What To Do in Doha, Qatar: Bazaar’s Guide To The City
From hotels and restaurants to all the places to visit and things to do
What To Do in Doha, Qatar: Bazaar’s Guide To The City
Dubai is often the immediate tourist destination that comes to mind when anyone suggests traveling to or around the Middle East. Saudi Arabia has a huge focus on all things tourism within Vision 2030. But what about Qatar? The football came and went, but what about tourism within this incredible country within the GCC.
Welcome to the dazzling city of Doha, where traditional meets modern, harmoniously coexisting against the backdrop of the Arabian Gulf. Nestled on the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Doha, the capital of Qatar, has emerged as a dynamic and vibrant destination for travellers seeking an enchanting blend of culture, history, and cosmopolitan allure.
In this comprehensive guide, we invite you to embark on an immersive journey through the heart of Doha, where we will unveil the city’s hidden treasures, navigate its bustling souqs, explore its avant-garde architecture, and savor the flavors of its diverse cuisine.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, Bazaar Arabia shares an all-inclusive roadmap to an unforgettable experience in Doha.
What To Do in Doha, Qatar: Bazaar’s Guide To The City
5 Best Restaurants in Doha
Parisa
Dive into traditional Persian cuisine with richly spiced food, including mouth-watering charcoal grilled kebabs and a selection of fresh breads you can smell (that fresh dough smell we all know and love) before you can see. With luxurious bedazzled golden interiors and courteous staff, Parisa brings an authentic Iranian experience to Souq Waqif, the heart of Qatar’s capital.
Yasmine Palace
Enjoy a majestic Arabesque experience with luxurious interiors and a delicious meal. Enjoy the beautiful chandeliers and a magnificent indoor fountain alongside fresh juices or relaxing shisha as you wait for tantalizing and filling Arabic dishes, including meat platters and irresistible baklava. Unwind with traditional musical performances and end your evening as you scroll down the enchanting Pearl Island.
La Spiga by Paper Moon
Discover authentic Italian flavours in the Gulf at La Spiga by Paper Moon located in Doha’s luxurious W Hotel. With a fresh selection of seafood (a must being so close to the sea), La Spiga leaves you feeling full, but not too full enough to squeeze in their melt in your mouth tender tiramisu. Enjoy a romantic evening at La Spiga with live music and a warm and welcoming service.
Saffron
Saffron provides fine-dining excellence with the essence of Thai flavours cultivated from ingredients and techniques passed down from generations. Expect high levels of spice and a burst of flavours with every crunch and bite that is masterfully prepared by experienced connoisseurs. Whether it be tangy coconut curry or traditional pad thai, Saffron is sure to brighten your senses (and your evening) with its delicious menu.
Spice Market
Indulge in a brunch buffet filled with Asian delicacies at the Spice Market, where refreshing drinks are curated to appease your personal taste and the attentive staff never leave you waiting. Enjoy sushi nights on Wednesdays and live entertainment on Tuesday nights, as you fill your appetite with soupy dumplings and fresh seafood. The Spice Market really is on the market for having something for everyone!
5 Best Hotels in Doha
Mandarin Oriental
Internationally renowned, the Mandarin Oriental hotels are always elite. Expect nothing less at Doha’s Mandarin Oriental with urban interiors, contemporary designs, exceptional service and all-encompassing facilities. Relax in spacious rooms designed with modern and sophisticated furniture and choose from a wide selection of cuisines from restaurants within the hotel. Located in the center of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the Mandarin Oriental also provides spa and wellness services with luxurious treatments and massages.
InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa
Situated in Doha’s longest beach and surrounded by landscape gardens, InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa offers a lavish experience with modern elegant rooms and architecture. With 14 restaurants and bars, you can choose to try a new cuisine everyday. Unwind at the spa, fitness centre or free form swimming pool after visiting Doha’s greatest landmarks with downtown Doha just few minutes away and a walking distance to the Doha Exhibition Centre, City Center Mall and Doha Golf Club.
Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara
Located off the coast on a golden island of its own, Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara is truly an enchanting getaway with luxurious views of the sea. Although away from the bustling sounds and sights of the city centre, Banana Island Resort Doha features state-of-the-art amenities filled with adventure and wellness that never leave you feeling unsure on how to maximise on your trip. Perfect for families, Banana Island Resort Doha offers surfing, diving, golfing, bowling and water sports in addition to a cinema theatre.
Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli
For an authentic Middle Eastern experience that is blended with contemporary leisure, book a stay at the Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar located in a sea-side district near central Doha. Indulge in appetising offerings made with flavourful spices with a wide selection of Arabic restaurants to choose from and experience a burst of culture at Souq Al Wakra, a traditional marketplace home to artisan crafts and local art.
Marsa Malaz Kempinski
Marsa Malaz Kempinski is located on the Pearl Island and provides a mesmerising blend of European and Arab culture. Discover breath-taking views and surround yourself with water landscapes as you indulge in luxury and comfort with spa treatments and retail therapy. From fresh and innovative gastronomy and delectable cuisines, Marsa Malaz Kempinski is fit for a royal retreat.
Top 5 Things to Do in Doha
The Corniche
Enjoy enchanting views of Doha’s pristine skyline as you walk down the promenade or boat through the serene waters of the Arabian Gulf. Pose with monuments and sculptures that adorn the pathway and indulge in traditional Arabic cuisine at nearby restaurants. Don’t forget to stroll through the Umbrella Park, a picturesque tunnel made from greenery and coloured umbrellas.
Al Waqif Souq
Enjoy some retail therapy as you walk through the enchanting halls of Souq Waqif, with a range of flavourful spices and traditional Arabic decor, art, fashion and beauty products to choose from. It’s a treasure trove of souvenirs and gifts for those at home. Animal lovers can visit the Emiri stables for an early morning or evening ride. With live street performances and local art galleries, Souq Waqif is bustling with culture.
Al Ahmad Mosque lies at the heart of Souq Waqif. ❤️ #Qatar2022 pic.twitter.com/S5CrrzLM4K
— AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 (@Qatar2023en) July 22, 2022
Al Zubara Fort
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Zubara Fort is the symbol of Qatar’s rich history and culture. Journey to the past as you explore the ruins of an important pearl and trading centre and learn more about traditional Arabic architecture. Enjoy your drive back to the city as you cruise through the sand dunes in Doha’s vast desert.
Dive into Al Zubarah Fort ?#SeeYouInQatar #Qatar2022 pic.twitter.com/ZnGWwTrX8o
— AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 (@Qatar2023en) January 14, 2022
The Pearl Island
The luxurious Pearl Island in Doha is a top spot for locals and tourists wanting to indulge in shopping, entertainment and dining. This man-made wonder is an architectural feast, holding several districts with Eastern and Western influences. Qatar’s own ‘city of canals’, the Qanat Quartier in the Pearl Island reflects the pastel coloured buildings of Venice with boats passing on waterways through boutiques and restaurants.
Museum of Islamic Art
Located on Doha’s Corniche, the Museum of Islamic Art is home to traditional jewellery, textiles, ceramics and art found from all over the globe. Marvel at all the historic art collections as well as the majestic interiors and architecture of the museum which make this establishment an independent work of art on its own.
Lead Image: Photography: Vladimir Marti. Styling: Laura Jane Brown. Model: Julia Aida at Fashion League. Hair and Make-Up: Manuel Losada. Shot on location at Raffles Doha, Fairmont Doha, Katara Towers.
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s May 2023 issue.