 – 15:00
Practice 3
17:00 – 18:00
Qualifying
Sunday Schedule
15:20 – 15:50
F1 Drivers’ Parade
17:00 – 19:00
F1 Race
If you are not at the coach pick up point by the stated departure time, and you have not made us aware you’re not taking the coach transfer (either in person to Nicola, or via the telephone numbers at the foot of each page of 
this information guide), we will assume you will make your own way, which will be at your own cost.
IF THERE IS A DELAY OR SCHEDULE CHANGE TO QUALIFYING ON SATURDAY: the coach will leave the circuit 30 minutes after the Formula 1 qualifying track action finishes (i.e. 30 minutes after the session has finished). If there is any extended or rolling delay without confirmed restart times that may affect the coach departure time, we will keep you updated via Nicola and the email and phone number we have on your booking.
IF THERE IS A DELAY OR SCHEDULE CHANGE TO THE RACE ON SUNDAY: the coach will leave the circuit 30 minutes after the Formula 1 race finishes (i.e. 30 minutes after the winner has crossed the line). If there is any extended or rolling delay without confirmed restart times that may affect the coach departure time, we will keep you updated via Nicola and via the email and phone number we have on your booking.
Our Hints & Tips
Security staff may conduct bag checks at the gates and for safety reasons, tin cans, glass bottles or any other potentially dangerous objects can not be brought into the circuit. Tents, parasols and umbrellas are not permitted as they may hinder the view of other fans.
Do bring sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, ear plugs and a waterproof (just in case… we may be in the desert, but when it rains it rains!), do wear comfortable footwear and we recommend bringing warm layers for the evening as it can feel much cooler once the sun has set.
Men and women should dress modestly as a courtesy to both Qataris and Muslims. Tops should cover the shoulders and upper arms, and skirts or shorts should fall to or below the knee.
We always recommend bringing tissues or wipes and hand sanitiser to all race circuits..
Visitors are not permitted to make/create/store/record or transmit any sound recording or audio visual footage of the event for any commercial purposes. Personal electronic devices such as mobile phones, cameras or hand held personal communication devices are allowed as long as the images are for private, personal and non commercial use.
All taxis and limousines are run by the state company, Mowasalat, and have a fixed rate. KARWA Taxis are bright turquoise in colour and are metered (meters start at 4 QAR) – call 800-TAXI (8294) to book, or download the free KARWA Taxi App. Doha Limousines are also state-run and you can book both taxis and limos by calling (+974) 4458 8888. Tips are not expected, but a gesture is very welcome! Do avoid unlicensed taxis.
UK Office Number
+44 207 183 2022
Emergency Number
+44 207 183 8960
Please note our emergency number will be available over the race weekend when our main office is closed. Please leave a message, clearly stating your name, reference number and contact number and we will call you back. Office Hours are Monday to Friday 10:00-14:00, Saturday and Sunday CLOSED
