The eyes of the world were firmly on Qatar in late 2022 as it hosted the FIFA World Cup. The tournament brought with it an influx of foreign tourists to this tiny Middle East country.
Tourism is a developing industry in Qatar, but is certainly growing. Visitors can take advantage of recent cultural openings around the country – including the fascinating structures that house of the National Museum and the Museum of Islamic Art – along with a host of new hotels.
The presence of several significant historical sites – from the bustling souq markets to centuries-old forts – and natural beauty, including desert dunes and strikingly blue seas makes Qatar a surprisingly diverse tourist destination. We’ve rounded up some of the best things to do so you can make the most of your trip.
Walk along the Corniche
West Bay is one of the main parts of the Corniche
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The Corniche is a roughly four-mile long promenade that extends along Doha Bay. Often the venue for national celebrations, it is home to dozens of shops, restaurants and attractions. Visitors will find excellent views of the city’s skyline during their strolls, while the Al Dafna park is a great place to sit by the water as you bask in the sun. For a traditional Doha experience, take a ride on the water in a dhow boat.
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Visit the Katara Cultural Centre
The Katara Mosque is found within the Cultural Village
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A popular cultural and commercial complex in the capital, Katara is home to a maritime museum and several important local buildings. It also hosts several cultural institutions, including the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra and the Doha Film Institute.
Visitors can enjoy the centre’s extensive gardens, an open-air cinema, the upscale 21 High Street shopping centre and even a beach. Notable landmarks include the Katara Mosque (a real work of art adorned in blue and gold tiles), the Golden Mosque and the Katara Amphitheatre (which provides sweeping views over the sea and the village itself).
Take in the architecture
The design of the Qatar National Museum was inspired by the desert rose
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The architecture throughout Qatar is extremely varied, from Al Rayyan’s Education City Mosque to World Cup stadiums. Some of the museums, including the Museum of Islamic Art, the Qatar National…
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