Best Doha attractions include impressive structures and architecture, and I will start with an introduction to the City of which is multicultural and one of the most rapidly-developing cities in the Persian Gulf. Shopping abounds in the city’s plentiful Malls, while the Corniche impresses visitors with picturesque architecture and dazzling views of the harbor. Doha boasts myriad cultural facilities, including the futuristic Education City and the National Museum. Having hosted the 2006 Asian Games, the city is home to many sports complexes as well.
Doha started as a small fishing village and remained relatively poor in the region until the discovery of oil in 1939. The first production and export in 1949 transformed Doha into one of the wealthiest cities in the region. In 1971, Qatar announced its independence from the English Protectorate and Doha was named as the official capital city.
TIP: Best visit between October & April. / High temperature reaches 50°C in July-August coupled with 90% humidity.
Public Holidays
Sep 3 Independence Day
Sep 10 Eid-al-Fitr -End of Ramadan that lasts 4 days
Nov 17 Eid al-Adha -Feast of the Sacrifice
Dec 18 National Day
Best Doha Attractions
The Pearl Island District
No trip to Qatar would be complete without visiting the glamorous Pearl Island district. With its high-end boutiques, refined marina and its magnificent yachts and elegant restaurants, the Pearl is a perfect spot to enjoy dinner. The walk on the boardwalk of the Marina takes your breath away.
Museum of Islamic Art
An architectural wonder located in one of the highlighted spots of Doha, –the Corniche. The Museum houses an internationally recognized collection of Islamic artifacts. It is open from 10:00 to 5:00 pm daily except Tuesday.
Best Doha Attractions
Souq Waqif
A market dating at least a century back, recently been restored to its original glory. A spot not to be missed. Souk will travel you to another era. Thousands of people frequent this market to purchase mostly traditional goods, spices, perfumes, wool products and end out at one of the beautiful restaurants and café bars. Lately, it has become a hotspot for art galleries & workshops as well. Tip: Bargain with the shopkeepers is part of the tradition. Offer a much lower price to the original and slowly work upwards until you feel the price is right.
The Waqif Art Centre
Located on the busy restaurants’ street Waqif Art centre aims to preserve and enhance both Qatari and Middle Eastern artistic traditions and bring together anyone who truly loves art and culture. It aims to share knowledge, talent, and inspiration and contribute to making a new cultural and creative hub in Doha.
Villagio Mall
Villaggio is an impressive masterpiece of architecture, set within the Aspire Zone, designed as an Italian village with gondola rides and visions of blue skies on the ceiling with balcony interior settings. It is home to luxury brand tenants including Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs and many more.
Aspire Park
Facilities of a Walking track, Kids’ play zone, Lake Area, a carriage pulled by horses, and Café/Restaurant are what a visitor can enjoy here. Aspire Park is located at the Aspire Zone, just behind the Villagio Mall, is this sprawling park covering an area of 88 Hectares, at present the biggest park in Doha with huge lush green lawns and a surprisingly large lake. The presence of lake and the green lawns make it a cool and cosy place for picnics. It also has a hill and children will have a great time running up and down out there. Another interesting thing to note in the park is the ‘Pot’ shaped trees, grown scattered around the park. You will not find them anywhere else in Qatar.
Katara Cultural Village
Katara Cultural Village is the largest and most multidimensional cultural project of Qatar. A meeting place for people to experience the world cultures. The imposing outdoor –Roman style Amphitheatre is the Jewel of Katara. The village consists of beautiful theatres, concert halls, trendy restaurants and exhibition galleries. Most of them are free to public. A nice area for a stroll or getting to the beach.
Doha’s Longest Private Beach
The 500-metre beach is at the grounds of the InterContinental hotel but you don’t have to be a guest at the hotel to enjoy it. It is one of the best Doha attraction and is open daily from9:00 -7:00 pm. We found out while staying at the hotel seeing non-residents enjoying the large outdoor pool and playground. Women pay half-price on Tuesdays and Wednesdays but on Fridays, it is open to hotel guests and year-round members only. A favourite beach for relaxing with a refreshing cocktail.
City Centre Mall
Located in the heart of West Bay the City Centre Mall has everything you might need in terms of shopping and entertainment: food, cinema, coffee, even an ice rink. Prices seem competitive in most shops and there is a huge Carrefour as well. Parking is free if you present the receipt of groceries from the Carrefour at the exit of the parking lot.
Doha’s Skyline
Doha’s skyline looks like it was designed by architects who didn’t talk to each other, didn’t like each other, and engaged in experiments they could never get away with at home.
