Visit Doha: A City of Art, Architecture & Gorgeous Sites

This is a wonderful time of year to visit Doha. The temperatures are moderate, hovering in the high 60s to 70s, and the days are beautiful. There is plenty to do for solo travelers and families alike.

Ramadan is celebrated from the end of February through the end of March; there are many incredible celebrations throughout the city during this time. April is another great month for special events, including the Qatar Grand Prix. From May on, the weather can be quite hot (with many days over 100°F/37°C) so may not be right for first-time visitors. We recommend visiting November through April. And, of course, a trip to Doha is a great time to experience the unbeatable luxury of Qatar Airways. Qatar Airways offers direct flights to Doha from many major cities, including New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami, London, Paris, Dubai, and more.

Incredible Museums, Architecture & History

The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) is on the top of our list for a visit to Doha. Designed by I. M. Pei, the stunning building is home to an incredible collection of Islamic art from around the world, including manuscripts, textiles, ceramics, calligraphy, and a huge array of artifacts. Furthermore, it is the the first carbon-neutral certified museum in the Middle East. While there, dine at IDAM, renowned Chef Alain Ducasse’s first restaurant in the Middle East. The National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ), Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, and the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum (one of the world’s largest private museums) are each also exceptional and highly worth visiting while in town. The Qatar National Library is also currently hosting a special exhibition, From Material to Market – The Art of Bookmaking in Morocco, through April 26.

Grand Prix of Qatar & Other Events

Qatar is known for hosting incredible events and festivals. The Qatar International Food Festival just finished last week but is a wonderful annual event to keep in mind for future years. For those planning a visit this spring, you might consider getting tickets for the exhilarating Qatar Grand Prix, running April 11-13 this year. Fans who can’t make the race will enjoy a visit to 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, which hosts rotating exhibitions of sports artifacts and history; they will be hosting a Formula 1 exhibition entitled “The Race Is On” through April 1, but all their exhibitions are well-done and interesting.

Luxury Hotels

Some of the world’s most exquisite luxury hotels are in Doha. The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort is a palatial waterfront oasis; every room, suite, and villa has a stunning view of the Arabian sea. The hotel boasts handmade carpets and antiques throughout and stunning architecture. Do note that the hotel and its restaurants are dry (no alcohol is served) but it is not far from local licensed bars and restaurants. If you prefer a hotel that serves alcohol onsite (there are a number that do – be sure to check ahead of time if this is important to you), Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz Carlton Hotel is one of our favorites; similar to The Chedi, the architecture and views are standout here. Amenities include multiple pools, a kid’s club, spa, and a lovely afternoon tea. The hotel is also Green Key Certified, a certification for hotels that meet high environmental and sustainability standards.

Ramadan

This year, Ramadan runs from the evening of Friday, Feb 28 through Saturday, March 29. There are many special activities and celebrations throughout Qatar during this time. The Ramadan Suhoor Event is a free (but ticketed – tickets available through Eventbrite) community event where people gather to enjoy traditional music, spiritual reflection, and the pre-dawn meal. The Ritz Carlton’s Sharq Village Hotel is offering a special “Ramadan Under the Stars” package this year, which includes a room with private balcony, as well as both Iftar and Suhoor for two in their gorgeous Ramadan Tent. There, you’ll dine under the stars with views of the Doha skyline. The Plaza Doha’s Leylah Ramadan Tent is another spectacular luxury setting to enjoy Iftar and Suhoor. The Katara Cultural Village will also host several special cultural events, lectures, activities, and light shows during Ramadan; details should be released very soon.

Time on the Water

Doha might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of beachfront trips but whether you want to dine on the water, visit the beach, or enjoy a private boat trip, Doha is a remarkable choice. Many properties have gorgeous private beaches (including both our favorites The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort and Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz Carlton Hotel) but if you’re seeking a public beach, you might try Katara Beach, which has lifeguards, beach chairs, clean changing rooms, and a children’s playground. Ask your hotel about booking a private cruise around the city; you can also book a spot on an authentic Arabic Dhow for a two-hour evening cruise through the Arabian Gulf. Doha is also a hot-spot for yachts; bring your own (The Pearl-Qatar Marina would be our top choice to dock) or charter one from one of the many local companies. Again, your hotel will be able to assist with these arrangements.

Unique Day and Weekend Trips

From Doha, you can easily explore other areas, whether you’re looking for a safari, a beach getaway, or a visit to an archaeological site, Qatar has something to offer. Al Khor Island (also known as “Purple Island”) is one of our favorites. Just one hour from Doha, you’ll find lush and unique foliage including a mangrove forest, as well as the only archaeological site in the country dated to the second millennium BC. It’s the perfect day trip for those interested in nature, ecology, and history. Another special experience is a desert safari; some include dune bashing, camel riding, and sand-boarding. Most luxury hotels can arrange this for you.

Tips for First Time Visitors

Research Ahead of Time & Be Respectful

We suggest reading about the history of the city, its important traditions and culture, and the rules of the specific locations you you plan to visit before leaving on your trip. For example, it’s considered respectful to avoid eating and drinking in public during daylight hours during Ramadan. When unsure, it is wise to ask local contacts or your hotel about best practices. As with any destination, it’s vital to be respectful of the area’s culture and history.

Dress Modestly.

It is considered respectful to dress modestly throughout Qatar. This typically means covering shoulders and knees. For beaches, check the rules of the specific one you intend to visit ahead of time; often western swimwear is fine in the water, but coverups should be worn when on land.

Learn the Rules about Alcohol

Consuming alcohol is only allowed in licensed hotels, bars, and clubs. Public intoxication is illegal.

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