10 Best Things to Do in Qatar and Doha
10 THINGS WE WOULD LOVE TO DO IN QATAR
For years, Qatar was simply the small country beside Dubai, a convenient airport connection on long Qatar Airways journeys and a warm destination on the Gulf. Whenever we booked flights, we considered adding a stopover, then told ourselves there would always be another connection. That changed when Gezimanya and Bloggercasting invited us to a Qatar tourism workshop. After meeting other bloggers and hearing the presentations, we immediately began imagining a trip. There was far more to see, taste and experience than we had realised, so we created this list. Written before our visit, it is a wish list rather than a first-hand review; the practical notes have been updated where possible in 2026.
1. WALK ALONG DOHA CORNICHE
Doha Corniche curves for about seven kilometres around the bay, where palms and traditional dhows meet the city’s modern skyline. We would love to walk here at sunset and photograph the distinctive architecture of the Museum of Islamic Art. The National Museum of Qatar, designed by Jean Nouvel and inspired by the desert rose, is now open and presents the country’s story through eleven galleries. Museum hours, admission and dhow-cruise arrangements change, so check official listings before visiting.
2. SHOP AT SOUQ WAQIF
We cannot wait to lose ourselves in the lanes of Souq Waqif, where the setting still evokes older Doha despite the global city beyond it. The colourful, lively atmosphere feels familiar to us. It looks like an excellent place to browse for souvenirs, watch daily life and eat regional food, especially in the cooler evening hours.
3. LISTEN TO THE DESERT SING
A desert excursion is high on our Qatar list. Under the right dry conditions, moving sand can produce a low booming or humming sound, although it is a natural phenomenon and never guaranteed. A responsible four-wheel-drive tour can continue to Khor Al Adaid, the Inland Sea, where desert dunes meet tidal water. Khor Al Adaid is recognised by UNESCO on Qatar’s Tentative List rather than as an inscribed World Heritage Site. Choose a licensed operator, use seat belts, follow environmental rules and never drive into the dunes without appropriate local experience.
4. VISIT AL ZUBARAH
About 100 kilometres north-west of Doha lies the archaeological site of Al Zubarah, one of the best-preserved examples of an eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Gulf trading and pearl-fishing town. The site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2013. Nearby Al Zubarah Fort now helps interpret the area; check Qatar Museums for current opening hours and access arrangements.
5. ENJOY THE PEARL-QATAR
The Pearl-Qatar is a large man-made island and one of Doha’s best-known luxury districts. Visitors can browse designer shops, look across the yachts in Porto Arabia and choose from restaurants representing many cuisines. Qanat Quartier interests us most: its canals, colourful buildings and bridges create a deliberately Venetian atmosphere, complete with a replica-inspired Rialto Bridge setting.
6. TAKE A TROPICAL BREAK ON BANANA ISLAND
Hearing Buğra from the Keşfetsek blog describe this resort island immediately set us dreaming. Anyone who follows us knows how much we enjoy white sand, sun loungers and fruit drinks beside the sea. Banana Island Resort Doha is reached by resort boat from the city and is designed to feel like a world apart. Transfer times, day-pass availability, dress rules and prices can change, so confirm all arrangements directly with the resort. Perhaps one day it will become a miniature honeymoon stop on our way to Kuala Lumpur =).
7. KATARA CULTURAL VILLAGE
Katara Cultural Village brings together performance spaces, galleries, restaurants, a beach and cultural events in one large waterfront complex. Its architecture reinterprets regional forms, while the open-air amphitheatre seats around 5,000 people. Exhibition schedules, beach access and event tickets vary, so consult Katara’s current programme before going.
8. LEAVE DOHA BEHIND
Qatar’s attractions are not limited to Doha. The Zekreet peninsula on the west coast is known for wind-shaped limestone formations, desert landscapes and nearby cultural sites. The old ‘Film City’ set and surrounding areas are remote; access conditions, protected zones and road surfaces can change. Travel with a suitable vehicle and responsible local guide, carry water and avoid damaging the fragile landscape.
9. HEAR THE STORIES BEHIND DOHA’S CARPETS
The original workshop introduced us to Riyaz Bhat, nicknamed ‘Rugman’, whose carpet shop was known as Kashmir Handicrafts Emporium. Travellers recommended visiting not only to see the carpets but also to hear his stories about their origins, patterns and craftsmanship. Because shop names, locations and owners can change, verify the current business before making a special journey—and treat dramatic sales stories as personal accounts rather than independently established history.
10. PLAY GOLF
Nobody would mistake us for accomplished golfers, but we would still like to learn one day. Doha Golf Club and its academy have offered tuition and courses for different ability levels, while Qatar also hosts international golf events. Facilities, visitor access, lessons and tournament venues change, so check the club’s current programme before booking.
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