Souq Waqif is a century-old trading market that was built on the banks of the Wadi Musheireb. Located in Doha, it stands as a reflection of Qatar’s rich cultural heritage and history.
Souq Waqif’s winding alleys provide a snapshot of traditional street life. Souq Waqif feels out of place, especially with the city’s modern and towering skyline in the background. The market, with its old buildings, takes visitors to a historical era while remaining a bustling business hub.
Here is a Souq Waqif guide to help you explore the place better if you are planning a visit. But before that, let’s learn about its history.
Souq Wasif History
The original building of Souq Waqif was built in the late 19th century. It was built in a traditional Qatari architectural style. Today, it is one of the most iconic buildings in Qatar. In the past, it was a place where Bedouins and locals used to trade livestock goods.
The building faced some destruction due to a fire in 2003. In 2006, the government of Qatar funded a renovation project for this historical masterpiece and heritage. The renovation was completed in 2008. After that, it has become a popular place to visit for locals and tourists alike.
All About Souq Waqif
Souq Waqif’s name translates to a standing market and is one of the most Instagramable areas in Qatar. Souq Waqif is home to traditional garments, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs alongside several restaurants and shisha lounges.
Here is a Souq Waqif guide that will help you explore the place better if you plan to visit anytime soon:
Hotels
The hotels at Souq Waqif are one of the most luxurious and modern ones in all of Qatar. In addition to this, they are located in a strategic location which attracts a large number of tourists to stay at these hotels.
These hotels offer a blend of Qatari tradition with modernity. Following are the top hotels located at Souq Waqif:
Al Najada Hotel
Al Najada Hotel is a 151 room hotel in Souq Waqif. The rooms here offer spectacular views and private balconies. The hotel is located within walking distance of Souq Waqif Metro station.
Facilities
- Swimming pool
- Fully Equipped Gym
- Dining restaurant Al Baraha
Aljomrok Hotel
This is a unique hotel that provides guests a glimpse into the great history and also offers spectacular views of the Corniche and Doha Towers.
Facilities
- Corridor
- Free Wi-Fi
- In-room dining
- Espresso machine
- Mini bar
- Iron and ironing board
- In-room safe
- Bathroom with shower room
- Tea and coffee-making machines
- Laundry service
Al Bidda Hotel
Al Bidda Hotel is a sophisticated residence that combines hospitality and elegance in an exquisite and innovative style. The hotel includes an Italian indoor restaurant, La Piazza, and a French outdoor restaurant, La Patisserie.
Facilities
- Private balcony in suites
- Dining room in suites
- Small kitchen in suites
- Bathroom with shower room
- Bathroom with bathtub in suites
- Tea and coffee-making machines
Arumaila Hotel
Arumaila Hotel features an Arab design and is located in the heart of Souq Waqif Market. The hotel attracts several travellers due to its vibrant location and its blend of comfort with the local heritage.
Facilities:
- Private balcony in suites
- Dining room in suites
- Free Wi-Fi
- Mini bar
- Work Office
- In-room safe
- In-room dining
Shopping
Souq Waqif has lots of traditional gold and spices souqs. Let’s go through the shopping options:
Souq Gold
Gold is widely popular in Middle Eastern culture. Walking through the gold section of the Souq market shows that Gold jewellery still holds importance in Qatari traditions.
Souq Gold is an ideal spot for meeting your desires for gold jewellery in Qatar. You will find stunning pieces of jewellery here at reasonable costs that are tough to locate elsewhere. This place offers imported bangles, elegant and hefty chains, rings and bridal jewellery.
- Gold Souq Timings: Saturday to Thursday: 09:00 am to 01:00 pm; 04:00 pm to 10:00 pm | Friday: 04:00 pm to 10:00 pm
- Location: Downtown Doha, Near Souq Waqif
Arabic Spices
You can find a huge variety of Arabic spices at Souq Waqif like nutmeg, cumin, coriander, cinnamon and saffron. Spices are a part of Arabic cuisine. Many people prefer to buy these Arabic spices in whole and grind them themselves at home. For this purpose, Souq Waqif is among the best places in all of Qatar to buy fresh Arabic spices.
Pet Area
Souq Waqif has pet stalls that sell various domestic animals, such as dogs, cats, rabbits, tortoises, and birds. Every Friday, these pets are auctioned off. Pet sellers must provide suitable health conditions, a duty that the Souq administration takes seriously.
Food Products
The souq is home to several shops that offer numerous basic goods. The visitors of Souq Waqif frequently purchase from these shops due to the high quality of their items and the reasonable and competitive prices.
Many Arabian food products like local dates, honey, and dry fruits are readily available and also of the finest quality.
Supplies for Men and Women
Souq Waqif offers a wide range of women’s and men’s products. These products may be found along the rails and roads that run from the eastern to western sides of Souq Waqif.
This section of the market is known for its diversity, which caters to both traditional and modern Arab preferences while remaining reasonably priced. This section offers a diverse range of those goods which are particularly the classic ones and are difficult to buy elsewhere.
Household Utensils
The household utensils at Souq Waqif can be found at shops that sell traditional Middle Eastern utensils. These utensils are very popular among both locals and tourists. Traditional Arab utensils such as Dallah, Makbarah and Gahwa Cups can be found here at Souq Waqif.
Oud and Arabic Perfume Souq
In a unique and traditional two-story building on the Eastern side of Souq Waqif, there is a section dedicated to oud and Arabian perfumes. This part of the market includes plenty of shops that sell authentic Arabian fragrances and Oud. In addition to this, a variety of other perfumes are also here.
Handicrafts and Antiques
It is highly advised that people visit this section of the Souq Waqif that sells antiques and traditional handicrafts. This section provides a glimpse of old traditional crafts and allows visitors to explore handicrafts while also offering the opportunity to acquire traditional gifts.
Maintenance and Gardening Tools
There are a few shops on the eastern side of the Souq Market that provide materials for gardening and construction. It’s a great place to take a sneak peek into what’s going on in the gardening world.
Attractions and Entertainment
For entertainment, Souq Waqif is nothing short of an entertaining and attractive option. From street performances to theatre, this place is lively.
Camels, Horses and Falcon on Hand
In Souq Waqif, there is a Falcon Souq where you can witness the magnificent birds up close. Visitors can take pictures with one perched on your arm as the shopkeeper keeps a close eye on you.
Falconry is a traditional sport in Qatar. A specialised hospital treats any ailments they may have, and falcons and their accessories can be purchased here as well.
Street Performances
During the cooler months or festive season, the local or regional groups perform. That’s when the souq is at its best. Throughout the annual Shop Qatar festival and the Eid festivities, costume parades and street entertainment take place frequently. The souq’s expansive courtyards are frequently the site of exhibitions as well.
Al Rayyan Theatre
Al Rayyan Theatre is a 980-seat indoor theatre newly opened in Souq Waqif. Located in the old town of Souq Waqif, it has been named after Qatari composer and musician Abdulaziz Nasser Al Obaidan.
FAQs
What Does Souq Waqif Mean?
The word Souq Waqif translates to “standing market” in Arabic.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Souq Waqif?
The best time to visit Souq Waqif is from October to April due to the pleasant weather.
What Are the Timings at Souq Waqif?
Souq Waqif has specific hours for shops and restaurants. Most shops open from 10:00 a.m. to 1 p.m , then reopen from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Restaurants and cafes often have extended hours, so you can enjoy a meal or coffee later in the evening.
What Kind of Gold Jewellery Can I Find in Souq Gold?
Souq Gold offers a huge variety made from 22 carats, including bangles, chains, rings and bridal sets.
What is Souq Waqif famous for?
Souq Waqif is one of Doha’s most popular tourist spots, known for its maze of narrow alleys filled with stalls. You’ll find traditional Qatari clothing, spices, souvenirs, and handmade crafts here. What makes it truly special is its authentic atmosphere, giving visitors a taste of local culture and heritage.
What to buy in Souq Waqif?
At Souq Waqif, you can explore a variety of traditional beauty products, like , musk, custom-made perfumes,oudh, kohl, argan oil, and henna design stencils. For a unique experience, you can even get a fresh henna tattoo applied by an artist on-site, making for a memorable souvenir.
Souq Waqif offers its visitors a mix of tradition and modern luxury. It is a must-visit destination in Doha city. There’s something for everyone in this vibrant market. Plan your visit to Souq Waqif Market and immerse yourself in the rich culture, history and heritage.
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