As Qatar’s capital city, Doha blends preserved traditional and cultural heritage with modern infrastructure perfectly. Within its bustling and vibrant lifestyle, Doha offers various activities, catering to the diverse tastes and interests of locals and tourists alike.
The capital has everything to offer from archaeological sites and adventurous outdoor activities to luxury dining to retail outlets. Doha’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and its traditional background make it a worthwhile destination. This guide covers the most popular things to do in Doha, including timings, locations and more.
- Popular Destinations in Doha
- 1) Explore the Mesmerising Education City Mosque
- 2) Lose Yourself at the Vibrant Souq Waqif at Night
- 3) Be in Awe of the National Museum of Qatar
- 4) Head to the Museum of Islamic Art
- 5) Shop at Mina District
- FAQs
Popular Destinations in Doha
An avidly developing capital city, Doha provides must-visit attractions for everyone. From exploring the energetic Souq Waqif to photographing architectural marvels, Doha is a beautiful vacation destination. Boasting a variety of dining and shopping options, here are some popular destinations to explore.
1) Explore the Mesmerising Education City Mosque
Alt-text: education city mosque (image source education city mosque)
Priding itself as an architectural marvel, the Education City Mosque in Doha is a community-focused mosque like no other. Resting on five large columns, it represents the five main pillars of Islam.
It can comfortably host 1,800 worshippers in the main prayer hall and 1,000 in the exterior courtyard. Moreover, the mosque’s exterior is covered in stunning Arabic calligraphy with the ability to leave everyone in awe.
- Location: Minaretein, Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Contact Information: +974 4 454 6600
- Timings: 11:00 am to 11:30 pm
2) Lose Yourself at the Vibrant Souq Waqif at Night
As a century-old trading market built on the banks of the Wadi Musheireb, Souq Waqif’s winding alleyways offer a trip down memory lane. Additionally, it is home to traditional handicrafts made by experienced workers, preserving Doha’s cultural heritage.
Lose yourself in the cosy atmosphere of Souq Waqif, especially at nighttime. Explore the traditional gold and spice souqs, garment stalls and dhabas (food stalls) and have the time of your life!
- Timings: 07:00 am to 12:30 pm and 03:00 pm to 10:00 pm
- Contact Information: +974 6 622 5151
3) Be in Awe of the National Museum of Qatar
Designed to look like a desert rose from afar, the National Museum of Qatar prides itself on preserving Qatar’s cultural and religious history. Furthermore, the museum spans 11 explorable galleries, each representing one moment in Qatar’s humble beginnings.
Designed by the infamous architect Jean Nouvel, it’s an ode to Qatar’s history and its progression. You can immerse yourself in the beauty of the National Museum of Qatar and experience its history through the eyes of a historian.
- Location: Museum Park Street, Doha, Qatar
- Timings: 09:00 am to 07:00 pm (Saturday to Wednesday, excluding Tuesday), 09:00 am to 09:00 pm (Thursday) and 01:30 pm to 07:00 pm (Friday)
- Contact Information: +974 4 452 5555
4) Head to the Museum of Islamic Art
An interesting fact about Qatar Museum of Islamic Art is that it is home to the world’s most diverse collections of Islamic art. The permanent gallery collections are organised according to cultural and broad historical themes, geographical locations and periods.
Explore the traditions of Islamic craftsmanship or enrol in the learning programs provided by the Museum of Islamic Art. Besides, you may finish the night off by roaming through various exhibitions and events taking place at the museum.
- Location: Off Al Corniche Street, Doha, Qatar
- Contact Information: +974 4 422 4444
- Timings: 09:00 am to 07:00 pm (Sunday – Saturday, excluding Wednesday and Thursday), 09:00 am to 09:00 pm (Thursday) and 01:30 pm to 07:00 pm (Friday)
5) Shop at Mina District
Wander around a picturesque neighbourhood in Doha, Mina District features vibrant and colourful Instagrammable spots. Go to a seafood market such as the Chabrat Al Mina or eat delectable dishes at La Mesa, Exit 55 or Ergon.
Formerly known as the Old Doha Port, the Mina District is known as a picture-perfect sanctuary. It houses a welcoming community full of life, mixed with a wide array of restaurants and souvenir shops.
- Location: Doha Port, Doha, Qatar
- Timings: Open 24/7
FAQs
1) Are There Any Good Restaurant Options in Doha?
Doha is a cultural hotpot, offering fine dining options with delectable international and local cuisines. Some of the best restaurants in Doha include Riva, Ipanema, Parisa and Mykonos, among many others.
2) Are There Any Shopping Malls in Doha?
Yes! Doha’s City Centre Mall features five expansive floors, showcasing its contemporary design. It offers an immersive shopping and dining experience, offering an array of retail stores, home furnishings and electronics.
3) How Long Should a First-timer Stay in Doha?
For first-timers, a 4 to 5-day stay is ideal to explore Doha’s traditional souqs, main attractions and fine dining. If you want to visit museums or amusement parks, consider a longer stay.
That’s everything you need to know about things to do in Doha. You now have information on popular attractions in Doha with their locations and timings. With this, you can plan your trip strategically, however, make sure to visit each destination on its schedule.
Keep reading Property Finder blogs to learn more about things to do in Qatar!
