The 16 Best Things To See and Do in Doha, Qatar

Qatar has always had an exciting mix of cultural influences, and for that reason, its culinary scene is among the region’s most diverse. Qatari, Filipino, Nepalese, Chinese, American, Mexican, Malaysian – the food options are endless. With celebrity-helmed, Michelin-star, haute-cuisine hotspots, cheap eats, street food and more, there is something to suit every palate and budget. The large Indian population has made a particularly pronounced mark on the restaurant scene. A local favourite is the family-run Al Jamal Restaurant in Bin Mahmoud for chicken biryani, haleem (a type of stew) and kadai chicken with roti. The Bin Mahmoud area, in general, has recently emerged as a haven for foodies, with a cluster of new international restaurants springing up rapidly. For traditional Qatari specialities, head to Bandar Aden on the edge of Souq Waqif for giant plates of baked lamb. If you’re looking to be energised, check out one of Doha’s fashionable coffee shops, such as the stylish Flat White Specialty Coffee. For something more relaxing, however, try a sundowner on the rooftop bar of Nobu Doha. The bar offers a vast range of tantalising tipples – as well as 360-degree views of the Corniche and the sprawling city beyond.

Pro tip: For a seemingly endless choice of international food, head to the crowded main street in Doha’s Bin Mahmoud neighbourhood.

At the heart of Qatar’s cultural landscape is the Museum of Islamic Art, sitting majestically on its own island on the Corniche. Home to the region’s most impressive collection of Islamic artefacts, the museum proudly exhibits three floors’ worth of exquisite textiles, ceramics, enamel work and glass. However, the building alone is worth a visit. Masterminded by award-winning Chinese-American architect IM Pei, known famously for designing the glass pyramid at the Louvre in Paris, the structure replicates a modern fortress. However, the art space is also known as ‘the eyes of Doha’ because it resembles a woman’s face shrouded by a burqa. Note that the museum does adhere to a strict dress code, so shoulders and knees must be covered.

Pro tip: Be sure to check out the Museum of Islamic Art’s library, where you can unearth rare manuscripts, first editions and an extensive collection of century-old cookery books.

In recent years, Qatar has made great efforts to invest in Doha’s booming art scene and, in particular, the city’s cultural treasures. In March 2019, Doha’s National Museum of Qatar opened. Designed by world-renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, it symbolises the rose rock formations found in Qatar’s desert. The state-of-the-art museum traces the country’s long and rich history, showcasing artefacts from prehistoric to contemporary times. Film lovers will want to check out the programme of evocative art films on display in the galleries. For a renewed appreciation of the country’s fascinating history, visit the new Msheireb Museums, which explores various aspects of Qatari life and histories. Next, check out the city’s cutting-edge art. Visit the Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art or the Fire Station Gallery for a revolving roster of exciting contemporary exhibitions. There’s also a range of private collections to explore, including the curious collection of Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, a collector and car buff. His pieces range from prehistoric fossils to 18th-century pistols.

Pro tip: Be sure to buy your tickets ahead of time for the National Museum.

Renovated in 2006, the buildings of Souq Waqif (‘standing market’) may, with a couple of exceptions, be little more than a decade old, but a market has stood on that same spot continuously for hundreds of years. Lying on the banks of a small stream, it is now the city’s most popular destination. As it’s a traditional market with an additional suite of modern cafés and eateries, a ramble through its alleyways is a feast for the senses – spices fill the air with a thick and delicious scent. Traditional Qatari clothing is also made here, including the beautiful gold-woven bisht (ceremonial robes). For a more relaxed atmosphere, head south to Al Wakrah, where a similar souq has been established. Thanks to its beachside location, the vibe is laid-back but just as much fun – with cafés, restaurants and shops selling everything from perfumes to cooking utensils.

Pro tip: Get the most out of Souq Waqif and visit at night when the market really comes alive. Set up camp in one of the cafés on the ‘restaurant street’ and people-watch.

Qatar’s national sports are falconry and camel racing. At Souq Waqif, you can visit the Falcon Souq, where breeders come to buy and sell their prized birds. A good hunting falcon can reach up to 1 million Qatari riyals (£226,000). Dozens of hooded birds sitting quietly on their perches can be an eerie sight, but don’t be afraid. In the souq, the staff will allow you to perch one of these incredible birds on your arm, creating the perfect Doha selfie opportunity. You can also explore the leather hoods and equipment used in falconry. Pop next door to the Falcon Hospital, where the birds are taken for their health checks. For camel racing, you will have to go a little farther afield. An hour outside Doha is the Al-Shahaniya racetrack. Camel racing is serious business in Qatar – star camels and aces both command big money. Should you want to catch a race, visit during a weekend beginning in November through to March. Also, visitors can stop by the track every day at 9.30am or around 5.30pm to watch the camels as they go to the arena for practice and exercise.

Pro tip: If you miss the camel walking time, you can also visit the nearby stables.

Thanks to its tax-free status, Doha has some of the best shopping in the world. From palatial mega-malls to small independent boutiques, there is something to surprise and delight even the most seasoned shopper. Qatar’s malls are designed to be multipurpose havens away from the heat – with shopping, eating and entertainment all bundled into one air-conditioned complex. On the outskirts of the city, the Mall of Qatar is the biggest in the country and offers everything from upscale designer boutiques to a multiplex cinema. In a similar vein is Doha Festival City – home to the Angry Birds theme park, a soon-to-open snow-dunes attraction and some of the best-known chain restaurants in the world. For a true one-of-a-kind bargain, head to Souq Waqif and seek out one of the charming antique shops.

Pro tip: Find a truly unique keepsake at the antique shops in the Souq Waqif. Sift through regional treasures, from miniature dhows to vintage cameras, to find the perfect memento.

Seemingly endless desert surrounds Doha – but for something extraordinary, head to the Inland Sea. Just over two hours outside the city, it is accessible only by off-road 4×4. Khor Al Adaid (its Arabic name) is one of only three places in the world where the sea meets the desert sand. This tidal bay connects to the Arabian Gulf channel, which is approximately 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) long. When standing on the Qatari side of the bay, visitors can see Saudi Arabia, which shares the strip of water. UNESCO recognises the Inland Sea as a natural reserve, home to diverse plants and animals – including an extremely rare species of turtle. Visit the area in the cooler months and swim, fish, camp or race in an SUV across the dunes, an activity commonly known as dune bashing.

Pro tip: The best way to see the Inland Sea is by booking an organised tour – they will get you there, via a thrill-ride across the undulating dunes, and then treat you to a barbecue lunch or dinner.

A visit to Doha must surely include a trip to the beach to see and swim in the Persian Gulf. Although it is now safe, this body of water has often been at the forefront of Middle Eastern conflicts over the past 50 years. A trip to the beach also provides relief from the hot weather, so it’s worth the effort even for the history- and politics-averse. If you don’t have accommodation with a beach area of its own, many hotels provide everything you need for an extra fee. Recommended by Rebecca Bradshaw.

Pro tip: It’s an obvious one but don’t forgot to re-apply sun-protection after going for a dip. The afternoon sun in this part of the world takes no prisoners!

If you’re bored of the beach but enjoy being on the water, then kayaking in the Al Thakira Mangroves is ideal. Travel up the scenic northeastern coast (one hour by car or two hours by bus from Doha) to meet your guide and get going. As you paddle through the lush water, you will see fish, birds and beautiful trees; your guide will also tell you about the area’s history. When you return to the beach, there will be food prepared, ready to eat under the stars. If you’re looking for something similar but in central Doha, try kayaking in the Dhow Harbour. You can view the majestic dhows (ships) that are used for pearling, the Doha skyline and the Museum of Islamic Art all at the same time. Recommended by Rebecca Bradshaw.

Pro tip: Guided tours are always best for outdoor activities beyond the skyscrapers of Doha.

One of the few bars in Doha with spacious indoor and outdoor areas, “The Belgian” at the Intercontinental Doha packs in a devoted and friendly crowd night after night. The design of the cafe is typical of the global chain – dark wood, chalk boards, drinks on display with a long bar and wooden floor. The outdoor area – covered and uncovered – is great for families. It offers a range of Belgian and European beers on tap and in bottles, as well as the usual suspects – cocktails, mixed drinks and soft drinks. What sets this place apart is its excellent food menu – running the full gamut of Belgian and comfort food classics. They are justly famous for their steaming mussel pots which come with crunchy fries and mayo as well as the traditional burgers, steaks and schnitzels.

Pro tip: You don’t have to be a guest at the hotel to enjoy the many delights of the Belgian Cafe, but this is one of the city’s best hotels anyway, so why not make this your local?

Qatar has been building up quite an exceptional cultural résumé over the years, and Katara Cultural Village is an integral part of that endeavour. The village (named after the ancient name for Qatar) is a sprawling waterside complex north of West Bay and boasts green walking and running spaces, an amphitheatre, a souq, an opera house, a planetarium and a cinema, plus several dozen restaurants. Visiting the world’s first air-conditioned plaza is trending at the moment, but its cultural calendar is also full of film screenings, music, workshops and exhibitions. Be sure to check out any upcoming events in advance, especially if you are typically restless, have kids or want to take part in water sports on Katara’s beach. Of particular note for budding journalists or the news-obsessed is the Al-Jazeera Media Café, which includes a fun interactive studio. The café is the first of its kind in the Middle East and is an entertaining hub where media meets cuisine. Recommended by Rebecca Bradshaw.

Pro tip: There’s lots to discover in Katara. The pace is slow and you’ll want to take your time to take it all in, so be sure to allocate a full day of wandering in order to make the most of it.

Technically it’s not one single attraction, but The Pearl-Qatar is worth a wander, even if you can’t afford a coffee at one of the cafés. North of downtown, this large man-made island named after Qatar’s pearling history is home to luxury shops and off-the-charts-expensive apartment blocks. It’s also known for its fancy yachts, brightly coloured houses and Venice-like canal system in the Qanat Quartier. Depending on your stamina for shopping (or perhaps window shopping), you can spend either minutes or days in the shops and squares. The Pearl-Qatar is situated near several of the other attractions listed and can form part of a larger outing in that part of the city. Recommended by Rebecca Bradshaw.

Pro tip: Don’t worry if you feel priced out in this glitzy part of the city, people are well aware that the Pearl is a sightseeing stop of its own, so non-millionaires shouldn’t feel too out of place!

Like several of its Gulf neighbours, Qatar is a monarchy, and it is currently ruled by Sheikh Tamim, a member of the ruling Al Thani family. When the Saudi Arabia-led blockade of Qatar began in 2017, a Qatari artist created giant black-and-white portraits of the sheikh that were then erected all over the country. His art was featured on buildings, billboards and car stickers, and residents came out in droves to sign them and declare their love for their emir. Qatari national identity has since solidified, and the small state enjoys a cohesion that it arguably did not do before the blockade. Visitors should keep an eye out for these portraits all over Doha. Recommended by Rebecca Bradshaw.

Pro tip: If your flight arrives during the day, you may even see his vast face etched in the sand in Al Khor – a coastal city in northern Qatar – as you make your descent.

The Qatar National Library houses a veritable treasure trove of historical books, manuscripts, maps and photographs, all of which are on display in its heritage library exhibition area. It’s also home to 1 million books in its general collection. The impressive 45,000-square-metre (484,376-square-foot) library is well organised and features interactive media walls, a writing centre and a computer lab. While you’re here, consider a (very) short wander around the area, known as Education City, either to the 130,000-square-metre (1.4-million-square-foot) Oxygen Park or to the Education City Mosque to see modern mosque architecture. Recommended by Rebecca Bradshaw.

Pro tip: The library, like many of the city’s attractions, is super easy to get to thanks to the world class Doha Metro. You’ll find the library on the Green line.

Visit the Sidra Medical and Research Center to see the highly controversial artwork by world-renowned artist Damien Hirst. The Miraculous Journey is a group of 14 monumental bronze sculptures that adorn the hospital entrance and show the development of a foetus in the womb. Originally unveiled in 2013, it was covered up until late 2018, some say because of its pioneering depiction of nudity. Some love it, and some hate it. Why not go so you can form your own opinion? Recommended by Rebecca Bradshaw.

Pro tip: Combine your visit with a trip to the Qatar National Library, which is just across the road.

Doha provides unprecedented opportunities to live the high life, and over-the-top, uber-lavish weekend brunches are one of the great ways to splurge. Get glammed up in your best lazy-chic gear, gather your group or take a book and prepare to spend the day eating, drinking and lounging. Many of the big international hotels have brunch menus, so you can choose your spot based on your budget and preferred location. Staying close to your accommodation is probably sensible because whether you try the Lazy Saturday Brunch at Gordon Ramsay’s Opal at The St Regis Doha or the Santa Monica Breakfast Club at the Grand Hyatt, you’re guaranteed to come out feeling ready for a nap. Recommended by Rebecca Bradshaw.

Pro tip: Wherever you choose to book, have a look at the menu beforehand. This isn’t because you need to know what’s on offer, but because in Doha it’s always good to know what kind of price range you’re facing!