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What is a Volunteer Job?

Volunteer service contributes to the well-being of an individual and the community, and is usually coordinated by a non-profit or public sector organization. These positions rarely offer any salary or wage. Volunteering internationally offers a native's perspective into a country, a chance to work with people from around the world, and unparalleled experiences.

Volunteering in Qatar

Voluntary work can be desirable if you are unable to gain legal work in Qatar, or wish to gain skills or experience (you would still need an entry visa if you require one). Although unpaid, board and lodging may be provided.

Application depends on the organization. Most groups require a formal application, a personal statement, and some kind of deposit. There are periodic deadlines, so check the organization's sites to find out the deadline.

Volunteer Programs in Qatar

There are many charitable and professional organizations that welcome volunteers in Qatar. These include:

Focus Qatar

Islamic social welfare organization.
Phone: +974 4441 6422
Website: http://focusqatar.com/focus_new/index.php

Friends of the Environment Centre

Phone: +974 4487 4731
Website: http://fec.qa/
Email: fec.orq.qa@live.com

INJAZ Qatar

Business mentorship for youth, member of Junior Achievement Worldwide.
Phone: +962 6568 1147
Website: http://www.injazalarab.org/home/
Email: Soraya@injaz-arabia.org

National Human Rights Committee

Phone: +974 4440 8844
Website: http://www.nhrc-qa.org/en/
Email: nhrc@qatar.net.qa

Qatar Charity

Social and cultural development and emergency relief.
Phone: +974 4466 7711
Website: http://www.qcharity.com/en/
Email: media@qcharity.org

Qatar Diabetes Association

Phone: +974 4454 7341
Website: http://www.qda.org.qa/support-qda

AIESEC Qatar

Youth-run organization for youth leadership.
Website: http://aiesec.org/
Email: qatar@aiesec.net

Qatar Red Crescent

Language of correspondence: Arabic
Phone: +974 4402 7777
Website: http://www.qrcs.org.qa/English/
Email: info@qrcs.org.qa

The Youth Company

Grassroots organization that empowers youth in Doha.
Phone: +974 4411 8132
Website: http://www.theyouthcompany.com/
Email: info@theyouthcompany.com

HOPE Qatar

Provides help, opportunity, participation and education for differently abled children.
Website: http://www.hope-qatar.org/Volunteering.htm
Email: info@hope-qatar.org

Qatar National Cancer Society

Phone: +974 4447 8128
Website: http://www.qatarcancersociety.org/en/home
Email: info@qatarcancersociety.org

Reach Out to Asia

Member of the Qatar Foundation, providing education to underprivileged children in Asia.
Phone: +974 4454 1603
Website: http://www.reachouttoasia.org
Email: rota@qf.org.qa

Shafallah Centre for Children with Special Needs

Phone: +974 4495 6666
Website: http://www.shafallah.org.qa/home-page/
Email: info@shafallah.org.qa

Sheikh Eid bin Mohammad Al Thani Charity Association

Website: http://www.eidcharity.net

Sheikh Thani bin Abdullah Al Thani Foundation for Humanitarian Services

Phone: +974 5534 1818
Website: http://www.raf-thani.com

Think Pink Qatar

Breast cancer fund-raising and awareness organization.
Website: http://thinkpinkqatar.blogspot.fr/

Virgin Health Bank

Cord blood banking organization for Qatari families.
Phone: +974 4404 9024
Website: http://www.virginhealthbank.com.qa
Email: qatarservice@virginhealthbank.com

Other international events, such as the recent Doha 2012 UN Climate Change Conference, also regularly recruit volunteers. Keep your eyes on the news for upcoming international events in Doha, and contact event organizers directly about volunteer opportunities.

You might also look at our other articles on Summer Jobs and Internship abroad on the left column of this page for other opportunities.

Insurance Abroad

Many volunteer programs also handle visa arrangements and include insurance coverage in their program fees or as part of their compensation. If they do not, you will need to shop around for rates and coverage. Ask for a letter of introduction and prepare to shop around for best rates and coverage.

Insurance for volunteers should cover personal injury, liability for accidents, and loss of property or damage to property. There are no special insurance regulations in Qatar for volunteers.

You may also consult our section on "International healthcare & Medical Insurance" to find out more about your options.