Qatar is not only one of the safest countries in the world, but it also has so much more to offer. From true Arabian hospitality to a variety of food, adventure, beaches, and sand dunes, this jewel should be on everyone’s bucket list. Let’s take a look at the top 10 things to do in Qatar:
- Go dune bashing
At the top of our list of must-do’s is dune bashing. This has to be one of the most exciting desert experiences. Drive across the sand dunes to the sea. Spend a night in a luxury Arabian tent or pitch your own. Eat local food and sleep under the stars.
- Visit Souq Waqif
This iconic Souq is a maze of stores. From fabric, spices, and sweets to souvenirs and art, you can get lost for hours. There is also a whole range of restaurants to choose from as well as shisha lounges where you can sit back, relax and take in the atmosphere.
- Walk along the Doha Corniche
The seven-kilometer promenade stretches across the Persian Gulf from the Sheraton Hotel to the Museum of Islamic Art. Grab a coffee, take photos next to the iconic pearl shell or catch up on your fitness at the machines that have been installed along the way.
If you want to see the view of the city’s skyline, hop on a dhow.
- Call in at the Museum of Islamic Art
Designed by I.M. Pei, the museum is situated just off the Corniche, and from some angles, it looks like it’s floating on water. The collection includes calligraphy, Islamic patterns, jewelry, and textiles from three continents. After spending the day absorbing the exhibits, head to the outdoor terrace on the top floor to enjoy one of the best views of Doha, haute cuisine, and incredible service.
- Visit Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum
This private collection of seemingly random objects was collected by Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani during his travels. There are more than 15,000 artifacts ranging from ancient religious books, textiles, and old cigarette packs to US vintage cars and traditional pearling boats.
- Attend a sporting event
With the 2022 FIFA World Cup set to take place in Qatar, there are new stadiums and other infrastructure being built to hold the surge of fans. Over and above this, the ATP World Tour, Qatar Moto Grand Prix, World Superbikes, and Qatar Master Golf Tournament all take place annually. If you’re looking for something more traditional, watch Arabian horse racing, camel racing, and falconry.
- Explore the Al Thakira Mangroves
This large area of greenery and water – with its own ecosystem – is filled with bird life, herons, and flamingos. Rent a kayak and experience all that the mangroves have to offer.
- Be enthralled by The Pearl
Spanning nearly four million square meters, The Pearl is a lavish mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment outlets. The picturesque Qanat Quartier is one of the highlights and houses colorful apartments, canals, bridges, and a host of restaurants and cafés.
- Eat at the best brunch spots
The hotels across Doha make a meal of brunch. There are so many to choose from, and each has its own selection of options such as sushi, salads, roasts, grills, cheese, bread, and chocolate fountains.
- Visit the world of horses
The Al Shaqab equestrian center in Doha is a gleaming, ultramodern complex where prize sports and show horses are pampered and groomed. Take a tour and watch how the horses are trained in facilities that include treadmills, swimming pools, and private racetracks.
There isn’t much that Qatar doesn’t offer, the problem you’ll have is whether you have enough time to enjoy every morsel of it.