Qatar has become one of the most attractive destinations for those looking for a luxurious and extraordinary vacation. Despite its magnificence and excellent conditions for recreation, prices are at a very affordable level for tourists. Therefore, all the top attractions today are available to anyone - just choose those that interest you.

What makes this tourist destination so special? In this country, you have the opportunity to look at Islamic culture and meet the world of the future. There are a lot of interesting things for tourists who want to learn something new and get excited by the unique mix of attractions and activities this country offers.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Qatar?

The best times to visit Qatar are between April-May and September-October. During these time intervals, as a rule, there are no sandstorms, the rainy season is already ending, so the rest will be the best.

Qatar is a traditional Muslim country, and there are not many large holidays and events here. During the summer months, an interesting festival takes place. At this time, in various cities of the country, you can watch the performances of folklore groups and visit crafts exhibitions. The landmark event of the program is the North Sea Jazz Festival, which gathers famous jazz performers from all over the world. Another significant social event is the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters, which takes place in March. Only the best masters of golf are invited here, who fight not only for the championship. In the evenings, after the end of the competition day, the most famous pop stars perform in the clubs of Doha. So, if you are interested in such directions of entertainment, plan your trip for these dates.

Discovering Qatar - Must-Visit List for Every Tourist

Usually, tourists go to this country to sunbathe on local beaches and go shopping. The convenient location contributes to this and attracts tourists from all over the world. The best resorts are located in the area that surrounds the capital, Doha. There are a lot of excellent hotels with the highest level of comfort and quality of service. The sandy beaches are surprisingly good and have a well-developed infrastructure. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, there are excellent diving conditions. Even without special skills, after a few lessons with a professional instructor, you can take part in an exciting underwater excursion.

Shopping centers, shops, and boutiques of the capital are especially attractive for shopping lovers. They offer relatively inexpensive but very high-quality textiles. Jewelry made by local craftsmen is no less popular, for which you should go to the gold bazaar (Gold Souq New). Of course, according to the Arab tradition, gold does not have a very high standard, but for little money, you can buy a marvelous work of art.

So, what every tourist needs to visit? There are a lot of interesting places here that will undoubtedly change your mind, help you learn Islamic culture, and have a good time. By the way, do not forget about travel insurance, which is very important in recent times. Pay attention to offers from EKTA traveling - their insurance packages cover Covid as well.

Here are the top 14 attractions you must visit during your time in Qatar:

1. Museum of Islamic Art

This incredible museum has the largest collection of Islamic art in the world from three continents. There are so many items here that you can hardly see even the most important exhibits in one visit. If your purpose of the visit is to study art and culture, you will have to visit this museum several times.

The museum building is located on a separate island by the bay and is surrounded by a lawn and decorative trees. It is designed in a traditional Arabic style with very few windows. By the way, this was done to reduce power consumption. 

The view of the bay from the side of the museum is considered one of the best in Doha. The exhibits are located on three floors: on the 1st and 2nd floors, there is a permanent collection that includes exquisite textiles, ceramics, metal and glass products, and all items seem to complement each other. Here, every visitor can feel the unity of the styles of Islamic art, which has been carefully preserved for centuries.

2. Souq Waqif

Without a doubt, this vibrant place is one of Doha's most key sites. Built on the site of an ancient market, Souq Waqif is considered the center of the city's social life. Several centuries ago, local Bedouins brought their sheep, goats, and wool here to bargain and earn, and more recently the authorities have skillfully redeveloped the area. However, it has retained all the features of the original 19th-century bazaar, with its dilapidated shops and exposed wooden beams. They did not forget about the old Qatari houses, which they managed to carefully restore.

Some of the local outlets are more like museums, displaying curious artifacts (such as swords and handmade souvenirs) as well as jewelry from all over the world. Many shops are closed during the day because of the hot weather, but many cafes and restaurants are open all day long.

3. Al Koot Fort

This building is interesting because it used to be a prison and an ethnographic museum. This fort dates back to the period of the Turkish yoke of the 19th century. However, during the period of reconstruction in the late 70s, this building has slightly lost its original appearance. This fort is currently not in use. But most likely you will visit this place since it is a pretty interesting place for photos and for those who are interested in history.

4. Banana Island

This marvelous crescent-shaped island with blue waters, tropical plants, and an 800-meter golden beach is a must-see even for those who are not planning to book a room in one of its luxury hotels. It can be easily reached by boat. 

There are 6 restaurants on the island serving everything you can think of. Starting from traditional Middle Eastern dishes to any masterpieces of Italian cuisine. As for entertainment, diving, bowling, artificial waves, and so on await you here. Of course, here you will have the opportunity to relax and sunbathe.

5. National Museum of Qatar

The long-awaited opening of the Qatar National Museum took place in March 2019. The building was designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, who took inspiration from the desert rose, a mineral that crystallizes in layers of sand. The building turned out to be unlike anything else, the length of its galleries is one and a half kilometers, and they are divided into three "chapters".

The exhibits are dedicated to the history and heritage of the country and are intended to glorify its past, present, and future on the world stage. If you do not know what to see in Doha in the first place, we advise you to go here. Especially if you want to know as much as possible about Qatar.

6. MIA Park

MIA Park is one of the most picturesque green spaces along the Doha waterfront. Here is where Richard Serra's famous steel installation “7” stands, the first public work of the famous master in the Middle East. It is full of cafes with gorgeous views of the city. Joggers will love the crescent-shaped mile-long trail that runs around the park, and there is a separate play area for children. Therefore, this place is suitable for everyone, regardless of their interest.

7. Talia Mare Beach Club

Qatar also offers all the necessary conditions for those looking for entertainment similar to Ibiza. Talia Mare is one of the best hangout spots in Doha, located on a beach surrounded by trendy houses, and its atmosphere and music are somewhat reminiscent of the famous Mambo. The local beach has lockers, umbrellas, sun loungers, and all other amenities, including beach toys for children. Here you will have a chance to smoke a fragrant hookah, admire the beautiful sunset, and plunge into the atmosphere of fun and party.

8. Corniche

When visiting Qatar, don’t pass by this place. This wonderful crescent-shaped promenade stretches along the Persian Gulf for as much as 7 km. Surprisingly, quite recently there was an ordinary garbage dump in its place. You can enjoy the best views of the bay area from the platform, which is located near the Museum of Islamic Art. From here, you can admire the views of the bay, dhows (traditional Arab sailing ships), and West Bay skyscrapers. It is best to come here on Friday evening when families of all nationalities flock to the embankment.

9. Imam Muhammad bin AbdulWahhab Mosque

This mosque is the largest in the country. It is distinguished by an interesting architectural design, thanks to which the mosque resembles a huge fort with dozens of domes on the roof. At night, these domes are illuminated with bright light, so they can be seen from the tall buildings of Doha for tens of kilometers. 

The large white prayer hall is really incredible. The floors are covered with red carpets, and the hall itself is lit by rather simple chandeliers. Please note that tourists are not allowed to visit it during prayers. So, there is a need to book a visit in advance via the internet or with the help of one of the local travel agencies.

10. Hotel Park

If you want to see what a modern park looks like then this place is a great example of this. The park is located in the city center and amazes with its size. There are fountains and beautiful curly flowerbeds, comfortable playgrounds for children, a separate fitness area, prayer rooms, and toilets. The park is located behind the famous Sheraton Hotel, which stands in the heart of Doha's vibrant business area. Various festivals and social events are held in the park throughout the year. For example, the Bollywood Film Festival, and the Pizza or Pasta Festival.

11. Katara Beach

Do not deprive yourself of beach holiday pleasure. At the same time, you will not need to leave the city to be able to swim and enjoy a beach holiday. This 1.5 km long beach is just what you need. 

Here you will find a picturesque line of white sand with trampolines for children and all kinds of water activities for every taste. Pay attention to the cultural features of this place. Women are not allowed to swim in swimsuits familiar to Europeans. Men should also give preference not to swimming trunks, but shorts.

12. Gold Souq New

As noted earlier, jewelry is worth seeing in Qatar. In a modern shopping center, which is located near the Souq Waqif market, crowds of traders and dealers are selling gold jewelry. Even if you don't plan on buying anything, it is highly recommended to take a look here. You will not find such a wide variety of designs anywhere else. And this market can be considered truly unique and unrepeatable. Note that this bazaar comes alive in the evenings, especially before the holidays when men traditionally come to the market to buy new jewelry for their wives.

13. The Pearl Monument

If you are one of those who are eager to take vivid photos and selfies while traveling, then this monument is what you need. This famous pearl-shaped monument is located at the north end of the Corniche. This monument has such an interesting design because before oil was discovered in the territory of Qatar, pearl gathering was the main industry. It was one of the main sources of income in the region, so it is still appreciated by residents today.

14. Amiri Diwan

If you decide to explore the Corniche area, then don't pass by this place. This stunning white building is Qatar's national parliament. It will be easy to recognize it thanks to the massive flag atop the palace. But note that this is a secure facility. Therefore, it is highly recommended to admire this magnificent building from afar.

Wrapping Up

Qatar will reboot your imagination, even if you are an experienced traveler. Here you can get opportunities to rest in luxury hotels, sunbathe on the best beaches and satisfy the need for cultural development. Organize your trip and visit the attractions from our article to discover Qatar from all sides. 

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