5 Amazing Things To Do In Qatar
Whether you’re strolling through a colorful Arab street market, riding a jeep across the desert dunes, or attending a traditional Bedouin feast under the starry desert sky, we guarantee that Qatar will surprise you. Qatar is widely known for its contrasts. Just as Doha’s futuristic skyline is reflected in the historic waters of the Arabian Gulf, the country sits at the crossroads of East and West, between past and present. Now the capital is going through its best times: majestic architecture and sights appear one after another, but this huge step forward was made in the footsteps of previous generations. The result of the union of past and future is an eclectic space where cutting-edge experiences and cultural gems coexist.
Here’s what we’ve choose for you:
Discover thousands of years of Arabic history
The first stop for anyone wanting to get a real sense of the local culture should be the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha. The recognizable features of the modernist triumph of the architect Yumin Bei stand out vividly on an island near the capital’s Corniche, contributing to the city’s skyline. Entering the museum, you will be convinced that the collections, covering 1400 years of history, will impress you greatly. The exhibits are housed on five floors, ranging from jewelry and textiles to Islamic manuscripts that tell the history of Islam through the ages. Regular special exhibitions will complement the acquired knowledge. The Imperial Threads exhibit depicts the three major dynasties of Turkey, Iran and India at the beginning of the early modern period in Islamic art.
See the desert on a camel or in the back of a jeep
No trip to Qatar is complete without exploring the boundless desert that covers most of the country. Just leaving Doha, you will find yourself among the dunes in the heart of the spectacular landscapes of the region. Enjoy it all on a desert safari offered by many tour companies. This is a unique chance to experience the favorite Qatari pastime – dune travel, which includes a jeep ride through the sandy mountains at high speed. For something a little more traditional, take a camel ride to a Bedouin camp and sample authentic local food over a campfire. The UNESCO-recognized Khor Al Adaid Inland Sea, surrounded by sands, is a must-see. It is one of the few places in the world where desert and sea meet, creating a unique spectacle: ocean waves appearing on the horizon behind the dunes.
Travel back in time to the age of the pearl divers
Qatar’s sparkling coastline is a major attraction for travelers looking to enjoy the year-round sunshine. For decades, the Persian Gulf has played a vital role with its warm waters, attracting fishermen and pearl divers. Qatar’s seafaring past comes to life at the northwestern end of Al Zubarah Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just an hour’s drive from Doha, at the ruins of Zubarah, one of the region’s surviving pearl and fishing ports built in the 18th century, is an ancient fort. The area gives an idea of how life once flowed in a traditional fishing village, presenting to travelers the ruins of the city wall, ancient residential palaces, markets and mosques. The museum in the fort tells the history of the settlement, and a new observation deck is planned on one of the towers, which will offer a panoramic view of the surrounding desert.
Visit the exclusive island of Qatar
Modern maritime heritage is the Jewel, a spectacular island located in Doha’s luxurious West Bay area. The exclusive pearl-shaped island is home to some of the city’s finest restaurants, boutiques and hotels. Stroll along the waterfront, pass luxury yachts and dine at any of the finest restaurants for some of the city’s finest cuisine. Lebanese eatery Al Mayass, serving a variety of delicious meze dishes, is ideal for those who like to take a leisurely look at city life. Across the island, trendy New York’s Megu Restaurant serves modern Japanese cuisine, while Casa Paco serves flavorful Spanish dishes. Shoppers will also be pleased with the choice of boutiques, as many new stores opened on the island earlier this year. In addition to designer boutiques and supercar dealerships, top jeweler David Morris and local perfumer Ajmal have been added. Take one of the water taxis across the bay for fantastic views of the Pearl and the skyline of Doha. Katara Cultural Village is a bayside town located on the mainland with a stunning view of the island, which is a must visit. Magnificent examples of traditional style architecture permeate the space. There is an opera house, an amphitheater and beautiful gardens. You can visit one of the exhibitions that are presented here all year round or just take a walk-in atmospheric place, stopping to relax in one of the many cafes and restaurants.
