Home in the World

Last Updated on January 27, 2026 by Home in the World

The rise of Qatar Airways over the last decade has seen Doha, the capital of Qatar, become a major Middle Eastern aviation hub. Its state-of-the-art Hamad International Airport (which now also boasts a lush rainforest precinct known as The Orchard) is right up there rivalling its Gulf neighbour Dubai International Airport, and even took out the coveted title of ‘World’s Best Airport’ in both 2021 and 2022.

Qatar Airways’ expansive network, aided by a home base whose enviable location facilitates numerous non-stop flights to every inhabited continent, means Doha is now a highly frequented transit stop for people from all over the world.

I personally have lost count how many times I have passed through the airport travelling between Australia and Europe/the Middle East. But, until October 2023, ‘passing through’ was indeed the extent of my experience in the State of Qatar.

Many a time I had looked out the plane window – at the vast desert sands that look so soft and pastel-like when you fly in on an early-morning flight from Australia, or at the glittering Doha skyline that you sometimes hover past on evening flights – and thought how, one day, I should really actually stop in Doha and experience the city for myself.

I’m sure I’m not the only one who has felt this way, so read on to see some of the fascinating sights that make Doha worthy of being a destination in itself, rather than merely an airport transit stop.

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The Mina District

The Mina District at the Old Doha Port is a relatively new urban development aimed at becoming a tourist hub and entertainment precinct with shops, cafés and restaurants. Its portside location means it is often frequented by cruise ships, and it also boasts a large fish market.

But it is most recognisable for its array of pastel-coloured buildings, whose design is inspired by shipping containers and coastal Qatari houses. They certainly make for great photographs! Stroll through the quiet cobblestone streets and explore the unique angles, curves and staircases.

I recommend visiting at dusk (especially during the excessively hot months), when the lights start coming on and the colourful buildings are bathed in golden Arabian sunsets. You can also enjoy a great view of Doha’s West Bay skyline from the far tip.

If you’re staying near the Corniche in the downtown area, it’s about a 20-minute walk away; otherwise, consider taking a taxi or Uber. There are free club carts that drive around the precinct itself if you want to rest your legs when there.

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Doha Corniche

Doha’s waterfront promenade runs for 7 km (4 miles) between West Bay and MIA Park. Day or night, sunrise or sunset, it’s the perfect place to stroll or jog among the palm trees, admire the view of Doha’s iconic skyline and soak up the breeze off the Persian Gulf (where you can also take a dhow ride if you so wish).

There are public art sculptures along the way too. And speaking of art, the best attraction of all along the corniche is the Museum of Islamic Art (see next point).

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Museum of Islamic Art

This distinctive building on the Corniche often features in Qatar Airways’ promotional material. Designed by architect I.M. Pei (of Louvre fame), it is constructed on an artificial island, accessed via palm-tree-lined driveway, to give the impression of floating on water. Its style is inspired by both traditional Islamic architecture and modern geometric elements.

The interior is designed by Jean-Michel Wilmotte, and is once again a fusion of traditional and modern, with warm, earthy colours creating a distinctly Middle Eastern vibe. I was in awe as soon as I set foot inside its light, airy atrium. At its far end is a café with floor-to-ceiling glass providing panoramic views of West Bay.

The exhibits themselves are absolutely stunning and so beautifully presented – from Persian carpets to Mughal jewellery to Egyptian cultural objects to Silk Road treasures and even a floor-to-ceiling display of a sumptuous reconstructed 19th-century Damascus room.

Don’t forget to browse the gorgeous gift shop on the ground floor, and I particularly recommend stepping out onto the outdoor terrace and looking through its striking arches to admire Doha’s skyline. This is most spectacular at dusk/night when the city lights start twinkling.

Entry cost (as at October 2023) is QAR 50 (approx. USD 14) and women must have their shoulders and knees covered (they do have wraps for you if you’re not dressed appropriately though). If you only do one thing while in Doha, make it the Museum of Islamic Art – you won’t regret it!

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National Museum of Qatar

While we’re on the topic of museums (which are incidentally the perfect places to retreat in the daytime if you happen to be in Qatar between the blazing hot months of May and October), the National Museum of Qatar is absolutely another one to add to your list.

You’ll be blown away before you even step inside, because its architecture is an attraction in itself. Having opened in 2019 (replacing its old predecessor), it has become another of the city’s iconic landmarks. It was designed by Jean Nouvel, inspired by the desert rose crystal found in Qatar. Despite the heat during my visit, I spent nearly an hour outside photographing it from every angle before even starting on the exhibits inside!

These exhibits are centred on the archaeological and cultural history of Qatar, and are presented in a stimulating, interactive way with great use of audiovisuals. Don’t forget to check if there are any temporary exhibitions on at the time of your visit – when I was there, for example, I was also able to see the dazzling Your Brain To Me, My Brain To You display by Swiss artist Pipilotti Rist.

The museum is within walking distance of several downtown hotels; otherwise by taxi or Uber. Entry (as at October 2023) is QAR 50 (approx. USD 14). Come for the architecture, stay for the exhibits!

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Souq Waqif

If it’s Middle Eastern market vibes you’re looking for, head to Souq Waqif in downtown Doha, just a block off the Corniche. I recommend visiting at night, especially on hot days, because that’s when it really comes alive as people start venturing out. The large square in front is heaving with families, groups of friends and a sprinkling of tourists.

As you head further into the souq’s labyrinthine arcades, you’ll notice a distinct aroma of spices and shisha wafting in the air. Vendors in traditional Qatari garb stand outside their shops, selling everything from fabrics and copper lamps to jewellery and local delicacies.

You might even choose to dine among the fairy lights at one of the al-fresco restaurants. And to complete the ‘Arabian Nights’ feel, there’s even a camel sitting in a sandpit out the front! Souq Waqif is a different side to Doha that’s definitely worth experiencing.

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Porto Arabia at The Pearl

The Pearl is a luxury man-made island north of downtown Doha, and is one of the largest real-estate developments in the Middle East. Its palm-tree-lined coves are surrounded by soaring high-rise apartment blocks, which overlook Mediterranean-style marinas and promenades. One such cove is Porto Arabia. I visited at golden hour as the sun was setting on a hot October day, and there was basically no one around.

There are a number of restaurants and shops in the precinct, however, so it presumably comes more alive at night. Either way, it’s a very picturesque place for a stroll or jog, not to mention for photo opportunities. Unless you’re staying in one of the small handful of hotels nearby, it is best accessed by car.

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Katara Beach & Cultural Village

A short drive south of The Pearl is Katara Beach and adjacent Katara Cultural Village. The beach is Doha’s main public beach, and costs QAR 50 (approx. USD 14) for adults on weekends and QAR 25 (approx. USD 7) on weekdays. Sit under one of the thatched umbrellas or venture out into the waters of the Persian Gulf – perhaps even on a dhow.

Bear in mind, however, that there is a reasonably strict dress code; men must wear at least board shorts (no Speedos) and women must have their elbows and knees covered (no bikinis or even one-piece bathing suits).

I enjoyed visiting at dusk and combining it with a visit to the Katara Cultural Village, taking in some striking street art, admiring the glittering Katara Mosque and photographing the iconic Pigeon Towers. I found it a little similar to Dubai’s Al Fahidi neighbourhood, which I recommend visiting if you’re heading to nearby Dubai.

Also within an easy walk is the famous French department store Galeries Lafayette – it’s hard to miss, given there is a gigantic red giftbox structure alongside it (another great architectural photo opportunity!). And if you’re feeling peckish, head next-door to Tasty Street, a garden precinct filled with street-food stalls that are open until 1am.

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Major global events

Finally, Doha is no longer a stranger to holding major global events, having most notably hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup. It’s worth checking its calendar of events before your trip, as you never know what might be on during your stay.

During my first visit alone, there was the F1 Qatar Grand Prix at the Lusail International Circuit (which I attended), the Geneva International Motor Show and Expo Doha 2023. My second visit in 2025 (also for the F1), coincided with the U17 FIFA World Cup.

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Getting to & around Doha, and where to stay

Doha is one of the world’s largest aviation hubs, with direct flights from all 6 inhabited continents. As mentioned earlier, its main airport is Hamad International Airport (DOH), which, in my opinion, is one of the best in the world.

Hamad International Airport Airport is serviced primarily by Qatar Airways, one of the world’s premium airlines with a vast global network. Several other major airlines also fly to Doha. You can find suitable flight connections by searching on Skyscanner or Trip.com to find and compare the best fares.

Doha does not have the greatest of public-transport systems. There is a limited subway system, but, in general, cars will be your best bet. Taxis and Ubers are readily available, and I recommend them as a great way to get around the city.

In terms of accommodation, Doha has options to suit every budget. I have personally stayed at the Fraser Suites Doha near the Corniche, Mina District, major museums and the airport (you can read my review of it here), and have most recently also had a wonderful stay at the new Andaz Doha in West Bay, which I have reviewed here.

Otherwise, you can find another property meeting your needs by using the search box below.

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Final thoughts on things to see in Doha

As you have now hopefully gathered, there are plenty of things to see in Doha to keep you occupied. So if you do find yourself planning a trip involving a transit stop in Doha, definitely consider adding in at least a day or 2 extra to step outside the airport confines and actually experience the city and local Qatari culture. There is more on offer than what you might expect. And don’t forget to download my Quick Guide to Doha either!

** This post, like everything else on this website, has been written entirely by me. No ChatGPT or any other AI tool has been used. It takes longer to create, but I value 100% human-generated content and I hope you do too! **

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Before you go…

This article is now featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Doha on GPSmyCity.

You can also read more about the GPSmyCity concept in this blog post.

Plus, consider following me on Instagram for more travel content from around the world!

For more Middle East travel content, feel free to check out my posts from Egypt, Jordan, Oman, the UAE and, a little further afield, Azerbaijan. More content from this region to come!

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