How do I use my hair dryer in Qatar?

Qatari power outlet

Can I use my hair dryer in Qatar?

Check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Qatar:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 240 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you will only need to bring a suitable power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit in the outlet.

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 240 volt Qatari power outlet, however this is significantly heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Qatar, so please check that your voltage transformer includes an appropriate power adapter for Qatar otherwise you will also need to purchase another power adapter. Please be aware your personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk damage in a suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 240 volts used in Qatar you run the risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Qatar check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Qatar

Will my hair dryer work in Qatar?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 240 volt power outlets used in Qatar:

Best travel hair dryers for Qatar

What to look for when buying a travel blow dryer for Qatar

Travel hair dryer with a folding handle

What to look for when buying a travel blow dryer for Qatar

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a robust but lightweight dual voltage dryer that works with a 240 volt Qatari power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, ALCI safety plug and a long power cable. When drying thick hair buy a model which includes a bundled diffuser that uses a faster 1600+ watt dryer.

What to look for when purchasing a travel hair dryer?

  1. Buying the cheapest travel hair dryer available is risky; as well as issues with safety there is also a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper parts.
  2. Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the danger of the motor overloading leading to an electrical fire; models are identified with the 2 reset and test buttons found on the plug.
  3. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you may require a travel blow dryer which has a stronger motor, a higher wattage ceramic model that has a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
  4. A hair dryer needs to support dual voltage in order to work in Qatar.
  5. Modern hair dryers feature a cool shot option for quickly cooling down the hair after drying to hold the style but this feature is lacking in more compact models.
  6. Depending on your hotel room there could be a mirror positioned some distance away from a outlet making it awkward to operate the blow dryer, so when buying a travel hair dryer search for a unit with the longest power cord possible.
  7. Instead of scouring stores to look for expensive 3rd party attachments it could be cheaper and more convenient buying a dryer which is supplied with both a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer.
  8. Try to look for a lighter travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models which have folding handles mean more space for packing other items.
  9. Suitable hair dryers will give control of both speed and temperature settings with different options; a slower speed with a lower temperature should prevent damage to hair whereas a hotter faster speed can dry thicker hair quickly.
Which is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Qatar?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Qatar?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65m power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a lengthy 1.82 metre power cable for more freedom when styling with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter to clean easily. It also has a powerful 1875 watt motor including a cool shot option making it perfect for styling thick hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer features both diffuser and concentrator with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Both require a suitable power adapter for Qatar to work with a Qatari power outlet, each hair dryer is light and folds up to pack into a carry-on bag.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator

Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

  • For quickly drying fine and thin hair whilst on the go the 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic hair dryer available to buy.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is small enough to carry in a purse then a 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a shinier finish this dryer manages to include features typically found on larger models.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used along with the right plug adapter for a Qatari power outlet they will work in Qatar folding conveniently enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. They have a 1.5m power cord, have a two speed motor and include a concentrator attachment.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot for Qatar?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot for Qatar?

  • With a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes cool shot that can be used to rapidly cool down hair which gives it a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions meaning faster and safer styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cable and includes a concentrator.

Both models fold, have an ALCI safety plug which prevents power overloads and has dual voltage making them perfect for visiting Qatar in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Qatari power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is the best hair dryer for thick hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and might be difficult to do so without the hair going frizzy, so the best option for thick hair will be an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are recommended because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [8] [9] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best hair dryer to buy for Qatar?

Conair
MiniPRO
This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers.
BaByliss
PRO
https://www.amazon.ca/BaBylissPRO-Tourmaline-Titanium-Hairdryer-folding/dp/B085J6ZSMQ?dchild=1&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Tourmaline+Titanium+Travel+Dryer&qid=1623245596&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=faef8b868c67fbce2f88ad461e3009b9&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.ca/Conair-Travel-Smart-Voltage-Silver/dp/B002B8VE4U?crid=9HWAYUNS9B55&keywords=Conair+1875+Watt+Compact+Folding+Handle+Hair+Dryer+with+Dual+Voltage&qid=1695416197&s=beauty&sprefix=conair+1875+watt+compact+folding+handle+hair+dryer+with+dual+voltage%2Cbeauty%2C153&sr=1-11&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.b06bdbbe-20fd-4ebc-88cf-fa04f1ca0da8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=39c8d488fb25e9e724fe535436892bd0&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01LWIYQSS?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=3744f6d1ac5af63e085818f40332a34b&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.ca/Revlon-Ceramic-Folding-Handle-Travel/dp/B01ITPVH8G?crid=2DDJ5B92DFABR&keywords=1600W+Dual+Voltage+Ceramic-Ionic+Travel+Dryer&qid=1657296342&sprefix=1600w+dual+voltage+ceramic-ionic+travel+dryer%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-5&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=e17e207600762e53ec89a32b36628172&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.ca/Hot-Tools-Professional-Ht1044-Folding/dp/B003A1DWRO?keywords=Hot+Tools+Professional+Ht1044+Ionic+1875+Watt+Travel+Dryer&qid=1695069527&s=beauty&sr=1-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=cbfcfd8ce5309dac7c34a8ed0f4ebc87&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Qatar Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Works in US Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Dual voltage Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Watts 1200 1000 1875 1875 1600 1875
Folds Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ceramic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ionic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Tourmaline Yes Yes Yes
Infrared Yes
Speed settings 2 2 2 2 2 2
Heat settings 1 1 1 2 1 1
Cool shot Yes Yes Yes
Removable filter Yes Yes
Concentrator Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Diffuser Yes Yes
ALCI safety plug Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cord length 1.52m 1.52m 1.52m 1.8m 1.65m 1.82m
Color
Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy

Original testing and suitability of hair dryer models was compiled 2017, subsequent updates performed monthly - last updated September 2023.

Qatar power outlets and plug sockets

What is the voltage in Qatar?

Power outlets in Qatar are 240 volts.

What is the frequency used with a Qatari power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current from a Qatari power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

Which travel adapter will you need to use a hair dryer in Qatar?

Type D and G power outlets

Which travel adapter will you need to use a hair dryer in Qatar?

There are two types of power outlets used in Qatar, types G and D with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type D - This plug socket, also called a type D power outlet, looks like three circular holes in a triangle shape.
  • Plug Type G - You can identify the plug outlet by three vertical slots with shutters forming a triangle configuration for live, neutral and earth pins.

A recommended travel adapter to bring for using a 240 volt hair dryer in Qatar is a Type G power adapter; read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of using a power adapter for Qatar. Please note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you have to use a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer will accept a dual voltage outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or the plug. The location might depend on the make and model of your hair dryer and could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other hair dryers will have a switch which allows you to change between different regions.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 240 volts used in Qatar then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Qatari power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage hair dryer which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 240 volts used in a Qatari power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Qatar.
  • A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Qatar or any other country.

How can you switch a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have a dial or switch which changes between 2 ranges of voltages although some models can automatically detect the voltage from a Qatari power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial needs a small coin or screwdriver to change the dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. Also, it's worth making a note of the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers can sometimes fade on certain models of dryer.

How can you use a dual voltage blow dryer in Qatar?

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or that it works with a 240 volt power socket.
  2. If the dryer supports dual voltage please make sure it is set to operate within the 220-240v range. This is normally found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Qatar, also plug in the power adapter into the Qatari power outlet.
  4. It is common on a majority of travel hair dryer models operating in the 220-240V range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting - but the temperature and speed should still be adequate for drying hair. Check the hair dryer instructions to see if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to avoid overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer is now ready to operate in Qatar.

Travelling to Qatar with a hair dryer

Is a hairdryer allowed on a plane in Qatar?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a hairdryer allowed on a plane in Qatar?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should verify that your airline which is taking you to Qatar will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing your blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against drops and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Qatar?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Qatar?

Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the room, either packed away in the bedroom drawer, cupboard or wardrobe, found on a bathroom wall or could potentially be of a slower air hose type. In cheaper motels, hostels and hotels a communal hair dryer might be available at the reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability you should either telephone your hotel in Qatar or check on the hotel web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but typically basic models with no diffuser and notorious for low heat and providing slower air speeds. Those worried about hygiene might want to check for the grime from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Guests who are uncertain that a suitable and clean hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or phone their hotel in Qatar to check beforehand.  [2] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my domestic blow dryer to Qatar?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to packing an existing domestic blow dryer to Qatar (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 240 volt power outlets used with a Qatari power outlet (as long as you use the correct plug adapter for Qatar). A travel hair dryer will normally feature a collapsible handle and are lighter, this helps reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.

Note that bringing your expensive domestic hair dryer could place it at risk because of potential damage or loss in your luggage by a baggage handlers in Qatar. The cost of replacing or repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Qatar could overshadow the costs of purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Qatar

Do I need a converter for Qatar to use my hair dryer?

A power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 240 volt power outlet used in Qatar. Travellers who want to bring along their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, but it might be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. A power converter is also substantially bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable when packing in luggage compared to a travel hair dryer. [7] [AD]

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for Qatar?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for Qatar?

A heavy and bulky power converter will transform the voltage of 240 volts from a Qatari power outlet to work with a non-240 volt hair dryer, whereas a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Qatar. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Qatar using a type D power adapter

How to use your hair dryer in Qatar by using a three pin Type D power charger.

  1. Make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 240 volt power outlet; but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you could blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Some dual voltage travel blow dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to the 240 volt setting, refer to the owners manual for more information on how to do this.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type D plug adapter [4] if the type of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same type of power outlet used in Qatar. The Type D plug adapter will convert different plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet found in Qatar simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 240 volt outlet.
  3. Insert the Type D plug adapter in the Qatari power outlet. You can identify the plug supply by three round holes in a triangle shape.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Qatari power outlet. Your hair dryer can now be used in Qatar. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Qatar using a type D power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Qatar using a type G power adapter

How to power a hair dryer in Qatar with a Type G power adapter.

  1. Please make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 240 volt power supply but if not then do not continue because you may blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 240 volts for use in Qatar, please consult the instructions to find out where the switch is found.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Qatar you'll need to bring a Type G plug adapter [6]. The power adapter will help adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet found in Qatar by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 240 volt supply.
  3. Begin by plugging the Type G plug adapter in the power outlet. This power outlet (sometimes known as the Type G power outlet [5]) can be identified by the 3 holes in a triangular pattern.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Qatari power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer should now be ready to be used in Qatar. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Qatar using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Qatari country page on wikipedia
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  4. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  5. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  6. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  7. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  8. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  9. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  10. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  11. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  12. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  13. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.