Best things to do in Doha: museums, the souq, the desert and a dhow at sunset

Start at the Museum of Islamic Art, a striking building by I. M. Pei on its own island, then walk the Corniche to the National Museum of Qatar, shaped like a desert rose. In the evening, wander Souq Waqif, a rebuilt traditional market with spice shops, falcon sellers and restaurants. It is at its best after dark.

Museum of Islamic Art

2–3 hours

National Museum

~2 hours

Souq Waqif

Evening

Weekend

Friday–Saturday

Dress

Modest, cover shoulders and knees

Best season

Nov–Mar

An afternoon desert safari to the Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid) is the signature excursion, with dune driving, camel rides and views of the sea touching the dunes. In the evening, a dhow cruise along the Corniche shows the West Bay skyline lit up.

• ✔Katara Cultural Village: galleries, an amphitheatre and a beach.
• ✔The Pearl-Qatar: marinas and cafés on an artificial island.
• ✔Msheireb Downtown: a modern district designed around traditional architecture.
• ✔Education City: striking buildings and the Qatar National Library.

• ✔Friday is the weekend, and many attractions open in the afternoon.
• ✔The metro covers most areas, and taxis and ride-hailing are cheap.
• ✔Alcohol is only served in licensed hotels and some venues.
• ✔Dress modestly in public places.
• ✔Avoid summer for outdoor sightseeing.

Souq Waqif is a rebuilt market that preserves the look of old Doha, with mud-rendered walls, wooden beams and winding alleys. In the evening it comes to life with families, musicians, shisha cafés and restaurants serving Qatari and regional food. Look for the falcon souq, where birds are sold and treated, and the spice and perfume shops.

Try machboos (spiced rice with meat), luqaimat (sweet dumplings) and Arabic coffee with dates. The souq is free to enter, and most shops stay open late. It is a good place to buy souvenirs such as Arabian perfumes, textiles and traditional crafts, and bargaining is accepted.

Many museums are free or very low cost for visitors. Check opening times, since they vary and some close on Fridays or at midday. A guided tour can enrich the visit, but audio guides are usually available.

• ✔Museum of Islamic Art: a stunning building and a world-class collection of Islamic artefacts.
• ✔National Museum of Qatar: an immersive journey through the country's history and nature.
• ✔Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art: a contemporary collection in a former school.
• ✔3-2-1 Qatar Olympic & Sports Museum: a fun, interactive museum for sports fans.
• ✔Msheireb Museums: four restored historic houses telling Doha's story.

The best months are November to March. Carry a light jacket for the air-conditioned malls, and use the metro for easy movement between the airport, West Bay and the souq. Taxis and ride-hailing are cheap and widely available. Tipping is not required but appreciated.

Respect local customs: dress modestly, avoid public displays of affection and do not photograph local people without permission. Alcohol is limited to licensed hotels and venues. For more regional comparisons, read our Dubai vs Abu Dhabi guide and the Muscat guide, or the Doha guide.

Doha pairs with Dubai and Abu Dhabi on a Gulf trip. See our full Doha guide, or plan a desert escape with Muscat.