Tourism in Qatar

What to Do in Doha?

Doha is the cultural, economic and tourism heart of Qatar. The city offers a wide range of attractions, from museums and heritage sites to shopping malls, waterfront areas and architectural landmarks.

Among the key places to discover:

• The Corniche: a 7-kilometre waterfront promenade offering views of Doha’s skyline. Typical old wooden boats (Dhow) are anchored in the harbour.
• The Doha Skyline: The beautiful, spectacular and futuristic City Centre’s skyline is perhaps more impressive at night due to the different colours of the buildings.
• The Museum of Islamic Art: This museum is renorwned for its architecture (by the famous architect Pei) and major collection of Islamic artwork from Spain to Central Asia and dating from 7th to 20th century.
• The National Museum of Qatar: Open in 2019, it is dedicated to the country’s history, culture and future development.
• Souq Waqif: Lively traditional market with tiny covered streets. Very busy at night with many restaurants, cafés and local shops.
• The Pearl-Qatar: A luxury and artificial waterfront district with marinas, boutiques and restaurants.
• The Arab Museum of Modern Art (Mathaf): Opened in 2010, it showcases 6,000 paintings and sculptures, and hosts exhibitions and events celebrating Arab art from all over the world.
• The Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab Mosque (State Mosque): Inaugurated in 2011, it is the largest Mosque in Qatar and can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers inside and 30,000 outside. It has 28 large domes and a single 65-meter high minaret.
• Katara Cultural Village: A cultural destination combining art, gastronomy and leisure
• Msheireb Downtown Doha: A modern district blending innovation, architecture and heritage

Numerous other attractions or places are interesting, including the Al Koot Fort, Barzan Towers, the Grand Mosque and the Clock Tower, the Amir Palace, the Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Heritage Library, the Weaponry Museum, the Doha Zoo...

Discover Qatar beyond Doha

Beyond the capital, Qatar offers a variety of natural and cultural sites that reveal another side of the country.

• Al Zubarah Fort: Built in 1938, the fortress is now housing a museum (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
• Khor Al Adaid: The Inland Sea is a breathtaking treasure where sand dunes meet the water.
• Al Wajba Fort: One of the oldest forts in Qatar, built in 1882. It's the place of a famous battle occured in 1893 when the army of Sheik Qassim bin Mohammed AL THANI defeated the Ottomans.
• Murwab Fort: The oldest known fort in Qatar (9th century). The village has also the two oldest mosques in the country (805 – 885 AD).
• Al Wakrah and Al Khor: Former fishing and pearl diving towns. Their harbour protects many dhows.
• Ras Abrouq rock formations: A lunar-like landscape of limestone rock formations sculpted by the wind.
• Al Thakira Mangroves: A large area of vegetation with a rich natural ecosystem (flamingos, birds, etc.) surrounding by the desert.
• Al Jassasiya rock carvings: One of Qatar’s most important archaeological sites, with an ensemble of 874 carvings.
• Bir Zekreet: Fascinating area with unusual landscape of white cliffs sculpted by the sea.
• Al Sheenhaniya: Famous for camel races all through the year.

Shopping, dining and entertainment

Shopping is an important part of the visitor experience in Qatar. Doha offers a wide range of malls, luxury boutiques, traditional markets and lifestyle destinations. From large shopping centres to the more authentic atmosphere of Souq Waqif, visitors can enjoy both international brands and local craftsmanship.

Qatar’s culinary scene is also growing rapidly, with restaurants offering Middle Eastern, Asian, European and international cuisine. Traditional cafés, waterfront restaurants and fine dining venues all contribute to Doha’s dynamic lifestyle.

A strong destination for business and events

Qatar has become a recognised destination for international events, conferences and exhibitions. Its modern venues, high-quality hotels, efficient transport infrastructure and international air connectivity make the country particularly suitable for business tourism.

The country hosts every year the annual cycling Tour of Qatar and successfully organised the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

A memorable travel experience

Whether exploring Doha’s museums, walking along the Corniche, visiting traditional souqs or discovering desert landscapes, Qatar offers a travel experience that combines comfort, culture and authenticity.

With its strategic location, modern infrastructure and growing tourism offer, Qatar continues to strengthen its position as one of the most attractive destinations in the Middle East.