Travel to Qatar and Doha in 2022 [Complete Guide]
Doha, also known as the capital of the State of Qatar, is the second largest city in the country and it is located on the Arabian Peninsula. Doha has a population of around 2.7 million people and is the most populous city in the state of Qatar.
Qatar is the most expensive country in the world, so make sure you’re ready for the high prices by knowing how to budget for your trip! You don’t have to go broke, but you should have a good idea of what you can spend on and what you should be prepared to splurge on.
With Doha being a major hub for both business and leisure travel, there are many things to do when visiting.
If you are planning a trip to Qatar, you may be wondering about the best Doha hotels, and where to go on a day trip. You will also want to be aware of customs you should take into consideration to avoid getting into trouble. So, check out the article below.
Are you planning to visit Doha, Qatar this year? That’s exciting! Make sure you’re prepared for your trip by learning what things to avoid in the country, where to eat, and what places to visit! It is important to know Quarantine rules of Qatar before you head to the country.
Things to Know Before Visiting Doha, Qatar
It is recommended that you should visit Qatar at least once in your lifetime because the country offers many cultural experiences. If you are interested in learning about the country’s history, culture, and traditions, then Qatar is the place for you. You can see the best of the country in just one day.
This is a brief guide for those who are planning to visit Doha, Qatar. There are plenty of things to see in Qatar and Doha. It’s a city of contrasts and a place where traditional culture meets modernity.
To start with this ultimate guide, we will first know what are the things that is must to know before you visit Qatar.
Drinking Alcohol
This is a very serious issue in Qatar, and we have seen many people getting arrested for being drunk in public. We strongly recommend that you do not drink alcohol in public, as you may get arrested.
You should be aware that you can only buy and drink alcohol at licensed establishments, which includes bars, restaurants, hotels, clubs, and supermarkets. It is illegal to drink alcohol in public, which means that you cannot drink alcohol in a park, on a street, or at any public event.
Dress Code
It’s not really a strict dress code here, as long as you’re comfortable with what you’re wearing. However, we do suggest that you dress modestly (i.e. cover your knees and elbows). Also, you should avoid shorts or short skirts, as this is considered very un-Islamic.
You may think that you’re being modest by covering your shoulders and knees, but this is really an issue of religious freedom. It’s one thing to wear a headscarf or long dress at home, but when you are in public you have to cover your shoulders and knees.
Public Displays of Affection
Qatari laws are very strict when it comes to displaying affection in public. For instance, it is considered a crime to kiss someone in public, even if the couple are married. It’s also illegal to kiss in a place where it is forbidden (such as a mosque, church, or school).
When you are in public, you want to be able to walk away from a situation without being caught in an embarrassing situation. Therefore, it’s best to refrain from displaying any affection while in public. You can hold hands with your significant other or hug them when you are alone, but in public, you want to restrain yourself.
Summer Heat
There are many things you can do to make sure you are prepared for a summer vacation in Qatar. For example, if you plan to visit Qatar during the summer, be sure to pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Also, it is important to know that the summers are very hot in Qatar, so you should also bring a fan.
Taking Photographs
In some countries, taking photos of people in public places without their permission is considered a crime. This usually happens when people feel that their privacy has been violated, and they feel that they have the right to ask for compensation.
While this may sound reasonable, in some cases it can be considered a violation of human rights. In some countries, taking photos of people without their permission is punishable by law. This includes photographing people in public places.
It is not allowed to take photographs in some places. It is not allowed to take photographs in some places.
What You Shouldn’t Bring
Qatar is a very conservative country and things like alcohol and pork products are not allowed to be brought in.
Religious material and books of any religion are also not allowed, because they are considered to be against the law of the land. The only exception to this is for books related to Islam.
How to Move Around Doha, Qatar
If you are looking for a way to get around Doha, Qatar, without having to spend hours waiting in line for a bus or taxi, then consider car rental or public transfer. Your driver will pick you up at the airport, and drive you directly to your hotel in a hassle free manner, so you don’t have to queue for a taxi or carry your bags around.
It’s very safe to get one directly on the street, but you can also use the Careem app to call them. Uber works very well in Doha as well, or else you could rent a car, which will be very practical if you plan on taking day trips from the city.
Best Doha Tours for First Timers
The Full Day Combo Tour includes an exploration of the city and also a trip to the desert.
The tour is a great way to get to know Doha better. You’ll see everything in this area that you need to see for your stay in Qatar.
Best Things to Do in Doha
Stroll Down the Corniche
Doha Corniche is an open area with a large number of shops, restaurants, and cafés. It is located in the heart of Doha, between Al Wasl Road and Al Wakra Road.
The Doha Corniche is divided into two sections: the northern section, which is called the Corniche of the Pearl; and the southern section, which is called the Corniche of the Bay.
If you’re visiting Doha for the first time, one of the best places to see is the Corniche. There are many different things to do on the Corniche, but the best one for those visiting on a budget is to take a ride on a camel.
The camel rides are cheap (only about 50 QR per person), but they are the perfect way to get around and enjoy the view.
Get Yourself Lost in Souq Waqif
Souq Waqif is one of the most iconic places to visit in Doha. It’s a busy market where livestock and spices are exchanged, but nowadays it has become a lively place full of stalls and shops selling everything from souvenirs to homeware, food, and textiles.
It’s a great place for a day trip, and if you want to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the souq, you can do that too!
Go on a Desert Safari
Qatar’s desert is an impressive natural spectacle, with its own unique culture and traditions.
You can spend days exploring the desert and its dunes, and if you want to explore more of the country, Qatar is connected to the Arabian Peninsula by a network of highways and a rail line.
Visit the Doha Museums
Qatar is a fascinating country that has been shaped by many cultures. The culture in Qatar is a mix of influences, including Persian, Arabian, Turkish and Indian.
The Doha Museums offer visitors a unique experience that showcases the country’s history and culture, as well as providing insight into Qatar’s modern development.
The Museum of Islamic Art is a cultural gem, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about the rich history and culture of Islam.
Go Shopping at The Pearl
The Pearl is a luxury retail mall in Doha, Qatar. It is located in Al Rayyan, which is a district of Doha.
The Pearl Doha is a great place to stay and a lot of fun to visit. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes and shops along the waterfront.
Qatar’s Pearl Doha is a great place to shop. There are so many luxury brands, you can find everything here, from Armani to Hermes and much more! There are many great cafes and restaurants in the area and it’s very easy to get around.
Doha is an amazing city with so many things to see and do. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a fun family vacation, or some quality time with friends, Doha has something for everyone.
Best Day Trips from Doha
If you’re looking for things to do in Doha, you might be surprised by the hidden gems that are waiting for you right outside the city.
I’ve compiled a list of my favorite day trips from Doha that you can take to discover the many different beautiful spots that Qatar has to offer!
There is no shortage of great places to visit in Qatar, so here are my top picks for the best day trips from Doha.
Explore Al Khor Island
Al Khor Island is one of the most beautiful places in the region. Its stunning beaches, lush vegetation, and unique wildlife make it a popular destination among nature lovers.
With so many beautiful places to see, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore during your stay in Doha. If you’re a history buff, you’ll love the historic Al Zubara Fort and the Al Thakhira Beach.
Visit West Qatar
The west of Qatar is a vast and relatively arid place with the most magnificent natural sculptures, caves, and attractions.
The Ras Abrouq Rock Formations, which are mushroom shaped rocks eroded by the wind and the sand over millions of years, are a must visit in the area!
West Qatar is home to a number of fascinating attractions, including the world-renowned Richard Serra sculpture, the stunning mushroom shaped rocks, and the fascinating Film City.
➤ West Qatar Tours offers a half-day trip to all these beautiful sites.
See a Camel Race
Camel racing has been around for thousands of years. It’s the oldest form of sports entertainment in the world.
People from all over the world come to watch the races in Doha, and it’s one of the highlights of the year for many Qatari families.
Where to Eat in Doha
Qatar is located in the north of the Arabian Peninsula, and is home to several culinary treasures. The most famous is Qatar’s national dish, machboos, which is a mixture of lamb, rice, and spices.
Qatar is also well known for its falafel, shawarma, and hummus. Another popular dish is Luqaimat, a sweet dessert made from shredded dates mixed with sugar and nuts.
Shay Al Shoomos
Shay Al Shoomos is one of my favourite restaurants in Doha. The restaurant serves traditional Qatari dishes including machboos, balaleet, shakshouka, and many more. It’s located in the Souq Waqif and it’s run by a local lady who speaks Arabic and English.
Shay Al Shoomos is a traditional Qatari restaurant with a modern twist. Located in the Souq Waqif, this restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, from the most traditional to more contemporary dishes.
Souq Waqif is one of the oldest markets in the world. It is located in the old city of Cairo, Egypt, and dates back to the time of the pharaohs. It is a traditional bazaar that has been in existence for hundreds of years.
It is divided into different sections, and each section has a unique atmosphere and vibe. Souq Waqif is open seven days a week, except for Wednesday and Thursday.
Evergreen Organics
Evergreen Organics is a 100% vegan healthy cafe, and has a large selection of hearty breakfasts to start the day energized.
It also has lunch and dinner items, and while fresh fruit juices and smoothies are their most popular drink, you can also get your favorite coffee with plant based milk to pair with your pancakes.
Evergreen Organics offers a great selection of breakfast items, including vegan oatmeal and waffles, and a full menu of sandwiches, wraps, soups, salads, and baked goods.
They also have lunch and dinner options as well as a variety of drinks, including smoothies, juice blends, iced teas, and coffee.
SMAT Restaurant
SMAT is located in the iconic Doha Corniche, and specializes in Arabic cuisine with a modern twist. It’s one of the most popular places to have breakfast in Doha, and it’s renowned for the incredible aesthetics of every dish.
SMAT Restaurant is a trendy and upscale restaurant located in the iconic Doha Corniche. It has become a favourite among Doha’s locals and visitors alike.
Parisa Souq Wakif
This restaurant is part of a chain of restaurants called ‘The Souq’, which is owned by a British couple.
This particular restaurant is located in the Souq Al Wakif area, which is one of the largest commercial areas in the country. This area is home to a number of different restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.
There are so many incredible restaurants in Doha! You’ll want to try everything from classic Arabic dishes to fusion cuisine. If you’re looking for something different, check out these recommendations.
Where to Stay in Doha
The city of Doha is often overlooked by tourists as they are usually focused on the bigger cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, if you are looking for a place to stay in Qatar, Doha is the perfect place for you.
It’s a buzzing metropolis that is bursting with life, culture, and color. It’s one of the most popular cities in Qatar with many locals commuting to work in the capital and also working in other major cities in Qatar.
Doha is not only the capital of Qatar, but also the country’s largest city. With a population of over two million people, Doha is also the most populous city in the Middle East. If you are wondering where to stay in Doha, here is the list of best hotels in Doha.
Best Bed & Breakfast in Doha: Gorgeous Room in the Villa
Located in Al Baaya, Doha’s most beautiful neighborhood, this homely villa provides guests with a warm welcome and an affordable home-away-from-home experience.
The villa’s modern and airy design is perfect for a couple, or a family with children. The villa has two large bedrooms, one with a king size bed and the other with two single beds. Each bedroom has a private bathroom with shower.
Coolest Accommodation in Doha: The Torch Doha
The Torch Doha is located in the heart of Doha, Qatar’s capital, just a few steps away from the main commercial and business districts. It is also just a short drive from the Doha Corniche and the Hamad International Airport.
The Torch Doha is a luxurious hotel that offers a mix of traditional Arabian hospitality and modern luxury. The hotel’s architecture has been inspired by the shape of a torch and its interiors are decorated with a contemporary and chic style. It’s an ideal place to stay if you’re visiting Doha, and it’s just a short walk from the Corniche.
Best Hotel in Doha: Four Seasons Hotel Doha
The Four Seasons Hotel Doha is known for its elegance and sophistication. It has the most luxurious rooms, the best spa facilities, and the most amazing views. The hotel is in the heart of the West Bay region, and is very close to the Souq Waqif and the Corniche.
Guests are thrilled to be able to stay in suites that offer the most privacy and comfort at a reasonable price. These suites also come with a complimentary continental breakfast that includes a full buffet, fruit, yogurt, granola, pastries and more.
Doha Neighborhood Guide
West Bay
West Bay is a thriving neighborhood of Qatar. It is home to the tallest building in the world, the Doha Tower, and the West Bay Lagoon, one of the largest lakes in Qatar.
There is also a large selection of great restaurants, cafés, and bars. This is the perfect place to stay if you want to be close to all the action.
Near Hamad International Airport
The area is very safe, clean and convenient. There are plenty of restaurants and shopping malls nearby. You can also find a lot of expatriates here.
Katara Beach
Amongst Doha’s large skyscrapers lies scenic spots of natural beauty and this includes stunning Katara Beach.
Nestled in Katara Cultural Village lies this spectacular stretch of coastline that offers so many adventure style activities including water skiing, parasailing, jet skiing, and gondola rides.
Doha’s vast array of neighborhoods, all of which offer unique attractions, can make it hard to decide which area is best for you to stay in.
Picking the right neighborhood can save you time and money by making sure you are close enough to take advantage of the attractions you’re most interested in seeing.
Starting with arguably the most popular neighborhood to stay in Doha. West Bay’s large and central location means there are plenty of options for accommodation, as well as being ideally located near tonnes of top attractions to explore.
Doha’s 4 Best Neighborhoods to Stay Inn
Doha is home to some of the world’s most expensive real estate, which means finding affordable places to stay can be challenging.
However, if you know where to look, there are plenty of great options out there that won’t break the bank. We’ve handpicked four neighborhoods with a range of prices that will suit all budgets.
West Bay – Where to Stay in Doha for First Time Visitors
West Bay is located on the western side of Doha and is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in Qatar.
It is also home to an amazing selection of restaurants, cafes, shops and cultural venues. West Bay is also a great place to be if you want to see some of the best beaches in Doha.
If you’re planning on spending your time in Doha during the Fifa World Cup, you should consider booking a stay at one of West Bay’s boutique hotels. These luxury properties are located in the heart of the city, and are a short drive away from the famous Doha Corniche.
Best Bed & Breakfast in West Bay: 3BR Golf course view for 5 guests
This luxury apartment is located in West Bay. The apartment is ideal for family vacation, business trip, or weekend getaway.
The apartment is also a great option for those who want to be in the middle of everything but still feel like they are in a peaceful retreat.
It is located near to Legtaifiya Metro Station with easy transport links to everywhere in the city.
Best Bed & Breakfast in West Bay: 3BR Golf course view for 5 guests
This luxury apartment is located in West Bay. The apartment is ideal for family vacation, business trip, or weekend getaway. The apartment is also a great option for those who want to be in the middle of everything but still feel like they are in a peaceful retreat.
It is located near to Legtaifiya Metro Station with easy transport links to everywhere in the city.
Best Hotel in West Bay: Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha
Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha is an exquisite five-star hotel in the heart of West Bay. It is surrounded by lush gardens and walking paths, and it is the perfect place for relaxation, rejuvenation and fun.
The hotel offers a full range of services and facilities to ensure you a comfortable stay. The hotel offers a variety of room types, including standard rooms, junior suites, executive suites, family suites and villas.
Best Luxury Hotel in West Bay: Four Seasons Hotel Doha
The Four Seasons Hotel Doha is one of the finest luxury hotels in West Bay. It is located in the heart of Doha’s business district and close to many of the city’s attractions. The hotel is also just minutes away from the international airport.
The hotel is located in one of the most popular areas in the city. It is near to the beach, shopping, museums and many other attractions.
Katara Beach – Coolest Area to Stay in Doha
Katara Beach is located in the heart of Doha, which means that there is easy access to all the popular attractions and shopping centres.
It’s also close to the famous Corniche that has some of the best views in the city. Katara Beach is also a great place to spend a relaxing day with the family.
If you are a single man looking for a place to relax, Katara Beach is a great option. It has a wide range of rooms from dorms to suites, all with a private bathroom and air-conditioning.
There are also a range of activities including yoga, fitness classes, swimming, kayaking and even scuba diving.
If you’re traveling to Doha for the World Cup, the closest stadium to Katara Beach is the Ras Abu Aboud Stadium. It’s a 15-minute walk from the metro station.
Best Luxury Hotel in Katara Beach: The St. Regis Doha
The St. Regis Doha is a five star hotel located on the seafront in Katara, Doha, Qatar. The St Regis Doha features a full range of luxury accommodation, including deluxe suites, junior suites, and luxury villas.
Each room and suite has been individually designed and decorated to reflect the Arabian Gulf’s rich culture and heritage.
Coolest Accommodation Option in Katara Beach: Mondrian Doha
Mondrian Doha is a beautiful boutique hotel set in the heart of Katara Beach, just 15 minutes from downtown Doha.
With its unique, contemporary design and the beautiful views of the Gulf, this is the perfect place for a romantic getaway.
The hotel is also primely located in the center of a vibrant neighborhood with plenty of entertainment on your doorstep. The nearest metro station to the Mondrian is the Legtaifiya metro station.
Best Hotel in Katara Beach: InterContinental Doha Hotel, an IHG Hotel
The InterContinental Doha Hotel is situated in the heart of Doha’s city center, making it a convenient and accessible location for both business and leisure travelers.
The hotel boasts a world-class spa and wellness center, making it a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
Guests can enjoy a variety of onsite dining options including Italian, Moroccan, Asian, and Lebanese restaurants.
Best Things To Do In Doha
Doha is one of the most interesting cities in the region, with a rich cultural history. It is also one of the fastest growing cities in the Middle East. There are so many things to do in Doha, and if you are planning a trip to Qatar, we highly recommend you to take a look at our itineraries.
Try Food from Around the Globe
When you travel abroad, you get to experience different cultures and cuisines. I’ve been fortunate enough to explore many countries around the world, but my favorite meal is still my mom’s home cooked meals in the Philippines. So, when I travel, I try to eat as much as possible from the local cuisine.
In recent years, the Bin Mahmoud area has become a haven for foodies, with a cluster of new international restaurants springing up rapidly.
It is not only the food that attracts people to the area, it is the atmosphere that you can experience in Bin Mahmoud, which is one of the reasons why the area has become popular among foodies.
It’s always fun to try new foods and there are plenty of restaurants in Qatar serving delicious cuisines from all over the world. With so many different options, you won’t have to travel far to find something to satisfy your palate.
The culinary scene in London is on the rise with a growing number of new restaurants, bars and cafes opening every month. The city is home to a plethora of restaurants offering everything from traditional British pub grub to French cuisine and Indian food. There is something for everyone in this diverse city.
The Bin Mahmoud area, in general, has recently emerged as a haven for foodies, with a cluster of new international restaurants springing up rapidly. For traditional Qatari specialties, head to Bandar Aden on the edge of Souq Waqif for giant plates of baked lamb.
Nobu Doha is a new concept in a city where the concept of a coffee shop is still relatively new. It’s a unique, modern, urban oasis in the heart of Doha.
There are several options here, including Turkish, Lebanese and Indian food.
Learn About Two Millennia of Islamic Art and Tradition
The Museum of Islamic Art is the perfect place to learn about the rich history of Islamic art and culture.
The building was designed to be a beacon for the city and is meant to inspire its residents.
The building’s design, which is a combination of a traditional Arabian castle and a European fort, was inspired by the ancient city of Doha, and it was built using a technique called ‘tourmaline glass’. It was the first building to be constructed using this technique.
The museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of Islamic art, which includes works from all periods and countries. It also houses the largest library of its kind, with more than 2,000 rare and valuable manuscripts and books.
Explore the Alleyways of a Traditional Souq
The history of Souq Waqif dates back to the early Middle Ages. The name translates as ‘standing market’, and this is because it was established at the very heart of the old city, where the main streets meet.
Although the majority of the market’s stalls have been moved to a new site, the market still attracts thousands of visitors each day, offering visitors a unique insight into the heart of the old city.
The souk is a traditional market in Qatar, where you can find the best products from around the world.
Souq Waqif is a bustling market in the heart of Dubai. It’s the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, art, jewelry, fashion, and food.
Souq Waqif has everything from souvenir shops to high-end designer brands and is the best place to find authentic Arab products. It’s the place to go if you want to get a unique souvenir that will take you back to your trip.
Get up Close to a Falcon or a Camel
Falconry is one of the oldest forms of hunting in the Middle East, and it is still practiced today. It is the perfect sport for people who like to be outdoors, and it is a great way to get close to nature. The hobby is growing in popularity all over the world.
The Falcon Souq is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Doha. It’s located on the edge of the Arabian Gulf, on the road to the Souq Waqif.
Here you can buy falcons and camel races, as well as souvenirs. The falcons are kept in cages, which means you can get up close to them without having to worry about their safety.
The Al Shahaniya racetrack is located on the outskirts of Doha, and is one of the most famous camel racing tracks in the region.
The track is home to the annual Qatar Camel Festival, which attracts thousands of people from all over the world. The racetrack has an oval shape with a circumference of approximately two kilometers.
The stables are located on the grounds of the Camel Rock Ranch and offer guided tours and horseback riding. You can see the camels and the horses up close and personal.
Indulge in Some Retail Therapy
Qatar’s malls are designed to be multipurpose havens away from the heat with shopping, eating and entertainment all bundled into one air conditioned complex.
Doha is the capital of Qatar and home to the world’s largest mall and the second largest shopping center in the world. Doha Festival City is a huge entertainment complex with some of the best restaurants in the world.
Souq Waqif is the best place to find unique treasures in Qatar. Here, you can find antiques, art, jewelry, and more.
Head Out of Town to Experience a Natural Wonder
Khor Al Adaid was founded in the 1920s as a fishing village. Today, it is home to more than a thousand Bedouins who live on the surrounding land, which has been protected from development.
It’s a unique place that is easily accessible from Doha and it’s an amazing experience to see the desert meet the sea.
The Inland Sea is one of the most important water reserves in Qatar. It is one of the largest inland seas in the world and it’s home to a variety of plants and animals.
It is a haven for birds and turtles, and it’s a haven for people who love to relax and spend time outdoors.
Dune bashing is a great way to see the Inland Sea. You can book a tour in advance, and they will get you there, via a thrill ride across the undulating dunes, and then treat you to a barbecue lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Qatar is a modern and cosmopolitan country that has a vibrant culture and an exciting nightlife.
It is also a great place to visit if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the world. With the many exciting attractions and activities to do in the city, you’ll never be bored!
