Visit Qatar: Essential Qatar Travel Tips and Top Things to Do

Qatar is one of the most intriguing destinations in the Middle East, where ancient and modern wonders await all visitors. Whether you’re drawn to modern cityscapes, cultural experiences, or world-class shopping and dining, you can find all of that and more in Qatar. As the host of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the country has seen a surge in global tourism, which it has met with an excellent hospitality industry and a welcoming atmosphere. If you are planning to visit Qatar, then here’s everything you need to know to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Why Visit Qatar?

Qatar offers a dynamic blend of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Steeped in tradition, the country is known for its vibrant souqs and its world-class museums. Architecture enthusiasts will be captivated by the skyline of Doha and iconic landmarks like Katara Cultural Village , and for those who love to shop, Qatar delivers everything from luxury brands to handmade local treasures. Food lovers will also find themselves spoiled for choice, whether dining at Michelin-starred restaurants or savoring street food favorites.

Beyond the city, Qatar’s breathtaking desert landscape is made for adventure, from dune bashing and camel rides to camping beneath the stars. The country’s stunning beaches provide the perfect escape for relaxation or water sports. And when it comes to hospitality, Qatar spares no expense–expect nothing less than top-tier service, opulent hotels, and indulgent spas. Whether you’re exploring the cultural gems of Doha, enjoying a thrilling desert safari, or simply unwinding in luxury, Qatar promises an unforgettable journey.

Things to Do in Qatar

Visitors will find an exciting mix of attractions and places to visit in Qatar, including historic landmarks and natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or historical exploration, there’s something for every traveler. 

With over 560 kilometers of coastline, some of the best attractions in Qatar are its beaches. Doha Sands Beach Club provides luxury and water sports, while Sealine Beach in Mesaieed offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Family-friendly Al Maroona Beach and Fuwairit Beach, a Hawksbill turtle nesting site, add to Qatar’s diverse coastal offerings. The UNESCO-listed Khor al Adaid is also a must-visit for desert camping and wildlife spotting.

Beyond its beaches, Qatar’s cities are full of character. Doha, the capital, blends modern skyscrapers with traditional sites like Souq Waqif. Al Khor, known for its fishing harbor and Purple Island, is a haven for nature lovers. Dukhan, Madinat Ash Shamal, and Al Ruwais are all home to stunning coastal views and cultural attractions. For even more history and culture, visitors can explore Qatar tourist spots like the National Museum of Qatar, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the UNESCO-listed Al Zubarah Archaeological Site. Katara Cultural Village is a hub for art and entertainment as well.

Outdoor enthusiasts also come to Qatar to embark on desert safaris, kayak through mangroves, or visit nature reserves like Al Reem Biosphere. Family-friendly attractions, including Doha Quest, Meryal Waterpark, and Al Khor Park, ensure fun for all ages.

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Upcoming Events in Qatar

The tourist scene in Qatar is set to get even more exciting in 2025, thanks to an events calendar filled with cultural exhibitions, business summits, and major entertainment experiences. Art lovers can explore Between Palms and Trees: The Land of Sunset Unfolded and Splendours of the Atlas, both celebrating Moroccan heritage. The Doha International Book Fair 2025 will also be bringing together global literary figures, and Mal Lawal 4 will showcase contemporary Qatari art. For car enthusiasts the Qatar Auto Museum Project will offer a glimpse into the country’s growing automotive scene.

Qatar also remains a hub for business innovation, with major events like the Qatar CSR Summit, Innovation by Design Summit, and Project Qatar 2025, which focus on corporate responsibility, design, and industry trends. The Build Your House Exhibition 2025 and Inspire Exhibition for Decor & Gifts will cater to home and lifestyle sectors, while Qatar Smart Manufacturing will highlight advancements in industrial technology. Meanwhile, lifestyle and community events continue to thrive with Torba Market, a favorite for sustainable goods, and Akhlaqna Day, which promotes social values and community engagement.

Music lovers can look forward to Ed Sheeran’s +-=÷x Tour 2025 in Doha, while sports fans can enjoy the MotoGP™ Qatar Airways Grand Prix, QNB One Run For All, Longines Global Champions Tour, and the Qatar Desert Trail Running Series. Motorsports followers also won’t want to miss the GR Yaris Qatar Cup and ‘The Race Is On’ Exhibition, rounding out a diverse and exciting year of events across the country.

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Shopping in Qatar

Shopping in Qatar blends modern luxury with deep-rooted traditions, offering everything from high-end fashion in extravagant malls to authentic finds in bustling souqs. Whether you’re after designer labels, handmade crafts, or local delicacies, Qatar’s shopping scene is unsurpassed.

Luxury malls dominate the retail landscape. Place Vendôme, a massive French-inspired retail destination in Lusail, elevates luxury shopping with its grand architecture. Villaggio Mall, inspired by Venice, features an indoor canal alongside top-tier brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Doha Festival City houses over 400 brands and family attractions like Angry Birds World and an indoor snow park. Al Hazm Mall exudes European elegance, housing exclusive brands and a stunning library. Galeries Lafayette brings Parisian glamour to Katara Cultural Village, while Mall of Qatar combines shopping with live entertainment and KidzMondo, a children’s theme park.

For a more traditional experience, souqs provide a glimpse into Qatar’s heritage. Souq Waqif is a must-visit for spices, textiles, and a chance to get up close to a falcon. The Gold Souq dazzles with intricate jewelry at competitive prices. Souq Al Wakrah, a scenic waterfront market, blends shopping with seaside dining. Textile lovers will appreciate Souq Al Deira‘s fine fabrics and custom tailoring, while Torba Market offers organic local produce and handmade crafts.

Popular purchases during a Qatari shopping excursion include dates, local produce, Al-Sadu weavings, and traditional handicrafts. With its blend of modern retail and cultural authenticity, you don’t want to miss a chance to go shopping in Qatar.

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Qatari Cuisine

Qatar’s culinary scene is a rich fusion of Arabian, Persian, North African, and Indian influences, offering an array of flavorful dishes, street food, and upscale dining. From slow-cooked stews to crispy, syrup-drizzled sweets, food in Qatar is as diverse as its cultural heritage.

Traditional Qatari food is known for being hearty and aromatic. Machboos, the national dish, features spiced rice paired with tender meat, while Saloona is a comforting tomato-based stew. Margoog, a slow-cooked dish with lamb and whole-wheat pasta, is perfect for cooler evenings. Balaleet combines sweetened vermicelli with a savory omelet, making it a go-to breakfast choice. Harees, a creamy wheat-and-meat porridge, is especially popular during Ramadan, and Luqaimat–fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup–is a beloved dessert. Street food in Qatar is equally enticing. Crispy samosas, flavorful shawarma, and regag bread–a wafer-thin flatbread–are widely enjoyed. Falafel, made from chickpeas or fava beans, and Karak tea, a spiced milk tea, are local favorites.

For sit-down dining, Doha offers an impressive variety of restaurants. Al Shurfa Arabic Lounge in Souq Waqif pairs Lebanese-inspired cuisine with stunning views. Jiwan at the National Museum of Qatar blends Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. Saasna and Al Jasra focus on authentic Qatari home-style dishes, while Belhambar Qatar elevates traditional flavors into a fine-dining experience.

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Things to Know Before Traveling to Qatar

Before packing your bags, it’s important to familiarize yourself with a few key aspects of traveling in Qatar. From transportation and visa requirements to cultural norms and weather conditions, here are some Qatar travel tips to keep in mind.

Best Time to Visit Qatar

The best time to visit Qatar is during the winter months from November to April, when the weather is mild and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities. This season is best for exploring souqs, relaxing at sidewalk cafés, or embarking on adventures like desert camping and golfing. The comfortable climate also makes it a great time to visit parks, stroll along the Corniche, or discover Doha’s vibrant street food and art scenes.

The shoulder seasons from late October to late November and early April to early May are also excellent for warm-weather activities. During these months, visitors can enjoy sunny days without the intense summer heat, allowing for a mix of sightseeing, beach outings, and cultural experiences.

Visa Requirements

Qatar visa requirements for tourists are simple and straightforward. In fact, citizens from 101 countries are eligible for visa-free entry. Other travelers can apply for a visa online through the Qatar e-visa portal, Hayya.

Currency

The official currency in Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (QAR), and it is the only currency accepted in the country. The QAR currently has an exchange rate of 3.64 with the US Dollar. Travelers are advised to confirm the latest rates with reliable agencies. ATMs and currency exchanges are widely available in malls and hotels around Doha. Apple Pay and other forms of online payment are commonly accepted at most places.

Getting Around Qatar

Qatar has a well-connected and modern transportation network, making it easy for visitors to get around whether they prefer public transport, taxis, or private rentals. 

For those staying within the capital, the Doha Metro and the tram lines are among the most efficient and affordable ways to travel. The Metrolink feeder bus service helps commuters reach metro stations, while Karwa Bus, the public bus system, provides air-conditioned rides across Doha and beyond.

For short trips around the city, taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are widely available. Cycling is another great way to explore Qatar, and electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular as well. Walking is also a pleasant option during the cooler months.

The country’s extensive road network links Doha to its neighboring cities, with five major highways providing smooth access to key destinations. But, if you’re planning to visit remote attractions such as the Al Jassasiya Rock Carvings, renting a 4×4 vehicle is recommended. 

Weather in Qatar

Qatar has a subtropical desert climate, meaning it experiences hot, humid summers with little rainfall and mild winters. Summer (June to September) is extremely hot, with temperatures reaching over 45°C, so make sure you wear loose clothing and light, breathable fabrics. Winter (November to February) is pleasant and cool, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. The shoulder seasons are characterized by warm and comfortable weather.

What to Wear in Qatar

While Qatar has a relaxed attitude toward dress, visitors are expected to respect local customs by wearing modest clothing in public. Opting for slightly more conservative outfits is also appreciated in traditional areas like souqs. Swimwear is acceptable at hotel pools and private beaches but should be modest. When visiting mosques or religious sites, women may be required to wear a headscarf and loose-fitting clothing.

Cultural Restrictions and Etiquette

Before visiting Qatar, it is important to brush up on some cultural etiquette and knowledge of religious restrictions that can help ensure you show proper respect to your host nation. Some of these restrictions include:

• Friday Closures: All business and commercial activity pauses during Friday prayers (around 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.). Many shops remain closed for the day, while malls typically reopen in the afternoon.
• Handshaking Etiquette: Qatari women generally do not shake hands with men, and many Qatari men may also avoid shaking hands with women as a sign of respect.
• Public Displays of Affection: Overt displays of affection and intimacy in public are discouraged, as is common in many Middle Eastern countries.
• Ramadan Observance: During the month of Ramadan, visitors should refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect for those who are fasting. Hotels still provide meals in designated private areas.
• Smoking Restrictions: Smoking is prohibited in public areas, including museums, restaurants (though some may have designated smoking areas), sports clubs, and shopping malls.

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