Planning a stopover in Doha? Read on for a round-up of not-to-miss travel experiences
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Hamad International Airport
Explore compelling public art
Your itinerary of things to do during your layover starts at Hamad International Airport (HIA). Here you’ll find one eye-catching art installation after another. Begin with the iconic ‘Lamp Bear’ by Urs Fischer and end your inspired trip with the ‘Desert Horse’ by Ali Hassan upon exit. HIA showcases fascinating local, regional and global artists whose sculptures and monuments create lasting memories for visitors in this short, but packed, trip.
Climb, slide and roll
Keep your little ones entertained and energised with activity nodes at each of HIA’s terminals. Each node includes mac stations, toys, mini-rides and climbing frames. You can find these designated areas in Concourse A, B and C.
Treat yourself or your loved ones
Take care of any shopping at Qatar Duty Free which offers more than 70 retail outlets and high-end boutiques. Make sure to also stop by The Orchard, HIA’s tranquil oasis with over 90 retail brands to enjoy.
Dine at the finest restaurants.
HIA offers endless dining options whether you’re looking for something on-the-go or a gourmet experience. Some of our favourites include Qataf Café, as an introduction to Middle Eastern flavours, Yum Cha serving some of the best Asian delicacies, and Jsala for contemporary Indian street food with a twist.
Refresh and relax
From designated quite rooms to luxurious lounges, experience havens of relaxation at the World’s Best Airport and unwind from travelling. Head over to Head to Be Relax Spa or the Vitality and Wellbeing & Fitness Centre for a quick boost before your next adventure.
Discover the city
Qatar’s sophisticated public transportation makes it easy to go sightseeing in the city and explore all that Doha has to offer. In addition to the Doha Metro and Tram network, cycling and pedestrian paths can be found all across the city, offering plenty of choice on how you like to go out and about.
Learn the history: National Museum of Qatar
Spanning over 430,500 square feet with a striking façade inspired by natural desert crystal formations, embark on a visual journey of Qatar through interconnected galleries. The National Museum of Qatar (NMOQ) is built around the original palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al-Thani.
Cultural hotspots: Souq Waqif and Katara Cultural Village
Qatar’s authentic souq and bazaar, Souq Waqif is where Qatar’s residents love to shop and grab a bite. Take in this hotspot’s captivating sights, sounds and aromas, with the souq’s antique jewellery, oud, spices, and buzzing conversations rising from the many bustling cafés.
Next, make your way to Katara Cultural Village and visit one of the district’s many museums, galleries and public art displays. Take in the vibrant turquoise and purple mosaic tiles of the Katara Masjid and enjoy the cool sea breeze with a stroll across the promenade.
Look up at towering skyscrapers: Lusail City
Contrast Qatar’s past with its modern present and visit some of the country’s latest, whimsical structures and creations. Take sightseeing to another level with the scimitar-sword inspired Fairmont and Raffles Doha, and the colourful ‘lego blocks’ of the Marina Twin Towers. Lusail City has some of the most advanced designs and creations that can be explored.
Next, head over to Place Vendôme Mall for an unforgettable shopping experience. Inspired by classic French architecture, the mall spans over 1,150,000 square feet with 580 high-end to mid-range stores. Along the canal, you can also witness the mesmerising ‘Dancing Fountains’ that play every hour.
Fuel your trip and enjoy Doha’s iconic skyline: Mina District
One of Doha’s latest developments, the Mina District’s pastel-coloured buildings and cobbled streets present the perfect opportunity to wind-down. With views looking out onto the waters, the district’s varied cafes and restaurants offer a serene break and a picturesque background for the perfect shot to wrap up your time in Doha.
Explore world-class hotels
Book yourself into one of Qatar’s fine hotels. Visitors are spoiled for choice with a diverse hospitality landscape that includes The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha, The Outpost Al Barari, Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail, The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort, and the Raffles Doha and Fairmont Doha
Things to know before travelling
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Visas
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Getting here
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Travel tips
Make the most of your visit with our handy travel guide.
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Getting around
From a dhow boat to our world-class metro, here’s how to easily explore Qatar.
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