19 Feb Doha – Shining Jewel of Qatar
Welcome to Doha
Doha is situated on the Persian Gulf coast and is the capital of Qatar. The country offers a unique blend of traditional Arab culture and modern luxury. You can explore the city’s rich history and culture by visiting museums, markets, and historic sites. Enjoy modern amenities like world-class restaurants, shopping malls, and luxurious hotels. The city also has several parks and nature reserves, including the Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, a great place to spot migratory birds. Additionally, Doha is known for its modern architecture, including the iconic skyscrapers of the West Bay business district, and for hosting major international events such as the 2006 Asian Games, the 2011 Pan Arab Games, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
How To Get There
By Air: Hamad International Airport (HIA) and Doha International Airport (DIA) are the ports of entry.
By Land: The Abu Samra Land Border is the entry point between Saudi Arabia and Qatar, separated by a land border. The distance between the centre of Doha and Abu Samra is around 1 hour. Subject to certain restrictions, visitors wishing to enter Qatar through the Abu Samra Land Border may do so in a private vehicle or bus.
By Sea: Travelers intending to visit Qatar by sea will have two ports to choose from: Doha Port and Hamad Port. Charter cruise ships can reach these two locations. Several cruise ship hotels are scheduled to call at these locations to accommodate spectators during the competition.
Getting Around
Doha is a well-developed city with various transportation options for getting around:
Taxis: These are readily available in the city and a convenient way to get around. Call a taxi on the street or book one through an app like Karwa or Uber.
Metro: The destination has a modern and reliable Metro system. The metro has three lines connecting many of the city’s popular destinations. The metros are air-conditioned, and the fare is inexpensive. You can purchase a reusable metro card from any station or use a contactless payment option.
Buses: Buses are also available here for public transport. They cover many areas in the city, but the metro may be less frequent than the schedule. The fare for the bus is also very reasonable.
Rental Cars: Car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Budget are available, and you can book a car in advance or upon arrival. However, driving in Doha can be challenging, and traffic can be congested during peak hours.
Walking: It can be an option for getting around the central parts of the city, especially in cooler months. However, heat and humidity can make walking uncomfortable during the hotter months.
Places Of Interest
The museum showcases the artistic and cultural heritage of the Islamic world. It houses a vast collection of Islamic art and artefacts worldwide. Book tickets here.
This traditional Qatari market is famous for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It offers a variety of products ranging from spices, textiles, and conventional Qatari handicrafts. Book tickets here.
The Pearl-Qatar is an artificial island built on the edge of the West Bay Lagoon. It is a popular residential area with luxury hotels, restaurants, and shopping centres.
It is a cultural hub that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Qatar and the region. It hosts numerous events and exhibitions throughout the year.
This museum tells the story of Qatar, from its ancient history to the modern day. The museum is a work of art designed to look like a desert rose.
Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum
This is a private museum showcasing the personal collection of Sheikh Faisal, including vintage cars, traditional handicrafts, and rare Islamic manuscripts.
A UNESCO World Heritage site in northern Qatar, is an impressive example of 18th-century military architecture and is a must-visit for history buffs.
This is a 300-meter-tall skyscraper that dominates the skyline of Doha. It is also known as the Torch Doha and has a revolving restaurant on the 47th floor.
A waterfront promenade stretching several kilometres along Doha Bay offers stunning views of the city skyline and is a popular spot for walking and jogging.
Where To Stay
Luxury Hotels
A retreat in Qatar’s capital embodies modern grandeur with stunning sea views. A vibrant hotspot, from its elegant lobby to lively restaurants and lounges while upholding Qatari traditions.
Mid-Range Hotels
A five-star hotel in the heart of West Bay Doha offers contemporary flair, convenience and a warm Qatari welcome.
Budget Hotels
Conveniently located in the thriving historical district of Al Ghanim, the hotel provides the ideal urban getaway and the opportunity to visit several of the city’s top attractions.
Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara:
Just off the shore of the centre of the city, the Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara is a crescent of golden sand and overwater villas.
A MGallery boutique hotel in Msheireb, part of the Accor group, is where the art de recevoir embraces authentic local experiences and enhances memorable moments in a charming yet luxurious setting.
A branded budget and economy hotel conveniently located in the city centre, offering comfortable, affordable stays.
Click Here for more accommodation options
Where To Eat
Doha is home to a diverse range of cuisines, including traditional Qatari dishes such as machboos (spiced rice with meat or fish) and popular international dishes from around the world. The city also has a thriving street food scene, with vendors selling everything from shawarma to falafel. Below are our recommendations:
Il Galante is a fine-dining Italian restaurant in the St. Regis Hotel in Doha. It offers an extensive menu of classic Italian dishes prepared with the finest ingredients and served in a luxurious and elegant setting.
Q Lounge & Restaurant: A popular restaurant with a rooftop lounge on the 46th floor of the luxurious Mondrian Hotel in West Bay, offering a stunning panoramic view of the city and a diverse menu of international cuisine, creative cocktails, and live music performances.
Al Nahham Restaurant: Try this Lebanese restaurant in the famous Souq Waqif in Doha for something different. It offers a traditional Lebanese menu with a modern twist, live entertainment and an intimate atmosphere.
La Spiga by Paper Moon: An upscale Italian restaurant in the W Doha Hotel & Residences, offering classic Italian dishes with the freshest ingredients and boasting a sophisticated and stylish ambience worth trying!
Final Thoughts
Doha is a unique and exciting destination that offers a range of experiences for visitors to enjoy. The location has something to offer everyone, from its stunning modern architecture to its rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re interested in shopping, exploring museums and art galleries, or simply relaxing on the beach, Doha has it all. The city’s warm and welcoming people and safe and clean environment make it an excellent destination for families and solo travellers.
Recommended Tours
Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase an item, I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions are my own.
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.