Qatar

Qatar: general info for travelers

Qatar is a small, wealthy country located in the Middle East. It is a peninsula jutting into the Persian Gulf and borders Saudi Arabia to the south. The capital city is Doha, and Qatar has a population of approximately 2.8 million people, with a significant expatriate population. Qatar is known for its vast oil and gas reserves, which have made it one of the world's richest countries. The country has invested heavily in infrastructure and is home to modern architectural wonders such as the iconic Pearl-Qatar and the futuristic Education City. Qatar also hosts international events, including the FIFA World Cup 2022. Its culture and society are strongly influenced by Islamic and Bedouin traditions, and Arabic is the official language.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Qatar, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Qatar: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the top places to visit in Qatar: 1. Museum of Islamic Art: This is an iconic museum located on Doha's Corniche. It showcases Islamic art from the last 1,400 years, including paintings, ceramics, textiles, and manuscripts.
2. The Pearl-Qatar: It is a man-made island that is designed to resemble a string of pearls made of luxury residential towers and upscale retail shops and restaurants.
3. Souq Waqif: It is an old traditional market in Doha, where you can buy spices, souvenirs, handicrafts, and clothes. There are also many restaurants serving traditional Qatari food.
4. Katara Cultural Village: It is a multicultural center for art, entertainment, and education. It consists of a theater, an opera house, a library, a mosque, and many outdoor spaces for events.
5. Aspire Park: It is a large public park in Doha, with beautiful lush greenery, a lake, and walking and cycling paths. It also includes various play areas for children and a man-made hill with views of the city.
6. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum: Located outside of Doha, it houses an impressive collection of classic cars, military vehicles, and other historical artifacts. It celebrates the history of Qatar, and showcases the country's culture and traditions.
These are some of the must-visit places in Qatar that a traveler will not want to miss out on.
There is more to see and do in Qatar: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Qatar: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Qatar, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Qatar has a desert climate that is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Qatar is between November and April, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. During these months, the temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. In the summer months from May to September, temperatures can reach highs of 50°C, with high humidity levels making it very uncomfortable for outdoor activities. Therefore, it is not recommended to plan a trip during this period unless you are used to hot and humid climates. In the months of October and May, the temperature hovers between 30°C to 35°C, and the weather can be quite pleasant, making it a good time to visit as well. It is important to note that Qatar is a Muslim country, and the month of Ramadan which takes place in the summer months can also affect your travel plans as some restaurants, cafes, and tourist attractions may have reduced opening hours.

Qatar: activities and what to do

Qatar offers a plethora of exciting activities and sports that can be enjoyed during holidays. Here are some of them: 1. Desert Safari: This is an unforgettable experience where visitors can go dune bashing, quad biking, sandboarding and camel riding across the vast sand dunes.
2. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Qatar's waters are home to a diverse range of marine life, making it an ideal place for scuba diving and snorkeling.
3. Jet Skiing: Qatar's warm waters are perfect for jet skiing, and there are several locations around the country where visitors can rent jet skis.
4. Kite Surfing: Qatar has several kite surfing spots where visitors can enjoy this exhilarating sport.
5. Sailing: Qatar is known for its beautiful coastline, and sailing is a great way to explore the country's waters.
6. Golf: The country has many world-class golf courses, including the Doha Golf Club.
7. Horse Racing: Qatar is home to the prestigious Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe horse race, which attracts some of the best horses and jockeys from around the world.
8. Shopping: Qatar has several shopping centers and markets where visitors can indulge in some retail therapy.
9. Cultural sightseeing: Qatar has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore the country's museums, art galleries, and historical sites to learn about its history and traditions.

Qatar: few words on history and culture

Qatar is a small, wealthy country located in the Middle East with a rich history and culture. The country has a strong Islamic heritage and many cultural landmarks that showcase Islamic art and architecture. Qatar has a long history of pearl diving and trading, and this can be seen in the country's vibrant traditional marketplaces, such as Souq Waqif. In recent years, Qatar has undergone rapid development and modernization, with impressive skyscrapers, museums, and other cultural attractions popping up throughout the country. Despite this development, Qatar has made great efforts to preserve its cultural heritage and promote traditional values.

Qatar: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Qatar depends on where you are traveling from and your personal preferences. If you are coming from neighboring countries such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, or the United Arab Emirates, you can drive to Qatar using your own car or a rented one. Otherwise, you can fly into one of Qatar's two international airports, Hamad International Airport in Doha or the recently opened Doha World International Airport.
Once you are in Qatar, you can use taxis, ride-sharing apps, buses, or the newly developed metro system to move around. If you prefer the convenience and flexibility of driving, you can rent a car in Qatar.
For those who enjoy adventure and nature, taking a ferry ride to visit Qatar’s islands such as Halul Island, Simaisma Island, or Al Safliya Island is an appreciable experience.
Overall, Qatar has a well-developed transportation system, making it relatively easy for visitors to explore the country. To hire a car to visit Qatar, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Qatar: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Qatar with a full stomach:D
Qatar's cuisine is influenced by the traditional dishes of the Arabian Peninsula and the Levant, as well as Indian, Iranian, and Pakistani. Here are some of the typical foods of Qatar: 1. Machboos or Kabsa - These are Qatar's national dishes, and they are a spicy rice dish made with meat (chicken, lamb, or fish), onions, tomatoes, and traditional spices such as cardamom, saffron, and cinnamon. It's usually served with salad or yoghurt.
2. Mahshi - It's a stuffed vegetable dish that's made with hollowed out vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell pepper that are stuffed with a mix of rice and minced meat.
3. Balaleet - This is a sweet breakfast dish made with vermicelli, eggs and sugar and is often served with cardamom.
4. Harees - It's a traditional Arabic porridge dish that's made with wheat and meat (chicken or lamb) and cooked with traditional aromatic spices such as cumin and black pepper.
5. Luqaimat - These are little fried dough balls that are sweetened with honey syrup. They are usually served as a dessert.
6. Stuffed Camel - This is a regional specialty and often serves as a centerpiece for special occasions. The stuffing varies from traditional rice to nuts, eggs, and even roasted lamb.
7. Shish Taouk - This is grilled chicken skewers that are marinated in a yogurt and spice mixture and served with garlic sauce.
These are just some of the delicious foods you can find in Qatar!

Qatar: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Qatar can be considered an expensive country for tourists compared to many other destinations, especially for those traveling on a budget. However, the high cost of living and travel expenses can be offset by carefully planning your itinerary and choosing budget-friendly options such as public transport and affordable dining options. It's important to note that Qatar offers a wide range of luxurious experiences and high-end activities that may contribute to the perception of high prices for tourists. Overall, the cost of traveling to Qatar will depend on various factors such as accommodation, transportation, dining, and activities chosen during your trip.

Qatar: where to find accodation

There are several options to look for accommodations in Qatar. Here are some popular platforms and websites: 1. Booking.com - This popular platform provides a wide range of options for accommodations in Qatar, including hotels, apartments, and villas.
2. Airbnb - This popular platform provides options for unique stays such as apartments, villas, and houses.
3. Hotels.com - Hotels.com offers great deals on a variety of hotels and resorts in Qatar.
4. Agoda - Agoda provides a wide range of accommodation options in Qatar, including hotels and apartments.
5. Expedia - Expedia offers a range of options for hotels and resorts in Qatar, along with flight and transportation bookings.
6. Qatar Tourism - Qatar Tourism offers a comprehensive guide to accommodations in Qatar, along with other travel-related information.
Overall, no matter where you decide to look, it's always a good idea to read reviews and check the location and amenities of the accommodations you're considering.
You can check hotel prices in Qatar here:
Booking.com

Qatar: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
In 2019, Qatar received around 3.2 million tourists. Generally, the peak tourist season in Qatar is during the winter months from October to March. However, it's important to note that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, travel regulations and visitor numbers have been affected. It's best to check relevant official sources for up-to-date information on travel restrictions and crowd management.
Yes, Qatar is generally considered a safe country for tourists. The crime rate is low and the country has a strong focus on security. However, as with any country, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
There are no places that are necessarily off-limits for tourists, but it is important to be mindful of cultural customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Additionally, it is best to avoid political demonstrations or gatherings, as these can quickly become volatile. It is always a good idea to check the official travel advice of your country's government before you travel to Qatar.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Qatar on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Qatar: events for tourists

There are many interesting events that take place in Qatar throughout the year, including: 1. Qatar International Food Festival: A foodie's paradise, this festival brings together different cuisines from around the world, as well as live cooking demonstrations and food-related activities.
2. Doha Jewelry and Watch Exhibition: The largest exhibition of its kind in the region, this event showcases the latest in luxury jewelry and watches.
3. Eid Al Adha: This important Muslim holiday marks the end of the pilgrimage to Mecca, and is celebrated throughout Qatar with feasting, prayer and gift-giving.
4. Qatar National Day: This annual celebration on December 18th marks the founding of modern Qatar, and includes parades, fireworks and cultural performances.
5. Al Wasmi Garden Festival: Held in the spring, this festival showcases the beauty of Qatar's flora through art, workshops and exhibitions.
These are just a few examples, but there are many other cultural, sporting and entertainment events that take place in Qatar throughout the year.

Qatar: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Qatar, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Here's a two-week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Qatar: Day 1-2: Start your trip in Doha, Qatar's thriving capital. Visit the stunning Museum of Islamic Art, stroll through the Souq Waqif, and take a walk along the Doha Corniche.
Day 3-4: Take a tour of the desert and go dune bashing, camel riding, and enjoy a traditional BBQ dinner under the stars.
Day 5-6: Explore Qatar's history and heritage with a visit to the Sheikh Faisal Museum, the Al Zubarah Fort, and the Barzan Towers.
Day 7-8: Take a trip to the Pearl-Qatar, an artificial island that has luxury shops, restaurants, and high-end residences.
Day 9-10: Visit Al Wakrah, a charming old fishing village that has now become one of Qatar's fastest-growing cities. Enjoy the new waterfront promenade and its fresh seafood.
Day 11-12: Enjoy the water spots and beach activities in several coastal areas, such as Sealine Beach and Khor Al Udeid Beach.
Day 13-14: End your trip with a visit to Msheireb Museums, a living museum with four heritage houses offering insights into Qatari life.
I hope this itinerary helps you plan a great trip to Qatar!

Qatar: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Qatar described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Al Daayen is a municipality in the state of Qatar, located on the eastern coast of the country. It is one of the eight municipalities that make up the state. The municipality is home to many important... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Daayen
- Al Kharrara is a small town located in the southern region of Qatar. It is situated about 70 kilometers away from the capital city of Doha and can be accessed by road. The town is known for its vast s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Kharrara
- Al Khor is a coastal city located approximately 50 kilometers north of Doha, the capital city of Qatar. It is the capital of the Al Khor municipality and has a population of about 31,000 people.
... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Khor
- Al Thakhira is a small coastal town located in the northeastern region of Qatar, about 78 kilometers north of the capital Doha. It is known for its beautiful beach and mangrove forest, which is a popu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Thakhira
- Al Wakrah is a city in Qatar located on the eastern coast of the country, about 17 kilometers south of the capital city, Doha. It is an important seaport and a hub for several commercial activities. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Wakrah
- Al Wukair is a small town located in the Al Wakrah Municipality of Qatar. It is situated south of Doha, the capital city, and is known for its historical importance. The town houses various archaeolog... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Wukair
- Doha is the capital city of Qatar, located on the eastern coast of the country, facing the Persian Gulf. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that has undergone a rapid transformation in recent years... CONTINUE here for a trip to Doha
- Mesaieed is an industrial city located in the south of Qatar. It is about 40 km south of Doha, the capital of Qatar. The city is known for its petrochemical industry and is home to several large indus... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mesaieed
- Umm Bab is a small town located in the western part of Qatar, close to the coastline. It is known for its picturesque beaches and breathtaking views of the desert landscape. The town also houses a num... CONTINUE here for a trip to Umm Bab


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