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Weekend leisure activities in Doha

Weekend leisure activities in Doha
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Updated byAnne-Lise Mtyon 07 December 2019

Doha, without any doubt, is one of the best places to visit in the Middle East, whether it is for long term or just a layover. The city has emerged into a dynamic community that does not only open opportunities but also a range of fun activities as well.

Doha is a city that gives significant importance to its residents' social wellbeing. Doha, being the centre of entertainment, where most establishments are running around from nighttime until daylight, has become a sleepless city. There are dozens of options you can choose from, alone or with your peers.

Things to do alone in Doha alone

Walking along the Corniche street is one thing you shouldn't miss when visiting the city. Immerse yourself with astounding buildings that light up during nighttime, take a ride in a dhow cruise or just simply soak in the street's atmosphere at the sea boulevard. Doha Corniche stretches from the Museum of Islamic Art to Sheraton Hotel, and is filled with eye-catching attractions.

Undeniably, Doha owes its richness and authenticity to the local culture; Souq Waqif and Katara Cultural village are some of the popular places expatriates like to go in. Souq Waqif is a living relic of Qatari history and culture. It is full of local goods, including pets, shawls, fabrics, Qatari kitchen appliances, delicacies, sweets, local shops, perfumes, etc. Katara Village, on the other hand, is timid and has nostalgic ambience compare to the Souq. It is built with a riveting promenade where visitors could relax with the sea breeze and watch over the spellbinding views of The Pearl and St. Regis Hotel. It is filled with galleries, antique shopping centres, coffee shops, and the amphitheatre. Several activities and festivals are held at both places, especially during winter where most people love to enjoy the outdoors.

Things to do with your friends in Doha

If your friends prefer something loud and party drinks, Doha has a variety of pubs that you can hop-in. Most 5-star hotels are equipped with alcohol serving pubs such as Z Lounge in Kempinski residence, Irish Harp in Sheraton, Glo Bar in Marriot, The Jazz Club in St. Regis Hotel, Paloma in Intercontinental Hotel, etc. Some places are open for both food and alcoholic drinks as well, like Burger Stock, The Belgian Café, Claws in DoubleTree Hilton, Nobu Restaurant, Zengon, etc.

Aside from attending festivals organised by different event companies, families living in Doha, usually take a weekend trip to the park. Large parks like Al Bidda Park and Aspire Park are very popular. You may find different nationalities running outdoors for fitness or walking around for leisure.

Things to do with your family in Doha

Swimming is another outdoor activity that you and your family can enjoy. Although Katara beach is open to the public, another place you can check-in is the Aqua Park. It is a secured place where you can enjoy various sizes of swimming pools and large slides. Entrance fees start from 180QR for adults and 130QR for children. For some extreme fun indoors, hang out at Zero Latency, and Bounce Qatar, located inside Tawar Mall or enjoy the indoor snow park and Angry Birds themed park at Doha Festival City - it is sure fun for all ages.

Things to do with your partner in Doha

Face your fears and try jumping from the sky with Qatar Sky Diving team. You can book individually or with a partner. There is no need to worry if you aren't a professional skydiver, you will dive along with a professional instructor who will assist you all through.

Besides, there are over 2,000 restaurants in Doha. From casual to fine dining, a conversation over the meals is the most treasured activity in the city, no matter  what.

Shopping in Doha

Shopping is another popular activity in Doha. Aside from Al Hazm Mall, the newly opened Galleries LaFayette in Katara Village brought a Parisian lifestyle to the residents. The mall is purely intended for luxury shopping, so if you have an extra amount on your budget, it is an exceptional place to go. Other malls where families often to visit by weekend are the Villagio Mall, Hyatt Plaza, City Centre Mall, The Gate Mall, Gulf Mall, Ezdan Mall and Landmark Mall.

We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.

About

Anne-Lise studied Psychology for 4 years in the UK before finding her way back to Mauritius and being a journalist for 3 years and heading Expat.com's editorial department for 5. She loves politics, books, tea, running, swimming, hiking...

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