Who knew that there is a multitude of things to do in Doha? The powerhouse of the Middle East, this once boring desert capital boasts extravagant malls, lavish hotels, and dramatic high-rises, as well as sandy beaches and mangrove lagoons. Listed below are some of the best things to do in Doha, a city of confidence and style!
The Museum of Islamic Art is known for carrying the largest collection of Islamic artifacts in the world. Standing off the mainland, this natural stone structure rising out of the water is composed of two limestone buildings, an Education Wing, and a five-story main building - all connected across a central courtyard. Inside you’ll find ceramics, metalwork, jewelry, glass, textiles, and woodwork dating as far back to the 7th century.
Dating back to around 250 years, Souq Waqif is a labyrinth bazaar and the Qatari capital’s oldest souq. Its name translates to “standing market” and is called as such because vendors used to stand at the entrances to sell their products. Explore the souq’s tiny stores along the mud-coated stone walls and find everything from scented oils and diamonds to even falcons. Then visit the Falcon Souq where you can see the majestic birds up close and even take a photo with a falcon perched on your arm.
The corniche is a 7km crescent-shaped waterfront promenade running along Doha Bay from the Sheraton Hotel to the Museum of Islamic Art. Due to its location, Doha Corniche provides unobstructed views of both the bustling business district and the quiet Persian Gulf. It also has shaded paths that make the boardwalk one of the best places in Doha to run, have a nice walk, and enjoy a picnic. During the day, take a boat tour in the gulf and at night, enjoy the views of the famous skyline.
A man-made island off the West Bay coast, the Pearl-Qatar is built to resemble a string of pearls symbolizing the pearl-diving sites upon which the infrastructure is built. It features Mediterranean style marinas lined with yachts, as well as upscale residential towers, world-renowned hotels, and luxury shopping destinations. Other than admiring the superyachts along the marina, you can also settle down at one of the many waterfront restaurants. You can also try your hand at paddleboarding or rent a boat.
The National Museum of Qatar is a museum dedicated to bringing to life the story of Qatar and its people, as well as the nation’s ties with other nations. Its permanent exhibition showcases around 8,000 archaeological artifacts, natural history specimens, textiles, historical documents, and more, which all present the history of the country. Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the architecture of the museum is inspired by the desert rose - a mineral formation commonly found in the deserts of the Gulf region.
Awash with history and heritage, Katara Cultural Village is built in a combination of retro-romantic and oriental architectural style. Its charming cultural design a true standout among the glitzy hotels and towering skyscrapers in the area. Laced with several attractions, such as art galleries, an opera house, and an amphitheatre, the Katara complex is exactly the place where locals and visitors alike can reconnect with the cultural heritage of Qatar. Katara beach is also located here where families can enjoy water adventures and beach games.
Mathaf is a museum that honors modern and contemporary art created in Qatar and the Middle East. Although opened only in 2010, the museum boasts pieces dating as early as the 1840s. Much of its 6,000 items were collected over several decades by Sheikh Hassan bin Mohamed bin Ali Al Thani, who donated them in 2004 for a public exhibition. No doubt, Mathaf is a must-see place for those who wish to celebrate the creativity of Arab artists.
Doha’s largest park, Aspire Park is perfect for a leisurely afternoon for its large green spaces, running and walking tracks, children’s playgrounds, and a coffee shop offering a great view of nature. It covers 88 hectares and houses the famous Torch Doha hotel, as well as the city’s only lake where ducks and other birds flock to cool off from the heat. The park is also close to popular shopping malls in the Aspire Zone like the Villaggio and Hyatt plaza.
Abdullah Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center, more popularly known as simply Bin Zaid, is a cultural center and mosque that allows locals and tourists alike to learn about Arabic culture and the Islamic religion. With its unique, tall minaret architecture, this edutainment center is considered one of the tallest mosques in Qatar. It is the perfect place to get familiar with the Arabic culture and Islamic faith, as well as appropriate etiquette, before immersing in the city itself.
Located deep in the heart of the city of Doha is the historic Al Koot Fort, once a military fortress. It was initially built as a police post to protect the nearby Waqif souq from thieves, then, later on, served as a prison; today, Al Koot Fort stands as a museum. One of its most distinctive features is the courtyard mosque, mostly due to what’s missing: a roof and walls. This place is a must-visit for history lovers and fort enthusiasts.
Well-known as a business travel destination, Doha combines magnificent desert landscapes and a futuristic skyline. Only here can you watch a Hollywood film at the Doha Tribeca Film Festival and marvel at artifacts at the Museum of Islamic Art. The city is also known for its deep cultural roots of the Bedouin heritage.
The best time to visit Doha is from December to March when the climate is warm and dry and temperatures all-day are comfortable. Some notable events include the Doha Cultural Festival in March that highlights a variety of traditional Qatari arts and folklore.
The best location to stay in for both personal and business travel is within Doha’s financial and commercial district, ideally in the West Bay area. It has plenty of accommodations and is close to the Hamad International Airport. If you prefer traditional food and a nearby mosque, best to stay near the souq area.