20 Best Things To Do In Doha To Discover Its Culture and Civilization

Have you ever been on an adventurous holiday with your friends? Doha has a plethora of activities for all kinds of tourists, of all age groups to select from, for instance, dune dashing and safari tours. Doha is known for its luxury; and is a combination of a dynamic culinary scene and unique fashion.

Tourists will have a range of things to do in Doha, right from visiting the high-end stores and boutiques to traditional food stands and up-market restaurants. There will never be a dull moment with so much to do while on vacation. Tourists from around the world always come back every year for more.

Top 20 Things To Do In Doha To Bring In The Excitement

• Shopping For Souvenirs
• Experience The Joy of Camel Riding
• Climb up the Barzan Towers
• Get Wet at the Aqua Park
• Soak in the Qatari Culture
• Experience Luxury at the Banana Island
• Visit the National Museum of Qatar
• Explore Pearl Qatar
• Discover Art Through Ages
• Learn Falconry
• Enjoy The Thrill Of Kayaking
• Explore MIA Park
• Take Tour Of The World Cup Venues
• Explore The Book Collection At The Qatar National Library
• Enjoy Beach Sports At Sealine Beach
• Take Your Little Ones To Jungle Zone
• Indulge In A Doha Desert Safari
• Sail In The Warm Waters Of The Arabian Gulf
• Swim Around The Beaches In Qatar
• Experience Crab Hunting

Doha has everything a tourist can think of doing while on vacation right from visiting the market, camel rides, visiting the parks, soaking in the culture and much more. There are so many things to do in Doha, which will always leave a tourist wanting more and will ensure they come back each year, for more adventure and fun.

Tourists should explore the market places and indulging in the best cuisines served at the restaurants and cafes. What more can anyone think of doing when on holiday? So, go ahead and have the best time of your life with your family and friends.

1. Shopping For Souvenirs

The shopping centers and markets are popular places in Doha, that attract tourists from around the world each year. So, if you are planning to visit Doha, then you should visit its oldest and authentic market place, Souq Waqif, which means ‘standing market’. It is one of the most famous places in the city to go on a shopping spree or simply hang out with friends and family. One of the must things to do in Doha is to explore the market places for their traditional Qatari clothes to spices, to visit the high-end gold shops, local art galleries and gourmet restaurants. People should enjoy the ideal and authentic experience of Qatari food and culture.

Address: Doha, Qatar

Main Highlights: Clothes, Spices, Gold Shops, local art galleries and gourmet restaurants

Opening Hours: 24 hours

2. Experience The Joy of Camel Riding

Do you love watching races especially camel racing? One of the most thrilling events for Qataris takes place in the small town of Al Shahaniya, an hour away from the city of Doha. Camel racing has been one of the oldest and traditional adventures in Doha.

It is now one of the most expensive sports and an obsession among the locals. It is held every Friday during November to February, which all the local fanatics and tourists from around the world come watch and enjoy. If a tourist is visiting the city in November or February, they should not miss out on the races.

Address: Ash-Shahaniyah, Qatar

Main Highlights: Camel racing

Opening Hours: 6 am, 1 pm, 3 pm

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3. Climb Up The Barzan Towers

One of the most fun things to do in Doha is climb up the Barzan towers, which has now been converted into a museum. Situated about 20 kms away from Doha, it was renovated by Umm Salal Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani in 1910. The towers are in the shape of the letter ‘T’.

Boasting of the old history of the nation and how important such monuments were to the state, it is one of the ideal places to visit in Doha. It is one of the most popular attractions for people from around the world and is open at all times.  What are you waiting for? Go ahead and climb those towers when on vacation in Doha.

Address: Muhammed, ، Qatar

Main Highlights: Pearl Divers, Ships and Moon

Opening Hours: 24 hours

4. Get Wet At The Park

Are you looking for a break from your mundane life? The water themed park provides several rides and activities to everyone. It began as a small park and then expanded into 50,000 square meters, along with places to stay for over 3000 people.

The lazy river, wave pool, an activity pool, an exotic village, a family pool, multiple slides complex, a bar and a restaurant are some of the features of the park. Visiting the aqua park is one of the many things to do with kids in Doha.  People should not miss out on the park for the fun and excitement while on vacation.

Address: Salwa Road Exit 29 Abu Nakhla، Doha, Qatar

Main Highlights: Wave pool, lazy river, surfing machine and waterslides

Opening Hours:

Monday and Wednesday, Friday and Saturday- 10 am- 10 pm

Tuesday and Sunday- 12 pm- 8 pm

Thursday- 11am–9pm

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5. Soak In The Qatari Culture

One of the many activities to do in Doha is visit the Katara Cultural village for its art, culture, and architecture. There is so much to see and do, and so people will always make plans to come back for more. The village was a part of the Doha Tribeca Film festival since 2010.

The opera house or the amphitheater is one of the places to go to in Qatar to soak in the cultural heritage through its rich art and heritage. Tourists can learn about Doha’s past at the library.  It isn’t something you have been dreaming about your whole life? With all these wonders and historical sites at one’s fingertips, what more can anyone ask for?

Address:  Doha, Qatar

Main Highlights: Art, Culture and Architecture

Opening Hours: 24 hours

6. Experience Luxury At One Of The Islands

One of the most artificial islands, located off the coast of Doha, the Banana Island was developed in 2015.  The 800 sq meter luxury resort island is governed by the Thailand- based Anantara, is one of the most visited destinations by tourists from around the world. With 141 rooms spread across 55 q meter rooms to 360 sq meters overwater bungalows, the banana island is the perfect getaway from one’s mundane life.  Some of the things to do in Doha this weekend is enjoy the playing area with the kids, watch movies at the mini theatre and enjoy some of the water sports.

Besides visiting Banana Island, tourists can spend a day at the beaches in Qatar, to enjoy the peace and tranquility with family and friends.

Address:  Doha, Qatar

Main Highlights:  Mini Theatre, Playing area for kids and water sports

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7. Visit the National Museum of Qatar

Opened less than a year ago, the national museum of Qatar is said to be one of the places to visit, which was inspired by the desert rose crystal. Every year, ever since it was established, over 450,000 visitors from around the world visit the museum. The story of the country is narrated through the museum that is spread over 1.5 kms.

The story is about the beginning, the life in Qatar and ends with the modern history of Qatar, which narrates the development of the country from the desert to modern times. One of the best things to do in Doha while visiting the museum, is to learn about its history.

Address:  Museum Park St, Doha, Qatar

Main Highlights:  Museum of Islamic Art, Mathaf, Arab Museum of Modern Art, MIA Park and QM Gallery at Katara

Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday 8:30am – 8pm and Friday from 1pm – 9pm

8. Explore Pearl Qatar

The artificial island, located 350 meters off the shore of Doha’s west bay lagoon's coast, Pearl Qatar is spread over 4 square kms.  Apart from spending a day in a heavenly place like this that offers world class comfort, people can even spend a day on the beaches in Qatar.

Boasting of its luxurious townhouses, beaches, entertaining facilities, high-end restaurants and public spaces, people can truly enjoy some of the most fun activities in Doha. Apart from pearl Qatar, one of the most popular destinations is Marsa Malaz Kempinski for its Arabian touches.  When it comes to experiencing luxury and wealth, the island is not a place that should be missed, when on vacation. With so much luxury and breathtaking views, what more can anyone ask for? So, pack those bags and visit the island for a day of peace and tranquility.

Address: Doha, Qatar

Main Highlights:  Townhouses, beaches, entertaining facilities, high-end restaurants and public spaces

Opening Hours: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm

Suggested Read: The Pearl Qatar: An Artificial Island In Doha

9. Discover Art Through Ages

Known to the world as MIA, is home to some of the most stunning Islamic art from over 14,000 years, from three different continents. It is known as a flagship of museums in Qatar filled with range of textiles, manuscripts, jewelry, glass ornaments and artifacts from countries such as India, Egypt, Central Asia, Turkey, Iraq, Spain and Iran.

The museum has a well-stocked library filled with English and Arabic books along with a park.  Tourists can attend some of the workshops held at the museum and learn about the rich Islamic culture.  One of the definite things to do in Doha is visit the museum at least once. Tourists will have the best time of their lives and will always come back for more.

Address: Doha, Qatar

Main Highlights:  Islamic art, textiles, manuscripts, jewelry, glass ornament and artifacts

Opening Hours: Sunday – Monday: 9 am- 7 pm, Friday: 1:30 pm – 7 pm

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10. Learn Falconry

All the falcon lovers in the city and from around the world, love to visit the Falcon Souq. It is one of the most famous places known for its airy shops filled with various species of falcons and birds. The season of falconry is between October to March, where tourists will see the locals shopping for all kinds of birds, on display at various shops. It is one of the most fun activities in Doha, which has become an obsession among the locals.

These are some of the things that make a holiday fun and memorable. Watching the locals buy birds or falcons is one of the most unique things seen in Qatar. The falcon souq is a must visit when on vacation at least once, as people have no idea what they are missing out on.

Address:  Al Souq St, Doha, Qatar

Main Highlights: Falcons and Birds

Opening Hours:  7 am- 1 pm, 5 pm- 9:30 pm

Suggested Read: Falcon Souq: One Of A Kind Market Dedicated To Falconry

11. Enjoy The Thrill Of Kayaking

Watersports in Qatar have gained immense popularity over time and the country is home to many wondrous places where water sports can be best enjoyed. But when it comes to kayaking, this is a sport that is filled with adventure, thrill, and even calmness in Qatar. It is one of the best ways to discover some amazing locations in this part of the world. If you're considering a water activity that gives you multiple ways of enjoyment, kayaking in Qatar has to be one of them, and for obvious reasons.

Today, thousands of travelers visit the Al Thakira Natural Reserve solely for the purpose of kayaking in the region. In fact, Al Thakira in Qatar is a hotspot for those who enjoy kayaking. Not only can one enjoy fishing while kayaking but one can also get to see the unique wildlife that this Middle Eastern paradise possesses.

Likewise, if kayaking is on your mind in Doha, places like Banana Island and the Pearl Qatar are also some locations where the activity is offered to travelers at modest prices. So, if you're wondering what to do in Qatar on your next getaway, try kayaking in the country and you won't be disappointed.

12. Explore MIA Park

There are certain locations in Qatar that are simply breathtaking to watch and the MIA Park is one of them. Part of the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha's most gorgeous location, the park is a green paradise that presents an array of facilities for travelers. This is a spot that has attractive activities for children of all ages which makes it a family-friendly place. Visitors can enjoy leisure and fun time with their loved ones during the weekends here while getting some facilities in bonus.

If you're bringing your little one with you, the MIA has trampolines, slides, and other types of playing equipment for children in a safe environment. The best part? There are cycling and walking tracks spread throughout the park which visitors can use while the MIA Café alongside many other food trucks within the area ensures your hunger is taken care of. There is even a market within the area which is highly popular in Doha today. So, visit here and experience calmness and tranquility together.

13. Take Tour Of The World Cup Venues

The FIFA World Cup 2022 is just around the corner and Qatar is the host nation this time around. The country is spending a whopping amount on preparations for the upcoming competition which includes the construction of seven new stadiums. If you're a football fan touring the country, the venues that are being constructed for the world cup are worth taking a tour of.

What is fascinating is that the venues are equipped with the best in class technology and are fully air-conditioned. Considering the day temperatures in Qatar that can rise up high even during the winter months, having an air-conditioning facility in the stadiums seems a wise choice. So, if you're up for a tour around Qatar, the country has enough wonders to surprise you. Take a tour of the world cup venues ahead of the competition and get to see how the country is preparing for the upcoming FIFA event in the Middle East.

14. Explore The Book Collection At The Qatar National Library

One of the finest places to visit in Doha, the Qatar National Library is popular for a variety of reasons. The library has a generous collection of books that range in a variety of categories. For book lovers, this is a paradise worth exploring in Qatar. With over a million books in the collection alongside 500,000 e-books, periodicals, and magazines, as well as special collections, the library continues to support Qatar's transition from reliance on natural resources to a diversified and sustainable economy by helping students, researchers, and the general public in promoting lifelong learning, empowerment of people and communities for better futures.

Interestingly, this is a library that truly represents what the culture of Qatar is all about. Since this is a public space, travelers coming here can get equal access to the facility. So, what’s the delay? If you’re someone who likes to explore book collections from around the world, the Qatar National Library has more than you would desire upon reaching here.  

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15. Enjoy Beach Sports At Sealine Beach

Beach sports can be a perfect thing to do in Qatar and the majority of travelers in the country look to enjoy the same. From the best of beach volleyball and horse riding to other activities like quad biking, beach soccer, and so much more, the beaches in Qatar have it all. But hang on, where do you visit exactly for a happening experience of a beach? Sealine Beach, one of the finest places to visit in Doha is home to a range of water sports facilities and beach sports. This is a beach where travelers can experience all the luxury while getting to enjoy some unique experiences.

Wondering where to visit with your loved ones? The Sealine Beach may well be the answer to you. Since this is a private beach, travelers can expect to enjoy the most happening time here. There is enough space for beach activities so one doesn’t have to worry too much about the space here. What is fascinating is that most types of equipment are already offered to visitors on the beach at minimal prices which means that one doesn’t need to carry a lot of stuff while visiting the beach. So, visit here, spend time with your loved ones and engage in a range of beach sports.

16. Take Your Little Ones To Jungle Zone

Today, theme parks in Qatar are a major attraction for families and have increased considerably in number over the years. If families want to enjoy time together, theme parks are probably the best places to consider going. But now here's a thing, choosing the most suitable theme park in the country might be tough but there's one place that guarantees a lot of fun for travelers.

The Jungle Zone in Qatar is the most perfect place for families to come and enjoy time together. Upon entering the park, travelers get a feeling as if they are on a jet plane. The park is lined up with roller coasters, amusement attractions, other activities, computer games, carnival games, and much more. Offering a magical carnival-like feel to travelers at Hyatt Plaza, the place ensures there are no dull moments for travelers whatsoever.

In fact, Taekwondo sessions are also offered to visitors at the Jungle Park and kids get to indulge in these sessions which are highly popular. However, since the sessions are only offered on specific days, travelers are advised to confirm the same from the concerned authorities at the park. What is fascinating is that the Jungle Zone remains open all week which means families can enjoy their time here whenever they want.

17. Indulge In A Doha Desert Safari

A desert experience is something that travelers cannot simply afford to miss when on a vacation in Qatar and the Doha Desert has a fair bit to offer. Offering the best of desert safari experience to travelers, the Doha Desert safari is highly popular in the Middle East and there's a good reason for that. There are many tour operators that are operating in the city and offer a fine desert safari experience to travelers.

With a number of activities to enjoy and a fine camping experience in the desert, a safari in the Doha Desert could be an activity of a lifetime. But in case you're worried about your comfort during the safari, well, here's the thing, the campsite offers accommodation which is perfectly in line with some of the finest hotels in Qatar while there is a range of amenities that one can expect to get here. So, what's the delay?

Plan your desert safari in Doha and spend time in the heart of the city. Avail of pickup and drop-off services as part of the whole desert safari package alongside a range of other facilities.

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18. Sail In The Warm Waters Of The Arabian Gulf

Ever wondered about sailing in the blue waters with nothing to worry about at all? Well, that's what Qatar offers. One of the finest nations for water sports in Qatar, Qatar offers perfect conditions for sailing and the waters around Doha have it all. For those who think about exploring the skyline or going deep into the waters of the Arabian Gulf, sailing has to be a top activity by all means.

If you're wondering what exactly makes sailing popular in the Qatari region, well, the answer perhaps lies in the weather conditions. Qatar is a country that records calm weather almost throughout the year. The wind speed in this part of the world isn't a problem for sailors while the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf provide perfect conditions for travelers. So, if you're up for a little adventure in the waters of the Arabian Gulf, Qatar awaits you today. Try sailing here, an activity that won't disappoint you.

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19. Swim Around The Beaches In Qatar

Fancy a swim in the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf? Qatar has a fair bit to offer. There are many beaches in the country where the currents are favorable for swimming. While the calm waves make it possible for travelers to enjoy swimming, the weather conditions too are perfect. Qatar is a country that rarely sees harsh weather conditions. The water remains warm throughout the year which makes conditions perfect for travelers to enjoy swimming.

Speaking of Doha, the Qatari capital is home to a number of public and private beaches where one can enjoy swimming without any concerns. So, if you fancy a swim in the waters of the Arabian Gulf, Qatar is a country that has it all for you. Enjoy swimming in the sea and have the best of time.

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20. Experience Crab Hunting

Ever wondered what else you can do besides beach and water activities in Qatar? Well, how about crab hunting? One of the most unique experiences in this part of the world, crab hunting is more of a winter experience in Qatar and calls for some happy times around the country. This is the time when family and friends come together and enjoy their time on the beach till late at night.

It is an activity where the residents and visitors in the country usually camp overnight to devote their time to finding and catching crabs around the beach area. Some popular beaches like Al Wakrah and Al Khor are amongst the best places to enjoy this activity. But when it comes to Doha, crab hunting can be enjoyed at multiple locations.

This is an activity that attracts travelers and natives alike as people from all forms of life participate in this activity and have a thrilling time on the beaches as they fill their baskets with crabs. While getting to enjoy crab hunting, travelers can experience the hunt and cooking of crab all on the beach as families and friends sit together on the soft beach sand to enjoy cooking and eating the crab for long hours.

However, when planning to enjoy crab hunting during the winters in Qatar, travelers are advised to confirm the location and best timings to indulge in crab hunting from local guides or other concerned authorities.

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Tourism has become important as the ideal of discovering new cultures and civilizations has become important for people around the world. When it comes to exploring culture and history, Doha is the one stop tourist destination for everyone.  The historical sites, shops and markets are certain things that leave people awe struck. The city has so much in store for its tourists, which they should not miss out. Tourists from around the world have always come dreamt of visiting Doha for its markets and shopping malls. So, go ahead, make your dream come true by booking your flights to Doha and have the best vacation you’ve been wanting for a long time.

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