11 best things to do Qatar

The best things to do in Qatar

Qatar is a small, but fascinating, country located in the Middle East, close to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Often overshadowed by its neighbours, it is a hidden gem that has a lot to offer visitors. Qatar is one of the richest countries in the world since the discovery of gas and oil in 1940. Before that, pearl diving was one of the main trades there. With the 2022 FIFA World Cup scheduled to take place there later this year, interest in Qatar is growing rapidly.

I visited Doha in Qatar a few years ago when I flew to Istanbul in Turkey via Qatar Airways.

Mosque in Qatar

The climate in Qatar is extremely hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching over 40 degrees Celsius in the summer months. However, this is offset by the fact that Qatar has some beautiful beaches , where you can cool down whenever it gets too hot.

Although it is predominantly Muslim, Qatar is home to a large number of expats from all over the world. This makes it a very cosmopolitan and diverse country.

Here are the best things to do in Qatar

1. Visit the Museum of Islamic Art

Museum of Islamic Art

One of the top attractions in Qatar, the Museum of Islamic Art is a must-visit for anyone interested in Islamic art and culture. Housed in a striking building designed by architect I.M. Pei, the museum boasts one of the biggest and most comprehensive collections of Islamic art in the world, spanning 3 continents and over 1400 years. The museum's collection includes everything from calligraphy and ceramics to textiles and coins.

2. Experience the vibe at Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif (cc: Razimantv via Wikimedia Commons)

One of Qatar's oldest and most famous markets, Souq Waqif is a great place to browse for souvenirs and experience traditional Qatari culture. The souq is especially lively at night, when locals and tourists alike come to eat, drink, and be entertained. You will find everything from traditional Arabic spices to modern designer clothes at Souq Waqif. Haggling is expected so be sure to brush up on your bargaining skills before you visit.

3. Relax on The Pearl Qatar

Pearl Qatar

One of Qatar's man-made islands, The Pearl Qatar is a great place to enjoy some upscale shopping and dining, as well as relax on one of its many beaches. With its luxurious hotels and apartments, The Pearl is also one of the best places to stay in Qatar if you're looking for luxury accommodation.

4. Walk along the Doha Corniche

Doha Corniche (cc: Spetsnaz 1991 via Wikimedia Commons)

This 7 km waterfront promenade stretches around Doha Bay, offering panoramic views of the clear waters. The best time to walk here is around sunrise or sunset when the weather is cooler and the lighting is perfect for photos. There are parks, restaurants and cafes along the Corniche and you can also hop onto a dhow cruise.

5. Go on a Desert Safari

Desert Safari

No trip to Qatar would be complete without experiencing the desert landscape first-hand. There are plenty of companies offering desert safaris, which typically include activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, and quad biking.

6. Tour historical Al Zubarah Fort

Al Zubarah Fort (cc: Antony Satheesh via Wikimedia Commons)

Al Zubarah Fort is a historic military fortress and UNESCO world heritage site in the deserted town of Al Zubarah, outside Doha. Built in 1938, it provides important insights about life in Qatar before the discovery of gas and oil. You can explore the fort at your own pace or join a guided tour for more information about its history and significance.

7. Visit Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum

Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum (cc Jenny Brown - Wikimedia Commons)

This museum is located about an hour outside of Doha but is well worth the drive. The Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum showcases over 15 000 items from the private collection of its namesake sheikh and includes everything from traditional Bedouin weaponry and handmade carpets to antique cars.

8. Visit The National Museum of Qatar

National Museum of Qatar (cc: National Museum of Qatar)

This museum is housed in a stunning building designed by architect Jean Nouvel. It tells the story of Qatar's past, present, and future through a range of interactive exhibits. Visitors can learn about the country's geology, history, culture, and ecology, as well as see some amazing artifacts from Qatar's past.

9. Enjoy the delicious food

Kabsa (cc:Wikimedia Commons)

Qatar is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. From Michelin-starred dining to local favorites, there is something for everyone. Michelin-starred restaurants include Nobu Doha, Opus at Park Hyatt, and Al Hubara Restaurant. Other local favourites include Al Mahara and Al Mourjan.

10. Explore the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum

3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum

This new museum is a must for sports buffs. It has seven galleries showcasing sporting memorabilia from around the globe. Highlights include a boxing glove signed by Muhammad Ali from the 1960 Olympics, the soccer ball used by Brazilian Pelé to score the 1,000th goal of his career and a basketball autographed by Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and Scottie Pippen.

11. Indulge in some retail therapy

Villagio_Mall (cc: Jaseem Hamza via Wikimedia Commons)

Qatar is rapidly becoming one of the most popular shopping destinations in the world. It is home to some world-class shopping malls, including Villagio Mall, which was named one of the world's best shopping malls by Forbes magazine. For those who want to shop like a local, there are also many traditional souqs (marketplaces) where visitors can bargain for everything from spices to scarves.

What are you waiting for? Book your Next Vacay flights to Qatar and explore this incredible country or book your flight directly on Qatar Airways.

5 things all visitors should know about Doha before they go

1. With year-round sunshine, temperatures averaging 30 degrees Celsius and beautiful sandy beaches lined with palm trees, Doha offers alot of postcard-perfect photo opportunities!
2. A melting pot of cultures, most of Doha’s population are expats from all corners of the globe - meaning English is widely spoken and communication is easy for visitors from English-speaking countries.
3. Arabic coffee served with dates is something of a national speciality and certain to be offered whenever you visit someone’s home.
4. If you want to fit in with the locals when dining out then order ‘kabsa’ – rice cooked with meats and vegetables. We tried it and it was delicious.
5. Visitors should dress conservatively and respect local customs by keeping shoulders and knees covered (for both men and women).

Sara Essop

Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.