How to Enjoy Your Stay in Doha – Some of the Highlights of the Qatari Capital
The vibrant city of Doha, the capital of Qatar, would always be an engrossing metropolis to experience. You will find that this entrancing city is an absorbing blend of the modern and the traditional offering varied and enjoyable experiences for the visitor. Irrespective of whether you seek cultural attractions, shopping opportunities or delicious food you will not be disappointed. Provided below are some suggestions for experiencing the highlights of Doha if you have limited time in the city.
Visit the Corniche Fish Market and Docks
An interesting place at which to commence your experience of the city of Doha would be the fascinating fish market you would find at the Corniche. You will see that fishing vessels dock at the small harbor located here and unburden their catch – which would include fish, prawns, crabs, and other kinds of seafood – to be sold at the market’s stalls. Everything sold here would be very fresh, with no ice to be seen at the market. A visit to this market would also provide a glimpse into the authentic nature of Doha. Before or after heading to this site, take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche and enjoy the entrancing views too.
Experience the Museum of Islamic Art
Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar Night view | Image by Visit Qatar via unsplash
Art lovers should undoubtedly take the opportunity to visit the captivating Museum of Islamic Art which would be an important cultural attraction in Doha. You will see that the remarkable building in which the museum is housed may be considered a work of art in its own right, presenting a striking sight to the observer. The collection of art to be found at this museum would include highlights such as a jewel-adorned falcon, a set of Ottoman armor for war horses, Iranian tiles and ceramics, Syrian wood inlays, manuscripts, and so on.
Shop at Souq Waqif
Naturally, your visit to Doha wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the traditional marketplace known as Souq Waqif. You will see that the shops and buildings here have been constructed in the traditional manner using bamboo, palm fronds, and mud. This market features several different sections offering a variety of products, with areas devoted to goods such as spices, gold, carpets, and so on. When looking for the best hotels in Doha, an accommodation choice to consider which is within walking distance of this souq would be Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli.
Admire the Falcon Souq
At Souq Waqif, you will also find the Falcon Souq which is devoted to these magnificent birds of prey. Falconry is greatly esteemed in Qatar, and this would be obvious to anyone who visits this engrossing marketplace. As you might expect, you will find an array of beautiful falcons for sale here sitting on the perches to be found within the stores. You will see that the falcons wear handmade leather hoods and are tethered for safety.
Enjoy the Katara Cultural Centre
The Katara Cultural Centre happens to be a precinct devoted to the arts that features performance spaces for the public as well as creative studios and offices. Even if no performances are being staged when you visit this attraction, it would still be an interesting experience to stroll through it. You will also find traditional Qatari cultural elements here including a mosque adorned with colorful tiles as well as a couple of pigeon towers. Next to this site is a beach area too, ideal for some fun in the sun, sand, and surf.
Savour the food
Doha is also rightfully renowned for its outstanding and varied dining options and your visit to the city wouldn’t be complete without experiencing some of these. For instance, you could enjoy a selection of chapatti for breakfast along with a cup of the popular karak tea which would be a great way to commence your day of sightseeing. Meanwhile, for lunch, you could feast on traditional Qatari dishes such as wheat porridge, eggs with tomato, and rice with crispy lamb, chicken or goat. Finally, for dinner, you could try out the delicious Yemeni cuisine which enjoys great popularity in Qatar.
