Doha Travel Guide
Travel guide to Doha, Qatar with comprehensive information about events, shopping, and major Doha sporting events to help you enjoy your visit more.
Doha Overview
Qatar occupies a peninsular and islands jutting out into the Arabian Gulf from the coast of Saudi Arabia. Until fairly recently, the country was pretty much unknown to the west and had an inward looking government more concerned with maintaining traditions than welcoming hordes of tourists.
In recent years, hot on the heels of the increased popularity of other gulf destinations like Dubai, and no doubt envious of the revenue that tourism generates, the state of Qatar has thrown open its doors to the world, and invested heavily in its rebirth as a place that people actively want to visit, rather than just somewhere to avoid looking at as you pass through.
Qatar is quickly becoming one of the most popular tourism destinations in the Middle East, the state boasts some world-class hotels, gorgeous desert scenery in the region, superb weather all year around, and best of all, a tax-free economy that makes it a great place to shop until you drop.
Top Doha Attractions
Despite its reputation for being quiet and staid, Doha, the capital city of Qatar is a pleasant and welcoming place. There are several impressive museums - the best being the National museum, located in the palace of the late ruler Sheikh Abdulla Bin Mohammed. The huge collection includes a large aquarium and artefacts celebrating the Qatar's seafaring history.
Aside from the chance to enjoy the great climate of Qatar, one of the other great attractions of Doha is the chance to get out into the stunning desert scenery inland, and enjoy the peaceful contemplative landscapes that have entranced visitors for generations.
Shopping in Doha
With brand new shopping malls and a variety of smaller markets or souks around the city, coupled with the tax-free status enjoyed in Qatar, it is no surprise that Doha is developing a reputation as a shopper's paradise.
With bargains to be had on a variety of goods including designer fashion and gold jewellery - not to mention some of the stunning local arts and crafts, the shops in Doha are a great place to pick up some souvenirs of your holiday in the Middle East.
Doha Sporting Events
Amongst the sports available in Doha, there are a number of popular golf courses around the city including one where you play on a sand course rather than grass. If you're feeling particularly daring, and you are suitably proficient, a day dune bashing in a 4WD is an exhilarating experience that should not be missed.
If all that sand is just too dry for you, why not head out to sea for a spot of offshore powerboat racing, scuba diving, or deep-sea fishing. Most hotels offer a range of water sports that can be booked locally.
