How safe is the Old Airport Doha area for tenants renting apartments alone or with kids?

This article breaks down the safety profile of the Old Airport area, examining crime levels, traffic conditions, infrastructure, amenities, and community factors that matter to both individual renters and families.

Overview of the Old Airport Area

The Old Airport neighborhood, officially referred to as "Old Airport Area" or sometimes just "Old Airport," derives its name from its proximity to the original Doha International Airport. While the airport is no longer active for commercial flights, the name stuck and the area has continued to thrive as a mixed-use urban zone.

The neighborhood is primarily residential but is also home to a number of schools, embassies, clinics, shopping centers, and dining spots. Its location near the C-Ring Road and D-Ring Road makes it well-connected to the rest of Doha, including downtown, industrial areas, and the airport.

(Source for historical context: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doha_International_Airport)

Crime and Personal Safety

According to the Global Peace Index, it often places near the top for personal and societal safety. Crime in Doha is remarkably low by international standards, and the Old Airport area is no exception.

Petty crimes like theft, vandalism, or harassment are extremely rare. Violent crime is virtually nonexistent. The Ministry of Interior maintains a strong presence across all districts, and regular patrols contribute to a visible sense of order and discipline.

Expats and locals alike report feeling safe walking alone in the area at night. Many buildings are equipped with security cameras, gated entry systems, and on-site watchmen (called “haris”), who further deter unwanted activity. For solo renters—especially women—this creates a relatively low-risk living environment.

Still, safety is never absolute. While uncommon, disputes between tenants and landlords, noisy neighbors, or occasional reckless driving may be issues. But compared to most global urban areas, Old Airport’s day-to-day safety remains high.

Family-Friendly Factors

It includes environment, infrastructure, and daily quality of life. In this regard, the Old Airport neighborhood performs reasonably well—though with some caveats.

1. School Proximity and Access:
Several well-rated schools are located in and around the area, including international curriculum institutions catering to diverse nationalities. The availability of kindergartens, primary schools, and language centers makes it easier for parents to manage school commutes. Walking to school, however, may not always be practical due to the hot climate and limited pedestrian crossings.

2. Traffic and Road Safety:
One of the biggest concerns in the area, especially for parents, is traffic. Like much of Doha, the Old Airport district sees heavy traffic at peak hours. While roads are well-paved and marked, pedestrian crossings are limited, and drivers can be aggressive or inattentive. Children playing outdoors should be closely supervised, and crossing streets can be challenging without designated signals or pedestrian bridges in some places.

Residential buildings often have secure parking within gated compounds, but open areas may be close to busy streets. Parents need to assess the exact location of their apartment building when renting, especially in relation to road proximity and traffic volume.

3. Parks and Green Spaces:
The Old Airport area isn't particularly green, but there are a few playgrounds and public parks nearby. Al Matar Park, for example, provides a decent recreation space for families. That said, access to larger green zones like Aspire Park or the Corniche would require a short drive. Lack of shaded sidewalks or safe walking paths limits outdoor activity options for children.

Infrastructure and Housing Quality

1. Building Standards:
The Old Airport area contains a mix of older and newer apartment buildings in Old Airport. Older buildings may show signs of wear—especially in plumbing, AC, or electrical systems—but most are still functional and maintained by property managers. Newer mid-rise complexes offer better amenities, such as elevators, private parking, CCTV, and sometimes pools or gyms.

Security features like intercoms, secure doors, and well-lit entrances are standard in many buildings. For tenants living alone, especially women, these features contribute significantly to peace of mind.

2. Emergency Services Access:
The Hamad General Hospital and other emergency services are reachable within 15-20 minutes. The area is also well-covered by Doha’s emergency response services, including fire stations and police.

Community and Social Atmosphere

Old Airport has a well-integrated, multicultural community. Many long-term expats—particularly from South Asia, the Philippines, and the Middle East—reside here. The diversity tends to foster a sense of shared responsibility and community awareness. For single renters, this offers a social buffer. For families, it’s an environment where children are likely to find peers nearby.

Some apartments host mostly working-class bachelor tenants, while others cater more to families. Choosing the right compound or complex makes a significant difference in the lifestyle experience.

Public Transport and Accessibility

The area is connected to Doha’s public transport system, including the Metro’s Red Line and a growing network of bus services. Metro stations like Oqba Ibn Nafie and Al Matar Al Qadeem are accessible to many residents. This reduces reliance on private cars, though many still prefer driving due to heat and walkability limitations.

Having transport options nearby is a safety plus—offering quick exit options, emergency accessibility, and reducing isolation for those who live alone.

(Source for transport and geography: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doha_Metro)

Verdict: How Safe Is It, Really?

For Solo Renters:
The Old Airport area is a safe bet for individuals renting alone. It offers affordable housing, good transport links, and a low-crime environment. Choosing a well-maintained building with proper security is key. Women living alone should feel generally secure, though typical urban precautions still apply.

For Families with Kids:
The neighborhood is reasonably safe but requires vigilance around traffic, building selection, and outdoor play. Schools and clinics are nearby, but outdoor spaces are limited. The area offers a community-driven feel but may not match the suburban quietude of newer family-focused districts like Al Waab or West Bay.

Final Thoughts

Old Airport Doha is a seasoned neighborhood that has stood the test of time. It might not be flashy, but it’s functional and safe—especially when compared to global urban standards. Whether you’re a single professional or a parent with toddlers, it can be a solid place to call home with the right apartment choice and safety awareness.