Things To Do
in Qatar

Qatar is a small but prosperous country located in the Arabian Peninsula, known for its modern architecture and rich cultural heritage. The capital city, Doha, features a stunning skyline filled with futuristic buildings and traditional souks. Qatar's economy is largely driven by its oil and natural gas reserves, making it one of the wealthiest countries in the world.

Visitors can experience a blend of traditional Arabian hospitality and contemporary luxury.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Doha
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Museum of Islamic Art, which showcases a vast collection of artifacts from the Islamic world. Enjoy a stroll along the Doha Corniche with views of the city skyline.

afternoon
:

Head to Souq Waqif for lunch at one of the many restaurants, followed by shopping for traditional crafts, spices, and textiles. Explore the nearby Falcon Souq to learn about the ancient art of falconry.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the skyline, then visit the Katara Cultural Village for evening events, exhibitions, or a walk along the beach.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Qatar National Museum to learn about the country's history and culture. Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the exhibits.

afternoon
:

Explore the Pearl-Qatar, a luxurious man-made island, with upscale shops and dining options. Relax at one of the cafes or take a boat tour around the marina.

evening
:

Experience a traditional Qatari dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the Aspire Park for a leisurely evening walk and enjoying the local family-friendly atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee at a café$5
🚌Public transportation fare$1
🏨Hotel room per night$100
🎟️Museum entrance fee$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and modern attractions.
  • One of the safest countries to visit.
  • Excellent hospitality and luxury services.
  • Extreme heat during summer months can limit outdoor activities.
  • Cost of living can be high, especially for dining and accommodations.
  • Limited public beaches and outdoor spaces compared to other destinations.
  • "السلام عليكم" - Peace be upon you
  • "شكرا" - Thank you
  • "من فضلك" - Please
  • "نعم" - Yes
  • "لا" - No

Places to Visit in Qatar

Visit one of these nice places.

Museum of Islamic Art

The stunning architecture of the museum and its waterfront location provide breathtaking photo opportunities.

Doha Skyline

Capture the modern skyline from various points along the Corniche, especially at sunset.

Katara Cultural Village

The blend of traditional architecture and cultural events makes it a colorful backdrop for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Qatar

Qatar's cuisine is a delightful fusion of Middle Eastern influences, featuring rich flavors and fresh ingredients. A visit to Qatar is incomplete without trying its local dishes, which reflect its desert heritage.

Qatar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Machboos

A spiced rice dish often served with chicken, lamb, or fish, and garnished with fried onions.

Must-Try!

Harees

A traditional dish made from wheat and meat, cooked until smooth and creamy, often enjoyed during Ramadan.

Balaleet

A sweet vermicelli dish typically served for breakfast, flavored with cardamom and topped with an omelet.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Souq Waqif

A vibrant market where you can enjoy street food like shawarma, falafel, and fresh juices, alongside traditional shopping.

Al Wakrah Souq

A charming waterfront market offering local seafood delicacies and snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Qatar experiences a hot desert climate. Summers (June-August) are extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Winters (December-February) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F). Rain is infrequent, mostly occurring in late fall and winter. Humidity can be high during the summer months, making it feel even hotter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Code

Modest clothing is encouraged. Women should cover shoulders and knees, while men should avoid shorts.

Public Behavior

Public displays of affection are frowned upon; it’s best to be discreet.

Greetings

A handshake is common, but wait for a woman to extend her hand first, as some may prefer not to shake hands with men.

Safety Guide

Safety

Qatar is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates. Nevertheless, it’s advisable to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Emergency services are efficient, and the country has a well-established healthcare system.

Tipping in Qatar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is customary, typically around 10-15% for good service in restaurants and cafes.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and cash is also in circulation, particularly for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Temperatures are mild, making it the best time to visit for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Spring (March - May)

The weather starts to warm up, but it’s still pleasant for outdoor exploration.

Summer (June - August)

Expect extremely high temperatures and humidity; most activities shift indoors during peak heat.

Fall (September - November)

Temperatures begin to cool, making it a comfortable time for outdoor events and festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Qatar at Night

Qatar's nightlife scene is vibrant and varied, featuring upscale lounges, clubs, and shisha cafes. Many venues are located in hotels and offer stunning views of the Doha skyline. While alcohol is available in licensed venues, it's important to note that public drinking is prohibited. Live music and performances are common, particularly in areas like the Pearl-Qatar and Katara Cultural Village.

Hiking in Qatar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zekreet

A scenic area known for its unique rock formations and coastal views, perfect for hiking and exploration.

Wadi Msheireb

A nature reserve that offers trails through beautiful landscapes, ideal for a leisurely hike.

Airports

How to reach Qatar by plane.

Hamad International Airport (DOH)

The main international gateway to Qatar, featuring modern facilities, a wide range of international flights, and excellent amenities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Doha is relatively walkable in certain areas, particularly along the Corniche and in districts like Souq Waqif and Katara. However, outside of these zones, sidewalks may be less developed, and the heat can be a deterrent for walking. Public parks and pedestrian-friendly areas provide good opportunities for leisurely walks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Qataris

The native population, who are a minority in their own country, valuing traditional customs and hospitality.

Expatriates

A significant portion of the population consists of expatriates from various countries, contributing to Qatar's multicultural environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Qatar, with local leagues and international events drawing large crowds.

Camel Racing

A traditional sport in Qatar, camel racing is a cherished cultural activity, especially during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Doha can be congested, especially during peak hours. The city has a developing public transportation system, including buses and the Doha Metro, which makes getting around easier. However, many residents still rely on cars, leading to busy roads.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Halal

Most food in Qatar is Halal, but it's advisable to check specifically for vegetarian or vegan options.

Gluten-Free

Some restaurants offer gluten-free options, but it’s best to confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Qatar boasts a high standard of healthcare, with numerous public and private hospitals offering excellent medical services. Expats are encouraged to obtain health insurance that covers treatment in private facilities, as these often provide quicker and more comprehensive care. Emergency services are readily accessible and efficient.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Qatar.