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Qatar
In steeped-in-tradition Qatar, you can learn about the ancient pursuit of falconry, watch camels race across the desert and admire traditional dhows (wooden cargo boats) bobbing on the water. But the country is developing rapidly, with the capital Doha a world-class city in the making, thanks to its spectacular modern skyline, peerless Museum of Islamic Art, a fine and expansive traditional souq, and burgeoning arts and culinary scenes. On any given day you could sample a portfolio of sophisticated restaurants and then watch the sun set over sand dunes that seem to spring from a fairy tale.
Attractions
Must-see attractions for your itinerary
Doha
This vibrant complex is without doubt one of the most atmospheric places to explore in Qatar. Built on an ancient market site, the area remains the social…
Doha
With the largest collection of Islamic art in the world, drawn from three continents, this fabulous museum is so rich in treasure that it rewards short,…
Doha
For a glimpse of Qatari heritage, don't miss the Falcon Souq. You only have to see the scale of the market, afforded its own traditional arcaded building…
Doha
With its opaque waters and 800m golden-sand beach, the crescent-shaped Banana Island is one of the best excursions in Qatar, even if you're not staying at…
Doha
The much-anticipated opening of the National Museum of Qatar took place in March 2019. French architect Jean Nouvel's sprawling desert-rose-inspired…
Doha
One of the best libraries in the world, this incredible, spaceship-like structure contains a literary wonderland of two million books, including ancient…
Doha
One of the best and most beautiful green spaces along the Doha waterfront, Museum of Islamic Art Park is home to Richard Serra's vertical steel sculpture,…
Doha
One of Doha's best hangout spots, TaliaMare is set on a pretty beach, among pastel-coloured houses, and has a chilled-out vibe and music reminiscent of…
Attractions
Top picks from our travel experts
Top 13 things to do in Qatar, from fortresses to camel racing and atmospheric markets
Curated by Sarah Reid
Qatar
This profusion of petroglyphs – some 900 rock carvings depicting fish, cups in rows, rosettes, ships and foot marks – in northern Qatar has been seen by…
Doha
One of the best and most beautiful green spaces along the Doha waterfront, Museum of Islamic Art Park is home to Richard Serra's vertical steel sculpture,…
Doha
With the largest collection of Islamic art in the world, drawn from three continents, this fabulous museum is so rich in treasure that it rewards short,…
Doha
Covered in thousands of golden tiles, this striking Ottoman-style mosque shimmers in the sun. While non-Muslims can't go inside, it's one of the most…
Doha
Doha makes full use of its attractive waterfront promenade, which stretches 7km along Doha Bay and was carefully constructed from landfill to make a…
Doha
The much-anticipated opening of the National Museum of Qatar took place in March 2019. French architect Jean Nouvel's sprawling desert-rose-inspired…
Doha
This vibrant complex is without doubt one of the most atmospheric places to explore in Qatar. Built on an ancient market site, the area remains the social…
Doha
No-frills but utterly delicious Turkish food, including fantastic breads (cooked on-site) and mezze in truly epic portions that may leave little room for…
Qatar
This beautiful ‘inland sea’ is one of the major natural attractions in Qatar, and it takes on an almost mystical quality under a full moon, when the…
East-West / West-East by Richard Serra
Qatar
Worth the trip if you’re interested in unique art set in unusual landscapes, sculptor Richard Serra’s installation within the Brouq Nature Reserve…
Doha
If you fancy a swim but don't want to go too far from the city, the 1.5km beach at Katara Cultural Village is a pleasant sandy stretch with inflatable…
Doha
This exceptional modern exhibition space provides a home for international art with an Arab connection. Housed in an old school near Education City, the…
Qatar
This lovely low-rise, beachside resort just south of Mesaieed is a favourite among expats wanting to escape the city for the weekend. Far enough away to…
Qatar
The atmosphere is electric when the ‘sport of sheikhs’ – now involving remote-controlled robot jockeys – is being played at Qatar's premier camel race…
Doha
The fabulous food has made this basic, very casual restaurant an institution in Souq Waqif. Traditional Yemeni cooking draws a local crowd, who share…
Qatar
Qatar's first and only Unesco World Heritage site appears in the desert as if out of nowhere. The impressive structure, built in 1938, has four striking…
Imam Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Wahhab Mosque
Doha
The national mosque of Qatar is the largest in the country and has a striking architectural design with a enormous fort-like appearance and dozens of…
Planning Tools
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Best Things to Do
From getting lost in a historic market to exploring iconic cultural institutions, these are the best things to do in Qatar.
Read articleThings to Know
Before you visit Qatar, here are some must-read tips from an expat on the country’s culture, transportation, can’t-miss sites and experiences and more.
Read articleTransportation
Stick to the Doha metro to get around the capital city and then go farther afield via taxi, bicycle and car. Here’s how to get around Qatar.
Read articleVisa Requirements
Do you need a tourist visa to visit Qatar? Check this guide to find out everything you need to know about visas for visiting this Gulf state.
Read articleMoney and Costs
Qatar has a reputation for luxury, but here’s everything you need to know about visiting on a budget.
Read articleArticles
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Budget Travel
Qatar on a budget: 11 tips and tricks to make your trip cheaperAug 21, 2022 • 5 min read
Art and CultureTop 13 things to do in Qatar, from fortresses to camel racing and atmospheric marketsAug 9, 2022 • 8 min read
Destination PracticalitiesHow to explore Qatar by metro, taxi, bicycle and carJul 24, 2022 • 5 min read
Beaches10 of the best beaches in Qatar, from luxury private resorts to family-friendly public sandsJul 18, 2022 • 6 min read
Festivals & EventsFrom scorching summers to wintertime festivals, here’s when to visit QatarJul 14, 2022 • 7 min read
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