Doha

Travel Guide
Doha
A mix of traditional Qatari art and culture and ultra-modern architecture and opportunities make this Middle Eastern city a fascinating destination.

Doha, Qatar’s capital, began as a tribal port settlement in a desert land, with pearl diving, fishing and sea trade supporting its economy. When the nation developed an oil industry, Doha began a rapid path of modernization. Visit this fascinating city that preserves traditions of art, religion and markets alongside impressive architecture and technological investment.

Modernizing while preserving traditions is part of the country’s long-term plan, Qatar National Vision 2030. Stroll along Doha’s pretty shoreline to view both aspects of the city. From the Doha Corniche and peaceful MIA Park, gaze out over the Persian Gulf, where pearl divers found treasures in the sea. Look for the Pearl Monument commemorating the importance of the gems to Doha’s early economy. Turn inland to view the dramatic skyline of modern high-rises such as the Doha Tower gleaming in the sun.

Jutting out over the bay, the Museum of Islamic Art showcases 14 centuries of intriguing art from Qatar and elsewhere. A bit inland, step into the Souq Waqif’s busy alleys to experience a traditional marketplace with Middle Eastern treasures. Purchase spices, sample local foods, observe falconry and browse art galleries. With the futuristic shape of a desert rose, the nearby National Museum of Qatar provides insights on the nation’s past, present and future.

Many modern developments are on Doha’s western side. The impressive Education City Stadium and Khalifa International Stadium show the nation’s dedication to promoting sports. Hosting international soccer competitions gives Qatar a chance to demonstrate its hospitality. Aspire Tower is a five-star hotel, with a shape resembiing a blazing torch. Education Cityhas numerous international satellite universities. Nearby, appreciate the modern architecture of Qatar National Library and Qatar National Convention Centre.

Arrive in Qatar at Hamad International Airport, about a 20-minute drive from Doha Port and downtown. Include time in your schedule to visit modern and traditional sites outside Doha, including gleaming new developments at Pearl-Qatar and Lusail and ancient forts and ancient wells on the Qatar peninsula.

Where to stay in Doha

West Bay

West Bay

4/5(1 area review)

Encompassing east coast districts like Al Qassar and Al Dafna, this area boasts modern buildings and towering skyscrapers. Easily explore with the shuttle service and West Bay Metro Station.

West Bay
Hotel Park

Diplomatic Area

5/5(5 area reviews)

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Diplomatic Area. A stop by City Centre Shopping Mall or Doha Corniche might round out your trip.

Diplomatic Area
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Msheireb Downtown

While visiting Msheireb Downtown, you might make a stop by sights like Msheireb Museums and Al Khoot Fort.

Msheireb Downtown
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Musherib

Musherib is well-liked for its restaurants, and you can visit sights like Gold Souq and Souq Waqif if you have time to explore the area.

Musherib
Souq Waqif Park

Al Jasra

5/5(2 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Al Jasra, Souq Waqif and Souq Waqif Art Gallery are top sights worth seeing.

Al Jasra
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Al Najada

While Al Najada isn't home to many top sights, Gold Souq and Souq Waqif are some notable places to visit nearby.

Al Najada
Oryx Airport Hotel
Oryx Airport Hotel
3.5 out of 5
Hamad International Airport, Doha, Qatar
The price is CA $346 per night from Apr. 28 to Apr. 29
CA $346
CA $346 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 28 - Apr 29
Stay at this 3.5-star spa hotel in Doha. Enjoy free WiFi, 16 restaurants, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,019 reviews)
"We've never stayed in a hotel inside of an airport before. Staying at the Oryx was such a great idea. The staff is excellent and helpful, and the rooms were clean and so comfortable. If we're ever going through Doha again, we'll definitely stay here!"

Reviewed on Mar. 25, 2024

Oryx Airport Hotel
Premier Inn Doha Airport
Premier Inn Doha Airport
3 out of 5
Saeed Bin Al Aas Street, Doha, Doha
The price is CA $55 per night from Apr. 1 to Apr. 2
CA $55
CA $55 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 1 - Apr 2
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Doha. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (247 reviews)
"Good place"

Reviewed on Mar. 26, 2024

Premier Inn Doha Airport
Fairmont Doha
Fairmont Doha
5 out of 5
6th Street Marina District Lusail City, Doha, Al Daayen
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $354 per night from Mar. 31 to Apr. 1
CA $354
CA $354 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 31 - Apr 1
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Doha. Enjoy free WiFi, free valet parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Lusail Marina Corniche and Lagoona Mall ...
9/10 Wonderful! (15 reviews)
"Great service one of the best hotel I ever stayed thank you"

Reviewed on Mar. 8, 2024

Fairmont Doha
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Steigenberger Residence Doha
Steigenberger Residence Doha
5 out of 5
Ibn Muawiya St, Doha
Stay at this 5-star luxury aparthotel in Doha. Enjoy a full-service spa, breakfast, and a children's pool. Popular attractions Souq Waqif Art Gallery and Doha ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (33 reviews)
Great hotel
"Amazing rooms and amazing staff! Rooms were spotless and from the receptionists to the cleaners, they were so friendly and couldn't do enough for you."

Reviewed on Mar. 4, 2024

Steigenberger Residence Doha
Royal Mirage Hotel and Apartments
Royal Mirage Hotel and Apartments
3.5 out of 5
treet 850 Building 7, Doha, Doha
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly aparthotel in Doha. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast. Popular attractions Souq Waqif Art Gallery and Doha ...
8/10 Very Good! (30 reviews)
"The Royal Mirage Hotel is very clean and quiet place to relax."

Reviewed on Mar. 2, 2024

Royal Mirage Hotel and Apartments
Le Mirage City Walk
Le Mirage City Walk
5 out of 5
Building 28, Street 873, Zone 23, Bin Mahmoud, Doha
Stay at this 5-star luxury aparthotel in Doha. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 15 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Souq Waqif Art Gallery and Doha Corniche ...
10/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
Perfect and Convenient
"We stayed in a spacious well-designed one-bedroom flat for about 2 weeks for AFC football games and the fact that we could cook or prepare simple dishes at home was a plus. Building is located few meters from metro station, one block away from a big Supermarket and only 20 mins walk/one metro station ..."

Reviewed on Feb. 12, 2024

Le Mirage City Walk
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Reviews of Doha

4.2
Top destination
5 - Excellent
15
" "5 - Excellent 46.875%
4 - Good
11
" "4 - Good 34.375%
3 - Okay
5
" "3 - Okay 15.625%
2 - Disappointing
0
" "2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
1
" "1 - Terrible 3.125%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
Nov. 10, 2019

Nothing Specific because I know the city very well since I have worked there. There’s a lot of construction, a lot of interruptions on the roads but it’s a nice city. Doha will be much better in the future before the 2022 World Cup Championship.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
Oct. 5, 2019

Beautiful city, but very hot and a long flight from Canada

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
Feb. 14, 2019

Great overall experience. Hot weather, nice people, good food.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
Jan. 19, 2019

Doha is a very pleasant city to vist for and overnight stay

Cities near Doha