If you have a Doha stopover during your flight to Europe or else, we have some fantastic ideas for spending one day in Doha and getting the best of it.

Doha is the capital city of one of the world’s wealthiest and most developed countries, Qatar. With rich Islamic architecture, impressive skyscrapers, splendid deserts, and history, this city has something you can only enjoy in this part of the world.

Not only these, but the city also features Islamic art museums, oriental cuisine, promenades, shopping sprees, and desert safaris. Even if you have a night stopover, we have some exclusive activities for you to enjoy visiting Doha.

Below we have given the 20 best activities to choose and ways to spend one day in Doha.

1. The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha

The museum of Islamic art is an iconic landmark of the capital city. It’s the huge courtyard. Featured with Islamic architecture and splendid historical characteristics, this museum is a must-visit.

The museum has the most significant Islamic architectural collections in the whole world. It is a five-story building with a central courtyard and an educational wing. The enormous 45-meter windows on the north offer a peek of the west bay.

The ground floor offers you a visit to the gallery, formerly a Majlis. Once you get to the second floor, you will see the most incredible artifacts. The Blue Qur’an, the Cavour Vase, the Varanasi necklace, and the Ramayana manuscript for Hamida Banu Begum.

The history of the Qur’an, the Muslim community, Islamic education, and the spread of Islam to both Eastern and Western regions are the subjects of subsequent galleries. This museum is the best of qatar museum.

Notable pieces include an early Hijazi Qur’an fragment, the sitara of the Holy Ka’ba, a Moroccan arch, a copy of al-dissertation Sufi’s on the fixed stars, an Abbasid blue and white bowl, a Seljuq stucco panel, a Doha Hind, and a Spanish ceiling that dates from after Islam fell out of favor. The Museum of Islamic art is the day’s highlight if you plan to spend a day in Doha.

2. National Museum of Qatar. Best place to visit while spending one day in Doha

The national museum of Qatar is another historical gem you want to take advantage of on your trip to spend one day in Doha. This is a uniquely constructed 53,000 square-meter building, formed by connecting various peculiarly designed discs.

The discs were explicitly designed to provide shade in the rough climates of the Qatari Peninsula. The museum is dedicated to the history of Qatar; its architecture awakens the desert silence and eternal peace in Qatar.

The museum features a 213-seat theatre, classrooms, a research center, a bookstore, a coffee shop, a rooftop restaurant, an outdoor park featuring a botanical garden, a sculpture garden, an artificial lake, a children’s playground, and other facilities.

The inspiration for the design came from the intricate rosette shapes of sand roses, which grow naturally in the desert as gypsum crystallizes from evaporation.

Doha Bay, the museum’s gardens, and the House are all visible from the expansive windows. 11 exhibit halls showcase Qatar’s rich cultural, political, social, and natural heritage. Also included in the complex is the Royal Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani, a historical tower from the 20th century that has been meticulously renovated.

3. Old Dhow Harbour

If you are a nature enthusiast and love to admire the craftsmanship, your next stop should be the Dhow harbor- the pride of Al Wakrah. This spot is the pearl trading center of Qatar, with rich cultural facilities.

Al Wakrah is just a drive of 10 minutes from Doha and provides you with the perfect watching spot for Dhows. Dhows are traditional sailing boats made by connecting hardwood planks and require 15-30 sailors to function.

Although taking a dhow cruise is often regarded as among the top activities in Al Wakra, the vast majority of shows are powered by engines. Dhows serve a variety of purposes, including transporting visitors and catching fish.

They make for a striking image against the backdrop of distant skyscrapers. You’ll reach the West and East Mound Skyline Viewpoints if you keep heading north.

4. The Doha Corniche. One day in Doha Itinerary

Doha Corniche is a 7 km waterfront promenade along Doha bay. The Corniche offers you a peek into the splendid coastlines of Qatar. The location is filled with famous feature spots of Doha and acts as a magnet for the locals and tourists.

Guarded by the Museum of Islamic art on the south and Sheraton hotel on the north, the boulevard offers auspicious restaurants, parks, culturally significant places, and amazing views of Qatari life. This promenade should be noticed while spending your layover or one day in Doha.

It’s a beautiful walkway along the water’s edge. The Corniche is a crescent-shaped boardwalk encircling Doha Bay that boasts stunning vistas of the city’s modern skyline and serves as the focal point for many important events, including the National Day parade and the National Sports Day.

While strolling around the bay at night, you may see the Corniche illuminated by the lights of the dhows, or you can take a boat trip and take in the sights of the beautiful city.

5. Visit Souq Waqif

Souq waqif, in Qatar’s most significant and oldest trading market, is a hotspot for visitors who want a dip into Qatar’s traditional and cultural perspective. The spot teems with traditional shops, eateries, streets, and alleys.

Souq waqif feels like a postdated location against the backdrop of the modern architecture of Qatar. The great activities to do and enjoy at souq waqif include:

• Falconry (Watch and touch the majestic falcons)
• Buy some Prestigious real gold jewels at the Gold souq
• Explore the wonderful art shops
• Enjoy watching the Arabian camels and horses
• Witness the Arabian street life and performances

You can find even more shops if you venture off the main street and into the maze of side streets. It’s a beautiful representation of Qatari culture and one of the most exciting sights visitors can see. Everything in Doha is essential and has something to offer you, but if you’re watching for a taste of the real Qatar and a fun night out, head to Souq Waqif.

6. Aerial tours. Perfect way to spend one day in Doha

Plan to spend one hour exploring Doha from the air. With clouds accompanying you in this exclusive one-hour journey, this moment can be unforgettable. The aerial tours include riding an Archer plane or a gyrocopter.

It allows you to explore the mangroves, deserts, and culturally significant places of Qatar in just an hour. These aerial tours are more picturesque and a hack to save some hours if you are on a layover and planning to spend one day or a few hours in Doha.

These aerial tours are safe, and the captain will guide you before the tour starts. One of the best tour companies in Qatar offers aerial tours, which you can Book here.

7. Katara Cultural Village. Blue Mosque In Qatar

If you want to experience the culture, art, and cuisine of atar all in one place, your next visit should be to the Katara cultural village. It is a self-styled cultural village of Qatar that offers you traditional architecture, mosques, thrill, art, and theatre.

The blue Mosque of katara takes design cues from Istanbul’s Dolmabahçe Palace. At the same time, its minaret, dome, and prayer niche (mihrab) are all reminiscent of other well-known mosques in the Muslim world. It was designed by Zeynep Fadilloglu, from Turkey, widely regarded as the first female architect to focus solely on mosques.

The Gold Mosque is Katara’s second splendid Mosque. A side of it is tiled in gold, making it shine in the sun as it faces the amphitheater.

The classical Greek-style arena, which covers an area of 3,275 square meters, shows Islamic elements, especially in its arched entrances. With enough for 5,000 spectators, it provides breathtaking panoramas of the ocean and the surrounding cultural hamlet.

8. Spend time in Dune Bashing while spending one day in Doha

With all the reckless abandon and adrenaline of a video game but with natural sand flying in your face, dune bashing entails driving dune buggies or luxury SUVs in Doha, Qatar, on gigantic, moving mounds of sand.

After about half an hour’s driving from Doha, you’ll arrive at a truly one-of-a-kind location, where dunes three to four stories high almost reach the azure waters surrounding Qatar. You’ll hear the rumble and see the dust fly as a dune buggy, without a windshield but with goggles on the driver and passenger airbags, speeds up the dune.

Your sense of adventure will be amplified by a day spent dune bashing in the majestic dunes of the Qatar desert.

9. Al Zubarah Fort

Al Zubarah Fort is the archaeological UNESCO world heritage site of Qatar. Adjacent to this town is a 20th-century fort; Al Zubarah fort is the highlight and the most prominent spot of this town.

The walls of this fort are 1 meter wide and protect against invaders and the hot sun. There are palaces for living in, mosques, courtyard homes, huts for fishermen, streets, two sets of defensive walls, a harbor, a canal, and a cemetery at this significant location.

The fort has been transformed into a museum, and people can visit this museum to get a peek at the historic pearl artifacts. Key archaeological artifacts are being preserved and displayed in an Al Zubarah Visitor Centre that will tell the tale of coastal and long-distance trade, pearling, ordinary living, and critical historical events.

10. Pearl Qatar. Visit doha on your day trip

People willing to see the thriving community and recreation should visit pearl Qatar on their plan to spend one day in Doha, Qatar. It is an artificial island at the west bay of Doha. It covers an area of 13.9 square km.

Luxury shopping at high-end designer stores and showrooms complement the area’s yacht-lined marinas, residential towers, villas, and hotels in a traditional Mediterranean style. The Pearl’s sophisticated allure has earned nicknames like “Arabian Riviera,” Consequently, it is a popular destination for tourists.

The vibrant atmosphere of Pearl Island draws visitors from all over the planet to come and experience the exciting nightlife of Qatar, browse the high-end designer labels, and relax in the lap of luxury.

11. Doha skyline. The Middle East Charm

Doha skyline has been the magnetic point for visitors and tourists worldwide. With gigantic, perfectly designed, and constructed modern skyscrapers, Doha takes you to the skyline and offers you unique and incredible views of the Skies.

Doha was initially a little town dedicated to cultivating pearls, with no tall buildings to mar the horizon. The 1990s marked the beginning of a period of rapid transformation that left the skyline mostly unrecognizable from even a decade ago.

When Qatar began funding research and development into natural gas technologies, the country saw a dramatic rise in business and economic activity.

Doha’s skyline has changed dramatically with the addition of 47 new towers and numerous hotels. Doha Tower, Tornado Tower, Palm Tower, and Al Bidda Tower are just some of the buildings in Qatar that each have a fascinating history.

The Palm Tower, a prominent Doha landmark, was designed to evoke the region’s signature palm trees. The Al Bidda Tower is constructed in a spiral pattern, with a triangular base rounded in its center.

The Tornado Tower stands out as a singular landmark in the cityscape. The tower has received accolades for its innovative design due to its tornado-like appearance.

12. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum

Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani’s collection is on display at the museum bearing his name, which was founded to preserve and investigate the rich cultural history of Islam.

It opened in 1998 and is comprised of three structures housed in a fort constructed of native stone in Al Samaria. The Sheikh Faisal Museum is housed in a historic fort at Al Samriya Farm on the outskirts of the city, and it houses a vast collection of rare and priceless antiquities from all seven continents.

Objects as diverse as those from the Jurassic period, early Islamic times, and contemporary times can be found here. The museum creates exhibits and educational activities to inform the public further and show off its extensive collection to visitors worldwide.

A historic Syrian house relocated here from Damascus and faithfully reproduced may be seen at the museum. There are pieces from Sheikh Faisal’s home on display in two model residences in Qatar. It’s a treasure trove of the founder’s unique interests and tastes culled from a lifetime of experience.

13. Al Koot Fort

Al Koot Fort, also known as Doha Fort, stands in the middle of the city of Doha in Qatar. It was established on an incline near the dry waterbed of Wadi Musheireb. In the past, Bedouins and townspeople would meet at this waterbed to exchange various things, most notably animals.

The center of Al-Koot fort is a square courtyard protected by high walls on all sides. There is a circular tower in three corners and a rectangular building in the other. Right now, it’s a construction zone for the upcoming Souq Waqif development.

Because of the high volume of inmates who frequented the mosque, the design had to be adjusted so that guard could keep a close eye on them even as they worshipped.

Mecca’s’mehrab remains oriented toward the ‘Kaaba’ despite the absence of a physical tower. The museum fort houses various artworks and artifacts, such as paintings of craft workers, oil paintings, historical photographs, and gypsum and wooden ornaments used in fishing.

14. Grand Mosque

Imam Abdul Wahhab, popularly known as the Qatar State Grand Mosque, was inaugurated in 2011. Its clean geometry and elegant arches are striking despite being typical of Islamic architecture.

The Imam Abdul Wahhab Mosque, located in a prestigious area of Doha and visible from far away, is the most magnificent and impressive in all of Qatar. The Grand Mosque’s sandstone exterior maintains historic design elements that speak to Qatar’s illustrious past.

The sandstone mosque is the largest in the country, and its succession of arches and domes affords it stunning vistas of the Doha cityscape. The mosque’s mihrab and prayer hall are topped by two of the 93 crowns that make up the structure.

The mosque is lit up at night with carefully placed lighting to accentuate further the architectural masterpiece that is Qatar’s most well-known mosque.

15. Katara Beach at the Katara Cultural Village

Doha residents are rapidly adopting the beach lifestyle, with water sports and lounging on the warm sand. Doha, Qatar, is home to some of the world’s best beaches, and as a result, it receives a steady stream of visitors year-round.

Katara Beach, part of Doha’s famous Katara Village, is visited by hundreds of thousands yearly. Parasailing, waterskiing, and speed boat rides are just a few exciting options at Katara Beach.

Katara Beach is about 1.5 kilometers long and is where you may rent a sea pedal boat that can fit up to four people, a kayak, or a canoe. There is a sizable play area just for them when the kids need a break from swimming, splashing, and sandcastle-building.

16. Al-Thakira Mangroves Forest

If you’re looking for a vast and ancient forest in Qatar, look no further than al-Thakhira Mangrove Forest. Migratory birds, such as herons and flamingos, are drawn to the area because of its thriving habitat. Throughout the year, you can see a wide variety of fish and crustaceans.

You may drive to Al Thakira Mangrove Forest in under ten minutes from Al Khor. You’ll need to take an off-road journey of around 1.2 miles (four kilometers) on hard-packed sand and salt flats.

You may also take a kayaking trip along the coast and into inlets at high tide. The latter choice lets one see the little mangrove islands off the coast.

One of Qatar’s natural wonders can be discovered by kayaking through a mangrove forest. Your adventure through the mangroves begins with a safety briefing at the Al Thakira camp.

17. Sealine Beach Doha, Qatar

Regarding resorts in Qatar, the Sealine Beach Resort stands out as one of the most distinctive. One of the most enchanted places where land meets water is a beach with manicured lawns home to various plants, trees, and shrubs. Travelers can go Quad biking across the dunes of the nation.

Activities on the coast and in the desert are conveniently located and are overseen by a friendly, knowledgeable staff. Dune bashing is a popular way for visitors to Qatar to experience the country’s deserts and areas near the coast.

The most beautifully painted camels may be found near the end of the seaside road for a reasonable price. Go camel riding among the dunes and soak in the spectacular sunset sights on the horizon.

Murwab Resort is a haven of comfort, leisure, and luxury and one of the top resorts in Qatar. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Sealine Beach Resort features 58 lavish villas beautifully built and outfitted with all the latest conveniences.

18. Visit the Msheireb Downtown Doha

Msheireb Downtown Doha is a place with tonnes of activities, excellent shopping alternatives, and fantastic meals. Labeled by some as the hottest neighborhood in Doha, it’s the most remarkable, thanks to the central square’s ingenious cooling system.

A work of beauty in its own right, Msheireb is the city’s most extensive metro station. Msheireb Urban, located in Doha, Qatar, is the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project.

Spanning over 100 structures with residential properties and retail and cultural activities, the beautiful Barahat or courtyard stands at the heart of Msheireb Downtown.

While Qatar’s legacy influences modern, the structure of Msheireb – its symmetry, clarity, space, lighting, layering, and reaction to the country’s environment. Visit the M7, Msheireb Mosque, Braham Msheireb Town Square, and others to enjoy your visit to downtown Doha.

19. Al Hazm Shopping Mall. One of the best shopping malls on visiting Doha

Shopping at Doha’s Al Hazm Mall The Italianate architecture and central promenade make this a popular place for locals and visitors. This lavish complex celebrates both the enduring elegance of Italy and the warm hospitality of Arabia through its art, culture, and cuisine.

The library at the Al Hazm Cultural Center is spacious. It has comfortable reading areas where visitors can settle in with a book from the center’s extensive collection of English and Arabic literary classics, art books, and historical documents.

The owner went to great lengths, importing materials from India’s Rajasthan region, including marble and stone from Tuscany and Palestine.

20. Banana Island

On a crescent-shaped island with its marina and reefs, you’ll find the Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara, where every comfort has been thought of.

Guests of all ages can enjoy the resort’s world-class amenities, which include a lagoon pool, a shallow pool for children, a surf pool with instructors, a game room, a 20-seat movie theatre, a golf course, tennis courts, and a fitness center—all in an alcohol-free setting. The ideal place for a bunch of tired ladies to spend a day away from Doha and unwind in style.

After a long day of adventure, unwind at the spa with a facial treatment, Thai massage, Turkish hammam, sauna, or jacuzzi. Take advantage of the private island’s many spa facilities and unwind while gazing over the ocean.

Final Words

You should be okay with how you will spend such a more extended layover in Doha when you have such quick options to visit. We recommend you book an organized tour for your specified location.

This will save your hustle for riding buses and buying passes. We at Experience Qatar offer the best tour options to visit multiple spots in the city when you are planning to spend a day in Doha Qatar.

Are you visiting Qatar in 2022 and want to have an adrenaline rush experience? For you, this article is a must-read. Below are listed 15 exciting and best things to do in Doha. Doha is the capital city and home to almost 2.5 million people and receives roughly the same number of visitors yearly. Doha is renowned for its various mosques and architectural structures.

Additionally, it has the National Library and the Qatari Book House. Doha is home to numerous tourist attractions that draw many visitors each year. You can have the best life experiences ranging from exploring local culture, fun activities, epic sceneries, and a wide range of food to beaches and dunes. You will never forget the trip to Doha, as Arabs are famous for hospitality. Let’s dive into the list:

Best Things to do in Doha, Qatar

1. Explore the museum of Islamic art & National museum:

The best thing to do in Doha is to visit at least a few of Doha’s museums, especially if you’re a fan of history, as they are among the city’s most significant attractions. Important cultural hub, aesthetic, historical, and scientific artifacts are preserved and shown at Qatar’s museums. Qatar has a very intriguing past, and its numerous museums honor its rich cultural heritage, traditions, local modern art, and mind-blowing illusions. Museum of islamic art offers educational and visually stimulating experiences.

Start with Sheikh Faisal Bin Qasim Al Thani Museum of islamic art. The items are attractively presented with some background knowledge. The artifacts are not simply Qatari; Sheikh Faisal has gathered them from the whole world Remember the Museum of Islamic Art, which reflects the idea of the Islamic world. It has Amazing architecture, stunning views from the patios and terraces, an excellent islamic art collection and exhibition, and a pleasant coffee shop with expansive views on the ground floor. There are many other arab museum, such as the National Museum of Qatar, Museums of Illusions, etc.

2. Visit torch tower:

If you are a fan of fabulous architecture, visiting Torch tower, also known as Aspire Tower, is the best thing to do in Doha. The Torch Doha is the culmination of careful architectural, engineering, and technical planning. It was initially shaped to resemble a massive torch that retained its symbolic light at the highest point in the games’ history during the 15th Asian Games in 2006. You can enjoy fine cuisine in the famous three sixty restaurants at Aspire tower.

3. Shop at Villagio Mall:

Have you been to Venice before, or do you intend to? We will never get bored of taking in the breathtaking canal city’s beautiful splendor, from its small footbridges to its world-famous water taxis. You get a similar sense of entering Venice when you enter a Villagio mall. This area seems to have been carved out of Venice. The Villagio mall is one of a kind in Qatar and a must-see location thanks to its Venetian-inspired design.

Explore the Villaggio Mall if you’re looking for entertainment and it is one of the best things to do in Doha. It makes sense to come here after your picnic by the lake because it is situated directly in front of Aspire Park. You can discover a variety of eateries and entertainment options as well as traditional retail stores, high-end brands, international brands, and locally produced goods. There are several stores at Villaggio Mall where you’ll undoubtedly enjoy shopping. You can satisfy your shopping cravings here from shopping malls which makes Qatar a thriving city. They have a variety of shops, from inexpensive ones to expensive ones, such as Gucci, Adidas, H&M, DHL, Dune, etc. Even if you are Sick and tired from all the shopping and adventure travel, boost your energy by choosing from the extensive fine dining menu or the fast meal options in the food court.

4. Try Qatari food:

If you love to taste the cuisines of different cultures, this is the best thing to do in Doha. Qatar’s traditional food represents the nation’s cultural heritage and diversity; it incorporates regional specialties from around the middle east, Gulf and Indian, Iranian, and North African influences in many dishes. While Qatar and other adjacent nations share many traditional recipes, most have been modified to fit their distinctive cultural heritage and tastes. Qatar has a vibrant culinary tradition. You can savor a range of robust starters, elegant and unique sweets, and crunchy snacks to go with your coffee, all of which are infused with a tone of spices because Qataris love to cook.

As a country that stands tall on the Persian Gulf, Qatar has an abundance of fish and seafood, so when you browse restaurant menus, you can expect to see various choices. Try the native fish, humor, which can be ordered whole or as a component of a rice dish or spicy stew in most eateries.

If you are bored of eating the same dishes, try Camel meat. An essential component of Qatari cuisine, camel meat may be found on the menus of many of the nation’s eateries and hotel accommodations. It is typically eaten as a cut in a stew or a rice dish, like a steak. The must-try dishes are Kabsa, Majboos, Harees, Warak Anab, and Saloona.

Qatari cuisine also has a special treat for people having a sweet tooth. Qatari desserts feature distinctive Arabian flavors. When offered to tourists, these delicacies from Qatar taste fantastic and look lovely. You can enjoy dessert between meals is a great way to soothe your soul. Among the most popular sweets in Qatar, you must try Kunefa, Baklava, Um Ali, Basbosa, etc.

5. Skydiving and Traditional Sports:

If you want to have an adrenaline rush experience, Then, Skydiving is the best thing to do in Doha. Everyone usually has a list of things they want to do in life, so why not make your first jump on a city skyline while flying above a futuristic, large city surrounded by a vast Qatari desert, dunes, and offering breathtaking views of the Persian Gulf and Doha skyline? The safety record of Skydiving Qatar is excellent, and their instructors have years of training. Once you’ve visited the restaurants and museums, attach a parachute on your back and take to the sky!

6. Inland Sea tour:

You want to take advantage of the breathtaking view of the Inland Sea, as it is one of the most exciting and best things to do in Doha. You must visit the tranquil area if you want your trip to Qatar to be perfect! It is the place where the sea meets the sand. It is an estuary with varied flora, fauna, and marine habitat that has been recognized by UNESCO world heritage. However, as no roads lead there, you must go off-roading to access this incredible landscape. To reach this beauty, you must drive across rising sand dunes; therefore, a four-wheel drive vehicle and a trustworthy, experienced guide or driver is required.

The Inland Sea tour is the more well location for astrophotographers. You have yet to hear of the Inland Sea tour Experience Qatar. It is located around the magnificent desert landscapes of Doha, among sand dunes some 60KM from the capital city of Qatar. The Inland Sea is one of the few locations where dunes may be seen eroding into the water during high tide. There is no proper toilet in the Island Sea. It’ll help if you pack your sunscreen, an extra dress, hat, sunglasses, and other required stuff. Take advantage of one of Qatar’s most breathtaking views in the sand dunes while sand boarding.

7. Visit Doha Corniche:

The Doha Corniche is one of the top recommendations if you’re looking to enjoy the best things to do in Doha while you have a vacation. One of Qatar’s most well-liked tourist destinations is the stunning, 7-kilometer-long, palm-lined beachfront along Doha Bay. The Sheraton Hotel was the only building that could be seen along the Doha Corniche in the past. Still, development has risen in the twenty-first century, and hundreds of skyscrapers have been constructed north of Corniche bay. The area’s development results from the nation’s recent economic success and efforts to attract tourism.

Remember to explore Doha Corniche Street, which runs parallel to Corniche bay, and is a major road that links the Doha International Airport with Doha’s developing West Bay business zone. Doha Corniche bay is a great place to stroll to get a feel for the town. While visiting Doha, you can take a Dhow boat trip, go sightseeing, watch the sunset, photograph the Pearl Monument, look at Doha’s skyline, and much more.

8. Desert Safari:

How can one miss an exciting and adventurous Qatari desert safari while staying in Qatar? One must pay attention to the extreme sports that are so well-known in the Qatari desert. Qatar has gone to extraordinary measures in terms of the dessert experience. If you enjoy the adventure, you can try various other sports, including riding on camels on the dunes, paragliding over a sea of sand, sandboarding, riding a camel, driving a dune buggy, and many more. A desert safari in Qatar is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. While exploring the Qatari desert, you can ride a camel or dune-bash in a sand buggy.

Additionally, you’ll get to see Qatar’s native culture, including falconry demonstrations and Bedouin settlements. A Qatar desert safari should unquestionably be on your bucket list if you’re searching for an exciting and cultural adventure. Another popular activity with tourists is camping, which agencies can organize. This should be the top best thing to do in Doha.

9. Visit Souq Waqif:

If you’re searching for a fantastic place in Doha to shop, eat, explore, or sit at one of the many charming outdoor cafes and people-watch, look no further than Souq Waqif.

This place has served as a Souq for generations, where Bedouins (nomads who formerly lived in the Syrian and Arabian Deserts) would bring their wool and animals to exchange for everyday essentials. The Souq Waqif began to deteriorate over time and is dangerously close to being destroyed. Fortunately, it was decided in 2004 to conserve this historic location, and as a result, the entire market area has been restored using conventional Qatari architectural methods. Souq Waqif is the last remaining traditional Souq in the Gulf. It would help if you wanted to take advantage of this beautiful architectural market.

The best thing to do in Doha is to explore the maze-like passageways and the main street to locate other shops in Souq Waqif. You may buy for both locals and tourists here, finding anything from fabric, oils, and fragrance to garden tools.

In Souq Waqif, most stores close between noon and four o’clock. Therefore, it’s preferable to locate a café or restaurant on Souq Waqif premises and have a satisfying meal. The shops in Souq Waqif are open 24/7. If you are a shisha fan, you might also want to give shisha a shot. Happy shopping!

10. Wander Pearl Doha’s palm Island:

The Pearl Qatar is home to extravagant retail, dining, and entertainment options. The Pearl Qatar, Doha’s equivalent to Dubai’s Palm Island, is an artificial island with a size of about four million square meters and a shape resembling a string of pearls. The gorgeous Qanat Quartier, designed with the Mediterranean in mind and features bright apartments, canals, bridges, and pedestrian-friendly squares with cafés and restaurants, is one of its attractions. Pearl Qatar draws more than 15 million visitors annually and is one of the top free attractions in Doha. Pearl Qatar has many quaint cafes, restaurants, movie theatres, five-star hotels, and luxury shops. It truly reflects the modern-day city. In Pearl Qatar, you can find Rows of yachts anchored in the crystal-clear sea along the shoreline. There might even be a mega boat there if you’re lucky.

11. Dune Bashing:

If you have a short period in Qatar, spend it in the desert. The trip across the desert to the sea is magnificent because the dunes are as high as they are steep. Dune-bashing in Qatar is a fantastic way to explore the expansive dunes and have fun, no matter whether you are a thrill-seeker by heart. Due to how thrilling it is, drifting over Qatar’s magnificent dunes remains at the top of most travelers’ lists of the most exciting and best things to do in Doha, Qatar.

You can taste regional cuisine, sleep outside under the stars, or spend the night in lavish Arabian tents. Dune bashing is an exciting journey along the dunes provided by several tour agencies in the country. For a half-day, full-day, or overnight experience in the desert, skilled drivers will pick you up from your accommodation and take you in the desert for an exciting dune-bashing journey.

A pro tip: Even though dune bashing is an extreme activity, children are frequently welcome to join in the fun. Request that your driver drives more slowly or select a flatter path. After a few runs, you might even start asking for this yourself.

12. Visit Al Zubarah Fort:

If you love archaeological sites, you must visit Al Zubarah Fort. This 20th-century fort, located close to the walled coastal village of Al Zubarah, is the newest and most prominent part of the Al Zubarah Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its construction is lovely as its one-meter-thick walls perfectly illustrate a traditional Arab fort and help keep the inside cool during the scorching summer. The significant site features of the impressive fortress are streets, double defensive walls, a marina, a canal, residential palaces, mosques, courtyard homes, fishermen’s cottages, and cemeteries.

The Al Zubarah fort has been converted into a museum where guests can explore artifacts from the time of pearl diving. It is now a ghost town that has been abandoned, but it is still charming—only the continuous thick walls and hollowed-out doors that formerly joined this settlement remain. You can stroll around the fort to explore the old village life.

13. Avail the enchantment of the Dhow boat cruise:

Are you familiar with dhow boat cruise? For hundreds of years, dhows have sailed the waters off the Arabian Peninsula, transporting various goods through the Persian Gulf to India, East Africa, and other destinations. But now it is a significant tourist attraction. These dhow boat cruises will provide breathtaking vistas of the city’s spectacular skyline and a cool sea breeze to pass through your hair. Many tour agencies are offering the best possible tour offers. Visitors can take a 2-hour day trip that takes them up at the seaport and includes entertaining activities like swimming chances and even fun karaoke. One of the other ride options is a 3- to 4-hour sunset boat ride that provides food, drinks, entertainment, music, etc.

The boat is one of the major attractions because it was traditionally used by fishermen and utilized local wood and boat-making customs in the middle east. Also, there are life jackets and lifesavers available to avoid any mishap.

14. Visit Al-Khor Island or Purple Island:

 

After visiting Qatari deserts, now comes the turn of Islands. As a nature admirer, this should be your go-to place as this place is packed with beautiful scenery and stunning views. Al Khor Island, often known as Purple Island, is particularly notable among Doha’s most popular day trips.

The island is just a forty-minute drive from Doha and close to Al Khor. After leaving your car, you will stroll along a raised pathway to the island. The halophytes on either side of the walkway look bursting with life, making this a fantastic nature trail for your kids. They will enjoy finding strange-looking plants and blossoms, spotting fish and crabs, and collecting twigs and stones. Please give them a pail and an amplifying glass, then let their imaginations soar!

Here comes the most exciting opportunity for swimmers! Gear your belts and dive deeply into the water to reach your final destination! You will need to swim roughly 500 meters through the water between one and three feet deep (depending on the tide levels). Here is a sad part, this can be problematic if you’re behind minor children, significantly if the tide rises while you’re on the island.

15.  Doha Golf Club:

Do you have a love for sports? Do you feel energetic after playing games? Then, this is the best thing to do in Qatar for you. Golf is a booming sport that has prompted the development of numerous golf courses across Qatar, one of which is the renowned Doha Golf Club.

The Doha Golf Club is the oldest in the region and is open to tourists and members. It has 18 championship holes and nine holes and instructions to help golfers advance their skills. Also, there is a separate portion for Ladies as the Doha Golf Club Ladies’ Section has more than 100 Lady Golfers developing the game through the club’s top-notch coaching and training programs.

There are four famous golf clubs in Doha; two of them are the most famous Doha Golf Club and Education City Golf Club. A variety of tourists are sure to be attracted and drawn in by the golf season, which lasts from January to December. Doha has all the facilities you could ask for in a vacation destination, and its striking contrast constantly reminds you of the natural beauty surrounding it.

 

Do’s and Don’ts in Doha, Qatar

Do’s:

· While visiting Doha, you should drink lots of water due to the intense heat. To combat the heat, consume at least two liters of water.

· Make sure your sunblock has a high enough SPF to protect your skin.

· Discover the natives’ customs, including how they dress and speak.

· Get comfortable bartering with store owners. Pay last, not first. Begin below your ideal pricing.

· All public areas, including museums, sporting venues, malls, and dining establishments, are smoke-free zones. Fines for infractions range from QAR 1000 to QAR 3000.

· In Qatar, most restaurants add a service fee to the bill. However, a 10% to 15% tip is welcomed as a token of gratitude. It is advised to have cash on hand for tips.

· Although there are no strict rules regarding attire in Qatar, tourists (both men and women) are still expected to respect local customs by refraining from wearing too revealing clothes in public. Generally, men and women are advised to wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.

· Accept gifts from others. The exceedingly hospitable Qataris view the offering as a sign of friendship and respect.

· Remember to welcome people according to their status and age if you are invited to join in Qatari hospitality (the elderly and those of higher rank are greeted first). It is considered disrespectful to display your host’s back or your feet’s soles.

· Do adjust your greetings for gender. Men typically enjoy shaking hands with other men and occasionally with women, yet sometimes they will instead extend their hand to their hearts as a mark of respect and greeting. A simple head nod is enough for the majority of Qatari ladies.

Don’ts:

· Public photography is prohibited at military, construction, or religious locations. The same goes for taking photos of locals; only do so with their consent.

· Do not attempt to enter the country with any narcotics, alcohol, pig products, pornographic publications, or religious literature or materials. Bringing drugs into Qatar can result in harsh penalties.

· It is a severe offense, and punishment can be strict, to try to persuade someone to change their faith, belief, or perspective.

· Avoid littering or spitting on the street to prevent facing a substantial fine.

· Don’t give the thumbs-up sign. Although it is a standard greeting in Western society, it is considered quite impolite in Qatar.

· Avoid crossing your legs, especially while seated in front of an older or more senior person.

· Don’t signal someone to come over with one finger, such as to call a server. You might also use the palm of your hand. Additionally, pointing at someone or even anything is quite impolite.

FAQs:

i. For what reason is Qatar famous?

According to the UN, Qatar is well known for having the greatest per capita income in the world. In addition, it is famous for having a very high level of human development and is regarded as an advanced Arab state in terms of human development. Also, due to its safety and tourism development, thousands of people are attracted to Qatar as tourists.

ii. What is the typical dress in Qatar?

Although there is no official dress code in Doha for visitors, conservative and modest attire is advised. Men should refrain from wearing shorts, and women should keep tank tops and miniskirts to a minimum. The reason is the hot temperature; you can burn your body from sun tan if you do not take care of covered clothes.

iii. Does Qatar have a botanical garden or plant conversation site?

Yes, The Qur’anic Botanic Garden, which lies northwest of Doha’s city Centre, is a unique garden utilized to preserve the environment. One of the main objectives of the botanic garden is to impart the knowledge and expertise of protecting and caring for plants to future generations, which is a Qatari idea. You can enter, browse the community gardens and beautiful green spaces and witness these initiatives. Wandering in greenery is the best thing to do in Doha.

iv. In which city in Qatar should I spend my vacations?

Staying in Doha on a stopover in Qatar is an exciting a fantast way to learn about the local way of life. Doha is also an exciting place to spend a complete vacation. Doha airline is renowned for providing top-notch service. Many surveys have frequently ranked its business class as the best in the world. Doha is a beautiful city and a great destination if you want to learn about Qatari cultural heritage and history. Spend most of the time in Doha while visiting the country because it has beautiful sandy beaches, breathtaking bay views, and many attractions. Must visit Al-koot fort.

What is Al-Thuraya Planetarium?

Visitors who desire to learn are welcome to visit the Al Thuraya Planetarium in Doha’s Katara area and learn about the planets and the solar system in fascinating and enjoyable ways with children or just yourself and your friends.

The planetarium’s primary feature is a full-dome digital system with 200 seat total, four designated for the physically impaired and another four for the elderly. It has a 22-meter screen with advanced digital projectors to display 2D and 3D tutorial videos.

The planetarium also has a museum with astronomical artifacts and information, including the tale of the moon’s split during the time of the Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him), various-sized models of the planets of the solar system, as well as replicas of space shuttles and astronaut suits.

If you are a science geek, you must visit this place for a bundle of information,

v. Which currency is used in Qatar?

The only accepted form of payment in Qatar is the Qatari riyal (QAR), which may be purchased at any of the many ATMs in Doha’s shopping centers, hotels, and surrounding areas. The Qatari Riyal is now trading at QAR 3.64 to the US Dollar.

vi. What should I pack with me during my trip to Qatar?

You need to carry visa documents, passport (if required), driving permit, Wallet including cards and local currency (QAR), regional SIM card, Travel or flight tickets, Other papers: insurance, allergy information, etc., chargers for electronics, fully charged power banks, primary and emergency drugs, vaccination record, negative COVID-19 test report (if needed), Masks, etc.

vii. What services does Qatar’s National Museum provide?

The nation’s history is divided into three sections at the National Museum of Qatar. The museum contains everything from early American history to present-day life. Even the Pearl Carpet of Baroda is included.

viii. What are some places to visit in Qatar for free?

One of the exciting and best things to do in Doha, Qatar, is visiting these places for free. The areas are Katara Village, Barzan Towers, National Museum of Qatar, water sports, Mathaf Arab Museum, Msheireb Museums, Museum of Islamic Art, etc.

ix. Is Doha pricey for travelers?

Doha is one of the wealthiest cities in the world today and might be a little pricey for travelers, although this depends on where you travel and stay here. The city does, however, offer low accommodation choices, as well as affordable restaurants and travel options, which can help you save a ton of money on your trip.

x. What is Banana Island?

Banana Island is a crescent-shaped island off the coast of Qatar’s capital. It is primarily for tourists looking for comfortable and luxurious vacations. Banana Island is a man-constructed island. Reaching there from Doha requires a 20-minute ferry journey. Banana Island Resort, created by Thailand-based Anantara, has an 800-meter private beach, an Anantara spa, a lagoon pool, a theatre, and nine dining options. From the crescent boardwalk, overwater villas spread out, and each offers 360-degree views.

Locals and tourists seeking peace away from Doha’s hectic life and noisy streets frequently visit the resort. Before returning to the city, you can take a brief break on the island.

xi. What is Falconry?

Being in Qatar, learning about falconry or falconry history is undoubtedly the best thing you can do. You can learn about the majesty of these enormous birds and their significance in Arabian history or culture at the Falcon Souq.

The center of the action is located in the Falcon Souq, a fortress-like arcade next to Souq Waqif in central Doha. A dozen or more falconers run specialty stores in this area where they sell coveted birds of prey, lanners, and sakers for prices ranging from £2,000 to more than £200,000. These birds are the focus of the Falcon Souq.

You will be surprised to know that Falcon Souq also sells medical supplies, gloves for falconers, bird’s eye hoods, cuffs, leg restraints, etc. You will shock once again that at the Falcon Souq, there is a hospital devoted to the care and welfare of these native bird species. You can learn more about Falconry in Doha, Qatar.

xii. For what Katara Cultural Village is famous?

Learning about the local culture must be your first priority regardless of where you go on vacation. The Katara Cultural Village is one such location that perfectly captures Qatar’s culture. The Katara Cultural Village has a lot to offer, including a theatre, art galleries, gardens, two opulent mosques, and much more. While visiting every nook and cranny of this village, there are numerous things to do in Qatar, from learning about the rich art to comprehending the cultural influence.

If you want to learn more about the country’s capital and are looking for things to do in Qatar, you should visit this famous cultural site. The Katara Cultural Village depicts Doha’s entire history, showing how it developed from its humble beginnings into one of the wealthiest cities in the modern era.

Final words:

Doha is a mesmerizing city full of adventures. If you plan to visit Qatar in 2022, the above are the best things to do in Doha, Qatar. Satisfy your inner traveler with exciting and fun opportunities in Doha, Qatar.