August 19, 2026<\/a>\n <\/p>\n\n The FCDO advice states: “Some prescribed and over-the-counter medicines may be controlled substances in Qatar.”\n<\/p>\n
\n Travellers can bring these medications into the country, but only if they follow Qatar\u2019s legal requirements.\n<\/p>\n
How to bring medication into Qatar legally<\/p>\n
\n The FCDO now advises holidaymakers to carry a prescription in English or Arabic, issued within the past six months.\n<\/p>\n
\n Visitors must apply for a permit through the Qatar Ministry of Public Health\u2019s electronic portal before travelling.\n<\/p>\n
\n Applicants can track their application online and receive a digital permit to present at the border.\n<\/p>\n
\n Failing to follow these rules could result in up to five years in prison and a fine of between 50,000 and 100,000 Qatari riyals (approximately \u00a310,000 to \u00a319,000).\n<\/p>\n
\n This applies even if the drugs are intended solely for personal medical use.\n<\/p>\n
\n Qatari law states: “NDDPS [Narcotic Drugs and Dangerous Psychotropic Substances] may only be imported, exported or transported, by a written permission from the Minister of the Public Health.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Whoever imports NDDPS with the intention of illicit consumption or personal use, unless he proves to be permitted to do so pursuant to the provisions of this Law, shall be liable to imprisonment for a term of up to five years and not less than two years.\n<\/p>\n
\n Recommended reading:\n<\/p>\n
\n “There will be a fine of not more than one-hundred thousand (100,000) Riyals and not less than fifty-thousand (50,000) Riyals, unless it can be established that he was authorised to do so in accordance with the provisions of this law.”\n<\/p>\n
\n Tourism to Qatar has soared by nearly 350% since the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with the country emerging as a popular destination for sporting events.\n<\/p>\n
\n The FCDO has directed travellers to the TravelHealthPro website for further guidance on carrying medication abroad.\n<\/p>\n