A small Middle eastern country in the Gulf region, Qatar is best described as a destination where Arabian heritage meets modern luxury.
While Doha is typically seen as a layover destination, I can say that there is more than what meets the eye.
I’ve been living in Doha for one of the two years I am expected to be based here and it’s been eye-opening being in a region I’m not sure I saw myself in before.
Whether you’re planning a layover in Doha, a weekend escape from a nearby country, or planning to get to know Qatar on a next trip, this Doha travel guide will cover all the must-sees, provide insider tips, and more.
I’ve put together everything I’ve learned while exploring the city as a resident and tourist so you know what to expect and can plan your trip to Qatar with ease.
———-
Disclaimer: This blog post may contain affiliate links which means that if you book one of these activities using my link (which I know you will because you loved how helpful this blog post is *wink*I am going to receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting BCJ!
Other FREE Blog Posts You Might Enjoy:
- How to Spend A Layover in Doha
- Qatar Airways Business Class Review (Qsuite)
- Heenat Salma Farm: Where Wellness Meets Nature in Qatar
——–
Entry Requirements
Visa Requirements
To enter Qatar, you will either be granted entry as a visa-free traveler or will need to apply for an e-visa.
You can check which one applies to you based on your nationality here, which will then direct you to the Hayya Portal to apply.
Arriving at the Hamad International Airport
Doha’s international airport is Hamad International Airport (DOH), known as one of the nicest airports in the world.
Once you arrive, you’ll go through the immigration booths, grab your luggage, and either go past or declare items at customs before reaching the Arrivals terminal in the airport.
Here you’ll find a coffee shop and Ooredoo, a popular phone carrier, where you can get a SIM card. You can also withdraw cash if needed.
Insider Tip: I would not withdraw more than 100 QAR ($27.47) in cash, as Qatar is a card-heavy country and you rarely need physical cash.
The Best Way to Leave the Airport
Taking A Taxi from the Airport
As you head toward the exit of the Arrivals terminal, you should see signs for taxis; if you follow them, staff members will be waiting to greet you and assist you in organizing a Karwa taxi.
Karwa Taxi is the official taxi service in Qatar and is the easiest way to leave Hamad airport.
These taxis are baby-blue, with the word “Karwa” written across the vehicles.
A staff member will direct you to a taxi, and either the staff member or the driver will assist with your luggage.
Once inside the taxi, you’ll tell the driver where you want to go, and you’ll be on your way.
Taxis at the airport are available 24/7, and you can pay with a card once you arrive at your destination.
Note: I have taken Karwa taxis at various times upon landing in Doha, including late at night and in the morning, and they are a safe mode of transportation in Doha.
Currency + Money in Qatar
The currency used in Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (QAR/QR).
Qatar is a card-heavy country, and almost everything, regardless of how low the cost is, can be paid using a card.
Even the smallest market vendors have a card machine or a card-processing app on their phone to accept card payments.
I can count on one hand the number of times I have needed cash, and I often never carry any.
However, facilities accept cash if you prefer it.
Planning Tip: Notify your banks that you will be traveling to Qatar to avoid issues or card usage blocking.
Language Spoken in Qatar
Arabic is the official language spoken in Qatar.
Arabic has several dialects, so you may encounter different variations of the language.
Qatar is highly multicultural, with about 88% of the population being composed of expats, and the largest percentage of people being Indians at 20%.
With this in mind, several languages can be found being spoken in Qatar, like Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog, etc.
English is widely spoken in Qatar, and you should not have any issues navigating around Doha and other parts of the country if you don’t know Arabic.
Here are some helpful greetings and phrases in Arabic you may find helpful:
- As-salamu alaykum – Peace be upon you
- Wa alaykum as-salam – And peace be upon you too
- Marhaba – Hello/hi
- Shoe-kruhn – Thank you
- La – No
- Naam – Yes
- Maa-sa-la-ma – Goodbye
Electrical Outlet/ Plug Type Used
Qatar mainly uses Type G and Type D electrical outlets.
These are the outlets that have the three rectangular or round pins like this:
As always, I recommend checking the voltage of any electric devices you bring so they do not get damaged or burn out when plugged in.
Weather
Qatar is the first country I have visited where the weather is drastically different depending on the time of year, and it’s a huge factor I would consider when deciding when to visit.
Winter Months: December – February
The best time to visit Doha is during the winter months.
During winter, Doha comes alive with outdoor activities like winter markets and festivals, and shops stay open longer.
More people and families spend time outdoors, something you won’t see in the Spring and Summer.
You can plan your itinerary freely without worrying about how the weather will affect your plans, and you’ll likely be able to see and do a lot more in general.
I recommend bringing a light coat as it can get very chilly in the evenings.
Spring Months: March – May
In the spring, temperatures begin to rise; however, being outside is still bearable. Toward the end of spring in May, it does get very hot.
Summer Months: June – September
Summertime in Doha is extremely hot and dry with intense humidity.
Daytime temperatures can rise up to 50°C (122°F) and drop around 35°C (95°F) at night. Because of this, summer is not considered the best time to visit.
The heat affects nearly every aspect of daily life like business hours changing, the streets being super quiet during the day as most people stay indoors, and outdoor activities being limited or uncomfortable.
Many locals actually choose to travel abroad during these months to escape the heat.
As a Floridian used to high temperatures, I can say that Doha’s heat is on another level. I often describe it as feeling like you’re slowly baking in a sauna the moment you step outside.
That said, if you do visit Doha in the summer, it’s not unbearable since most places are well air-conditioned, and some areas even offer outdoor cooling in the evenings.
Still, if you have a choice, it’s best to plan your trip outside the summer months.
Summer is a great time to explore new indoor spots in the city.
Fall Months: October – November
Fall in Doha means that temperatures get cooler as winter approaches.
During these months, outdoor activities start opening up again, and you’ll notice more people spending time outside.
It’s a refreshing and welcome change of pace after the summer heat.
Safety in Doha
Doha is considered one of the safest cities in the world, and Qatar consistently ranks among the top ten safest countries globally.
The city has very low crime rates and a strong sense of public security. You can walk around at any time of day or night and feel safe and at ease.
Personally, I’ve taken public transportation late at night without any issues. I’ve even left my laptop unattended at cafés while stepping away, and it’s always been exactly where I left it. It’s also common to see people leave their car doors unlocked, sometimes even with the engine running, for a quick stop, as they know that their car will be there when they return!
Part of this safety comes from Qatar’s strict laws and firm consequences for crimes, which include high fines and long jail sentences.
There are also extensive surveillance systems and cameras throughout the city that mean that if a crime is committed, the chances of being caught are very high, something that clearly helps deter wrongdoing.
However, I recommend staying alert at all times.
Getting A SIM Card in Doha
A Physical SIM Card
You can get a SIM card upon arrival at the Hamad International Airport once you have collected your baggage and walked past the customs declaration area to the Arrivals terminal.
You will see red Vodafone or Ooredoo stands with company representatives available to assist with your registration.
If you can’t get a SIM card at the airport for whatever reason, Vodafone and Ooredoo are the major network providers in Qatar, and there are usually shops in malls.
E-SIM Card (Highly Recommend)
The easiest thing to do is to get an eSIM card before arriving in Qatar with Holafly, my go-to eSIM company when I’m traveling and don’t want to spend too much time finding a phone company store or booth.
You’ll want to set it up before leaving your starting destination to avoid any issues.
You can use my link to get 5% off your eSIM!
Do you need a local SIM card in Doha?
I recommend getting a SIM card while traveling in Doha, as you will need data to order Uber and taxi rides.
It’s also helpful for using Google Maps to get to destinations within the city if you plan to drive or are walking to find a place.
Several places in Doha offer complimentary WiFi (you may have to ask for the code if it is locked), but it is best to have your phone connected to a local network just in case you need to use it.
Apps to Download Before Arriving
There are a few apps you can download before coming to Doha that I wanted to include in this Doha travel guide that will assist in making your trip smoother:
Uber
You will need Uber to get around in Doha if you don’t plan on driving yourself.
It’s best to download the app before you arrive so it can adjust to Qatar immediately, and you can have a seamless start to using it in-country.
Karwa Taxi
The Karwa Taxi app is not an absolute must-have if you plan to use Uber, but it may come in handy if you want an alternative way to order transportation.
Visit Qatar App
The Visit Qatar app is a great free tool to learn more about attractions in the country and get a bit more insight on what to expect, and even better than that, the app includes the Visit Qatar Pass, which grants access to special offers like discounts on restaurants, attractions, hotels, spas, and more.
You can easily redeem these directly from your phone, and I have found some great deals like this myself by scrolling through.
Getting Around Doha: Transportation Options
Uber
Uber is the most common way for tourists to get around in Doha.
The rideshare app is easy to use and very reliable.
Drivers usually arrive within 1–3 minutes after you request a ride.
You can pay with either cash or card, though most people prefer using a card.
Uber in Doha is also quite affordable compared to other cities I’ve used the app in. On average, I’ve paid about $2–$4 for short rides (under 10 minutes) and $6–$8 for longer rides around 20 minutes.
Karwa Taxis
Karwa Taxis are another option for transportation in Doha.
You can flag down a taxi when you see one and get an estimated fare to your destination.
They can also be booked through the Karwa app, by phone, or hailed from designated taxi stands at malls, hotels, and the airport.
Fares are metered, with a starting rate of around QAR 4 during the day and slightly higher at night or from the airport.
Taxis can be more expensive than Ubers, so I recommend checking the fare estimate in the Uber app to get an idea of how much the ride may cost.
I personally never have to take Karwa taxis unless it is a holiday or there is an event happening in a popular area where it’s a bit difficult to order an Uber, and I just want to hop in and go, but it’s good to have Karwa as another option when Uber isn’t available or practical.
Rent A Car and Drive
Renting a car and driving yourself around Doha is another great way to get around.
Many people drive in Doha because it makes getting from place to place easier, allowing you to cover more ground and craft your itinerary to your liking.
As someone who has always been very hesitant to drive abroad or in an unfamiliar destination, Doha was my first time driving outside my home country.
The driving culture here is pretty easy. There are aggressive drivers here and there, and you have to constantly stay alert, but I don’t find it as overwhelming as I thought it would be.
Land cruisers are very popular in Doha and 4x4s in general, so the bigger your car, the more of a pleasant experience you can have, and also venture out and go off-roading if you desire.
Hamad International Airport has several car rental companies to choose from, and you can even book a car in advance to compare rates.
Many places in Doha offer parking at very affordable rates — typically 2 to 3 riyals per hour, or even free. Many establishments, especially hotels, offer complimentary valet parking, which is incredibly convenient and one of my favorite things about living here.
Planning Tip: If you park, be careful about where you park when driving in Doha. It is not uncommon for people’s cars to get scratched or obtain minor damage. Avoid parking in corners where other cars will be making close turns, etc.
My Experience Renting A Car in Doha
I rent cars from Budget in Doha from time to time, and it has always been a pleasant and straightforward experience.
I usually go through the Budget office at Hamad International Airport.
I reserve a car online, then show up at the counter with my passport and driver’s license. After signing a few forms and paying the security deposit, I’m taken to the car.
Budget requires a security deposit of 1,000 to 1,500 QAR ($274–$412), which is typically released within a few days.
Metro
Doha has a metro system that includes three lines: Red, Green, and Gold.
You can purchase a MetroCard from one of the machines at any Metro station (10 QAR ($2.74) and load it with money for usage.
The rider experience on the Doha Metro is great, and it is easily the best metro system I have used so far.
It’s extremely clean and feels very safe, even at nighttime.
There are dedicated family carriages for women, children, and families. It is also rarely crowded, except during major events.
While I love the metro here and find it efficient, clean, and user-friendly, it is not the most well-connected system.
The metro can take you to most major locations and tourist attractions in Doha, but it’s not always the most convenient option for everyday outings.
It can work well if you find a route that fits your regular destinations, such as your workplace, especially when combined with the free Metrolink buses, but using those can come with a learning curve.
When using Google Maps, you’ll often find that it suggests walking 10–20 minutes to or from a metro station to reach your final destination.
Since most areas of Doha aren’t very walkable and the summer heat can be intense, this can be inconvenient. However, you can get around this by taking a bus or an Uber the rest of the way.
Bus
There are two types of buses in Doha: Mowasalat (Karwa), the main public buses that run on nearly 50 routes, and the free, metro-connected metrolink buses.
Karwa Buses
To ride the public buses in Doha, you will have to purchase a Karwa Smartcard ahead of time.
These cards can be purchased from purchasing and top-up venues from the following places, according to this blog:
- Doha Bus Station
- Karwa Bus Stations
- Ticket Vending Machines
- Ooredoo self-serving machines
- Hamad International Airport
Once you load the card with money, you’ll be able to tap the card on the card reader upon boarding the bus.
Karwa offers three types of smart cards tailored to various travel needs, ranging from QAR 20 to QAR 30 ($5.50 – $8.24), depending on how often you’ll need to use the bus during your trip.
Metrolink Public Buses
The Doha metro system has its own free shuttle buses, called Metrolink, that connect riders to various points along each route and ultimately return them to a metro station.
For these buses, you can tap your Metro card upon boarding.
I use Metrolink buses all the time and love how easy they are to use.
Planning Tip: If you download the Karwa taxi app, the bottom center has a “metroexpress” option you can select to order a ride/shuttle to the nearest metro station from where you are, instead of using Uber.
This feature is only available if your pickup area is included, and it may not be available at all times. Also, keep in mind that others may be in the shuttle.
How to Use the Buses Efficiently
The best way to use both types of buses is to download the Karwa Journey Planner app, which lets you search routes and find the bus you need for your destination.
Google Maps won’t always tell you which buses or Metrolinks are available, or even which are closest to you, so if you end up spending a significant amount of time in Doha, it might be worth it to walk around or check which buses are near your location.
I found out that there was a Metrolink available that took me from the Metro to a stop near my residence by watching a bus drive around the neighborhood one day and taking a chance by riding it to see exactly where it stopped!
Is Doha a walkable city?
While there are parts of Doha where you can walk freely and where there are plenty of sidewalks, like the Corniche, overall, Doha is not a walkable city.
It’s clear that the city was mainly designed with cars in mind, so sidewalks can be inconsistent or missing altogether.
The heat for much of the year also makes walking long distances difficult.
As a result, most residents and visitors depend on cars, taxis, or ride-hailing services to get around.
Where to Stay in Doha
Doha is home to a variety of hotels and five-star accommodations, many which are provided at an affordable rate than what you are probably used to in your home country.
I’ll list several hotel options in Doha below, but in general, I recommend staying in the Msheireb, West Bay, or The Pearl areas when visiting.
Budget Stays
I did a staycation at both the Central Inn Souq Waqif and Millennium Place Doha (captured above). Be sure to check out my blog posts (linked) for honest reviews of both.
Mid-Range Hotel Stays
- Mina Hotel – Doha Port
- Centara West Bay – West Bay
- Andaz Doha by Hyatt – West Bay
Mina Port is an area in Doha with colorful buildings and is a stunning place to stay while in Doha.
High-End Luxurious Hotels
- Mondrian Doha – West Bay
- Mandarin Oriental – Msherib
- Raffles Doha – Lusail
- The Ned Doha – Corniche
Dress Code in Doha
Since Doha is a city in a Muslim country, it’s important to know what to expect when it comes to dress so you can feel comfortable while traveling and remain respectful of the culture.
The dress code in Doha is fairly relaxed, and I often say that there’s an occasion for nearly every outfit you own from beachwear to clubwear and everyday clothing. You’ll see women wearing sleeveless dresses and men in shorts.
That said, modest attire is recommended and expected in most public places, especially in government buildings, hospitals, and security facilities. If you’re not dressed appropriately, you may be asked to cover up or leave the area. Many malls have signs noting this policy, though in my experience, enforcement varies depending on the location.
For women, it’s generally best to cover the shoulders, cleavage, and knees. Men should avoid sleeveless shirts and very short shorts in public.
Overall, you don’t need to stress too much about the dress code in Doha, as it’s relatively flexible. However, it’s a good idea to research the places you plan to visit so you can be sure you’re dressing appropriately for each setting.
There’s an outfit for every occasion in Doha, so I recommend bringing a variety of clothing options but plan on staying mostly covered in most settings.
Things to Do in Doha
As a tourist, you will find that there are plenty of things to do in Doha to keep you busy during your time in the city.
The things to do in Doha are mainly sights to see, with visits to different parts of the city and walking to take in the beauty of all it has to offer.
Instagram Pages to Follow
There are bloggers in Doha that frequently share things to do in the city that are worth checking out before your trip:
National Museum of Qatar
The National Museum of Qatar, which opened in 2019, tells the story of Qatar’s history, culture, and people.
From its beginnings to the milestones the country has achieved in such a short time, the museum features many exhibits and displays that will walk you through its story.
You’ll likely spot the museum before you visit, as its beautiful architectural design of a desert crystal rose formation will likely catch your eye in passing on the road.
Planning Tip: Tickets are free for current college/ university students, so don’t forget your student ID if you have one!
National Museum of Qatar Tours:
- National Museum of Qatar Admission Ticket
- Doha City Tour with National Museum of Qatar
- Doha Guided City Tour
Take a walk on the Corniche
The Doha Corniche is a scenic waterfront walking pathway surrounded by skyscrapers, offering beautiful views of the city skyline on one side and the waters on the other.
It is a well-known spot for jogging, cycling, and walking.
The Corniche is lined with parks, art installations, and restaurants, and is where national celebrations like Qatar National Day and National Sports Day happen.
You can rent a bike, go on a dhow ride and experience the waters, enjoy a relaxing picnic, and more.
Souq Waqif
What I would say is Doha’s most popular attraction, Souq Waqif is a must-visit as it’s a great place to firsthand experience Doha’s cultural charm.
The marketplace has authentic Qatari architecture and is a hub where visitors can shop for spices, perfumes, textiles, traditional garments, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
The souq is filled with cafés and restaurants serving both local and international cuisine, making it a popular hangout spot in the evenings, where you’ll find music, occasional performances, fresh food, and shisha.
Planning Tip: Stop by the Camel Pen, where you can see the camels used by the Amiri Guards for free and even get up close.
Visit one of the fancy malls
Before moving to Doha, I had never visited so many malls in a city, but I quickly learned that going to the mall can be a social activity here.
There are several malls to choose from, but the ones I recommend visiting as a tourist are Villaggio Mall, Place Vendome, and Alhazm Mall.
Whether you’re taking a short gondola ride down the canal, watching the water fountain show at Place Vendome, counting how many luxury stores you pass by at Al Hazm, or visiting the cafe with real gazelles there, the malls in Doha always have something to offer.
Desert Safari Tour
Qatar is one of the few countries where the desert meets the sea, and for that reason, I do think it is worth taking a trip to the desert, especially if it’s your first time going to a desert.
Desert safaris in Doha include gliding across the Qatari desert’s dunes in a 4×4 driven by a guide.
Along the way, there are opportunities to stop for photos, enjoy sandboarding, ride a camel, hold a falcon (Qatar’s national bird), and take in breathtaking desert views.
Many tours also include a visit to the Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid), a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the desert meets the waters of the Arabian Gulf.
Many desert tours are offered daily in Qatar, but here are a few:
Desert Safari Tours in Doha:
- Safari, ATV, Camels, Sandboarding and Inland Sea Tour
- Sunrise or Sunset Desert Safari Tour with Sand Boarding
- Desert Safari with 4WD Quad Bike and Camel Ride
Take a city tour
If you’re limited on time, taking a city tour in Doha is the perfect way to experience the highlights of the capital and ensure that you see all of the main spots in a concise amount of time.
Most city tours include stops at the Museum of Islamic Art, Souq Waqif, the Corniche, Katara, and more.
Along the way, knowledgeable guides share insights into Qatar’s history, culture, and daily life.
Doha City Tours:
- Doha City Tour To All Main Attractions Including Transfers
- Doha Guided City Tour with Airport and Hotel Pickup
- Doha City Highlights Tour and Traditional Dhow Boat Cruise
Where to Eat in Doha
Doha has a diverse dining scene, offering cuisine from a wide range of nationalities and cultures, thanks to its large expat population.
In this section, I’ll highlight some of the restaurants I’ve visited personally, as well as others that have an excellent reputation, so you’ll have a few great options to explore during your trip.
Shay Al Shamoos
Start at Shay Al Shamoos, where you’ll experience an authentic Qatari breakfast and home-style cuisine.
The restaurant was founded by Shams Al-Qassabi, the first Qatari woman to open a business in Souq Waqif and has now been visited by well-known figures worldwide.
Serving traditional dishes like regag (thin Arabic crepes) and balaleet (sweet vermicelli with egg), served alongside karak tea or saffron-infused beverages, it’s a great place to start your eating journey in Qatar.
BOHO Social
A stylish, relaxed dining spot in Doha with great views and a modern vibe, BOHO Social is a great choice for brunch or a relaxed lunch.
Located above the Katara Beach Club in the Katara Cultural Village, the bohemian-chic restaurant overlooks the Arabian Gulf and offers gorgeous views from inside and from one of the outdoor lounge seating areas.
BOHO Social serves a fusion of cuisines all grounded in the Middle East.
Chabrat Al Mina
Chabrat Al Mina is a restaurant inside one of the colorful buildings in the Mina District at the Old Doha Port, which is known for its seafood.
This restaurant is cool because it’s attached to a fresh fish market where you can select from an array of seafood options, then go into the restaurant where chefs can prepare it to your liking.
From salmon and sea bass to crabs, calamari, and oysters, you’ll choose your main dish and sides to accompany your selections.
Planning Tip: Leave time to take a walk around the district after your meal, explore the shops in Mina, and even grab dessert!
Pampas
One of my absolute favorite spots located just outside Doha in the seaside town of Al Wakrah is Pampas, a boho-chic café by the water with the perfect relaxed vibe.
What I love most about Pampas is that its menu features café-style dishes I haven’t seen anywhere else in Doha, and everything is delicious. The staff is always warm and welcoming, which adds to the charm.
If you go, try to sit on the outdoor terrace for that breezy, seaside atmosphere. And if you’re visiting for brunch, morning is the best time for a quieter experience before the crowds arrive.
Planning Tip: A camel parade passes by the café once in the morning and once in the evening. Message the café for the exact timing, as it varies by season!
Jiwan
One of my personal favorite dining experiences in Doha to date, Jiwan will always be a restaurant I recommend to travelers.
The restaurant is on the top floor of the National Museum of Qatar and offers contemporary Qatari cuisine.
The restaurant’s interior is beautiful, with crystal beads hanging from the ceiling, and it provides a great opportunity to dress up for a night out. It also features a stunning terrace with views of Doha’s skyline and bay.
The terrace also has intimate dining pods designed to give diners a sense of secluded luxury, recommended for dessert and hot drinks after dinner.
Tropicana 360
Tropicana 360 is one of Doha’s most popular rooftop venues, and for all of the good reasons.
The bar is located on the 48th floor of the Dusit Hotel & Suites and offers a 360‑degree view of Doha’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf, allowing you to soak in the city’s beauty.
The menu is global with everything from classic bites and burgers to Asian‑inspired rolls and flatbreads, paired with a drinks list of cocktails, mocktails, spirits, and wines.
Tropicana 360 also runs a daily happy hour from late afternoon (about 16:00) and mid‑week themed nights, such as a ladies ‘ night on Wednesdays.
Overall, the bar offers an unmatched high‑energy rooftop experience and is my favorite venue so far for a chill night out!
Basta
Another great spot for Qatari and Middle Eastern cuisine, Basta offers local dishes like lamb-based majboos, chicken liver, and shakshuka.
Basta has several branches across the city, but I highly recommend visiting the one in Souq Waqif, where the traditional market setting adds to the experience.
Sitting there, surrounded by the buzz of the Souq, the aroma of spices, and the friendly energy of the staff, enhances the meal and gives a taste of local life in Doha.
Viva La Vida
Viva La Vida is an aesthetically pleasing, relaxed spot for brunch in Doha.
The cafe is on Al Maha Island and focuses on fresh, healthy dishes from colorful salads and smoothie bowls to creative wraps and all-day breakfast favorites.
The atmosphere is vibrant yet laid-back, with both indoor and outdoor seating perfect for soaking up the island vibe.
Dokya
Dokya is a restaurant in Souq Waqif that serves Mesopotamian cuisine with flavors drawn from Iraqi, Turkish, and the Middle East.
Housed in a beautiful traditional building, Dokya’s interior and exterior are stunning, and the food is delicious.
Dokya is one of my personal favorite spots to chill and catch up with friends in the evening.
Fenyal
A relatively new restaurant, Fenyal is said to capture the feel of a traditional Qatari majlis with a menu that leans into traditional dishes.
Planning Tips for Eating Out in Doha
Be on the lookout for Ladies Nights in Doha:
These are nights held once a week at bars, lounges, and restaurants where women are offered special deals as an incentive to enjoy a night out (usually Wednesdays at most of the places I’ve seen).
Typically, these deals include complimentary or discounted drinks, and sometimes light bites or appetizers.
The promotions primarily benefit women, but men are also allowed to attend these nights.
Take Advantage of Business Lunch Deals:
Many restaurants in Doha have great business lunch deals from around 11 am – 3 pm daily, sometimes later.
Business lunches are set menus at discounted prices during lunchtime and typically include two or three courses featuring the restaurant’s signature dishes.
Anyone can take advantage of the offer, even if not necessarily for business purposes, and it’s one of my favorite things in Doha!
My favorite business lunch spots are Cicchetti and Lemon Garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Qatar?
Whether or not you need a visa to visit Qatar depends on your nationality.
Some travelers qualify for visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry, while others have to obtain an e-visa.
You can visit this page on Visit Qatar to determine if you need a visa and make the necessary arrangements.
How much time should I spend in Doha?
I believe that you can see most of what the city has to offer and even have time to go to some attractions outside of Doha in 4-5 days.
It is very easy to get around Doha and see a lot in a short amount of time, so that you can cover a lot of ground.
Can you drink alcohol in Doha?
Alcohol is fairly accessible in Doha, with many licensed hotels, restaurants, and lounges serving alcoholic beverages.
Be prepared to show identification when visiting licensed venues. You’ll need to present a valid ID, typically a passport for tourists or a Qatar ID for residents, to verify your age and eligibility to consume alcohol. The legal drinking age in Qatar is 21.
I recommend researching the country’s alcohol laws beforehand.
Is Doha safe for solo woman travelers?
Yes, Doha is a very safe city.
As a solo traveler, I often explore the city on my own and haven’t had any major issues.
Should I visit Doha during Ramadan?
Visiting Doha during Ramadan can be an enriching cultural experience, but it’s important to be aware of the customs and day-to-day adjustments that come with the holy month.
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, and most restaurants and cafés remain closed during daylight hours, though many open in the evening for iftar, the meal that breaks the fast, and suhoor, the pre-dawn meal.
As a traveler, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours. The city is very quiet during the day and comes alive at night when fasts are broken. Many places also delay opening until evening or operate on shortened hours to accommodate those who are fasting.
If you are not Muslim, I would suggest avoiding travel during Ramadan, as you won’t experience Doha while it is fully active and vibrant during the day.
But if you are Muslim and fasting, you will greatly enjoy being in Doha, as it is a beautiful experience being in a city that collectively embraces Ramadan.
Do women have to wear a hijab?
It is not required to wear a hijab in Qatar, and many women do not.
When is the best time to visit Qatar?
The best time to visit Qatar is during the cooler months, from November to early April, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. During this period, there are many cultural events, festivals, and sports activities as well.
Final Thoughts on Doha
Living and traveling in Doha was my first time in the Middle East, and it has unlocked a layer of knowledge for me that I will forever be grateful for.
It has also encouraged me to continue exploring the region.
Do I think Doha is a city that will likely be one of your favorites and one you will rave about for years to come? Honestly, no.
However, it is worth visiting if you have a layover or are traveling to a nearby country, as it is easy to navigate and there is a lot to see.
I hope this Doha travel guide helps you on your journey to explore Doha and make great memories.
