Things To Do
in Qatar
Qatar is a compact desert peninsula in the Persian Gulf known for its ultramodern capital, Doha, and a rich Bedouin heritage. Its skyline is defined by gleaming towers, museums, and ambitious urban projects set against vast sands. The country hosts world-class events and a thriving cultural scene while maintaining deep-rooted traditions and religious observance.
Visitors should expect a sophisticated, expensive, and highly curated travel experience with a strong emphasis on hospitality and safety.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Hamad International Airport and transfer to your hotel. After settling in, head out to the Doha Corniche for a refreshing morning walk along the waterfront. Enjoy stunning views of the skyline and the Arabian Gulf as you breathe in the fresh sea air.
Explore the Museum of Islamic Art, where you can admire artifacts from centuries of Islamic history. Grab lunch at the museum's café, which offers beautiful views of the park and the bay. Afterward, visit the Souq Waqif, a vibrant market where you can shop for spices, textiles, and traditional handicrafts.
Dine at a local restaurant offering traditional Qatari dishes such as machbous and harees. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the Souq Waqif to soak in the lively atmosphere. End the night with a coffee or tea at one of the outdoor cafés, watching the vibrant cultural interactions around you.
After breakfast, embark on a thrilling desert safari to the rolling dunes of the Qatar desert. Feel the excitement as you ride over the dunes in a 4x4 vehicle and enjoy the breathtaking desert landscape. Stop at a picturesque spot for some camel rides and photo opportunities.
Indulge in a traditional Bedouin lunch at a desert camp, where you can experience local cuisine in a serene setting. Once you've recharged, try sandboarding or go for a camel ride to explore more of the stunning desert scenery. Marvel at the unique rock formations and desert flora as you wander through this beautiful terrain.
As the sun sets, witness the desert transform with a palette of colors across the sky. Enjoy a traditional barbeque dinner under the stars, complete with cultural performances such as belly dancing. Relax by the campfire, taking in the tranquil sounds of the desert night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| 🏨One-night stay in mid-range hotel | $90-180 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $8-25 |
| 🛍️Weekly groceries | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Safe, modern infrastructure and services
- World-class museums, architecture, and events
- High standard of hospitality and cuisine
- Compact area makes it easy to explore highlights quickly
- Extreme heat in summer; outdoor activities are seasonal
- High cost of living and dining in premium venues
- Alcohol restrictions and conservative norms in public spaces
- "As-salamu alaykum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Qatar
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic architecture with sweeping bayside views ideal for architectural and landscape shots.
Long waterfront promenade offering dramatic reflections and cityscape panoramas.
Lively market lanes with vibrant textures, traditional doors, and dynamic light for street photography.
Luxurious marinas and modern architecture with striking lighting after dark.
A mix of cultural buildings, sculptures, and water features for creative compositions.
Food in Qatar
Qatar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fragrant spiced rice with meat or seafood; a Qatar staple often cooked in a kazani.
Must-Try!
Sweet saffron- and cardamom-flavored vermicelli served with a savory omelet.
Creamy wheat porridge with meat, slow-cooked until smooth.
Crispy sesame-dusted dumplings drizzled with date syrup.
Arab dessert pudding with pastry, milk, nuts, and raisins baked to golden perfection.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering spices, grills, and a range of street foods from shawarma to grilled fish.
Market zone with nuts, dates, and sweets; great for an afternoon snack and shopping.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees in public spaces; respectful attire is appreciated, especially in religious or formal settings.
Keep displays discrete in public; avoid overt affection.
Be mindful of fasting practices; avoid eating in public during daylight hours in Ramadan and dress modestly.
Ask permission before photographing individuals; avoid photographing government buildings or security forces without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Qatar
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges may be included at upscale restaurants; otherwise 5-10% is appreciated. Taxis and casual eateries often do not expect tips.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful in smaller shops and markets; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and humid; outdoor activities are best early morning or late evening; plenty of indoor air-conditioned spaces.
Mild and pleasant; ideal for outdoor exploration, waterfront strolls, and desert trips; evenings can be cool.
Warm days with cooler nights; light layers recommended; parks and beaches are particularly pleasant.
Similar to spring; comfortable daytime temperatures and lower humidity; great for city walks and dune trips.
Qatar at Night
Hiking in Qatar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Desert coastal area reachable by 4x4; a remote and scenic hike-like experience for seasoned adventurers.
Rugged rock formations and open landscapes offering dramatic photo opportunities.
Mangrove trails near the coast with easy walking routes and kayaking opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Qatar by plane.
Doha's international hub of air travel, located minutes from central Doha with connections to global destinations.
Regional alternative; a short flight away for additional connections or regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large, diverse population from Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Africa.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; strong domestic leagues and a city-wide passion for matches.
Dune bashing, quad biking, dhow sailing, and kayaking in coastal mangroves.
Falconry remains culturally significant and popular among enthusiasts.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of classic dishes; look for mezze, salads, and plant-based stews; inform staff of restrictions and request egg-free or dairy-free options if needed.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Qatar.