Are you thinking of visiting Qatar for the 2022 World Cup or for any reason or you even live in Qatar?
Here are some fascinating places you need to touch when you land in the beautiful country of Qatar:
1) Visit the Museum of Islamic Art
A real architectural marvel, the Museum of Islamic Art was designed by Pritzker prize-winning architect I.M. Pei and is worth visiting just to admire the building itself. Standing alone on reclaimed land, the Islamic architecture-inspired structure is five-stories high and topped by a high-domed atrium within a central tower. The striking exterior is one to behold, with its cream-colored limestone capturing the changes in light and shade during the day. Inside, you can find Islamic art from three continents dating back to over 1,400 years ago.
From ancient manuscripts of the Holy Quran to brightly colored mosque lamps and textiles produced for the elite of the Islamic world, this museum is a must-visit.
2) Stroll the Alleys of Souq Waqif
There’s nothing quite like aimlessly wandering the streets of an old souq to soak in a city’s culture. Doha’s Souq Waqif, historically a marketplace for Bedouins, was preserved and renovated over the years. One of the few remaining traditional markets, it is best discovered by losing yourself in its many winding alleys, stumbling upon little shops selling all sorts of goodies.
An ideal place for a treasure hunter, the souq carries everything from local beauty products, spices, and fabric to traditional artifacts, including locally made glass ornaments from the city’s workshops. If retail therapy isn’t on the cards, then simply eat some street food or find a roadside café to sit back and soak in the atmosphere.
3) Learn About Vintage Cars at the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum
For those who love vintage cars, the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum is a fascinating must-visit. One of the world’s largest private museums, it boasts 30,000 items, which include unique exhibits like the Carpet Museum and the Car Museum. The museum is also home to over 600 antique vehicles, all of which are still in working condition.
From steam carriages and vintage cars belonging to the Qatari royal family to retro trucks and classic limousines, this destination is quite the cabinet de curiosités.
4) Find Priceless Treasures at the National Museum of Qatar
Designed by award-winning architect Jean Nouvel, the National Museum of Qatar is yet another architectural marvel in the city.
The building recreates a naturally occurring crystal formation called the ‘desert rose’ and is something to be marveled at. Inside, it houses many heritage pieces like manuscripts, photographs, and jewelry that bring to light not only story of the nation, but also the heritage of the region.
Additionally, it is home to the legendary ‘Pearl Carpet of Baroda’, a piece commissioned by Maharajah of Baroda in 1865. Pearls, diamonds, rubies, and emeralds set in gold were woven onto a silk-and-deer-hide tapestry, making this an important historical masterpiece.
The precious item was purchased by an anonymous buyer at a Sotheby’s auction in Doha in 2019 for an equivalent of AED 20.2 million and is now displayed at the museum. Historical artifacts aside, various fashion exhibits are also part of the museum’s collections.
Currently on display is a comprehensive Christian Dior exhibit titled ‘Dior: Designer of Dreams’.
5)Enjoy Old-World Architecture at Al Zubarah Fort
For those who enjoy old architecture, a trip to the Al Zubarah fort should be an educational and fulfilling experience.
Located roughly 105 kilometers outside of Doha, this 20th-century fort was built in 1938 and is a prime example of quintessential Arabic architecture. It gets its name from the neighboring town of Al Zubarah, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site whose ruins date back to the 17th century.
Currently, the fort is a museum where visitors can see interesting artifacts from the pearl-diving era.
6) Immerse in Natural Beauty at Purple Island
Located just an hour from Doha near Al Khor city, Purple Island is the destination for nature lovers. Known for its natural beauty and exotic flora and fauna, there is lots to do at this spectacular island. Bursting with greenery and surrounded by mangroves, this scenic place has something for everyone. Camping, kayaking, hiking, bird watching, and paddle boarding – a day trip here will be thrilling and memorable.
A word of caution: there are no facilities on the site.
Be sure to pack essentials like food and water, and wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
The best time to visit Purple Island would be during the cooler months, from November to February.
7) Spend a Full Day in Katara Cultural Village
Nestled between West Bay and the half-moon towers of The Pearl, Katara Cultural Village is Doha’s go-to spot to enjoy some art, culture, and good food. Featuring art galleries, theaters, concert halls, and a planetarium, Qatar’s largest cultural project is quite impressive.
There are also some excellent architecture to see here, such as the majestic Katara Mosque. The latter’s interior was inspired by Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul, while its minaret and dome were inspired by famous mosques around the world.
The Greek-style amphitheater is also worth checking out.
A sprawling building, the venue can accommodate up to 5,000 visitors and offers beautiful views of the sea on one side and of the village on the other.
We recommend spending an entire day in the village so you can make the most of it.
8) Go Trekking at the Ras Abrouq Rock Formations
Located roughly 70 kilometers west of Doha, Ras Abrouq is known for its breathtaking topography. Unusual mushroom-shaped limestone rock formations dominate the natural landscape here, and its pristine sandy beaches are popular among windsurfers.
Most of this area is heavily protected by the government as the neighboring reserve is home to wild deer. If you do plan a trip here, make sure to pack your essentials like food, water, and personal-care items as there are no facilities nearby. It is also highly recommended to take an SUV because there are no paved roads.
While it might seem like a bit of a hassle to visit Ras Abrouq, the sheer beauty of it is worth every bit of it. Oh, and did we mention you can even camp the night there?
9) Experience an Adrenaline Rush in a Natural Cave
Dahl Al Misfir, Qatar’s largest cave, is a must-visit for adventure-seekers. Located 40 kilometers outside of Doha, the cave is 40 meters deep and is one of the country’s most exciting natural sites. Formed out of fibrous gypsum, here you can witness a moon-like glow thanks to the gypsum deposits. A word of caution: the site is not recommended for small children, and it is advised to take a 4×4 vehicle when visiting.
10) Cool Down at the Oxygen Park
Located in the outskirts of Doha, the 130,000-square-meter Oxygen Park is a public park suitable for the entire family.
The park was designed to introduce a green lung in Education City, a large campus housing multiple educational and research institutes. From cascading waterfalls to little water features and lush greenery, this park is unlike any other you’ll see in the country. The park is divided into two zones – sports and recreation.
The recreation zone will keep the kids entertained for hours and even has fountains for them to splash around in.
Meanwhile, in the sports zone, runners will love the semi-covered naturally cooled pathway with waterfalls at the edge that not only provide respite from the heat in hotter months but also serves as a great photo-op.
