Ramadan is a sacred month of prayers, reflection and charity. In Doha, locals and tourists eagerly anticipate the bustling markets, gourmet suhoors and unforgettable iftars. With adjusted working hours and a festive spirit, families and friends come together to share quality time. If you are in the city, you cannot miss out on the best things to do in Doha during Ramadan.
We have covered everything from traditional Iftar tents to suhoor delights and family picnics to shopping. Let’s not wait any longer and see what you can experience in Doha during Ramadan.
List of Things to Do in Doha During Ramadan
Ramadan is a time of forgiveness, patience and prayers. Muslims worldwide complete suhoor before Fajr prayers, fast throughout the day and break their fast at sunset. This month lasts 29 to 30 days, after which people celebrate Eid Al-Fitr with friends and family.
In Doha, Ramadan brings peace during the day and festive celebrations at night. From enjoying Iftar buffets to shopping for Eid, there is much that the month offers. Let’s explore some of the popular things to do in Doha during Ramadan:
1. Enjoy Suhoor in a Lively Atmosphere
If you are in Doha, you cannot miss the lively atmosphere during Suhoor. It is an ideal way of experiencing local customs, flavours and hospitality.
You can find some of the best suhoor venues in Doha such as Al Fayrouz Garden and Souq Al Wakra Hotel. While some restaurants offer grand buffets, others organise suhoor tents. Enjoy a fulfilling meal and experience pure bliss and tranquillity.
2. Experience Ramadan Cannons Tradition
One of the best free things to do in Doha during Ramadan is to witness the firing of cannons. This is a longstanding tradition in Qatar, where cannons are fired as a sign to break the fast. Every day, thousands of excited children and adults gather at key locations within the city to experience the tradition.
The most popular venues to witness cannon fires include Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Village and Souq Al Wakra.
3. Break Your Fast at an Iftar Tent
Right after the firing of cannons, people gather at different restaurants and iftar tents to break their fasts. Every restaurant celebrates the spirit of Ramadan in its exquisite setups, flavourful dishes and traditional decor. Starting from dates and water, diners move to traditional main courses and end their iftar with mouth-melting desserts.
If you want to experience simplicity with an elegant touch, head over to any of the best Ramadan tents in Qatar. Among the many in Doha, the must-visit ones include the Ritz Carlton and Grand Hyatt.
4. Have an Unforgettable Iftar on a Dhow Cruise
If you love dining in the middle of the sea, consider joining a dhow cruise iftar in Doha. You can soak up the captivating sunset view while enjoying sweet and spicy treats.
Undoubtedly, it is one of the best things to do in Doha during Ramadan. So, what’s stopping you from this unforgettable experience? Book a dhow cruise iftar from National Cruise and enjoy a delicious iftar.
5. Let Your Kids Celebrate the Garangao Festival
If you are a local in Doha, you must have heard about the Garangao Festival. As the evening of the 14th Ramadan approaches, kids gather in groups and roam around the neighbourhood asking for sweet treats. Children collect sweets, nuts and dates as a reward for fasting for two weeks.
If you have children, let them enjoy and celebrate the Garangao Festival. Not just that, you should be ready with sweet treats to distribute among the little souls.
6. Relish Keshta (Arabian Picnic) Experience
Families look forward to Keshta (Arabian-style Bedouin picnics) during Ramadan. This experience combines mesmerising views, a tranquil atmosphere and delightful food. You can spend quality time with your family, share long-pending conversations and break your fast in a relaxing environment.
7. Unwind at Baraha Square in Msheireb Downtown
Doha comes alive after Iftar and the Ramadan nights are unique and special. One must-visit place is Baraha Square, where Muslims and non-Muslims gather to have fun. After Iftar, the streets of Baraha Square are packed with tourists.
Families with children can head to the carnival games and art stalls section. If you visit late at night, you can have an open-air suhoor in Mandarin Oriental in Baraha Square.
8. Host an Iftar Party at Home
Ramadan brings people together and is a time to share iftars with relatives and friends. If you want to host an Iftar party, start with finalising a three-course meal. Begin with light items like tabbouleh and soup, move to the main course like lamb and end with sweet treats like kunafa. You can also check out a detailed guide on how to host the perfect Iftar meal.
9. Shop at The Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre
Ramadan in Doha is incomplete without shopping for traditional items and specialities. The Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre is hosting an exhibition from 16th March to 29th March 2025. There is much to explore at the exhibition, such as honey, dates, homeware items and an Eid collection.
Dos and Don’ts During Ramadan
If you are planning to visit Doha during Ramadan, you must follow certain rules. Here are some basic guidelines to follow during the holy month:
| Dos | Don’ts |
| Most tourist places and shops operate for reduced business hours, so it is best to check before visiting anywhere. | Please refrain from eating and drinking in public, as it is a punishable offence. |
| Dress up modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothes. | Avoid swearing or playing loud music in public places. |
| Respect those who are fasting and wish ‘Ramadan Mubarak’ to everyone you meet. | |
| Donate as much as you can to the underprivileged. |
FAQs
1. Is It Worth Visiting Doha During Ramadan?
Yes, visiting Doha during Ramadan offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Tourists can enjoy iftar and suhoor buffets, plan a picnic and celebrate Garangao.
2. Is Everything Closed During Ramadan in Doha?
No, not everything is closed during Ramadan. However, most restaurants remain closed during the day and tourist places open for adjusted business hours.
That concludes the list of some of the best things to do in Doha during Ramadan. If you are planning a visit here, make sure you respect the sacred month and enjoy your stay to the fullest.
Check out these seven ways to prepare for Ramadan. You can also add a Ramadan touch to your home to celebrate the spirit of the religious month.
