Qatar Airways: 5 Reasons to Visit Doha

There are many reasons to add Qatar to your travel bucket list. If it is not for the extravagant food scene, then it should be for the adventurous, thrill-seeking activities or the indulgent and luxurious, five-star experiences.

Explore a destination often left undiscovered and spend a few extra days in Doha on your next stopover with Qatar Airways, with the provision of luxurious four- or five-star accommodation of up to four nights from just €16* per night and visa-free entry to 95 nationalities.

Turn your next holiday in two by booking your stopover package here and experience a journey like never before with Qatar Airways to more than 150 destinations worldwide. Enjoy an impeccable on-board service when you travel with the World’s Best Airline.

Top five reasons why you should visit Doha:

1. Authentic and immersive culture

Whilst Doha is a luxe and modern destination, it has maintained its culture and heritage more than most cities in the Middle East. There are many authentic experiences to live in Doha including the National Museum of Qatar, local mosques, The Pearl, the Souq Waqif and much more.

Discover the unique heritage of Downtown Doha as you wander through the vibrant labyrinth of alleyways of Souq Waqif. View modern day Doha’s towering iconic architecture and discover the Corniche, Doha’s iconic waterfront where the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf provide the setting to the city’s impressive skyline.

2. Exceptional and diverse architecture

Doha is a hub of impressive architecture, with new infrastructure rising all over the city. The skyline is constantly evolving with modern skyscrapers, traditional mosques and unique masterpieces created by renowned architects.

Along with the iconic Museum of Islamic Art, the National Museum of Qatar is one of these masterpieces. The new museum is also known as the “desert rose”. Aptly named as constructed to mimic a rock formation that occurs in the desert and typically looks just like a rose. Designed by Atelier Jean Novel, the National Museum of Qatar is drawing visitors from all over the globe.

Doha has also seen recent architectural developments in preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2022, with innovation and sustainability kept as a priority. A large number of the stadiums constructed for the FIFA World Cup are designed with the intention of being repurposed in third world countries after the tournament has concluded.

3. Extravagant and indulgent food scene

Many visitors cannot get enough of Doha’s incredible food scene, influenced by Qatar’s culture and diversity. Doha is home to some of the most extravagant and indulgent food experiences you may ever encounter, from all-you-can-eat brunches to gastronomic dinners.

Visit Katara Cultural Village where you can take a taste from one of the many food stalls or restaurants. We recommend eating at one of the oceanfront food stalls for a small bite of local seafood for lunch.

Another option is the iconic Souq Waqif, ideal to combine food with one of the best shopping experiences you will ever encounter. Taste some of the local cuisine at Parisa, Al Mourjan or Shai Shamoos. After dinner, take a stroll down the alleyways to discover a dazzling array of Middle Eastern merchandise, beautiful jewelry, incredible silks and souvenirs. Do not miss the traditional falcon market– even hold one of the birds, if you dare! Enjoy the jovial atmosphere of the souq, which is typically abundant with art and cultural shows, traditional music and street performers.

Lastly, visit West Bay in the city of Doha for a night amongst the modern skyscrapers and luxurious hotels. Depending on your dining preferences, indulge in a delicious Japanese feast of sashimi, sushi and other delicacies. Nobu Doha is the largest Nobu restaurant in the world, with a spectacular outdoor dining space that overlooks the city. If South East Asian is more up your alley, take a trip to the W Hotel and dine at Spice Market, a cozy, ambient lounge overlooking the Gulf. After your meal, take the elevator up to Wahm Lounge to enjoy a refreshment, relax in the pool lounge and admire the view before your flight.

4. Unique and adventurous activities

Desert scenes making it the perfect destination for thrill-seekers and represent most of Qatar. Abundant with adventurous activities that are bound to get your adrenaline pumping, from camel riding to dune bashing.

Embark on a full-day desert safari with Regency Sealine Camp and be truly blown away with the highlights of the Qatari desert. First stop is the Sealine area to admire the incredible view and take part in the adventurous part of the day, dune bashing. The next stop is the Khor Al Adaid, where you can view the iconic Inland Sea – one of the only places in the world where the ocean encroaches deep into the desert. This is where the desert camp is situated, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Arabian barbeque lunch, relax in beach gazebos, ride camels and enjoy the luxurious facilities in the middle of the desert.

For afternoon, stroll on the promenade at the Corniche to enjoy the surrounds and learn more about the history of Doha as a pearl and fishing town. The promenade is lined with traditional dhow boats, which you can take a ride on around the gulf. The Corniche is also a great spot for a photo of the Doha skyline behind the Arabian Gulf – because who doesn’t need one for Instagram?

5. Luxurious, five-star experiences

Doha is a hub of lavish experiences, from luxury shopping to glitzy five-star resorts and indulgent dining.

Whether you are looking for thrilling adventures or serenity, relaxing by a sandy beach or having fun in the water, whatever your choice, Banana Island by Anantara has it all. Located just off the coast of the vibrant city of Doha, the island is a 20-minute boat ride providing an exciting escape.  Its excellent facilities include spas, restaurants, a lagoon pool by the sandy beach and a shallow pool for kids, a surf pool with professional instructors, a bowling alley, a 20-seat cinema, a golf court, tennis courts and a fitness center, creating the perfect getaway.

Another lavish experience is a visit to The Pearl, exploring Qatar’s only man-made island. Known as the Arabian Riviera, this Mediterranean-style marina is lined with yachts, boutique hotels, luxurious shopping precincts and incredible al fresco dining spots.

Lastly, live the unique experience of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 taking place on 21 November to 18 December in Doha. Qatar Airways’ unique travel packages include flights, accommodation and match tickets. Explore the travel packages here.