Doha, the capital city of Qatar, is one of the best places for shopaholics to visit. With a range of stores to splurge at, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Explore the traditional markets or visit the many chic malls and you’ll see that there definitely is something for everyone.
Souq Waqif
This bustling marketplace offers an authentic Arabian shopping experience that’s not to be missed. Here you’ll find countless shops selling everything from fragrant spices and traditional garments to intricate textiles, bespoke jewellery and luxurious carpets. Souq Waqif also boasts art galleries, outdoor cafés, and restaurants where you can take a load off and tuck into the flavours of the local Qatari cuisine.
Souq Al Dira
A historic market known for its traditional Qatari garments, Souq Al Dira will wow you with its exquisite fabrics. From Indian silk and lace to cashmere pashminas, it’s the perfect place to order custom-made abayas, thobes or other traditional clothes.
The Pearl-Qatar
This man-made island, close to Doha’s prestigious West Bay District, is known for its luxurious shopping experience. With premium designer boutiques and showrooms, you will discover international fashion brands, exclusive jewellery, haute couture and accessories. It’s the perfect place for fashion enthusiasts to indulge.
Villaggio Mall
Called an architectural marvel, the Villaggio Mall is an Italian inspired shopping destination. It boasts luxury shopping and entertainment, complete with gondolas on a tranquil indoor canal. If you’re looking for designer clothing, accessories and electronics, this is the mall for you.
Falcon Souq
Falconry is a national obsession in Qatar. At the Falcon Souq, you can witness the timeless bond between Qatari falconers and their magnificent birds. Spend the morning exploring the stores filled with equipment for falconry. From hoods, perches and falcon accessories, you can emerge yourself in this popular pastime.
Al Hazm Mall
Al Hazm Mall, situated on the Al Markhiya in Doha, is a luxury mall boasting grand architecture. This opulent shopping destination is filled with high-end boutique stores including many international brands selling everything from accessories to home décor, jewellery and fashion. If you’re looking for a refined shopping experience with magnificent structural beauty, hop into your rental car and head out there.
Gold Souq
All that glitters is gold at the Gold Souq in downtown Doha. At this shining souq, you can find all kinds of golden jewellery. Stores are bursting with chains, bangles and bridal jewellery sets. Gold is 22-carat, but if you prefer another metal, you can also find silver, white gold and platinum pieces.
Souq Al Ali
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in a truly local shopping experience, then Souq Al Ali should be on your list. It’s made up of abaya and thobe stores, clothing shops and shawarma restaurants. Dive into the vibrant atmosphere and be sure to haggle for the perfect souvenir.
Place Vendôme
One of Qatar’s newest luxury shopping malls is Place Vendôme. Located just 20km north of Doha in the new area of Lusail, this mega mall features the world’s most luxurious brands. Inspired by classic French-style architecture, this shopping experience will wow every member of the family. It spans over 1 million square metres and is home to brands like Valentino, Tory Burch and Celine to name a few. The mall also offers a host of mouthwatering dining options. From restaurants and cafés to food courts, you can enjoy a delicious dish along the impressive water canal.
Doha offers a shopping experience unlike any other. With its mix of traditional souqs and modern malls, you can explore the rich Qatari culture and shop ‘til you drop. The best way to make sure you get all your shopping done is to rent a car in Qatar. United Car Rentals offers a wide range of vehicles to suit your needs. For all those shopaholics out there, we recommend a nice big SUV to make sure you have enough space for all your shopping bags. Get in touch with us today and speak to one of our consultants. They will give you the best advice to ensure that your driving (and shopping) experience is top notch.
References:
https://www.iloveqatar.net/guide/places/a-guide-to-the-souqs-and-markets-in-qatar
https://www.holidify.com/pages/shopping-in-doha-6078.html