40+ Things to Do in Doha Qatar

Doha is a city that has proven to be more than meets the eye, as a resident who has experienced much of what it has to offer.

While I’m still constantly discovering new things to do in Doha, I’ve been able to immerse myself in activities that many visitors might miss–-which is where I come in.

It’s easy to find the familiar places to see in Doha with a simple search, but what’s often lacking are all of the other activities that aren’t as easy to know about if you’re not living in the city.

In this post, I’ve compiled over 40 things to do in Doha and beyond so you can get a sense of everything this fascinating city has to offer.

Doha, Qatar — In this blog post I’ll provide you with over 40 things to do in Doha! | Photo by Hongbin

Table of Contents

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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!

Experience the thrill of a live camel race

Attending a camel race in Qatar is one of the most interesting experiences I’ve ever had, and if you get the chance, it’s definitely something to see.

Held at a racetrack a bit outside the city, the races feature trained camels sprinting across long desert tracks, guided by small robot riders controlled by their owners from SUVs driving alongside.

Winners of these races can earn as much as 100,000 QAR ($27,000+), so there is a lot at stake.

It’s a unique Qatari experience and a great way to experience what is considered a sport that has been part of the region for generations.

Dive into the culture and cuisine at Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif is full of alleyways, shops, spices, and perfumes, and is without a doubt Doha’s most popular attraction.

It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and enjoy local cuisine at its many cafés and restaurants.

The Souq comes alive in the evenings with street performances, falcon displays, and crowds.

Souq Waqif Tours in Doha:

Visit one of Qatar’s farms

Many people would never guess that there are farms in Qatar, about 45 minutes – an hour away from the city.

Amid the desert landscape, you’ll find farms like Heenat Salma Farm or Torba Farm where you can meet animals, pick fresh vegetables, and learn how local farmers grow produce using sustainable techniques.

Admire centuries of art at the Museum of Islamic Art

Housing an impressive collection of Islamic art from the 7th to the 20th centuries, the Museum of Islamic Art showcases art in the form of ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and manuscripts.

Its beautiful geometric design, set against a water backdrop, makes it an attractive building that is a work of art by itself.

The museum regularly hosts intentionally curated exhibitions. It’s a good idea to check their website beforehand to see what’s currently on display.

Christina Jane at the Museum of Islamic Art — The Museum of Islamic Art is also one of the best spots for pictures in Doha!

Explore nightlife in Doha

Yes, even though Qatar is conservative, there are nightclubs here in Doha!

Most clubs are tucked inside major hotels, and you’ll need to show your passport or resident ID at the entrance.

Once you’re in, the atmosphere is lively and welcoming, and there are a variety of clubs that play different types of music/cater to different crowds.

Matrix Club is my personal favorite with great Afrobeats music and a packed venue every time.

Planning Tip: Clubs in Qatar have to close at 2 am, so the music stops immediately and the fun dies down exactly at that time. Nightlife also doesn’t pick up until 11 pm – 12 am, so keep this in mind as you plan your night out.

Take in the views along the Corniche

The Doha Corniche is one of the city’s most iconic spots if you are looking to get outside and experience a touch of nature, stretching along the beautiful curve of Doha Bay.

On the waterfront walkway, you’ll see stunning views of the skyline and the Arabian Gulf, making it a favorite place for walking, jogging, cycling, or simply relaxing by the water.

You can rent a scooter or bike from a shop for about 25 – 30 QAR ($6.87 – $8.24), but if not, the Corniche is also one of the best things to do in Doha for free.

Experience a desert safari

While there’s a lot to see within Doha, Qatar is one of the few countries where the desert meets the sea, and it is absolutely worth seeing while you’re around.

Many desert safari tours are offered at a low cost and include dune bashing in a 4×4, sandboarding, camel riding, and more.

My first desert experience was in Qatar, and you can watch what my experience was like here:

In this Youtube video, I share what my first time in the desert was like!

Christina on a desert safari tour in Doha

Desert Safari Tours in Doha:

Visit the stunning Education City Mosque

Another stunning work of architectural art, the Education City Mosque is a community mosque on a campus that hosts multiple educational and research institutes.

You are welcome to visit the mosque, even as a non-Muslim, as it is a sight to see, with its main prayer hall and botanic garden.

Soar above the desert on a paratrike

Why settle for seeing only what Doha has to offer from the ground when you can see it from 100 feet in the air on a paratrike!?

I was surprised to learn that paratriking in Qatar was a thing, and I am now considering trying it myself before the end of my time here!

You are seated in an open-air motorized trike attached to a parachute and with a pilot, you’ll soar over golden dunes, beaches, and parts of the city, enjoying views of the city.

Paratriking Tours in Doha:

Learn about the history of Qatar at the National Museum

One thing is sure: Qatar is a fascinating country.

As one of the wealthiest countries in the world, much of what Qatar has accomplished is fairly recent historically speaking.

The National Museum of Qatar tells the story of Qatar’s history, culture, and people.

From its beginnings to the milestones the country has achieved in such a short amount of time, the museum features many exhibits and displays that walk you through its story, and its beautiful desert crystal rose design immediately captures your attention.

Christina at the National Museum of Qatar

National Museum of Qatar Tours in Doha:

Visit one of Doha’s luxurious malls

Visiting one of Doha’s luxurious malls is an experience in itself, offering much more than just shopping at times.

At malls like Villaggio, Place Vendome, Doha Festival City, and Al Hazm, you can enjoy fine dining, casual cafés, entertainment options such as cinemas and indoor theme parks, and even attractions like gondola rides and aquariums.

Whether you’re looking to splurge, people-watch, or explore, Doha’s malls provide a glamorous and entertaining glimpse into the city.

Mall Tours in Doha:

Relax and recharge inside of a salt cave

If you’re looking for a way to unwind and relax while in Doha, you’ll love the Salt Cave.

The cave’s walls and floors are entirely made of natural Himalayan salt, creating a calming atmosphere with soft lighting and soothing music.

Sessions are said to help with respiratory issues, allergies, and stress relief, and you can even add a massage to your session to enhance your experience.

Ride the world’s tallest indoor roller coaster

You may be surprised to learn that Doha has an indoor theme park!

With more than 30 rides & attractions, Doha Quest is Qatar’s first.

Inside the theme park, you’ll find the world’s tallest indoor roller coaster, a drop tower, virtual reality experiences, and lots more excitement.

Admire the color buildings at Mina District

One of Doha’s prettiest areas, Mina District, is located near the Corniche and is a waterfront district with a colorful aesthetic.

Once known as the Old Doha Port, today it is a vibrant area featuring pastel-colored buildings, cafés, boutique shops, and seaside restaurants overlooking the marina.

Witness the daily camel parade

One of the most intriguing and photo-worthy sights in Doha occurs twice a day at the grounds of the Amiri Diwan, the official palace of the Emir of Qatar.

At around 8 am and 4 pm (rough time estimates), you can spot the uniformed members of the Amiri Guard patrolling the palace lawn on camels.

It’s a simple yet special moment that visitors enjoy, offering an authentic glimpse into Qatari culture and tradition.

Visit an ice cafe to escape the heat

If you know anything about summers in Qatar then you can understand why a cafe like this is necessary.

Subzero Cafe gives both tourists and residents a chance to escape from the extreme heat and experience winter, since that is a season that seems non-existent at times in the country.

You’ll be given a heavy coat, gloves, a head covering, and ear muffs before getting access to a completely frozen cafe where you’ll enjoy a hot drink of your choice and the chilly temperature.

Christina and her friend at the ice cafe

Pass time at Gewan Island

Gewan Island is one of Doha’s newest hangout destinations, located just off The Pearl.

Designed as an upscale residential and leisure hub, the island combines elegant living spaces with waterfront promenades, high-end restaurants, boutique shops, and entertainment options.

Explore Msheireb by tram

Msheireb Downtown Doha is one of my favorite areas in the city.

The neighbourhood is home to residences, offices, museums, cafes, shopping centers, and more.

It is one of the most walkable areas in Doha, which is saying a lot given the city’s lack of walkable spaces, and it feels like an area you can explore and get lost in, finding new shops along the way.

Ride the FREE Msheireb Tram, which runs on an 18-minute loop, connecting you to different parts of the area, which is especially useful during hotter months.

My favorite places in Msheireb are Rusk Cafe and the Msheireb Museums, which are four heritage houses that share facts about Qatar at different stages of its development.

Shop from local farmers and vendors at Torba Market

Coming alive in the cooler months, the Torba Market opens in Winter and is a great place to find locally produced items and creative small businesses.

The market runs on weekends and has fresh organic vegetables, handmade crafts, home goods, foods and beverages, and more.

You’ll rarely find crowded places in Doha, so the fact that I can barely find a place to sit when I visit the market lets you know that it is one people definitely look forward to.

Pass by the Panda House in Al Khor

A one-hour drive from Doha’s city center will lead you to Al Khor, where you can visit the Middle East’s first-ever panda park.

Housing two pandas from China, gifted by the Chinese when Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2022, you can go and observe them in the facility.

Planning Tip: The Al Khor Park is nearby, and you can add it as a stop on your trip.

Ride the Doha metro

It’s not every day I would list riding public transport in another city as something to do.

However, the Metro in Doha is such a smooth, modern experience that it’s worth it, especially if you’re from a city where it’s not.

The trains in Doha are clean, fully automated, and arrive every 2-4 minutes, making it easy to travel across the city without the stress of traffic.

The stations are air-conditioned, easy to navigate, and it’s a great way to get around the city.

Hold a falcon at the Falcon Souq

To know Qataris is to see that they love their falcons, with many even keeping them as pets, and falconry being considered a sport that has been part of Qatari life for centuries.

Within Souq Waqif, you’ll find the Falcon Souq, where you can see falcons up close, perched on their stands as they receive food or treatment from their caretakers.

You may even get to hold one.

Explore the beauty of the National Library

As someone who grew up in libraries, the Qatar National Library is truly a work of art and the most stunning library I have ever seen.

Considered both a community space and a cultural hub, the library hosts lectures, exhibitions, and workshops for people of all ages and offers many workspaces.

Spend the day at a beach club

Spend the day at a beach club in Doha for a luxurious, laid-back experience.

Many of the city’s beach clubs feature DJs, beachfront dining, and a chic social scene, allowing you to unwind in peace or enjoy a more vibrant, upbeat atmosphere.

One beautiful spot I highly recommend is Sushi Samba, which has all the makings of a good time: delicious food, great customer service, beautiful scenery, and more.

Planning Tip: Many beach clubs also have ladies’ day, where women can get in at a discounted rate and receive a free drink or two with the entrance fee.

Dive into the teachings of Islam at a cultural center

The Islamic Cultural Center in Doha is the place to go to gain a deeper understanding of Islam and Qatari traditions, especially for non-Muslims navigating a country where the religion seamlessly blends into everyday life.

Inside, guests can explore exhibitions, attend Arabic language classes, and participate in guided discussions about Islamic culture and history in an open learning environment.

Attend a fitness class

One thing I love about Doha is the endless fitness class options available that cater to all workout styles.

From spin and HIIT classes to relaxing yoga and pilates, there is something for everyone in Doha.

ClassPass is an app you can download to book sessions at gyms and studios across the city, find what motivates you most, or keep up with your fitness while traveling.

Use my link to earn 20 bonus credits toward classes.

Explore an artistic side of Doha at the Katara Cultural Village

The Katara Cultural Village in Doha showcases Qatar’s artistic and cultural identity.

Designed with traditional-style buildings, open walkways, and beautiful public spaces, it brings together art galleries, theatres, performance venues, mosques, and cafés.

Visitors can enjoy everything from exhibitions and concerts to relaxing moments by the beach or a stroll through the hills.

Planning Tip: There are often art reveals, cultural shows, and programs at Katara, so be sure to check online ahead of time to avoid missing out!

Katara Cultural Village Tours in Doha:

See the highlights of Doha on a city tour

If you don’t have much time to explore, a Doha city tour is an ideal way to catch all the key sights quickly and efficiently.

These tours usually take you to major landmarks such as the Museum of Islamic Art, Souq Waqif, the Corniche, and Katara.

As you move from place to place, your guide will share interesting background stories and explain Qatar’s traditions, culture, and everyday life.

Doha City Tours in Qatar:

Take a day trip to Al Zubarah Site

Al Zubarah is Qatar’s Largest Heritage Site on the northwest coast, known for its preserved coastal town, which was a pearling and trading centre in the late 18th century.

The site includes the Al Zubarah Fort, which now serves as a museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits about the region’s history.

You’ll get insight into what life was like in one of the Gulf’s most important trading towns.

Al Zubarah Tours in Qatar:

Spend the evening at West Walk

West Walk is a modern outdoor boulevard featuring a mix of cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops, arranged along pedestrian-friendly streets, making it a popular spot for casual strolls and social gatherings in Doha.

Its open-air terraces and family-friendly spaces make it a lively yet comfortable environment for dining, shopping, and leisure.

Get up close to camels for free at the Camel Pen

If you’re looking to get up close to some camels while in Doha, the Camel Pen in Souq Waqif is a designated area where camels are kept and cared for.

You can see the animals up close, watch how they are fed and looked after, and watch the Amiri Guards ride them in and out of the pen for their daily parades on the Amiri Lawn.

Travel to the northern region of Qatar

A northern tour of Qatar takes you through some of the country’s most historic and scenic spots.

You’ll typically start by driving past lush farms and small villages before reaching Al Khor, a quiet coastal town known for its traditional harbor.

From there, the journey usually continues to Al Zubarah, Qatar’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can learn about the region’s pearl-trading past.

Along the way, you’ll see stretches of untouched coastline, the Al Thakira Mangroves, and desert landscapes that show a more peaceful, natural side of Qatar.

Christina kayaking in Qatar — Kayaking through the mangroves is a great outdoor activity during the cooler months.

Kayaking through the mangroves is a great outdoor activity during the cooler months.

Northern Tours in Qatar:

Support the artwork of creatives at the Fire Station

Now a creative workspace for artists, the Fire Station was an operating fire station until 2012.

Today, it is an art hub featuring galleries, studios, and an Artist-in-Residence program that supports emerging talent.

There are often rotating exhibitions available, offering something new each time you visit.

Experience Doha’s Flag Plaza

Flag Plaza is a colorful spot in Doha near the Corniche with rows rows of flags from all over the world waving in the breeze.

The 119 flags represent nations with diplomatic missions in Qatar, as well as the European flag, the United Nations flag and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) flag.

Take a dhow ride

A Dhow ride is one of the must-do things in Doha, whether you choose to go during the day or at night.

By day, you get to see the skyline and city landmarks in full sunlight.

I recommend taking a dhow ride at night when the skyline lights up, and the dhows are decorated with colorful lights, making it feel more special.

Dhow Ride Tours in Qatar:

Enjoy a movie inside of a luxury theater

Doha is no stranger to luxury, and that definitely shows in its 7-star movie theater experiences.

Luxury cinemas in the city feature plush reclining seats, cozy blankets and pillows, and full dining service delivered to your seat.

A portion of your ticket price often even goes toward your food, so you can settle in and enjoy a full meal while watching your movie.

Visit a winter market during the cooler months

Winter markets in Doha are a clear sign that the weather is finally cooling down and that people will be spending more time outdoors.

As the heat fades, several winter seasonal markets pop up around the city, offering everything from handmade crafts and local food stalls to live music and family activities.

A few winter markets to have on your radar are Torba Market and MIA Park Bazaar.

Create a pottery piece

At Mud Pottery Studio you can take one of the weekly studio classes and learn the basics of what goes into creating your own piece of art, even if you’re a complete beginner.

As someone who has done a session, it is a great way to channel your artistic energy into a final product, as you’re guided step by step by an experienced sculptor.

Go horseback riding in the desert

Horseback riding is a thing to do in Doha, whether you’re looking for a structured lesson at a professional facility or a more laid-back session by the water.

Several training centers around the city offer riding lessons led by experienced instructors, making them ideal for riders of all ages and skill levels.

Riding in the desert is also a memorable experience in Qatar, offered by various operators.

Horseback Riding Tours in Qatar:

Test your coordination skills with archery

Try your hand at handling a bow in Doha, where archery has become a fun and accessible activity for all ages.

Several sports centers and clubs around the city offer safe, well-supervised ranges where beginners can learn the basics and more experienced archers can sharpen their aim.

Take a tour to the West of Qatar

The further out you venture from Doha’s city center, the more you’ll see how much other areas differ, which is precisely why you should, since Qatar is a small country and you never have to drive too far to see something different.

Cruise out to the west coast of Qatar, where one of the first stops on a western tour is usually Zekreet Town. Here, you can explore the unique Rock Umbrella Mountains, a collection of naturally formed rock structures.

Most tours will also take you to Zekreet Fort, Richard Serra’s East-West/West-East sculpture, and more.

Western Tours in Qatar:

Walk through the tunnel at the Hamad Aquarium

The Hamad Aquarium is a fun spot to check out if you want to see a variety of colorful fish, coral displays, and interactive areas.

One of the highlights is the tunnel walkway, where you can watch fish swim right over your head.

The aquarium is part of the Hamad Port Visitors Centre, so you can also explore a few exhibits about Qatar’s maritime history while you’re there.

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About The Blogger

I’m Christina, a travel blogger and content creator from Fort Myers, Florida.

Being Christina Jane is my way of inviting you to join me on my travel ventures by sharing the knowledge gained from my adventures and experiences— both good and bad.

This travel blog is filled with helpful travel tips, information, and is a recollection of the lessons I’ve learned and experiences I’ve had while traveling.

My goal is to curate a space that interconnects my love for travel and transparency and I hope you will join me on that journey.

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