Doha, one of the richest cities in the world is home to an amazing skyline that catches the eye of travelers. Over the years, the Qatari capital has seen a massive boost in tourism which is purely down to the generous hospitality and wondrous locations that it offers to travelers. But hang on, have you ever wondered what exactly makes Doha special? Well, apart from many things that visitors get in this.
From Pearl Fishing Village To Skyscrapers, How Has The Doha Skyline Changed?
Are you aware of the history of Doha? Well, what we today know as one of the richest cities in the world, was indeed once a pearl fishing village with no skyscrapers to show for the skyline. Since then, Doha has come a long way and the transition is staggering to see for the travelers. Today, the skyline is completely different from what it was years back. So, what has changed exactly in regards to the skyline in Doha? Well, it is a known fact that Doha used to be a sleepy pearl fishing community and the skyscrapers found today were nowhere to be seen.
However, things began to change from the 90s when the city started exploiting its natural gas reserves offshore. Qatar started investing in natural gas technology which led to a rapid increase in the corporate and commercial activity in the country. The result? 47 new skyscrapers were built in Doha while new hotels came in that added to the fascinating skyline view of the city.
Since then, Qatar has developed rapidly. Today, the first impression of Doha is that of a fast-paced metropolitan city. For travelers, it is fascinating to see how the skyline has emerged over the years.
The Innovative Structures Of Doha Skyline
What would you first think of when you see the West Bay Skyline and the amazing skyscrapers of Doha? Well, it will look like one of the most advanced cities in the world, right? But here's the thing, the reality is a lot more interesting than one would normally think. Amidst the tall buildings and towers are structures that have a story to tell. Speaking of some notable ones, structures like Doha Tower, Tornado Tower, Palm Tower, and Al Bidda Tower have their own story to tell. For travelers, these structures are worth exploring for many reasons. But what story do these structures exactly offer?
Suggested Read: Towers In Qatar That Present A Unique Sight To Watch
What Do The Towers Symbolize On The Doha Skyline?
Are you eager to see what Doha Skyline has to offer? Well, here are some of the symbols of different towers on the Doha skyline that travelers would find fascinating.
Palm Tower
The Palm Tower is an iconic structure on the skyline in Doha and resembles actual palm trees which are native to the region. The whole angular built of tower is built like that and is a symbol of the country's cultural heritage as well. For those who like to explore amazing architectural designs, the Palm Tower features glass box-like protrusions alongside its hexagonal structure which is fascinating to see in every respect.
Tornado Tower
Perhaps easy to understand, isn't it? Well, the Tornado Tower is a unique structure in the heart of the skyline. The tower resembles a tornado and has been touted for its unique design. It has been designed in such a way that it tapers in the mid-way and stretches outwards again at its highest point.
Al Bidda Tower
Another tower in Qatar that is somewhat similar to the Cayan Towers in Dubai, the Al Bidda Tower is built in a twisting fashion and has a rounded triangular-shaped base in the middle.
Doha Skyline Before Skyscrapers
It is amazing how far Doha has come over the last decades and emerged as an urban Metropolis. We spoke about how the city has changed over the course of time from its old roots. But have you ever wondered what exactly the Doha skyline looked like about four decades back? Well, here's the thing, before the amazing skyscrapers of Qatar ever existed, the country was lined up with traditional architecture. This majorly consisted of low-rise, spacious courtyard houses.
Hence, it was only in the late 90s that any real development in terms of buildings began in the country. But was it easy to develop the country? Well, historical facts show how challenging it was for both local and foreign architects to reflect the identity and heritage of the country while also keeping in mind the sustainability demands. Since Qatar is a country that lays maximum emphasis on climate protection, this was a pivotal factor to be taken care of.
Suggested Read: Al Safliya Island Qatar: Stunning View Of Doha’s Skyline
FIFA World Cup To Transform The Skyline In Doha
The FIFA World Cup 2022 is around the corner and Qatar is preparing with all force. But amongst these preparations, there is one thing that is gaining headlines. In 2006 when Qatar hosted the Asian Games, Aspire Tower was a focal point and became an icon of the event. It was not just a tall building in the state but it, in fact, became inherently iconic and added to the beauty of the skyline.
So, could there be another iconic structure coming up in time before the world cup kicks off?
Here's what Philip Oldfield, research coordinator for the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH), has to say about it.
"I would not be surprised if more towers appeared as icons in time for the World Cup. This could be a combination of towers that are currently proposed as well as brand-new projects. 11 years is sufficient time to design and build a super tall tower from scratch.”
Speaking on the possibility of more towers incoming, Oldfield has thrown light on the potential transformation of the skyline in Doha. So, could we see some upcoming changes in the skyline when the FIFA event comes to the Middle East?
Best Locations To View The Doha Skyline
Wondering how you can possibly view the skyline in Doha? There are a number of locations where travelers get to see the amazing view of the skyline in the Qatari capital. Here's what the skyline offers.
Museum Of Islamic Art
One of the places to visit in Doha, the MIA is perhaps the best location to view the amazing skyline in the city. This is a museum that boasts of its iconic collection and architectural design. In fact, the museum has been built on a private island and has a terrace that offers sweeping views of the skyline. What is fascinating is that the Museum Of Islamic Art appears to float on water from certain angles thanks to the way the museum has been built.
Suggested Read: Museum of Islamic Art, Doha: Discover The Elegance Of Arabic Culture and Heritage
Pearl Qatar
One of the most lavish locations in Qatar, the Pearl Qatar is another spot to view the amazing skyline in Doha. The island has many locations where travelers can sit and enjoy the views. In fact, the rooftop restaurants and lounges are in plenty at the Pearl Qatar where travelers can enjoy the views. These rooftop spots are considered to be the best options for enjoying the nightlife in Doha. So, you not only enjoy the views but also indulge in the most amazing culinary experience.
Arabian Waters Around Doha Corniche
Now here's a thing, the Arabian waters are warm and attract thousands of visitors every year for water sports. While jet skiing and dhow cruise tours are widely popular, what you do also get is an amazing skyline view in the city. One can explore the whole skyline right from the waters, whether on a jet ski or a dhow cruise.
Suggested Read: Doha Corniche: The Stunning Waterfront Promenade Constructed From A Landfill
Doha is a city that has overseen massive development during the course of history. The city has stood up from being a slow-moving pearl fishing village to the urban metropolis that it is today. There are skyscrapers and amazing towers that have taken over the traditional low-rise, spacious courtyard houses. For travelers, catching a glimpse of it is an experience of a lifetime and something that doesn't disappoint at all.
Be it the Museum of Islamic Art or the majestic Arabian waters, one can catch a glimpse of this amazing Doha Skyline or go deep amidst the skyscrapers to know the stories and symbolisms around each structure that exists. So, still, wondering what makes Doha special? Come and catch sight of its skyline. You'll know what true beauty is!!
Doha Skyline - FAQs
Doha, one of the richest cities in the world is home to an amazing skyline that catches the eye of travelers. Here are some of the top places to visit on the Doha skyline - Museum of Islamic Art, Al Bidda Tower, Doha Tower, Palm Towers, Tornado Tower, Palm Towers, Aspire Tower, etc.
Over the years, the Qatari capital has seen a massive boost in tourism which is purely down to the generous hospitality and wondrous locations that it offers to travelers. But what does make the difference is the fact that there are a number of hotels in Doha that lie on the Doha skyline and are famous for a number of things. These hotels are not only famous for their generous services but also present some fine views from the rooms which are truly what travelers love.
There are multiple ways of catching a glimpse of the skyline of Doha. While there are many rooftop restaurants and hotel tops that provide this amazing view, watching from the Arabian waters is something that travelers can certainly choose. Today, there are many tours organized by tour operators in the country that take you around the skyline. In fact, you can even rent a jet ski and explore the skyline yourself from the waters as it is best viewed from there.
The FIFA World Cup 2022 is around the corner and Qatar is preparing with all force. But amongst these preparations, there is one thing that is gaining headlines. In 2006 when Qatar hosted the Asian Games, Aspire Tower was a focal point and became an icon of the event. It was not just a tall building in the state but it, in fact, became inherently iconic and added to the beauty of the skyline. Hence, there could be another iconic structure coming up in time before the FIFA World Cup kicks off in Qatar.
One of the places to visit in Doha, the MIA is perhaps the best location to view the amazing skyline in the city. This is a museum that boasts of its iconic collection and architectural design. In fact, the museum has been built on a private island and has a terrace that offers sweeping views of the skyline. What is fascinating is that the Museum Of Islamic Art appears to float on water from certain angles thanks to the way the museum has been built.
Yes, the rooftop restaurants and lounges are in plenty at the Pearl Qatar where travelers can enjoy the views. These rooftop spots are considered to be the best options for enjoying the nightlife in Doha. So, you not only enjoy the views but also indulge in the most amazing culinary experience.
The Palm Tower is an iconic structure on the skyline in Doha and resembles actual palm trees which are native to the region. The whole angular built of tower is built like that and is a symbol of the country's cultural heritage as well. For those who like to explore amazing architectural designs, the Palm Tower features glass box-like protrusions alongside its hexagonal structure which is fascinating to see in every respect.
Qatar is a country that houses some of the finest locations around the world. From top of the line structures to iconic historical landmarks that are eye-catching, here are some of the top places to visit in the country - Souq Waqif, Museum of Islamic Art, the Pearl Qatar, National Museum of Qatar, Doha Corniche, Sheikh Faisal Qassim Bin Al Thani Museum, etc.
