Qatar, a small but mighty nation located on the Arabian Peninsula, offers visitors a unique blend of traditional culture and modern luxury. From bustling souks to towering skyscrapers, this Middle Eastern gem has something for every traveller. In this article, we will explore how to make the most of your visit to Qatar, from navigating its vibrant city to experiencing its rich history and heritage. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the desert or relaxation on pristine beaches, Qatar promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture there.
Qatar may be a small country, but it has big ambitions for tourism. It hosted the FIFA Football World Cup at the end of 2022, and the long-term aim is to welcome 6 million visitors by 2030. If you are planning to visit Qatar, what can you expect and what do you need to know? And what is there to see and do?
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Qatar Prepares For Tourism
When I visited Qatar in 2012, tourism seemed very much like a work in progress. On a trip to the north of the country my guide kept saying things like, “it is closed for redevelopment”, or “it is the biggest airport in the world, but not finished yet,” and so on… And I was disappointed to find that the award-winning heritage museum in Doha was now a building site, presumably due to emerge from the rubble bigger and better than before.
For a list of Qatar’s Museums click here
Back then most of the visitors to Qatar were business trippers, expat workers, or visiting friends and relatives. It was also favoured by American service personnel taking short breaks from Afghanistan. However, even in 2012 attempts were being made to boost tourism by building hotel complexes along the coast. And recent developments will make it a much more welcoming place for tourists.
For a range of accommodations in Doha click here
New Tourist Developments From 2022
105 new hotels and apartments (both luxury developments and more budget-conscious establishments)were opened before the start of the World Cup.
In 2019 the new metro system opened making it much easier to get around. It is also now possible to use Uber in Qatar, and a fleet of electric scooters and bicycles has opened.
An added incentive to your visit in 2024 is that in 2023 Qatar was ranked the third safest country in the world!
What To See And Do In Qatar
Although Qatar is small (comparable in size to Northern Ireland or the island of Jamaica), it manages to combine a range of tourist attractions, both in Doha and elsewhere. You can enjoy traditional Arabic culture, modern buildings and facilities, museums and restaurants. There is a surprising amount of wildlife and – of course – desert adventures. And a range of places to visit for families.
Doha
The country is dominated by Doha, its capital city. Many of the tourist attractions and hotels are along the Corniche, the 7 km waterfront promenade where you can stroll and watch the dhows (traditional fishing boats). Elsewhere in the city you can visit the Souq Waqif, which manages to combine traditional shopping with a cosmopolitan feeling restaurant area.
A highlight of my visit was the Museum of Islamic Art. Other museums in Doha include the National Museum of Qatar (exploring the country’s history and heritage) and the galleries of the Katara Cultural Village. And there are lots of options for eating out in Doha.
Doha: Private City Highlights Guided Tour and Dhow Cruise
Explore Doha on a private half-day tour with pickup and drop-off. Discover cultural and architectural highlights such as Souq Waqif and Pearl Island, then enjoy a boat ride to admire the city skyline.
Doha: 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket with Audio Guide
Enjoy the city of Doha at your own pace with a hop-on hop-off bus ticket and audio guide. Visit some of the city’s major attractions, such as Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Village, and the Pearl Qatar.
Doha – Corniche walk with Dhow Boat Cruise (2 Hour)
Discover Doha with stunning views of city skyline in Corniche and experience the unique Arabian Dhow Cruise in this short 2 hour tour.
Doha: Al Safliya Island Boat Cruise with Breakfast
Enjoy some of the best views of Doha and go on a boat cruise to Al Safliya Island. Land on the island for a delicious breakfast on the beach, and go for a swim in the warm waters of the Arabian Sea.
Further Afield
It is worth either hiring a car or taking a tour to explore outside the city. I took a half-day trip and enjoyed some forts, an old mosque and lunch in a remote fishing village. We even had an unscheduled stop at a camel farm!
From Doha: North of Qatar Private Guided Tour with Transfers
Head north from Doha to discover the heritage of Qatar on a guided tour. Admire the UNESCO-listed Al Zuara Fort, explore harbour towns, take in the sights of Purple Island, and visit a mangrove forest.
Doha: Private Half-Day Desert Safari with Camel Riding
Embark on a private half-day desert safari with camel riding and dune bashing. Enjoy the thrill of dune bashing, ride a camel, and slide down the dunes on a sandboard
Private Doha Night Desert Safari Tour
- Inland Sea, the unique destination offers a mesmerizing blend of stunning desert
- See the wonders of the night sky. Peer through telescopes
- Awake to the first light of dawn, a tranquil and serene moment in the desert.
One site not to miss is Al Zubarah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site around 100 km from Doha. In the 18th century, it was a walled coastal town, and the archaeological site includes remains of its streets and houses. However, the main attraction is the 20th-century Al Zubarah Fort, the best-preserved fort in Qatar. It has a museum and plenty of space to explore.
Practical Information For Your Visit To Qatar
Places to visit in Doha:
Visit Qatari Visas
The visa requirements depend upon where you live and the length and purpose of your stay. For many visitors a short leisure trip will not require any pre-authorisation and a visa waiver can be obtained on arrival. Have a look at the Qatar government site for details.
Flights To Qatar
Wherever you live it is easy to fly to Qatar (it is estimated that 80% of the world’s population can reach Doha within a six-hour flight). The national airline, Qatar Airways, flies to destinations across the world, making it an ideal place for a stopover.
For the latest flight deals to Qatar click here
Doha Airport
Hamad International Airport (DOH) is 13.7 km from the CBD of Doha – the journey takes approximately 20 mins.
Private Car Transfer: You can book a private transfer here
By Metro: you’ll need to take the Red Line toward Lusail to Msheireb. From Msheireb metro station, you can reach the centre of Doha on foot or by metro by changing to the Gold Line. You’ll disembark at Souq Waqif metro station, which is in the heart of Doha.
Car Rental
For the latest car rental deals click here
Hotels In Doha
For 5-star hotels in Qatar the luxurious Banyan Tree and the Pullman Doha West Bay are both popular. However, more mid-market options include the Millennium Hotel Doha and the Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels.
Travel Insurance
World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while travelling and claim online from anywhere in the world.
To Travel Too Travel Shop
Travel smarter and safer with products from our To Travel Too Travel Shop. If you are looking for the latest luggage, guidebooks or travel accessories we have you covered with over 800 travel products to choose from.
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Where to next?
FAQs on Visiting Qatar
How to dress when visiting Qatar?
Men and women should keep their knees and shoulders covered. Dress code: modestly
Photographing Local People
It is recommended to ask to take a photo of a local in Qatar
What is the currency of Qatar?
The local currency is Qatari Riyal.
When is the best time to visit Qatar?
For pleasant temperatures, the best months are early April to early May and late October to late November. January is the coldest month.
How long should I spend in Qatar?
3 days is long enough to see all that Qatar has to offer
Can I bargain in the local souks
Yes, you can.
What is the Electric Current in Qatar?
The standard voltage is 240 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. Plug points are the same as in the UK.
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In conclusion, visiting Qatar offers a unique opportunity to explore a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition in one of the wealthiest nations in the world. With its stunning architecture, luxurious shopping centres, and rich cultural heritage, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Qatar. By following these tips on how to visit Qatar, travellers can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience while immersing themselves in the beauty and hospitality of this captivating destination. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient souqs, relaxing on pristine beaches, or marvelling at futuristic skyscrapers, Qatar has something for everyone to enjoy.
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