Qatar is a small country situated on the Qatar Peninsula along the northeastern coastline of the Arabian Peninsula. The most popular and densely populated city in Qatar is Doha, which is brimming with places of interest. Given its compact size, traveling around Qatar is incredibly convenient; everything is within easy reach. This makes it an ideal destination for a brief getaway or a perfect stopover before continuing your journey.
If you’re planning a visit to Qatar and wondering what to explore, here’s a helpful list of the six best places to visit:
1. Al Dafna:
Al Dafna is a rapidly developing business district in Doha, located by the seaside. The area already features several gleaming skyscrapers and is home to the City Center mall, one of the largest malls in the Middle East. The Doha Corniche, a popular tourist attraction and a seven-kilometer-long promenade along Doha Bay, is also situated in Al Dafna.
2. Katara:
Katara is a cultural village along the waterfront, featuring an amphitheater, art galleries, museums, heritage centers, an opera house, shops, cafes, and a beach. Although the complex isn’t ancient, its architecture is truly breathtaking. The amphitheater, inspired by ancient Greece with a touch of traditional Islamic elements, and the intricately designed Katara mosque, stand out as highlights.
3. The Museum of Islamic Art:
Located in Doha, this museum holds one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive collections of Islamic art. Representing art from three continents and spanning from the 7th to the 19th century, its extensive collection includes manuscripts, textiles, metalwork, ceramics, jewelry, woodwork, and glass. The museum building itself, residing on an island near the traditional dhow harbor, is a stunning blend of modern and ancient Islamic architecture.
4. Khor Al Udeid (Inland Sea):
Exploring the desert and visiting the beaches of Khor Al Udeid are must-do activities in Qatar. This picturesque area is surrounded by large golden sand dunes that gradually lead into the blue waters of the Inland Sea. It’s also the largest nature reserve in Qatar. Dune bashing through the desert’s sand dunes is an unforgettable adventure.
5. The Pearl:
The Pearl is an artificial island and residential area in Doha, marking the first land in Qatar available for ownership by foreign nationals. It’s a beautiful spot for a stroll, with well-maintained paths and charming townhouses. You can enjoy high-end shopping, or simply wander the boardwalk overlooking the marina, lined with numerous cafes and restaurants.
6. Souq Waqif:
A souk is a traditional Arab market, and in Qatar, these bazaars are a favorite among tourists. Souq Waqif, Qatar’s oldest market, offers a rich variety of traditional garments, spices, crafts, perfumes, oils, pashminas, and unique souvenirs. Although it is at least a century old, it was renovated in the early 2000s to preserve its traditional Qatari architectural charm. The nearby Falcon Souq provides an opportunity to see falcons up close, meet locals, and learn more about Qatari heritage. Adjacent to it is the Souq Waqif Falcon Hospital, which also welcomes visitors.
For those passing through, experiencing Qatar on a stopover is highly recommended. Qatar Airways offers great hotel deals for stopovers up to four nights, allowing travelers to book 4 or 5-star hotels at lower prices and fully enjoy the beauty of Qatar.