Things to see and do in Qatar
Attractions in Qatar
Al Khor
50km (31 miles) north of Doha is Al Khor, a city with a decidedly laid-back atmosphere. It has beautiful beaches, a Family Park (with a zoo), and also Qatar's biggest dairy farm which has a petting zoo, a playground, an obstacle course, and a horse riding facility.
Al Zubarah
104km (65 miles) northwest from Doha is Al Zubarah. Once a thriving pearl fishing and trading port, Al Zubarah is now an excellent example of an 18th and 19th century Gulf merchant town and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The most prominent feature here is the Al Zubarah Fort.
Dahl Al Misfir Cave
A geological wonder, this 40m (131ft) deep cave is formed largely of fibrous gypsum which is phosphorescent, meaning it can glow faintly under ultraviolet light. The cave is 40km (25 miles) west of Doha.
Doha
The cultural and economic hub of Qatar, Doha is where most visitors land and base. Within Doha, the 7km (4 miles) long waterfront promenade known as the Corniche is a popular tourist hotspot. Stretching from the Sheraton Hotel at one end to the Museum of Islamic Art at another, the Corniche offers great viewpoints, open lawns, and a harbour where you can hop on a dhow cruise.
Doha, Katara
A purpose-built cultural centre, Katara hosts many concerts, shows and exhibitions year-round. There is also a well-maintained public beach offering water sports, along with restaurants, cafés, markets.
Doha, Museum of Islamic Art
I. M. Pei's beautifully designed museum has become one of Doha's most iconic sights. Inside the space it is light and airy, and the collection of paintings, glassworks, ceramics, textiles and manuscripts is breathtaking. Allow plenty of time to wander. The outdoor terrace is perfect for an evening drink and the on-site three Michelin-starred restaurant is also worth a visit.
Doha, Souq Waqif
Try your bartering skills on the vendors in Souq Waqif where you can find excellent Middle Eastern merchandise from perfumes to spices. Inside, there is a traditional falconry market, a visitor centre hosting cultural shows, as well as a good mix of restaurants. If you don't like to shop, settle down for coffee and watch the world go by.
The desert
The sand desert in Qatar offers spectacular sunrises and clear night skies that are perfect for stargazing. You can also roar up and down the dunes in a 4x4s, a quad bike, or even a surfboard.
The desert, Khor Al Adaid
60km (37 miles) southeast from Doha lies the impressive 'Inland Sea' or Khor Al Adaid, where the sea, together with the surrounding large tidal embayment, spills into the desert. This place supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. Best to book an overnight tour that allows you to enjoy the breathtaking sunset and sunrise.
