Exploring Qatar and Doha: A Traveler’s Guide to Things to Do

Qatar is a small but mighty nation located in the Middle East. It is bordered by Saudi Arabia and the Persian Gulf and is the home of the world’s third-largest natural gas reserves. This makes Qatar a fascinating place to explore and visit, especially the bustling capital city of Doha. With its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and gorgeous beaches, it’s no wonder why Qatar is becoming a popular destination for travelers. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do when you’re exploring Qatar and Doha.

Visit the Souq Waqif

One of the most popular attractions in Doha is the Souq Waqif, a traditional Arab market where you can find a wide variety of goods, from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs. The souq is a great place to experience the local culture and get a feel for the city. You’ll be able to wander through the narrow alleyways and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the market. Be sure to take some time to explore the many restaurants and cafés, too – they offer a wide range of traditional dishes.

The Souq Waqif is also home to the Falcon Souq, where you can buy a variety of falconry supplies and even watch falconers train their birds. It’s a great opportunity to learn about this ancient tradition and see the birds in action.

The Souq Waqif is open daily from 9am to 10pm.

Explore the Museum of Islamic Art

The Museum of Islamic Art is one of the most impressive museums in the Middle East. Located on the waterfront of Doha, the museum houses a remarkable collection of Islamic art from across the globe. It is home to over 10,000 artifacts, from textiles and manuscripts to calligraphy and pottery. The museum is also home to an impressive library and research center, and hosts a variety of lectures and special events throughout the year.

The Museum of Islamic Art is open daily from 9am to 5pm, and admission is free.

Go for a Camel Ride

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Qatar, why not take a camel ride? You can find camel rides at most of the local beaches, and they offer a great way to see the sights and experience the local culture. Camel rides typically last for an hour, and the price includes snacks and drinks. Be sure to bring your camera – you’re sure to get some fantastic photos of the landscape.

Camel rides are available daily from 9am to 6pm.

Visit the Katara Cultural Village

The Katara Cultural Village is a must-see when you’re in Doha. This vibrant cultural center is home to a variety of attractions, from art galleries and museums to restaurants and theaters. The Katara Cultural Village also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the International Music Festival, the Qatar International Film Festival, and the Katara International Art Festival.

The Katara Cultural Village is open daily from 10am to 10pm.

Explore the Desert

Qatar is home to some stunning desert landscapes, and exploring them is one of the best ways to experience the country. You can take a guided tour of the desert, which will take you through the dunes and give you the opportunity to get up close and personal with the wildlife. Or, you can rent a 4×4 and explore the desert on your own – just make sure you have plenty of water and supplies!

Desert tours and 4×4 rentals are available daily from 9am to 6pm.

Visit the Pearl Qatar

The Pearl Qatar is an artificial island in the Persian Gulf, just off the coast of Doha. This man-made island is home to a variety of attractions, from luxury resorts and shopping malls to art galleries and restaurants. The Pearl Qatar is also home to some stunning beaches, and it’s a great place to relax and take in the views of the skyline.

The Pearl Qatar is open daily from 10am to 10pm.

Go Shopping in the City Center

Doha is home to a variety of shopping malls, from top-end luxury stores to traditional souqs. One of the most popular shopping destinations is the City Center, which is the largest mall in Qatar. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of stores, from local boutiques to international brands. The mall also has a variety of restaurants, cafés, and entertainment venues, making it a great place to spend the day.

The City Center is open daily from 10am to 10pm.

Visit the Aspire Tower

The Aspire Tower is the tallest building in Qatar, and it’s a must-see when you’re in Doha. The tower stands at 300 meters tall and offers stunning views of the city and the Arabian Gulf. You can take the elevator to the observation deck, or visit the Aspire Zone, which features a variety of attractions, including a shopping mall, a sports complex, and a water park.

The Aspire Tower is open daily from 10am to 10pm.

Go to the Beach

Qatar is home to some stunning beaches, and they’re a great place to relax and take in the views. The most popular beach is the Corniche, which is located along the Doha waterfront. Here, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and cafés, as well as plenty of opportunities for watersports, from swimming to jet skiing. The Corniche is also home to a number of art installations, making it a great place to explore.

The Corniche is open daily from 9am to 10pm.

Try the Local Cuisine

Qatar is home to a variety of delicious dishes, from traditional Arabic fare to modern fusion cuisine. When you’re in Doha, be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as machboos (a spicy rice dish), harees (a wheat porridge), and qatayef (a sweet pastry filled with nuts and honey). You’ll also find a variety of international restaurants, from Italian to Indian.

Qatar’s restaurants are open daily from 9am to 11pm.

Experience the Nightlife

Doha is home to a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and lounges to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a casual pub or an upscale lounge, you’ll find something to suit your tastes. The city also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from live music to comedy shows.

Doha’s bars and clubs are open daily from 9pm to 11pm.

Visit the Sheikh Faisal Museum

The Sheikh Faisal Museum is a must-see when you’re in Doha. This unique museum is home to a variety of artifacts, from Islamic coins and jewelry to traditional Bedouin tents and weapons. The museum also houses a collection of vintage cars, as well as a library and research center. It’s a great place to learn about the culture and history of Qatar.

The Sheikh Faisal Museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm.

Summary

Qatar and Doha offer a wealth of things to see and do. From the bustling Souq Waqif to the stunning Museum of Islamic Art, there’s something for everyone. You can take a camel ride in the desert, explore the Pearl Qatar, go shopping in the City Center, visit the Aspire Tower, relax on the beach, try the local cuisine, and experience the nightlife. And don’t forget to visit the Sheikh Faisal Museum for a unique look at the culture and history of Qatar. No matter what your interests, you’re sure to find something to love in Qatar and Doha.