Exploring the Availability and Cost of Indian Food in Doha Qatar’s Shared Accommodation

For many expatriates living in Doha, Qatar, finding familiar food from their home country is a significant concern. This is especially true for Indian expats, who make up a large portion of the population in Qatar. The good news is that Indian food is widely available in Doha, both in restaurants and supermarkets. However, the cost can vary depending on whether you choose to eat out or cook at home, and the type of shared accommodation you live in. This article will explore the availability and cost of Indian food in Doha’s shared accommodation.

Availability of Indian Food in Doha

Indian food is readily available in Doha, thanks to the city’s multicultural population. There are numerous Indian restaurants scattered throughout the city, ranging from budget-friendly eateries to high-end dining establishments. Some popular Indian restaurants in Doha include Saffron Lounge, Royal Indian, and Zaffran Dining Experience.

For those who prefer to cook at home, Indian groceries are also widely available. Many supermarkets in Doha carry Indian spices, lentils, rice, and other staples. There are also several Indian-specific grocery stores, such as the Kerala Supermarket and the Al Maya Supermarket, which carry a wider range of Indian products.

Cost of Indian Food in Doha

The cost of Indian food in Doha can vary greatly depending on whether you choose to eat out or cook at home. Eating at an Indian restaurant can cost anywhere from 20 QAR for a simple meal at a budget-friendly eatery, to over 100 QAR at a high-end restaurant. On the other hand, cooking at home can be much more cost-effective, especially if you live in shared accommodation and split the cost of groceries with your housemates.

For example, a kilogram of basmati rice costs around 10 QAR, a kilogram of lentils costs around 15 QAR, and a packet of Indian spices costs around 5 QAR. If you cook at home and share the cost of groceries, you can expect to spend around 300-400 QAR per month on food.

Living in Shared Accommodation

Living in shared accommodation can significantly reduce your living expenses in Doha. Not only can you split the cost of rent, but you can also share the cost of utilities, internet, and groceries. This can make cooking at home a much more affordable option compared to eating out.

However, it’s important to note that the cost of shared accommodation can vary depending on the location, size, and amenities of the property. On average, you can expect to pay around 2000-3000 QAR per month for a room in a shared apartment in Doha.

In conclusion, Indian food is widely available and relatively affordable in Doha, especially if you choose to cook at home and live in shared accommodation. This makes Doha a comfortable and convenient place for Indian expats to live.