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Qatar is rapidly emerging as a top destination for tourism. It’s where you see architectural development, a mix of modernity and tradition, and the desert sands whispering tales of timeless heritage. Interestingly, in 2017, Qatar welcomed about 2.3 million international visitors. Since then, it has been home to visitors from approximately 88 countries.
What does Qatar offer? Here, the answer can not be short. Desert adventures, soothing beaches, shopping malls, and whatnot! Qatar provides a lot that captivates your senses and brings you many memories. This blog can be a whole package for you as a visiting guide. Let’s dive into a land where every moment is a journey, and every sight is a story waiting to be told. So, are you ready?
Explore an Arab Country (Qatar) in Asia
Did you know Qatar used to be the land of pearl fishermen and Bedouin Nomads? But now it is one of the world’s safest and most exciting tourist attractions. It is located on a small Peninsula in Western Asia along the Persian Gulf. It welcomes over 2 million visitors each year.
Here’s a list of what you can do in Qatar:
- You can embark on desert trips that you have to organize before setting on a journey.
- Experience the whole country by camel or quad bike.
- If you love to do water sports – jet-skiing, fishing, windsurfing, and fishing are waiting for you.
If you are worried about roaming around Qatar, there is no need for hassle! Getting around is accessible with public transport or private car rentals. Moreover, it’s up to you if you want to explore the country via sea, land, or air.
When we talk about an Arab country, it is certain that the country is a true blend of modernity and tradition, and Qatar is! You can explore all, but before leaving, check out the latest travel tips and get ready to experience the best of Qatar.
Things You Must Know About Qatar
Before getting into travel tips, learn some exciting things about Qatar!
Qatar’s carbon footprint is surprisingly large. Being a wealthy country known for its skyscrapers, desert landscapes, and high temperatures, it’s no shock that it emits significant carbon dioxide.
Qatar holds the record for the highest carbon emissions per person globally. However, this statistic is less alarming when considering Qatar’s small population and the fact that a substantial portion of its carbon output is exported to other countries.
In Qatar, skyscrapers are your best bet if you’re looking to rise above it all. The country ranks second in the world for being flat after the Maldives, which takes the top spot as the lowest nation on Earth.
Don’t expect lush green landscapes here—Qatar is one of only six countries without a single forest. Instead, prepare for vast expanses of sand and a scarcity of dunes. Like in many conservative nations, it’s essential to dress modestly in Qatar. This means covering your knees, shoulders, and chest, regardless of your gender. Opt for loose-fitting clothing to blend in.
What to Do
Do you love art and architecture? If yes, Doha will be the starting point of your adventure! We have broken down some places that are worth watching in Doha and are valuable with reference to tourism as well as knowledge and education. Let’s explore Doha first!
Do you love art and architecture? If yes, Doha will be the starting point of your adventure! We have broken down some places that are worth watching in Doha and are valuable with reference to tourism as well as knowledge and education. Let’s explore Doha first!
- The Museum of Islamic Art: The Louvre Pyramid Architect, IM Pei, designed this architectural marvel. You can see its wonderful limestone structure. Moreover, it is home to the world’s largest collection of Islamic art.
- Mathaf: Do not miss Mathaf! It is the Arab Museum of Modern Art. You can explore international modern art with an Arab twist here.
- Qatar National Library: If you are up for something unique, visit this library! Even if you are not a bookworm, the experience of walking through its excellent glass-walled and spaceship-like design is unforgettable.
- Souq Waqif: For a taste of old Qatar, visit Souq Waqif. This lively market has been around for over 250 years and still captures the feel of Bedoin times. You’ll witness the hustle and bustle here as the locals sell handcrafted gold jewelry, rugs, and incense at their colorful stalls. There’s even a falcon market, where Qatar’s falconry enthusiasts buy and sell prized birds, some costing up to £200,000.
Doha may get most of the attention, but Qatar offers unique places beyond Doha. These are as follows:
- Inland Sea: It is a place of Khor Al Adaid and a UNESCO-listed tidal inlet. Deep-blue waters blend with the desert’s sand dunes in the South. Along the eastern coast, there are white mangrove forests where many turtles and crustaceans are present. You can explore the place via Paddleboard or Kayak.
- Beaches: Qatar is home to many beaches with 600 km of coastlines. There are many luxurious beaches with Cabanas. You can adventure and try many action-packed spots featuring thrilling activities like paddleboarding, biking, and kayaking. For a more peaceful experience, move to the Northern coast to snorkel in clear waters. You can find dolphins here too!
Discover Qatar’s Rich Heritage and Modern Art
To taste the lavish lifestyle of Qatar’s elite, visit the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum. Here, you can see a sheikh’s collection, which includes the following:
- Stunning artworks
- Carpets
- Rare coins
- Swords
- Vintage American cars
- And even a full-sized stuffed camel
Want to explore Qatar’s Bedouin heritage? Go to the desert! At Bir Zekreet, you’ll find towering limestone formations with unique mushroom-like tops. Nearby, at the Brouq Nature Reserve, you can experience modern art in a dramatic desert setting.
Furthermore, New York artist Richard Serra’s East-West/West-East installation features massive steel plates that change from grey to tawny brown as the weather in the salty desert winds. Isn’t it interesting? This striking piece starkly contrasts the sleek galleries of the capital, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and artistic expression.
In addition, find the ancient desert artworks of Al Jassasiya in the north of Qatar. Here, you can explore rock carvings, called Petroglyphs, which show several shapes and symbols. Well, there is a debate over its age – some say they are hundreds of years old, while others believe they date back thousands of years.
Hotels to Stay in Qatar
The hotels in Qatar are luxurious, and few budget options are available. If you are willing to splurge, the most lavish and stunning hotels in the Middle East are waiting for you!
Hotels in the West Bay Area
The West Bay area is on the northern curve of the corniche and offers many hotels for those who want sky-high luxury. There are a lot of modern buildings featuring designer furniture, custom artwork, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering beautiful views of Doha’s skyline.
Ask the concierge for a high-floor room to enjoy the best views if you can. Moreover, if you want waterfront hotels, West Bay can offer them to you, too. The hotels have outdoor pools and private sandy beaches along the Persian Gulf.
Hotels in Souq Waqif
For a traditional experience that won’t break the bank, visit the area around Souq Waqif. There are many mid-range and boutique hotels. Some of them are converted from old market buildings with charming traditional roofs.
Beachy Resorts Around Doha
Outside of Doha, most of the accommodations here are beachside resorts. Here, you can enjoy food, places, beaches, and waves fluttering all together. Your stay is going to be so memorable for you!
Try Camping
Do you want to try the Qatari tradition? Try desert camping! Bring your tent and find a perfect spot for a campfire and stargazing. If you don’t want to create your cam, you can also try an established camp to sleep in an air-conditioned safari tent, enjoy meals, and explore exciting desert activities like dune-bashing and camel riding.
Food in Qatar
Qatar has a vibrant community in Doha, and the population is increasing day by day. There are plenty of options to eat, such as:
- Try some authentic Qatari cuisine! All these dishes are slow-cooked, featuring tender meats and fresh seafood.
- Don’t forget machboos, a beloved spiced rice dish with chicken, lamb, or camel.
- Try luqaimat – sticky dumplings flavored with saffron and dripping with honey.
Best Time to Visit Qatar
Cooler months are perfect for visiting Qatar, such as October to April. Above these months, March is the best for camel racing because it’s the only season! Many restaurants are closed during Ramadan, so avoid visiting this month.
Conclusion
Are you whispering, “Take me There?” You are! Qatar is a must-go if you are on your mission to explore Arab countries. So, get your planning done and explore what you want!
For more travel tips and in-depth guides, visit Heaven Leads, your top resource for discovering the world’s most breathtaking destinations.
For tips and a comprehensive guide to visiting the Natural History Museum in London, check out my blog on Heaven Leads, your go-to resource for discovering the world’s most breathtaking destinations.
