Qatar’s capital city Doha is a fascinating city filled with avant-garde architecture, opulent malls, ancient souqs and a booming food scene.

Below is a must-see and do list of those essential, not to be missed experiences!

The easiest way I feel to effectively plan a short stay in Doha is to divide activities into Day and Night options.

DAY ACTIVITY OPTIONS:

National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ)

The Museum tells the unique story of Qatar and its people. A modern, vibrant and beautiful space that gives visitors a glimpse of Qatar’s past, present and future. A must-see attraction!

Admission fees to National Museum of Qatar, Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), and Mathaf, Arab Museum of Modern Art.

Entrance is free of charge for Qataris and Residents of Qatar.

*Qatar ID required for free admission.

Qar 50 for non residents

Kids under 16y are free

Student discounts apply.

For a comprehensive guide to the NMoQ click HERE

Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)

(UPDATE: MIA is closed until 2022 for renovation)

MIA is an iconic architectural marvel which is filled with amazing works of art, plush precious rugs and ancient relics and each tells a fascinating story.

Entrance is FREE into the museum for residents. The museum is now open 7 days a week.

If you prefer tours instead of venturing around yourself, Walk-In Gallery Tours are on the following days at 2pm: Monday (Science Tour), Wednesday (Imperial Threads Special Exhibition Tour), Thursday (MIA Architecture Tour) and Saturday (Permanent Gallery Tour).

For a comprehensive guide to the MIA:

https://newindoha.com/museum-of-islamic-art-miadoha/

Qatar National Mosque

The Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque is a magnificent mosque built in a traditional Arab design blended with modern artistry. The mosque covers a total area of 175,164 sq.m catering for 11,000 men & 1200 women.

The view over West Bay skyline from the courtyard is unparalleled!

Location: Al Muhandiseen St, Doha, Qatar +974 4470 0000

https://goo.gl/maps/wbA89GpPwNp

Non muslim visitors are welcome for a free prebooked english tour. To book a tour contact via email: dominicfanar@gmail.com

Please note that small children are not allowed into the mosque during prayer times.

SHOPPING

No trip to Qatar is complete without some credit card swiping at one of the many malls available in Qatar.

Doha Festival city, Mall of Qatar and Villagio are just some of the world-class shopping destinations awaiting you.
Doha also has Ultra Luxury malls such as the stunning Al Hazm.

Most malls open by 10am till late and are best visited in the mornings so that you can enjoy Doha when it comes alive at night.

For a glimpse into the opulent Al Hazm Mall go to:

https://newindoha.com/visiting-al-hazm-mall-horatii-tiramisu-lounge/

EVENING/NIGHT ACTIVITY OPTIONS:

Souq Waqif

-For shopping: An intricate maze of Souqs that sell everything from a falcon to a hand crafted Persian rug. I find the falcon souq captivating and one is able to get up close and personal with live falcons!

–Souvenirs: Souq Waqif is your go-to stop for everything under the sun. If you want a giant genie lamp to 100 fridge magnet options this is your safest bet all under one roof.

-Gold Souk: Located inside Souq Waqif is a hidden oasis filled with precious gems, sparkling diamonds and shimmering gold. I was surprised at the tranquil setting of the gold souq which was very different from the hustle & bustle of Souq Waqif. Even if you are not in the market for gold jewellery this beautiful souq boasts beautiful stain glass windows, chandeliers & an interesting blend of architecture and layout. Many stores sell gold name necklaces (English or Arabic) which are great souvenirs!

Please note that stores in Souq Waqif are closed between 1pm and 4pm but are open till late at night.

Eating at Souq Waqif: There are a vast array of food options from roadside food stalls to fancy restaurants ranging from Indian cuisine, local Qatari cuisine to cafès and sheesha. Something for everyones budget!

My favourites are:

Gym Khana (indian food): https://newindoha.wordpress.com/2017/09/23/dohas-gymkhana-dine-like-a-maharaja

Café Tasse:

Café Tasse: Souq Waqifs hidden gem

DISCOVERING THE PEARL

The Pearl consists of different areas:

PORTO ARABIYA is a luxury marina with yachts surrounded by apartments, high-end stores & restaurants.

MEDINA CENTRALE houses many restaurants from around the world, mini malls, a kids entertainment area and a Novo Cinema.

QANAT QUARTIER depicts a mini Venice with its colourful buildings and relaxed atmosphere. (great during winter when one can relax alongside the waterway at the many restaurants and cafés).

VIVA BAHRIYA is a residential area and does not have public access to its serene beach and has no restaurants or entertainment

There is a public beach in Qanat Quartier and Porto Arabiya that is accessible only to residents of the Pearl.

If visiting the Pearl for the day I would start off in Porto Arabiya. Stroll around the luxurious Marina, enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants overlooking the luxury yachts and window shop in the beautiful boutiques. If you get tired hop onto one of the free golf carts for a tour.

DHOW CRUISE AND STROLL ALONG THE CORNICHE:

Enjoy a traditional Dhow boat cruise from the Corniche at night for only Qar 15 per person. Glide along the waters and admire Doha’s impressive skyline from the sea.

Approach one of over 30 brightly lit dhow boats lined up along the Corniche promenade between the MIA & West Bay. No booking is required and ample parking is available in front of the promenade.

If you would prefer to preorder a Dhow one could contact any of the below dhow operators: +97455953196 Abeer or +97430458420 Rohab (located in front of the Banana island boat entrance arch)

TIP: To walk to/from the Souq Waqif to the Corniche promenade it is safer to go via the underground tunnel instead of walking on the busy road. The tunnel can be accessed from the parking lot below the Main front Souq Waqif courtyard. Walk through the parking lot, use the escalators and go up the stairs on the other side. One ends up directly behind the giant oyster/pearl on the corniche. There are signs explaining the way.

KATARA

Katara is a cultural village filled with theatres, art galleries, an amphitheatre, concert halls and restaurants. There are different workshops, festivals and art exhibitions showcased in this diverse multicultural village. Dine in restaurants & cafés from around the world, visit the beautiful Katara mosque, stroll on the serene beach, watch an artist paint a mural and soak in the culture.

To keep up to date with events and workshops happening at Katara visit: http://www.katara.net/en

Start off at Al Jazeera Media Cafe which combines an exclusive Al Jazeera media experience in a café serving delicious light meals. In the café’s interactive studio visitors get an opportunity to be a news presenter using state of the art equipment for FREE! (this experience is available only for patrons who have ordered food). Your moment in front of the cameras will be recorded, edited (with all the effects) and handed to you to take home by the time you finish your meal at Al Jazeerah media café.

The finished product looks like you were on an Al Jazeera sports channel (including background, music, graphics & inserts). This awesome experience is available for FREE daily to customers of the cafè from 4pm to 10pm. Do not forget to carry a USB!

Be sure to stop at the world famous Chappati and Karak. Popular with locals that are addicted to this spicy, fragrant sweet karak tea and treat yourself to my favourite food in Doha… an extra crispy sweet chappati that will make you break out into song.

OTHER ADVENTURES IN DOHA:

Treat yourself to Dinner or High Tea at NOBU! NOBU is an iconic 26,000 square-foot architectural masterpiece renowned for its exquisite Japanese cuisine while visitors enjoy breath-taking views of the turquoise Arabian Gulf. High tea is only available every Saturday from 3:30pm – 6:00pm.

Saturdays at Nobu Doha. High teas and Sushi Masterclasses

DHOW DINNER & CRUISE:

Relax on a traditional dhow dinner Cruise in Doha’s only airconditioned dhow (Departs from the Pearl):

Dohas Dhow Sunset Cruise

BANANA ISLAND:

Located 25 minutes from Doha this island paradise is the perfect day trip excursion from Doha. One is transported from the corniche in a luxury catamaran ferry to Banana Island Resort.

The DAY PACKAGE for QAR 350 includes: Both Pool and beach access. QAR 200 credit per person to spend at any resort restaurants. QAR 50 credit per person to spend on any recreational resort activity. Free valet car service. Free cold water, towels and first aid are available at the guard stations by both the beach and pool. Luxury boat transfers. This offer is available every day from 8.00 am to 7.00 pm Price: QAR 350 per person for adults and Qar 50 per child below 4 years.

For the full review go to: https://newindoha.wordpress.com/2017/05/21/%e2%80%8ba-day-trip-to-banana-island-resort-doha-by-anantara-2/

HOW TO SAVE MONEY:

Eating out in Doha can be an expensive experience. There are Discount apps that can make it easier for one to enjoy the vast dining, accommodation, pampering and entertainment options that are available without robbing the bank. Mostly they are Buy One Get One Free offers to the best restaurants, activities, attractions, spas and hotels.

For the full article go to:

https://newindoha.wordpress.com/2017/05/27/how-to-save-money-in-doha/

TRANSPORT OPTIONS IN DOHA:

https://newindoha.wordpress.com/2017/05/09/private-transport-options-in-doha/

MY TOP TIPS:

*Time: As time is of the essence during a short stay visit it is important to double check the opening times of the places you wish to visit. Opening Times change during different seasons, example malls are open later in Ramadaan and stay open till much later.

Most museums, souqs and activities are closed on a Friday morning.

*Plan your Itinerary:

Choose to visit places that are close to each other.

NMOQ, MIA, Souq Waqif and the Corniche are all next to each other and should be done on the same day.

Katara & the Pearl are also in close proximity and can be enjoyed on the same night.

This article was based on my experiences. I do not take responsibility for any changes in prices or terms to the above information. Kindly recheck with the service provider before booking.

This is NOT a sponsored post.
Have you spent 48hours in Doha?

I would love to hear how you spent it in the comments below.

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