You can always find a way to chill and have fun in Qatar. Far from the myths about the country as a whole, Doha is not just about monotonously standard norms. Having embraced the Western and European's open customs, the city offers a wide range of leisure activities to suit all tastes and budgets.
There are enough attractive entertainment, activities and places to relax and escape your daily routine right in the heart of the city. There are also many places to visit in the outskirts that will allow you to discover the richness of the nation's culture and history.
Hotels in Doha
Hotels outgrew the number of high-end shopping malls in Doha; from 5 stars down to 3 stars. You will never run out of a place to stay in Doha, either you book it for a company dinner or a private party with your friends. Doha hotels have become a part of the lifestyle of the expatriate community. The tourism and leisure sector is booming in Qatar, and it has introduced a unique variation of services and amenities. Hotels like The Intercontinental, The Sharq Village by JW Marriot, Ritz Carlton, The Hilton, St. Regis, Four Seasons, Sheraton, Marsa Malaz Kempinski and Banana Island by Anantara offer promising services with a holiday atmosphere for those who do not wish to fly away from the country. Those located within the city are perfect for your night out events like Marriot Marquis, Shangri La, Fraser Suite West Bay, Kempinski Residential and W Hotel, you will enjoy their exquisite night lounges. Besides, liquors are available in all pubs around Doha.
Museums in Doha
Qatar, like every other country, has its own exceptional piece of pie to share regarding culture and history. Recently, the newest museum located along Doha Corniche opened its door. It is where innumerable collections from distinct parts of the world are exhibited. The inauguration of the National Museum (whose architecture is inspired from a desert rose) has brought attention to the entire country, and half of the world since many Hollywood and Bollywood personalities joined the opening ceremony which was led by the Emir. Entrance fees are not more than 50 QR for adults while there is a 50% discount for students. For children under 16, it is free of charge.
The famous MIA or Museum of Islamic Art is a must-see. It is located a few meters away from the National Museum. Inside MIA, you can expect offshore collections that represent the early stage of Arab life and politics; there are relics coming from other Arab countries as well. The entire architecture of the museum was designed by a renowned architectural designer, I.M. Pei, and opened its doors to the public in 2008. Aside from the historical exhibits inside the establishment, MIA has a wide park where you can have a perfect view of dhow cruises and entire West Bay. Many people love to gather around the MIA park at night or in the weekend due to its tranquil and welcoming ambience.
Other museums like Mathaf Museum of Modern Arab Art, which is found in Education City, show the different skills of Arab artists in a modern setting. It is said that there are 9,000 Arab artists' collections on display. And if you wish to see more about Qatar's oldest architecture and culture, you should not miss the Msheireb Museum near Souq Waqif. And lastly, for those who are looking to have fun, the Museum of Illusions Doha has finally opened its doors in 2019. Unlike the previously mentioned museums, the MOI does not hold historical relics but fascinating crafts providing visual illusions. Visitors can play or take photos of every exhibit. The place is intended for fun and learning as well that would bring the inner child within you. The Museum of Illusions Doha is in the premises of the Gate Mall in West Bay, with an admission fee of 75 QR for adults and 50 Qatar riyals for children.
Cultural spaces in Doha
If you wish to experience the enriching local vibe of the country, you have to visit Souq Waqif in Corniche and the Souq Al Wakra in Wakair. Both places will bring you to another dimension of time thanks to the government's efforts in preserving their ennobling architectures. Locals and expatriates like to visit these places where they get to be entertained with festivals, music from Bedouins or local Arab travellers, mascot players, not to mention a wide choice of restaurants, local sweets, etc.
The Katara Cultural Village is another must-visit. You will discover plenty of galleries with exhibits from local and foreign artists and even enjoy different kinds of events. The Pigeon Towers are also located in Katara. Opera music and theatre acts are also held in the Amphitheatre and on the Katara beach where you can relax with your family and friends. The place also hosts sports events like beach soccer and beach volleyball, which are becoming more and more popular.
Nature in Doha
Qatar is not just about concrete indoor spaces. Even though it is highly urbanised, you can still indulge in a greener side of the country despite its hot climate. There are few large parks that you can visit inside Doha, like the gorgeous MIA park which is located at the Corniche and where the Museum of Islamic Art is located. MIA park hosts outdoor theatre shows for families starting from autumn. Bazaars can also be found around MIA during cold seasons, and as you walk all through the area, you can relax at their Coffeeshop and be astounded with the striking view of the entire West Bay.
A few meters away from MIA park is the new Al Bidda Park. This is the widest park in Doha that is interconnected with a bridge that takes you to the other side. You can do several leisure activities in Al Bidda such as basketball, biking, picnic and barbeque night. Another popular place to visit in Doha is the Oxygen park which is found in the Education City. You will be amazed not only by the lush landscape but also with the unique architecture of its establishments.
Aspire Park beside Villagio Mall is the place to be if you wish to shop and jog without getting too far away. Festivals and bazaars are usually held here during winter. The largest man-made lake is also located in Aspire Park.
And if you need a stir of adventures, head to the Purple Island and its mangroves in Al Khor for kayaking. You may also like Baladna Park, where you can visit the milk factory of Qatar and enjoy their leisure facilities.
Live music and theatre in Doha
The country is one of the pioneers of the music and entertainment industry as well. Due to the unstoppable influence of Western and European cultures, pubs and live music have become popular around the country. Expectedly, all major hotel chains in Doha have night clubs where live bands, disco music and liquors are accessible.
You can also find jazz music lounges in Doha, like the Urban Jazz Club at Pearl and the Jazz club inside Oryx Rotana Hotel. Trader Vic's at Hilton Hotel is a hit for those who love Latin food and music. If you are a classical music enthusiast and a theatre fanatic, you may book a seat for an orchestra in Katara or QNCC where the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, Doha Community Music Ensembles and Doha Players usually perform. You may also find them playing inside MIA building occasionally.
Shopping in Doha
Qatar is home to world-class shopping centres. In fact, more and more shopping malls are built every year, giving a range of options to residents. There are six major malls in Doha; the Ezdan Mall, Gulf Mall, Doha Festival City, City Centre Mall, Villagio Mall and Landmark Mall. These malls have become a popular place not only for shopping but also for meetups and indoor festivities. Several community malls are also cropping up around Doha. And if you have a savvy-luxurious taste, the best place for you to shop is as the Gate Mall in West Bay or the Mall in D ring road where you can visit the Salam department store and the shops at The Pearl. For your extra luxury desires, indulge yourself in Al Hazm Mall in Markhiya where the iconic digital dome lights up the premises at night. Its exterior and interior are inspired by French and Italian architecture. The mall is filled with boutiques specialising in refined luxury brands.
In contrast, the Doha Souq Waqif is a place where you can find cheap and local novelties. It is also a favourite tourist destination thanks to its looks and historical heritage. Last but not the least, you may want to check out seasonal bazaars and night markets through which the country is continuously campaigning to promote small scale sellers.
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