Don’t Miss These Iconic Qatar Sites and Attractions
Plan your upcoming visit to include some of Qatar’s most famous spots. Here are just a few suggestions to get you started.
Remember, since you will be visiting at a time when the country is bursting with tourists, do some pre-planning and secure tickets and reservations early. Many sites are requiring special “ticket bundles” required for entry from October 1 to December 31, 2022. Book ahead to ensure you are able to visit.
Doha Corniche
One of Doha’s most photographed attractions, the Corniche is a seven km stretch of gorgeous promenade overlooking the waterfront. With a crescent shaped walkway around Doha Bay, the Corniche offers the city’s best skyline views. Stroll along for an incredible array of restaurants, clubs, parks and cultural attractions.
Qanat Quartier
Don’t miss this picturesque community where Venetian charm meets Arabian chic. With pastel-colored low-rise buildings, intricate canals, pedestrian-friendly piazzas, the Qanat Quartier also boasts a world-class beach front and fabulous restaurants. The Pearl Island is home to 190 elegant fashion, jewelry and lifestyle boutiques that offer a unique shopping experience.
Katara Cultural Village
Katara is a cultural village nestled between the financial district of West Bay and the half-moon towers of The Pearl. It is one of Doha’s “go-to” destinations for art, culture and cuisine. Don’t miss the Katara Mosque, inspired by Istanbul’s Dolmabahce Palace; the Gold Mosque; and the classic Greek-inspired Amphitheatre that seats 5,000 spectators. You’ll find a great array of shops and restaurants.
Souq Waqif
Built on the site of Doha’s century old trading market, Souq Waqif’s mud-daubed buildings harken back to a bygone era. Shop for gold, rugs and souvenirs, check out camels and Arabian horses, take home some exotic spices, and enjoy a meal while people-watching.
Hours: Most shops are open from 10 am to 12 noon, 4 pm to 10 pm. Most restaurants are open from 8 am to 12 midnight.
National Museum of Qatar
Drawing inspiration from, and recreating the naturally occurring crystal “Desert Rose” formations, the National Museum of Qatar was built around Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al-Thani’s original palace. The large, impressive Museum spotlights Qatar’s heritage while celebrating its future. Visitors enjoy immersive experiences, historic objects and awe-inspiring architecture.
Hours: Saturday-Thursday, 9 am to 7 pm; Fridays, 1:30 to 7 pm
Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)
Within walking distance from Souq Waqif, this magnificent museum features glass, metalwork, fabric, ceramics and manuscripts from ancient to modern times. Its fine dining option features a menu designed by Michelin 3-star chef Alain Ducasse.
Hours: Sunday, Monday and Wednesday, 10:30 am to 5:30 pm; Closed Tuesday; Thursday and Saturday, 12 noon to 8 pm; Friday 2 pm to 8 pm.
Al Zubarah Fort
This 20th century fort is the most prominent feature of the Al Zubarah Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage site named as one of the best-preserved examples of an 18th and 19th century Gulf merchant town. It is famous for its residential palaces, mosques, courtyard houses and harbor. Once a bustling pearling and trading town, it was also the site of fierce tribal battles. The site is located about 105 km northwest of Doha; accessible by car or taxi.
Hours: 9 am to 3 pm Sunday to Thursday
Khor Al Adaid Beach
Located in southern Qatar, the Khor Al Adaid is one of the region’s most unusual destinations. The pristine sea and ever-changing sand dunes (some reaching up to 40 meters) are fantastic to see, and fun to drive across in a 4X4. Located approximately 80 km from Doha, and accessed by a 4X4.
