An amalgamation of old world meets new, Qatar – a jewel of the Middle East – offers both authentic and exhilarating experiences for every kind of traveller – whether you’re a couple seeking rest and relaxation, a solo traveller looking to tick off another exciting country from your bucket list, or a family in need of kid-friendly activities. Just a seven-hour flight from London, Qatar is sometimes seen as merely a stopover spot en route to far-flung destinations like Australia, but it’s well worth a trip in its own right.
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Qatar offers a unique blend of contemporary, luxury experiences with centuries-old tradition, showstopping architecture and endless activities. Roam souqs for spices and handmade crafts, stroll the Doha Corniche, go museum hopping or why not try out some new water sports?
While you’ll likely want to be based in the vibrant capital, Doha, there are also numerous sites outside of the city to discover; from desert adventures and serene mangroves, to secluded islands and impressive archaeological sites – Qatar really has it all.
For an overview of Qatar including handy facts and areas to stay, check out our travel guide. Read on to discover some of our top recommendations for things to see and do in Qatar, no matter what kind of holiday you’re planning.
Things to do in Qatar
For art and culture vultures
Qatar is a top destination for arts and culture, offering a mix of world-class museums, vibrant cultural districts and intriguing heritage sites, as well as frequent festivals and exhibitions.
A must-visit is the National Museum of Qatar, not only a spectacular architectural landmark, but a unique site which tells the story of Qatar’s history, culture and people through immersive exhibits. The Museum of Islamic Art is another fantastic spot for art lovers, showcasing one of the most impressive collections of Islamic art in the world, spanning ceramics and textiles as well as other precious works, some dating back 1,400 years. Visit to glimpse the building alone – a remarkable architectural gem designed by IM Pei, the architect behind Paris’ Louvre.
Meanwhile, Katara Cultural Village is a lively cultural hub home to art galleries, theatres, craft workshops and performance spaces – an impressive showcase of the best of modern Qatari design-meets-traditional craftmanship. Why not try and catch a performance while you’re there? Similarly, contemporary art lovers will want to pay a trip to the Doha Design District, a creative neighbourhood comprising quirky galleries, design studios and fashion shops, perfect for picking up a memento or two to take home.
History buffs should add Al Koot Fort to their itinerary. This whitewashed historical military fortress/museum, situated in the heart of Doha, is now home to traditional crafts, historical artefacts and fascinating cultural exhibits, which paint a picture of life in Qatar before oil.
For adventure seekers
Looking for a holiday that’s non-stop action and adventure? Then you might be surprised to learn that Qatar is a top destination for adrenaline seekers.
Top of your list should be a trip into the desert for a spot of dune bashing. Neverending seas of golden sands await, where you can book a 4X4 experience, guided by expert drivers who thrash through the sand dunes at high speeds. It’s not for the faint hearted, but endlessly fun for those in search of a thrill. For a slower pace, opt for a traditional Bedouin dinner amidst the dunes.
Another fantastic experience you may not have considered possible in Qatar is a kayak adventure. A short journey to the Al Thakira nature reserve, just 30 miles outside of Doha, will take you to the country’s largest and oldest mangrove forest. Follow the winding waters in search of herons, crabs and other wildlife in a beautifully serene environment.
Avid divers, meanwhile, can dive among shipwrecks in crystal-clear underwater conditions – finding an array of colourful marine life, from sea turtles to barracudas, whale sharks and angel fish. And if you haven’t tried diving before but are keen to give it a go, beginners’ diving trips can even be organised from downtown Doha.
For couples
If you’re travelling as a couple, Qatar offers plenty to see and do, whether you’re looking to get out and explore the authentic, historical side of the country, or simply relax and recharge together at one of many beauty spots.
For those seeking a taste of the local culture, Doha’s Souq Waqif can’t be missed. A centuries-old market, packed full of colourful market stalls, here you can haggle to your heart’s content for handcrafted jewellery, textiles, perfumes, spices and other tasty local delights. Another unique and unmissable spot is the Falcon Souq, a true Qatari gem, where an array of rare birds are displayed.
To take in breathtaking views of the city with your other half, wander along the Doha Corniche, a five-mile promenade which bisects the sparkling blue bay and the city’s spectacular skyscrapers, museums and galleries. Grab an iced coffee in the morning and amble at your leisure, or why not marvel at the sights around sunset for Insta-worthy pictures?
Looking for some much-needed R&R with your loved one? We have the perfect spot. Just southeast of Qatar is Khor Al-Adaid, otherwise known as the Inland Sea. A UNESCO-listed nature reserve comprising a beautiful lagoon and sandy dunes, Khor Al-Adaid is home to a variety of amazing avifauna and other wildlife, ideal for a day trip, or perhaps the perfect place for a romantic camping trip under a canopy of twinkling stars. Just dreamy.
For families
Families looking for a fun-filled holiday with plenty to keep the youngsters busy won’t be disappointed. For one thing, there are numerous parks where little ones can get their daily dose of vitamin D, including Aspire Park, Doha’s largest park with playgrounds, spacious lawns, a lake and picnic spots, Al Bidda Park boasting scenic views across Doha Bay, and Oxygen Park, a vast park in Education City with family-friendly play areas.
Remember that addictive phone game Angry Birds? Well, in Doha Festival City you’ll find Angry Birds World – an immersive theme park with rides, games, character meet and greets, and loads more family entertainment. And what’s a holiday with kids without a trip to a water park? Qatar’s Meryal Waterpark is packed full of exhilarating slides, wave pools and splash zones, great for all ages, and is even home to a world record-holding water slide tower.
If you fancy some light retail therapy but the kids aren’t so keen, it’s worth noting that many of Doha’s shopping malls also feature interactive play zones, arcades and rides, including Doha Festival City and the Mall of Qatar, while the quirky Villaggio Mall offers indoor theme park Gondolania, as well as other family attractions.
If all that play time has exhausted the kids, why not head to one of Qatar’s many beautiful beaches? Katara Beach is a popular spot, known for its pristine sandy shores, calm, turquoise waters and access to nearby cafes and playgrounds. Al Shamal Beach is another solid option, with shallow waters, much-needed shady areas and breathtaking views.
And if it’s too hot to be outside, there are numerous free or low-cost museums in Doha with fascinating stories to tell… as well as air con!
Top Tips for Travelling in Qatar
While locals are always very friendly to tourists visiting Qatar, it’s wise to verse yourself in a few of the local customs and ensure you’re respectful and polite when visiting the sites and meeting new people. Here are some of our top tips for holidaying in Qatar:
Local customs
- Drinking is not the norm in most of Qatar, only served in hotels and licensed venues. If you choose to drink, do so modestly.
- When giving or receiving items, including food, try to use your right hand – which is generally considered more polite.
- Qatar is a modest country, so keep public behaviour respectful, avoiding loud arguments or overly affectionate behaviour.
- If you want to get your trip off to a great start, why not learn a few basic Arabic phrases before you go? Even simple phrases such as ‘hello’, ‘please’, ‘thank you’ and ‘goodbye’ will come in handy and ensure you leave a positive impression.
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What to wear
- In malls, museums and other public areas, women should cover shoulders and knees, while men should avoid sleeveless tops or short shorts. In mosques, women must cover arms, legs, and hair, while men should wear long trousers and sleeved tops.
- Since it’s often very hot in Qatar, its best to wear lightweight, breezy fabrics like linen or cotton.
- It’s fine to wear beach and swimwear at hotel pools and private beaches, but take a cover up for when you leave these areas.
So there you have it, all the inspiration you need for planning your dream holiday to Qatar. From rich culture to bustling, vibrant cities, beautiful beaches and desert adventures, a trip to Qatar promises something special for every kind of traveller.
Limited on time and don’t know where to start, or want to ensure you don’t miss any of Qatar’s best bits? Speak to us about booking a tour. Your centre for travel has it all.