Best Mobile Plans in Qatar: Ooredoo vs Vodafone Complete Comparison (2026)
When you land in Qatar and turn your phone on, you’ll get a signal from one of two networks: Ooredoo or Vodafone Qatar. That’s it. Qatar has exactly two mobile operators and no third option is coming anytime soon. This makes the comparison both simpler and more consequential than choosing between networks in most countries. You’re not picking from five operators; you’re picking which half of Qatar’s mobile infrastructure you want to live on.
I’ve used both networks during my time in Qatar, switched once, watched colleagues switch in both directions, and fielded more “which SIM should I get?” questions than I can count from newly arrived expats. The honest answer in 2026 is that both networks are competent and neither is dramatically better than the other for most users. But there are specific situations where one clearly beats the other, and the plan pricing differences at equivalent tiers are real enough to matter over a year or two.
This guide covers everything you need to make the right choice: network coverage, prepaid versus postpaid, plan pricing for both operators, international calling and roaming, data speeds, customer service, and the practical situations where one network has a clear edge.
Qatar’s Mobile Market: Quick Context
Qatar has two licensed mobile operators. Ooredoo (formerly Qtel) is the incumbent, majority government-owned, and has been operating in Qatar since 1987. Vodafone Qatar launched in 2009 as the challenger operator and has been competing aggressively for market share ever since.
Both are full-service operators offering prepaid SIMs, postpaid contracts, home broadband, and business plans. Both have physical stores across Doha and online account management. Both support 4G LTE across Qatar and have been rolling out 5G coverage in major areas since 2021.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) oversees both operators and sets certain baseline requirements including number portability, which means you can switch operators and keep your Qatari mobile number. This is worth knowing before you commit to either network.
Coverage: Does It Actually Differ?
For most residents living and working in Doha, the coverage difference between Ooredoo and Vodafone is negligible. Both networks provide strong 4G coverage across:
Greater Doha including West Bay, The Pearl, Lusail, Madinat Khalifa, Al Waab, Al Aziziyah, Al Sadd, and all main residential and commercial areas. Industrial Area, Mesaieed, and the main industrial corridors. Major highways and road networks connecting population centers.
Where differences emerge is in coverage outside Doha. Qatar is a small country but the northern areas (Al Khor, Al Shamal), the western areas (Al Shahaniya, Al Daayen outskirts), and the desert interior have variable coverage from both networks. Ooredoo, as the incumbent with more mature infrastructure, generally has marginally better coverage in these less populated areas. If you spend significant time outside Doha, this matters. If you live and work entirely within Doha, it almost certainly doesn’t.
5G coverage: Both operators have deployed 5G in central Doha, West Bay, Lusail, and The Pearl. Coverage maps change regularly as rollout continues. If 5G is important to you and your device supports it, check both operators’ current 5G maps rather than relying on any static comparison including this one.
Indoor coverage: Both networks perform similarly indoors in most buildings. Some users report better indoor penetration from one or the other in specific buildings, but this is highly location-specific and not something you can reliably predict before using a SIM.
Getting a SIM Card in Qatar
Before comparing plans, the practical mechanics of getting a SIM are worth covering.
What you need:
- Original Qatar ID (QID) for a resident SIM
- Passport for a tourist / visitor SIM (limited options)
- Payment method (cash or card)
Where to get it: Both Ooredoo and Vodafone have stores in most major malls (City Center, Villaggio, Mall of Qatar, Landmark, The Pearl’s Medina Centrale) and standalone stores across Doha. Both also sell SIMs at Hamad International Airport arrivals, which is convenient if you want connectivity immediately on arrival.
Airport SIMs: The airport SIM options are functional but not always the best value plans. If you can wait until you reach your accommodation or a mall store, you’ll have access to the full plan range. If you need data immediately on arrival, airport SIMs are fine for the first day or two.
Resident versus tourist SIM: Resident SIMs (requiring QID) have access to the full plan range, better rates, and can be used for postpaid contracts. Tourist SIMs with passport-only registration are available but have more limited plan options and typically higher per-unit costs. Once your QID is ready, upgrading from a tourist to a resident SIM at the same number is straightforward.
Prepaid Plans: Ooredoo vs Vodafone
Prepaid plans are the starting point for most newly arrived expats who don’t yet have a QID or want flexibility before committing to a contract.
Ooredoo Prepaid
Ooredoo’s prepaid range is called Hala. Plans are purchased as bundles that combine data, local calls, and international minutes. Bundles are typically valid for 30 days.
| Plan | Data | Local Minutes | Intl Minutes | Price (QR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hala Basic | 5 GB | 100 mins | – | 30 |
| Hala Mid | 15 GB | 200 mins | 50 mins | 60 |
| Hala Plus | 30 GB | 300 mins | 100 mins | 90 |
| Hala Max | 60 GB | Unlimited | 200 mins | 130 |
| Hala Premium | 100 GB | Unlimited | 300 mins | 180 |
Prices and plan names are approximate as of early 2026. Ooredoo frequently runs promotions that change effective pricing.
Ooredoo prepaid strengths: Ooredoo’s Hala bundles have historically offered better international minutes inclusion for key expat corridors (India, Pakistan, Philippines, Nepal) with specific add-ons available for these destinations at competitive rates. If international calling is important to you, Ooredoo’s add-on packages for South Asian and Southeast Asian destinations are worth specifically checking.
Recharging: Ooredoo prepaid can be recharged via the My Ooredoo app, online, at any Ooredoo store, at many supermarkets and petrol stations, or via recharge vouchers available at convenience stores. The My Ooredoo app is reliable for self-service.
Vodafone Qatar Prepaid
Vodafone’s prepaid range has been repackaged several times and is currently positioned around their “SuperSIM” concept which bundles data generously.
| Plan | Data | Local Minutes | Intl Minutes | Price (QR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Bundle | 5 GB | Unlimited local | – | 35 |
| Mid Bundle | 20 GB | Unlimited local | 60 mins | 65 |
| Value Bundle | 40 GB | Unlimited local | 150 mins | 100 |
| Max Bundle | 75 GB | Unlimited local | 250 mins | 140 |
| Premium Bundle | 120 GB | Unlimited local | 400 mins | 190 |
Prices approximate as of early 2026. Vodafone Qatar runs frequent promotions and plan structures change regularly.
Vodafone prepaid strengths: Vodafone has consistently offered unlimited local calls across most of their prepaid range, which is a genuine advantage for heavy local callers. Their data allowances at mid-range price points have been competitive. Their app (My Vodafone Qatar) is well-regarded for ease of use.
Prepaid Head-to-Head
At similar price points, the two operators are genuinely close. Vodafone tends to offer slightly more data and unlimited local calls at mid-tier prices. Ooredoo tends to offer better international minute inclusion for specific Asian corridors. For most users, the difference at any given price point is marginal.
My practical take: For newly arrived expats who make frequent international calls to South Asia or Southeast Asia, Ooredoo’s add-on packages for those specific destinations offer good value. For expats who primarily use data and make mostly local calls or use WhatsApp/FaceTime for international communication, Vodafone’s unlimited local call inclusion and data volumes are slightly better value at equivalent price points.
Postpaid Plans: Ooredoo vs Vodafone
Postpaid (contract) plans offer better value per riyal than prepaid for moderate to heavy users, and include features like device financing, higher roaming allowances, and priority customer service. You need a QID and sometimes a salary certificate to sign up for postpaid.
Ooredoo Postpaid
Ooredoo’s postpaid range is called Shahry. Plans run on monthly billing cycles with 12 or 24-month contract options, or month-to-month for a small premium.
| Plan | Data | Local Calls | Intl Minutes | Monthly Fee (QR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shahry 100 | 20 GB | Unlimited | 100 mins | 100 |
| Shahry 150 | 40 GB | Unlimited | 200 mins | 150 |
| Shahry 200 | 75 GB | Unlimited | 300 mins | 200 |
| Shahry 300 | 150 GB | Unlimited | 500 mins | 300 |
| Shahry 500 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1000 mins | 500 |
Add-ons: Ooredoo’s postpaid plans can be supplemented with specific international calling add-ons, roaming packages, and family plan additions. Their family plan (linking multiple numbers under one bill with shared or individual allowances) is a practical option for families.
Vodafone Qatar Postpaid
Vodafone’s postpaid plans have been competitive with Ooredoo at most price points and they’ve been aggressive about matching or beating Ooredoo on data allowances.
| Plan | Data | Local Calls | Intl Minutes | Monthly Fee (QR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red 100 | 25 GB | Unlimited | 100 mins | 100 |
| Red 150 | 50 GB | Unlimited | 200 mins | 150 |
| Red 200 | 100 GB | Unlimited | 400 mins | 200 |
| Red 300 | 200 GB | Unlimited | 600 mins | 300 |
| Red 500 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 500 |
Vodafone postpaid strengths: Vodafone has generally offered more data at equivalent postpaid price points compared to Ooredoo, and their international minutes inclusion at mid and high tiers is competitive. Their Red 500 unlimited plan including unlimited international minutes is a strong offer for heavy international callers.
Postpaid Head-to-Head
At QR 100-200 per month, Vodafone is offering slightly more data and comparable or better international minutes than Ooredoo. The gap is not dramatic but it’s consistent across tiers. For heavy data users on postpaid, Vodafone edges ahead on pure value.
For Ooredoo postpaid, the advantage is in specific international calling add-ons and the network’s slightly broader coverage outside Doha.
International Calls and Roaming
For expats who call home frequently, international calling costs are often more important than data. Here’s how both operators compare.
International Calling Rates (Without Bundle Minutes)
Both operators charge per-minute rates for international calls outside bundle inclusions. Rates vary by destination and are published on each operator’s website. For the most common expat calling corridors as of early 2026:
| Destination | Ooredoo (per min, QR) | Vodafone (per min, QR) |
|---|---|---|
| India | 0.15-0.30 | 0.15-0.30 |
| Pakistan | 0.15-0.30 | 0.15-0.30 |
| Philippines | 0.20-0.35 | 0.20-0.35 |
| UK | 0.25-0.40 | 0.25-0.40 |
| USA | 0.25-0.40 | 0.25-0.40 |
| Egypt | 0.20-0.35 | 0.20-0.35 |
Rates are broadly similar between operators. Both have specific international calling packages for high-volume corridors that reduce per-minute costs significantly for frequent callers.
The WhatsApp reality: Most expats in Qatar use WhatsApp, FaceTime, or similar apps for the majority of international communication. Both operators support these apps on their data plans without restriction. If you use data-based calling for most international communication, the per-minute rates above are largely irrelevant and data plan value becomes more important.
Roaming
Both operators offer roaming across most countries, with pre-purchased roaming packages offering better rates than default roaming charges.
Ooredoo has a network presence in multiple countries beyond Qatar (Oman, Kuwait, Algeria, Tunisia, and others), which can provide roaming advantages in those specific markets. Vodafone benefits from the global Vodafone network in European countries and many other markets.
For expats who travel frequently to Europe, Vodafone’s global network affiliation provides more competitive roaming in European markets. For frequent travel to other Middle East and North Africa markets where Ooredoo has a presence, Ooredoo may be advantageous.
Both operators offer daily roaming passes (approximately QR 20-35 per day) for many destinations that allow use of your Qatar bundle allowances while abroad. For short trips, these daily passes are usually better value than purchasing local SIMs abroad.
Home Broadband: If You’re Considering Both for Internet Too
Both Ooredoo and Vodafone offer home broadband (fiber and 5G home internet) in Qatar. This is a separate decision from mobile but worth covering since many expats get both mobile and broadband from the same operator for bundle discounts.
| Provider | Plan | Speed | Monthly Fee (QR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ooredoo | Basic Fiber | 100 Mbps | 199 |
| Ooredoo | Mid Fiber | 300 Mbps | 249 |
| Ooredoo | Fast Fiber | 500 Mbps | 299 |
| Ooredoo | Ultra Fiber | 1 Gbps | 399 |
| Vodafone | Home 100 | 100 Mbps | 189 |
| Vodafone | Home 300 | 300 Mbps | 239 |
| Vodafone | Home 500 | 500 Mbps | 289 |
| Vodafone | Home 1GB | 1 Gbps | 379 |
Both operators offer fiber broadband at competitive rates. Vodafone is marginally cheaper at most tiers. Installation typically takes 3-7 working days after application, though this varies by location and building infrastructure.
Bundle discounts: Both operators offer discounts for combining mobile postpaid with home broadband. If you’re taking both services, ask specifically about bundle pricing before signing up for either separately.
5G Home Internet: Both operators offer 5G home internet as an alternative to fiber in areas with 5G coverage. This is a practical option for short-term residents or those in buildings where fiber installation is complicated. Speeds are good but more variable than fiber.
Customer Service: The Honest Assessment
Customer service quality is one of the most common complaints about both operators in Qatar, and expecting Western-standard telecoms customer service in Qatar will lead to frustration. Both operators have improved significantly in the past five years but both still have weaknesses.
Ooredoo customer service:
- Call center: 111 (from Ooredoo number), available 24/7
- English-language service: Standard and generally reliable
- App-based self-service: My Ooredoo app handles most common requests
- Store service: Variable by location; major mall stores are better staffed
- Common complaint: Long call center wait times during peak periods, inconsistent resolution quality
Vodafone Qatar customer service:
- Call center: 800 7111 (toll-free), available 24/7
- English-language service: Standard
- App-based self-service: My Vodafone Qatar app is generally well-regarded
- Store service: Generally consistent across locations
- Common complaint: Complex issues sometimes require multiple contacts to resolve
My practical recommendation: For both operators, the mobile app handles the majority of day-to-day needs (checking balance, purchasing add-ons, paying bills, changing plans) without any customer service interaction required. Reserve phone or store visits for genuinely complex issues. For billing disputes or technical problems, store visits get faster resolution than phone calls in my experience with both operators.
eSIM Availability
Both Ooredoo and Vodafone Qatar support eSIM for compatible devices (iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S21 and later, and most recent flagship Android devices). eSIM activation can be done through each operator’s app or at a store.
For expats who want to keep their home country SIM active alongside a Qatar SIM, eSIM on a dual-SIM capable device is the most practical solution. Activate your Qatar SIM as eSIM and keep your physical home country SIM in the device’s physical SIM slot.
eSIM is also useful for newly arrived expats who want connectivity immediately: if your device supports it, you can activate an Ooredoo or Vodafone eSIM online or at the airport store before collecting your physical SIM later.
Number Portability: Switching Between Operators
If you start with one operator and want to switch, Qatar has mobile number portability. You keep your Qatari number and move it to the other operator. The process takes 1-3 working days and involves:
Requesting a porting authorization code (PAC) from your current operator, either in-store or through their customer service. Taking the PAC to a store of your new operator along with your QID. The switch processes within a few days, during which your service continues on the original network.
There is no financial penalty for porting in most cases, though if you’re on a postpaid contract you may need to complete the contract term or pay an early termination fee. Check your contract terms before initiating a port.
Which Operator Is Best For Your Situation
Choose Ooredoo if:
- You travel frequently to other MENA countries where Ooredoo has a network presence
- You make high volumes of international calls to specific South Asian corridors and want specialized add-on packages
- You spend significant time outside Doha where Ooredoo’s broader coverage matters
- Your employer has a corporate agreement with Ooredoo (ask HR)
- You want the incumbent operator with the longest track record in Qatar
Choose Vodafone if:
- You are a heavy data user and want maximum data at each price point
- You travel frequently to Europe where Vodafone’s global network provides better roaming
- You primarily use WhatsApp and data-based calling and want the best data value
- You want home broadband and mobile bundled at a slight discount
- You prefer Vodafone’s app interface based on trying both
Honestly, either works if:
- You live and work entirely within Doha
- You use WhatsApp for most international communication
- You’re a moderate user (20-50 GB data, occasional local calls)
- You don’t travel frequently for work
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem 1: “My data is running out before the end of the month.” Both operators allow mid-cycle add-on purchases through their apps. You can top up data without waiting for renewal. If this happens regularly, move to the next plan tier or consider a postpaid plan with higher data. At QR 200 per month for postpaid, both operators offer 75-100 GB which is adequate for most users.
Problem 2: “My international calls are eating through my bundle minutes faster than expected.” Check whether you’re calling to a mobile or a landline: rates differ on some plans. Consider a specific international calling add-on for your most-called destination rather than relying on general bundle minutes. For heavy users, both operators have monthly international calling packages for specific corridors that offer significantly lower per-minute rates.
Problem 3: “My connection is slow even though I have data remaining.” Check whether you’ve exceeded a fair use threshold that triggers speed throttling. Some plans throttle speeds after a certain volume of high-speed data even if nominal data allowances remain. Check your plan terms. Restart your phone to refresh the connection. If consistently slow in a specific location, it may be a coverage issue at that site rather than a plan issue.
Problem 4: “I’m being charged for things I didn’t subscribe to.” Third-party subscription services sometimes get added to mobile bills through accidental click-through on ads. Check your bill itemization carefully each month. Both operators can block third-party charges on request; ask for a bar on third-party subscriptions at a store visit if this is a concern.
Problem 5: “I want to cancel my postpaid contract but the operator wants a termination fee.” Read your contract carefully. Most 12 or 24-month contracts have early termination fees equal to the remaining monthly fees or a fixed penalty. If you’re near the end of your contract, waiting until the natural end date avoids the fee. If you’re leaving Qatar, explain this to the operator; some will waive or reduce fees for definitive departures with evidence of your leaving (cancelled QID, flight bookings).
Problem 6: “My phone is locked to my home country network and won’t accept a Qatar SIM.” Contact your home country operator to unlock the device before traveling. Most operators unlock devices that have completed their contract term or been fully purchased. The process varies by country and operator but is usually free or low-cost.
FAQ
Which network has better coverage in Qatar, Ooredoo or Vodafone? Both have excellent coverage in Doha and major populated areas. Ooredoo has marginally better coverage in rural and northern Qatar. For most Doha-based expats the difference is undetectable.
Can I use my current phone with a Qatar SIM? Yes, provided your phone is unlocked (not locked to a home country carrier). Most modern smartphones are sold unlocked or can be unlocked by your home carrier. Check before arriving.
How much does a SIM card cost in Qatar? Both Ooredoo and Vodafone charge approximately QR 10-30 for a new SIM card including a small initial credit. The ongoing plan cost depends on which plan you choose.
Can I get a Qatar SIM without a QID? Yes. Tourist SIMs are available with passport registration only. These have more limited plan options and typically higher costs than resident SIMs. Once your QID is ready, upgrade to a full resident SIM.
Is there a third mobile operator in Qatar? No. Qatar has two licensed mobile operators: Ooredoo and Vodafone Qatar. There is no third operator and no indication one is planned.
Which is better for mobile internet speed, Ooredoo or Vodafone? Both offer 4G LTE with comparable speeds in central Doha. In independent speed tests, results vary by location and time of day. Neither consistently outperforms the other across Qatar as a whole.
Can I keep my Qatar number if I switch operators? Yes. Qatar has mobile number portability. The process takes 1-3 working days and your number transfers to the new operator.
Do both operators support 5G? Yes. Both Ooredoo and Vodafone Qatar have 5G networks operational in central Doha, West Bay, Lusail, and The Pearl as of early 2026. Coverage is expanding. You need a 5G-compatible device to use these networks.
Which operator is cheaper overall? Vodafone Qatar is marginally cheaper at most postpaid tiers and offers slightly more data at equivalent price points. The difference is not dramatic. Ooredoo can be cheaper for specific international calling patterns depending on add-on availability.
Can I use WhatsApp and FaceTime calls in Qatar? Yes. Both operators support VoIP and messaging apps including WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, and similar without restriction. Qatar does not block these services.
Summary Comparison
| Category | Ooredoo | Vodafone Qatar | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Network coverage (Doha) | Excellent | Excellent | Tie |
| Network coverage (outside Doha) | Slightly better | Good | Ooredoo |
| 5G availability | Yes | Yes | Tie |
| Prepaid data value | Good | Slightly better | Vodafone |
| Postpaid data value | Good | Better at most tiers | Vodafone |
| International minutes inclusion | Good add-ons for Asia | Better at high tiers | Depends on destination |
| Roaming (Europe) | Good | Better (Vodafone network) | Vodafone |
| Roaming (MENA) | Better (Ooredoo presence) | Good | Ooredoo |
| App quality | Good | Good | Tie |
| Customer service | Average | Average | Tie |
| Home broadband value | Good | Slightly cheaper | Vodafone |
| eSIM support | Yes | Yes | Tie |
| Number portability | Yes | Yes | Tie |
Next Steps
- Get a SIM on arrival at Hamad International Airport from either operator to have immediate connectivity, then review plans properly once settled
- Check your employer’s corporate agreement with HR before choosing an operator, as corporate plans often offer significantly better rates than retail plans
- Download both operator apps (My Ooredoo and My Vodafone Qatar) to compare the self-service experience before committing
- Consider bundling mobile and home broadband with the same operator if you’ll need both, for the bundle discount
- Check 5G coverage maps for your specific home and work locations if 5G capability is important to you, as coverage is still being rolled out
Last updated: February 2026.
Mobile plan prices, data allowances, and network coverage change regularly. Always verify current plan details directly with Ooredoo or Vodafone Qatar before signing up.
Alzeenah – Your trusted guide to life in Qatar.