Awe-inspiring desert landscapes, a rich culture, and vibrant modernity await on a stopover in Qatar.
Increasingly well-connected thanks to its growing air links, Qatar’s capital city Doha is ideally placed to break up the long journey to Europe from Southeast Asia and Hong Kong. Here are 10 attractions you cannot miss when you’re there.
Museum of Islamic Art.
1. Marvel at the Museum of Islamic Art
Designed by the Pritzker Prize-winning architect I.M. Pei, who came out of retirement for the project, the Museum of Islamic Art takes pride of place by Doha’s seven-kilometer-long seafront promenade known as the Corniche. Visitors can spend hours here admiring the priceless collection of Islamic art and artefacts from around the world, spanning 14 centuries of history.
Katara Cultural Village.
2. Visit the Katara Cultural Village
Another must-see is Katara Cultural Village, which features a trove of art galleries, workshops, performance venues, and restaurants housed in buildings inspired by traditional Qatari architecture along cobbled streets. Stroll down the alleyways of the oldest market in town, Souq Waqif, to soak up the local color and wander into small shops brimming with all manner of Middle Eastern merchandise: from dates, spices, and seasonal treats to perfumes and jewelry.
Angry Birds World.
3. Take the family to the first-ever Angry Birds World theme park
Family fun abounds at the first-ever Angry Birds World theme park in Doha Festival City; it has turned the classic bird-flinging game into more than 20 high-octane rides alongside a zipline and trampoline park.
4. Check out The Pearl-Qatar
For something more sedate, head to The Pearl-Qatar, a man-made island whose Venetian-inspired Qanat Quartier district is perfect for a coffee session or a gourmet meal.
The Msheireb Museums.
5. Dive into Qatar’s history at the Msheireb Museums
Or you can gain insights into the nation’s history and social development at Msheireb Museums, a quartet of restored houses in the historic downtown area.
6. Embark on a dhow cruise
Then, experience the rich seafaring heritage of Qatar on a dhow cruise that takes in Doha’s glittering ultramodern skyline. Full-day, half-day and evening excursions (including a meal), can be arranged via a hotel or through any of the leading local tour operators.
Al Zubarah.
7. See Al Zubarah
Beyond the capital, three attractions are well worth a detour. Archaeology buffs will love the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al Zubarah on Qatar’s northwest coast, which encompasses a fortress and the remains of an 18th-century pearl-trading town.
Khor Al Adaid.
8. Explore the beautiful Khor Al Adaid
In for some adventure? Don’t miss the chance to go on a desert safari to Khor Al Adaid, a hauntingly beautiful “inland sea” 60 kilometers south of Doha. It’s a tranquil nature reserve accessible only by traversing the sand dunes in a 4×4 vehicle, and a must-do before continuing your onward journey.
9. Discover the deserted ‘Film City’
To the West, nestled behind a canyon in the desert of the Zekreet peninsula, lies an entirely deserted village complete with houses, enclosed courtyards, mosques and wind towers all built in traditional Gulf architecture. This contemporary recreation of a traditional Arabian village is known as ‘Film City’ as it was created to be the setting for an Arabic television series that first aired in 2000.
Souq Waqif.
10. Enjoy retail therapy at Shop Qatar Festival
Winter bonus! The annual Shop Qatar Festival is a month-long celebration starting from 20 December 2018 held at malls and bazaars throughout Qatar, offering not just unmissable deals but also workshops, master classes in fashion and makeup, and music concerts at outdoor venues.
More information here.
This article was brought to you by Qatar National Tourism Council.
