Quick Facts
- Bank types in Qatar: conventional and Sharia-compliant (Islamic).
- Who can open: residents and many non-residents. Requirements vary by bank.
- Documents: passport, QID or visa page, employer letter or salary certificate, proof of address.
- Digital banking: most banks offer full mobile apps and online banking.
- Transfers: IBAN format is standard for local and international transfers.
- Updated: September 2025.
At a glance: Top 10 banks in Qatar
- Qatar National Bank (QNB)
- Commercial Bank of Qatar (CBQ)
- Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB)
- Doha Bank
- Qatar International Islamic Bank (QIIB)
- HSBC Bank (Middle East)
- Arab Bank
- Masraf Al Rayan Bank
- Dukhan Bank
- Islamic vs conventional banking in Qatar
- Fees, minimum balance, and salary transfer
- How to choose the best bank
- FAQs
| Bank | Type | Best for | Account opening | Digital banking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qatar National Bank (QNB) | Conventional | All-round network and products | Branch and app (where eligible) | Mobile and online |
| Commercial Bank of Qatar (CBQ) | Conventional | Private banking and multi-currency | Branch and app | Mobile and online |
| Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) | Islamic | Sharia-compliant retail and wealth | Branch and app | Mobile and online |
| Doha Bank | Conventional | Daily banking and SMEs | Branch and app | Mobile and online |
| QIIB | Islamic | Simple Islamic accounts and cards | Branch and app | Mobile and online |
| Ahlibank | Conventional | Personal banking with rewards | Branch and app | Mobile and online |
| Masraf Al Rayan | Islamic | Retail and corporate Islamic services | Branch and app | Mobile and online |
| Dukhan Bank | Islamic | Modern app features and innovation | Branch and app | Mobile and online |
| HSBC Qatar | Conventional | International and cross-border needs | Branch and app | Mobile and online |
| Arab Bank | Conventional | Regional GCC and Levant links | Branch and app | Mobile and online |
Qatar National Bank (QNB)
Largest bank in Qatar with the widest retail and corporate coverage. Strong branch and ATM presence across Doha and major districts. Mobile and online banking cover bill pay, local transfers, and card controls. Premium tiers are available for higher balances or salary transfers.
Good to know:
- Frequent travelers should review credit card travel benefits before choosing a card.
- Ask about fee waivers if you route your salary to QNB.
- Compare international transfer options and cut-off times.
Headquarters: Qatar National Bank Building, Al Corniche Street, Doha, Qatar
Tel: +974 44407777
Website: www.qnb.com.qa
Commercial Bank of Qatar (CBQ)
Full range of current and savings accounts, cards, loans, and business services. Known for multi-currency and expat-friendly features. The mobile app supports both local and international transfers, as well as bill payments.
Good to know:
- If you are paid in foreign currency, ask about multi-currency accounts or cards.
- Linking your salary may make you eligible for lower fees and improved card offers.
- SMEs can review bundles that include POS and payroll.
Headquarters: Doha, Qatar
Website: www.cbq.qa
Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB)
Leading Islamic bank with current and savings accounts and financing products that are Sharia-compliant. Returns on savings follow profit-share models rather than interest, strong digital banking with biometric login and card controls.
Good to know:
- Confirm the profit calculation model on savings accounts.
- Check international debit limits before travel.
- If you’re looking for Islamic credit cards, compare the reward structures and annual fees.
Headquarters: Doha, Qatar
Website: www.qib.com.qa
Doha Bank
Established name for day-to-day retail banking and SMEs. Offers standard accounts, cards, and remittance services. Mobile banking covers transfers, bill payments, and statements.
Good to know:
- Check minimum balance rules for entry-level accounts.
- Compare remittance rates for your corridor before opening.
- SMEs can ask about trade finance and online payroll options.
Headquarters: Doha, Qatar
Website: www.dohabank.com.qa
Qatar International Islamic Bank (QIIB)
Sharia-compliant bank with a focus on simple account choices and app-first servicing. Good fit if you want Islamic banking with straightforward mobile features.
Good to know:
- Review profit-share details on savings products.
- Ask about salary transfer benefits for fee waivers.
- If you plan a car or home purchase, check Islamic financing eligibility early.
Headquarters: Doha, Qatar
Website: www.qiib.com.qa
Personal banking with a clear product line-up and rewards on select cards. Digital banking supports quick local transfers and bill pay. Helpful for customers who prefer branch support plus a usable app.
Good to know:
- Confirm the minimum balance or monthly plan that fits your usage.
- Check ATM withdrawal limits and overseas fees.
- For joint accounts, ask about documentation in advance.
Headquarters: Doha, Qatar
Website: www.ahlibank.com.qa
HSBC Bank (Middle East)
International banking and cross-border support. Useful if you transfer money between countries or want a single view of global accounts. Mobile and online platforms are mature.
Good to know:
- Ask about Global View or linked international transfers if you bank with HSBC abroad.
- Check foreign currency account options and incoming wire fees.
- Premium tiers can include airport lounge access and higher limits if you qualify.
Headquarters: Doha, Qatar
Website: www.hsbc.com.qa
Arab Bank
Regional player with links across the GCC and Levant. Offers standard retail accounts, cards, and remittances with a regional footprint.
Good to know:
- If you remit to neighboring countries, compare transfer pricing and speeds.
- Confirm the minimum balance rules for classic versus premium accounts.
- Review the card benefits that align with your travel preferences.
Headquarters: Doha, Qatar
Website: www.arabbank.com.qa
Masraf Al Rayan Bank
Popular Islamic bank serving retail and business customers. Savings and financing are Sharia-compliant, and the app supports standard daily tasks.
Good to know:
- Verify how profit is distributed on savings and how often.
- Ask about international debit usage and currency conversion fees.
- For businesses, review merchant services and Sharia-compliant financing options.
Headquarters: Doha, Qatar
Website: www.alrayan.com.qa
Dukhan Bank
Islamic bank with a modern mobile experience. Offers everyday accounts, cards, and financing aligned with Sharia principles. Often highlighted for app usability.
Good to know:
- Check the bank’s online sign-up steps if you prefer to start online.
- Compare Islamic cards for cashback or travel perks.
- Check salary transfer perks and minimums for fee waivers.
Headquarters: Doha, Qatar
Website: www.dukhanbank.com
Expat guide: how to open a bank account
- Choose a bank and account type.
- Prepare documents: passport, QID or visa page, recent photo, employer letter or salary certificate, proof of address.
- Apply in a branch or start digitally if the bank supports it.
- Receive IBAN and activate mobile banking and your card.
- Set up salary transfer and alerts.
Islamic vs conventional banking in Qatar
Islamic accounts follow Sharia principles and use profit-share structures. Conventional accounts use interest-based savings and lending. Both offer debit cards, mobile apps, and local or international transfers.
Fees, minimum balance, and salary transfer
Monthly fees and minimum balances differ by account tier. A salary transfer may qualify you for fee waivers or better rates. Always confirm current charges before applying.
How to choose the best bank
Match your account to income and balance. Check the digital features you use weekly. Compare Islamic and conventional options. Look for salary transfer perks. Consider branch proximity and ATM availability.
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FAQs
A. A common top three for broad retail needs is QNB, CBQ, and QIB. If you prefer Islamic banking, try QIB, Dukhan Bank, and Masraf Al Rayan.
A. A common top three for broad retail needs is QNB, CBQ, and QIB. If you prefer Islamic banking, try QIB, Dukhan Bank, and Masraf Al Rayan.
A. Yes. Most banks accept residents with a QID. Some allow non-residents or starter applications with extra documents. Bring a passport, a QID, a visa page, an employer’s letter, and proof of address.
A There is no single bank for everyone. Many residents use QNB or CBQ for their everyday banking needs. Islamic customers often choose QIB, Masraf Al Rayan, QIIB, or Dukhan Bank.
Last updated: September 2025
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