Msheireb Downtown Doha: A Guide On The Smart City in Qatar

The world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project, Msheireb Downtown Doha will revive the old commercial destination with a modern appearance influenced by the traditional Qatari heritage and architecture. Adhering to the highest standards in green building, the latest in sustainable technologies will be used. With such luxury and richness seen in a city like Doha, what more can any tourist ask for?

People will make it a point to visit the middle east every year and enjoy the activities and comforts offered. Doha has a lot to offer its tourists, which they should not miss out on. Speaking of a lot to offer, Msheireb is the one place people have to visit while on holiday. The aim and focus is to ensure that downtown Doha becomes the new social and civic hub in the city Centre, where people can enjoy working, living, and shopping with friends, and family.

Msheireb Downtown Doha - Rooted in Qatari Culture

The first sustainable downtown regeneration project, Msheireb Downtown Doha has retained its traditional Qatari heritage and architectural language seen its simplicity, space, light, layering, ornament and response to climate. The aim of the project is to give the pattern of development in Doha a new look which is leaning towards improving the use of land, car transportation and energy hungry structures.

Downtown Doha plans to become the social and civic hub where one can live, work, shop, visit and spend time with their loved ones.

Msherieb Museums - Traveling Back In Time

Wouldn’t be amazing if we could travel back in time just to see how people lived their lives back in the olden days and of course explore the golden architectural heritage.

The museum was built by the son of the founder of modern Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Jassim Al Thani, which represents the past, present and a sneak peek into what Downtown Doha bases itself on. The Echo memory art project is the museum’s child as it uses objects that were discovered during the excavation work on the site.  The traditional values represent the future of Doha’s development and introduces Msheireb’s transformation over a period of time as it recalls the past, portraying the present and keeping the visitors engaged in the future plans.

With the evolution of time, journey through the district of Msheireb and explore the narrow alleyways that gave birth to homes built on either side and how its changed into a baraha, an open-air town square. The challenge was taken on to maintain a balance between the modern needs of living and the idea of preserving the local heritage and culture.

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Msheireb Downtown Doha - The Untold History

Doha was home to some of the most traditional adobe courtyard houses that created a low skyline punctuated by domes and minarets of mosques. Back in the day buildings were simple, made with mud, stone and coral, with one or two rooms. Refuge was offered from the intense midsummer heat in woven network of streets and passageways.

The population of Doha used to be around 12,000 and had about 350 pearling boats. It has retained a close relationship and proximity with the sea coastline. The 1950’s saw the development and gradual growth of the nation’s oil and gas resources. The population of the city grew leaps and bounds which sparked a transformation in the landscape and skyline. Less population and a range of architectural styles are one of the main reasons behind the new suburbs and business districts.

Over the years, the transformation of the small city resulted in all kinds of identity of the city and its lifestyle. Downtown Doha was given birth to with the aim of the nation’s development and cultural roots with which the city was founded. The old downtown district grew up around reserves influenced by a society well rooted down there.

Mandate Of Downtown Doha

With a mandate to deal with the gap in the architectural history and to re- explore a different form of Qatar’s urban development, Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, her highness, established Msheireb properties. The aim is to offer a better perspective and add the best of the past and contemporary innovative technologies and shape an architectural language in Qatar.

The rebirth of a neighborhood and the architectural heritage is what defines Msheireb Downtown, which is in danger of becoming extinct. The bedrock of the project was given birth to the principles of progress and tradition, freedom and responsibility, new and old cultures along with creativity and stability.  The blueprint of Msheireb Downtown Doha went through intensive research, which has implemented the true spirit and aesthetics of the country’s architecture. The language of architecture was given birth to counteract the depletion of the unique cultural and architectural heritage. To re-energize the core of the city and to develop a range of activities was the main objective of the project. The traditional methods of dealing with climate and close- knit pedestrian districts are the some of the things the design of the urban space draws on.

2008 saw the launch of an international competition to choose the best architects to create a world- class urban landscape for this seminal project. The aim was to look for those who could be decipher the gap between the old and new Doha.

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Zulal Wellness Resort At Downtown Doha

A combination of traditional Arabic and Islamic medicine with a holistic health and wellbeing philosophy, defines Zulal Wellness Resort, a one stop tourist destination. Guests from all over the world are offered a distinct yet interconnecting experience. Guests looking for an immersive health and lifestyle reset can come to Zulal Wellness resort. People can rekindle with their families and go on a wellness journey together. The resort aims at bring about a change in the lifestyle.

Discovering Msheireb Downtown Doha Apartments  

Also known to people as Musheireb Doha, a smart city is a residential place that boasts luxury and fine infrastructure. It is designed with the best cutting-edge technology and offers the best facilities like pools, gym, and private lifts that are a combination of contemporary style in modern living. Established in 2010, the development of the city continues to expand itself. At present, it has over 100 buildings which include 3 to 30 Storeys.

The Msheireb Doha used to be a place with traditional housing that overlooked the vast desert, skyline, and minarets. Transformed into a metropolis with a gradual increase in population, the place has become of perfectly designed wonders of Doha. The development of this sustainable project came about with the changes in the architectural style and growing suburbs. One of the first religious centers in the heritage quarter is the mosque. People will be awe-struck by such beauty, which is not found anywhere else in the world.

Msheireb Downtown Doha Apartments are worth the visit while on vacation in Qatar, just to see what we’ve been reading or heard about is true.

Reasons To Visit Msheireb Downtown Doha

Are you looking for a reason why you should visit downtown? Out of all the places to visit in Qatar, the development project ensures people have the best travel experience. Still not convinced? Well, here are a few reasons why you should visit the place.

1. Entertainment and Historical Place  

With the idea of exploring the cultural beauty of Qatar, Msheireb Downtown has it all right from entertainment, luxury, and leisure. It has become of the best places to go in Doha for its luxury dining to high-class museums to galleries. People will discover the art and will be welcomed by the culture. There is an entertainment center for kids to spend a day at and enjoy themselves thoroughly.

2. Blend Of Old And New Architecture

Msheireb Downtown is known for its traditional architecture despite being a modern marvel in Qatar. One of the many things to do is to discover the vintage beauty of the Msheireb museums and Souq Waqif, some of the famous landmarks in Qatar. You will be transported back into the golden era by visiting the streets to exploring the antique collection and architecture. You can shop for all kinds of things at the market.

3. Comfortable Living

Tourists get to have the most luxuriating experience staying at one of the Msheireb Downtown hotels Doha. The hotels ensure guests enjoy the comfort and leisure of Qatari hospitality. One of the best hotels is the Alwadi Hotel Doha that boasts of the best restaurants, pool, spacious and well-equipped rooms. Each facility offered will ensure guests have the best staycation of their lives. Apart from the hotels, people can even have the most comfortable stay at the resorts in Qatar.

4. Easy To Move Around

Roaming the streets of Msheireb Downtown Doha has become easily as it is well connected by TRAM. Situated and connected to cities close by, downtown has an easy transportation system. The galleries, cultural centers and restaurants are well connected with the finest tram system.

Places To Visit In and Around Msheireb Downtown Doha

The most popular city of Qatar, Doha is the one stop holiday destination for every tourist in the country. With its fine architecture and development, the city is also known for its cultural and heritage spots. The Msheireb houses is a wonder in itself with its infrastructure and planning. It is home to several stunning sites that lend people the thrill and leisure of their holiday in Qatar. Put downtown Doha in the list of attractions to visit and explore its urbanized vibes.

1. Museum of Illusions

Opening Hours

• Monday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
• Friday: 3pm – 9pm
• Saturday: 9am - 5 pm
• Sunday: Closed

The museum of illusions is a fascinating, exciting and unique place that attracts people with its interior style. Tourists from all over the world come for the fun and entertainment along with learning about certain things. It is a one of a kind in the country for its creative use of science and theory.

People are often left dumbfounded with the fascinating tricks that include understanding the mystery behind the mind and the illusions. The vortex tunnel and smart playroom are the most amazing highlights that challenge the brain.  There are a few mathematical and tricky games, which is one of the many things to do in Qatar. These are things people will enjoy in the smart playroom, along with the knots and teasers.

2. Msheireb Museums, Doha

Opening Hours

• Monday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
• Friday: 3pm – 9pm
• Saturday: 9am - 5 pm
• Sunday: Closed

Tourists and the locals are offered a unique experience of learning about the history and heritage of the country. The journey people are sent on is to relive the vintage period and discover the wealth and social reforms. The architecture of Radwani, Jelmood, company and Mohammed Bin Jassim house is a sight to see. The traditional attractions were restored and flaunted as an important architecture structure, which adds to the charm of the country.

Tourists will go on a journey of a different time period as they visit the historical and cultural attractions near Msheireb Qatar. The historic glimpse, the past and introduction to the future development of Doha is seen through the museums.

Suggested Read: Museums In Qatar For Their Exposure To Foreign Cultures

3. Juma Mosque or The Msheireb Mosque

Opening hours

• Monday to Wednesday: 9 am - 5 pm
• Friday: 3 pm - 9 pm
• Saturday: 9 am - 5 pm
• Sunday: Closed

The state-of-the-art mosque is a combination of modern touch and Qatari architecture. The structure has a spiritual essence, designed in white stone.  The mosque was built when the city was going through its social and economic transformation.

It is one of John McAslan’s wonders and the first religious arbitration. The mosque showcases a traditional design influenced by the Qatari art in the 7th century, despite its modern styling and construction. It is one of the major attractions in Msheireb Qatar. Along with visiting the mosque, tourists can turn of their phones and spend a day on the beaches in Qatar.

4. Msheireb Enrichment Centre, Doha

Opening Hours

• Sunday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
• Friday: closed
• Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm

Established by Msheireb properties to represent the history of Doha, the Msheireb Enrichment center is one of the most stunning educational projects. It showcases the past and future of the country, glorifying its existence. Overlooking the Doha Corniche, offering a close view of the waterfront region, people can spend an entire evening in the most peaceful environment.

Home to a few artefacts and antiques that boast of the culture and heritage of the country, the Centre is a must visit.  The project is the ideal testimonial of sustainability, art and innovation.

5. Souq Waqif

Opening hours: 24 hours

One of the main attractions close to Msheireb Downtown Doha is Souq Waqif, filled with all kinds of retro bars, lounges, cafes and family restaurants. For all the foodies and shoppers, the market is the place for them. The cultural heritage boasts of style and charm along the beauty of Qatari architecture. It was once a place where the locals would gather to trade goods and livestock.  Back in 2003, the market was reconstructed to sustain its historical appearance and identity. All kinds of cultural events, commercial meetings, fests and theatrical shows with attractions like the art centers, gallery and museums are hosted at the Souq Waqif. What more can anyone ask for when it comes to exploring some of the most interesting places in the Middle East.

6. National Museum Of Qatar

Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday - 9 AM to 7 PM and Friday - 1:30 PM to 7 PM

National Museum of Qatar is the perfect example of the country’s historical richness. People from around the world come to discover its stunning architecture and interior designs. French architect and Pritzker Prize-winner, Jean Nouvel took 8 years to build the museum. The exterior was designed with its inspiration of the rose of the sand, a cluster of crystals that resemble petals formed in the desert. The museum is a fine example of what the country stands for. So, go ahead and visit the museum and get a glimpse of the architecture and history.

7. Doha Corniche

Opening hours: 24 hours

Have you seen the sunset in Doha or seen the skyline from the waters? If you haven’t yet, then you have no idea what you are missing out on. Doha Corniche is one the best places to visit in the Middle East, as it delivers nothing but joy. People can get a glimpse of the sunset view in Doha and walk around. If one is hungry and wants to grab a bite to eat, they can go visit the food stalls serving all kinds of cuisines. One can capture the stunning view of the skyline from the waters. To make the visit even more interesting, one can go on the dhow cruise or take a ride and explore the Persian Gulf. What else can anyone ask for when it comes to exploring some of the most stunning attractions in the Middle East. It is a once in a life time opportunity.

Places To Stay In Msheireb Doha

Emerging as one of the tourist attractions,  Msheireb is home to some of the ideal hotels to accommodate guests. Downtown is famous for the easy accessibility to the close by attractions and other places. Tourists from all over the world come to explore the wealth and architecture of the place. Furthermore, guests will have the ideal staycation here and will always come back for more.

1. Mandarin Oriental, Doha

Location from Msheireb Station: 0.6 km

Ratings: 4.5 stars

We Love It For:

• Free Parking
• Two Swimming Pool
• Wellness Center
• Tea and Coffee Maker
• Fitness Center

One of the finest hotels to stay in downtown is the Mandarin Oriental known for its contemporary design and heartwarming hospitality. The hotel offers an unforgettable experience, where people can enjoy the subtle beauty in the colors and exquisite interiors, adding comfort to the staycation.

The rooms are fully equipped with air conditioning, T.V, tea and coffee machine, private bathrooms with toiletries and showers.  So, when planning a holiday to Qatar, choose from the various rooms that feature the best amenities for your stay.

2. Park Hyatt, Doha

Location from Msheireb Station: 1.0 KM

Rating: 5.0

We Love It For:

• Meeting Services
• Pool
• Dining
• Free Internet Access
• Free Parking Facility

Park Hyatt Doha Msheireb is one of the finest hotels and the world’s first sustainable regeneration project. With over 187 designed guest rooms with 28 suites equipped with ceiling windows, luxury window seats, designer marble bathrooms, guests will have the best staycation in the hotel.

While enjoying their stay at the Park Hyatt hotel, guests can take advantage of the facilities. If one stays in the Presidential and Diplomat suite, they get to enjoy the stunning view of the city standing from their balcony.

Guests can expect the finest culinary experience at the hotel as they are known for their world class dining choices. People can give their taste buds a treat to some of the finest cuisines like Japanese, local and international favorites. The fitness center and luxury spa are places where guests can rejuvenate their senses along with the ideal therapy.

One of the things to do in Doha is take a dip in the swimming pool and make use of the business services, if required. Guests are offered the best luxuries and services like free parking facility, digital key, free internet access and meeting facilities.

3. Musherib Hotel Doha

Location from Msheireb Station: 0.5 km

Ratings: 3.5 stars

Exclusive Features:

• Free Parking
• Swimming Pool
• Wellness Center
• Sauna
• Restaurant

One of the most luxurious accommodations, located in the capital city of Qatar, the Musherib Hotel is located short of Doha corniche and Souq Waqif. The hotel offers the most luxurious stay boasting of its modernized structure and ideal facilities.

With the most spacious and well-furnished rooms that include bedding and modern furnishing, toiletries and amenities like T.V. minibar in Musherib, people will have the best staycation. The utmost comfort and leisure will not be found anywhere else in Qatar. People can have the best experience by enjoying certain facilities like the swimming pool, à-la-carte restaurant, and free parking facility, gym, spa and wellness center.

4. Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels – Tivoli

Distance from Msheireb Station: 1.4 km

Ratings: 4.5/5

What Do We Love It For:

• Free Parking
• Swimming Pool
• Wellness Center
• Restaurant
• Fitness Center

If you are looking for world- class service and want to experience Qatari hospitality, then Souq Waqif is the place for you. With its contemporary touch of art and architecture, the Souq Waqif Boutique hotels boasts of its elegant décor. It is the best accommodation for its unmatched features, complimenting assistance and luxurious vibes.

Guests will feel right at home with the amenities offered and the spacious rooms. Designed with delicate furnishings and amenities like flat-screen T.V., a seating area and a desk, what more can anyone ask for? Furthermore, people can even enjoy the luxury of a spa or fitness center and give their taste buds the finest experience to some of the local cuisines along with traditional  wellness techniques.

Suggested Read: Doha Metro: An Insight Into The Fastest Rail Network In The Middle East

Traveling Around The City With Msheireb Tram

Qatar has transformed its transformation network with the introduction of Msheireb Tram. Traveling around the city has become easy for people as the services are highly co-friendly with quick accessibility, air-conditioned coaches and the light-filtering glass panels Msheireb Tram. Some of the stations from which people can catch the tram from are:

• Wadi Msheireb Station
• Galleria Station
• Msheireb Prayer Ground Station
• Heritage Quarter Station
• Al Baraha Station
• Sahat Al-Masjid Station
• Al Kahraba Street Station

The route to your selected place in downtown will only be about 2 to 12 kms. These stations offer a quick escape to most of the tourist attractions. You can easily explore certain places of interest with Msheireb Tram.

1. Al Kharaba Station

Al Kharaba station is the access route for various cafes and shopping places in Qatar. While traveling the tram, one can explore several food places like:

• Rusk
• Ministry of Coffee
• Turkiana
• Antarnash

The timing of the trams is 9 am to 12 noon and 4 pm to 9 pm during Saturdays to Thursdays’ while the timings for Friday is 4 pm to 9 pm.  Travelers are not allowed to eat or smoke inside the tram.

2. Galleria Station

It is one the most popular stations known for its underpass that leads to Souq Waqif. The station provides a route to certain places and cafes in Doha like:

• Alwadi Hotel Doha
• Le Colonial
• Atteatude
• The Box Donut
• Infinity Rooftop Lounge
• Sofra
• O’Glacee Restaurant and Pool

3. Wadi Msheireb Station

Wadi Msheireb station is an interconnecting or transfer point in between the Doha metro lines like red line, gold line and green line. Some of the famous sites one can explore while taking the tram include:

• The Park Hyatt Hotel
• Sora Restaurant
• Anis
• Opus

4.Heritage Quarter Station

Heritage Quarter is a 5-star station that offers the finest features and services, found in no other station. The station goes through several cultural and historical routes to places like:

• Al Fai Restaurant
• Msheireb Museum
• Empire Coffee
• Msheireb Mosque

How To Reach Msheireb Downtown

Nestled at the heart of Doha, Msheireb Downtown is only a couple of minutes away from the international airport and in the middle of two key routes onto the city.   One can take a cab or travel by metro to their final destination. The place is well connected by road and so, people will not have a problem getting around. In case people get lost along the way, they can always ask the local residents for help.

Msheireb Doha welcomes people from all over the world to see the magnificence of architecture that redefines the development of the country. Tourists should book flights to Qatar and take a cab to roam around Msheireb Downtown Doha. People can stay at some of the most luxurious hotels, go on a shopping spree and much more while on vacation. It is a once in a lifetime experience.

Msheireb Downtown Doha - FAQs