What to do in Doha
Whether your clients are staying for one night on a stopover, spending time on a family holiday, or seeking new adventures and dreamy beaches, now is the perfect time to plan their next visit to Qatar – the Middle East’s best kept secret.
Qatar has something for everyone. Here are 8 reasons to visit…
- The Formula 1® Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix
Calling all F1 fans! Don't miss the chance to see sporting heroes on the track at the Qatar Formula 1 Grand Prix. The thrilling action takes place on Sunday 8 October 2023 under the lights of the Lusail International Circuit. The weekend is bound to be packed full of unforgettable moments thanks to the track’s legendary main straight, perfect for overtaking. As well as hosting F1, Qatar hosts annual top-level tennis and golf events, as well as traditional sports including Arabian horse racing and falconry. Last year the country hosted the FIFA World Cup, the first time the event has graced the Middle East.
- The vibrant shopping and culinary scene
Doha has some of the most show-stopping malls in the world. Delight in a luxurious shopping experience at Villaggio Mall, famous for its luxe brands and indoor Venetian canals offering gondola rides. The Mall of Qatar is worth a visit just to glimpse its Singapore-esque interior garden, while the groundbreaking Place Vendôme shopping complex features up to 600 retail outlets. Doha also has a dazzling number of top restaurants, with cuisine from around the world. From Michelin-starred restaurants to moreish street food, Doha’s dining scene alone is enough reason to visit the country.
- The countless beaches and Arabian Riviera
Qatar is an ideal beach destination if your clients are travelling during the winter or spring when it’s not too hot or cold. The emirate is blessed with over 560 km of beaches which are either public or private, accessible through luxury hotels. InterContinental Doha features the longest private beach in the city, so there’s plenty of room to laze on a lounger and soak up views of the West Bay financial district. Nicknamed the Arabian Riviera don’t miss a visit to The Pearl, where superyachts dot the marina and the Venetian-inspired Qanat Quartier features canals and even a replica Rialto Bridge.
- The outstanding art and culture
From world-class museums and iconic galleries to inspiring street art, Qatar boasts a dynamic art and cultural scene. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel in the form of the desert rose crystal, the National Museum of Qatar is well worth a visit. Set along the city’s corniche, it spans over half-a-million square feet – even the primary exhibit hall is nearly a mile long! Other places of note are the four-floored Museum of Islamic Art, Mathaf, the Arab Museum of Modern Art, and Katara Cultural Village, a self-styled cultural village with a Gold Mosque and a Greek-style amphitheatre.
- Don’t forget the souqs…
Despite the rise of Qatar’s mega-malls, traditional Souq Waqif is one of the most atmospheric places to explore. Located on the site of Doha’s century-old trading market, labyrinthine alleys transport visitors to a bygone era. Soak up the culture while shopping for souvenirs, get a fresh henna tattoo and pick up saffron, sumac and and karak (cardamom) tea from the deliciously fragrant spice stalls. Some of the bazaar-like shops are like museums, displaying artefacts such as swords and shipping memorabilia, plus jewellery from around the Arab world in the Gold Souk.
- The adventure sports
Surrounded by the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf and blessed with year-round sunny weather, Qatar is an outdoor adventure paradise. Inland, the undulating golden sand dunes are popular for camel rides, sandboarding, and desert safaris, which are often combined with overnight stays in Bedouin-style camps. From desert to sea, wakeboarding, kitesurfing and jet skiing are great ways to explore the warm Gulf waters. For something more subdued, take a dhow cruise around the corniche for a great view of Doha’s skyline or scuba dive amongst the crystal-clear Arabian Gulf waters, home to unique marine life.
- It’s great for the whole family
From outdoor adventures to enriching museums and sprawling theme parks, Doha knows how to keep both kids and parents entertained. Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park is one of the largest theme parks in the Middle East, with more than 50 rides and slides and 18 attractions to suit all ages. Enter a fascinating world at the Museum of Illusions at The Gate Mall, where little ones will be thrilled by mind-boggling illusions and educational activities. If it’s not too hot, Katara Beach is best for families, with plenty of shaded areas and a huge play area.
- Your clients can fly direct with Qatar Airways!
Your clients can be in the exotic capital of Qatar in just under seven hours, thanks to the convenience of regular, direct flights with Qatar Airways from the UK. Whether you book them in Economy, Qsuite or First, they can expect award-winning in-flight services and attentive cabin crew throughout their journey. Find out more about Qatar Airways here.
