Anne Joana
Doha, the capital city of Qatar, has established itself as one of the major hubs of business, culture, and tourism in the Middle Eastern bloc. Try out these top things-to-do in this New7Wonder city.
The city of Doha has a rich heritage of well over 150 years. Given Doha's prominence in both historic and modern day Qatar, the city is seeped culture and history. The Doha landscape itself is home to many historic forts, towers, and old buildings whose splendid architecture compliments its rich heritage. Apart from this, Doha is also home to many rich traditions of craftsmanship, and even today you will see the many craftsman industries – dhows, woodworks, gypsum ornaments, and Bedouin Sadu – still being carried on using age-old techniques handed down from generation to generation. Other historic places of interest include the fascinating Katara Cultural Village, the insightful Al Zubara Fort & Museum, and the Barzan towers.
The Arabian Oryx is considered a symbol of national heritage in Qatar. The Arabian Oryx, a persevering and intriguing species of antelope, embodies the spirit of Qatar. Unfortunately, the Arabian Oryx has, since 1986, been considered an endangered species, prompting the Qatari officials to take steps to preserve their symbol of pride. The result was the Al Maha Sanctuary, where there are over 1,000 Arabian Oryxes that are being protected and bred. The sanctuary is a great place to visit to understand this fascinating creature and learn the true reasons for the Arabian Oryx being a symbol of such pride.
Doha presents its visitors with a fantastic shopping experience. What's so fantastic about it you ask? Well, in Doha you will find an excellent mix of traditional and modern shopping. One can walk through the quaint and winding alleyways and laneways which are flanked by stalls selling an assortment of items, or you can gleefully stroll through the glitzy Villagio Mall and the Doha City Mall. Thus, you have the opportunity of purchasing authentic crafts, while leaving shopping for your branded goods at the many malls and shopping centers. Make sure you check out Souq Waqif, Gold Souq, and Landmark Mall. While staying in Qatar, luxury hotels such as the Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas is an ideal option for luxury accommodation.
The Doha Corniche is an esplanade with a seafront, which is one of the most popular public spaces in Doha. While the blissful seafront provides a glorious view of the waters from one side, on the other side the Doha Corniche offers a splendid view of Doha's skyline. But from out on the water, cruising along the Corniche, the view of the Doha skyline is truly awe-inspiring. With the cool wind blowing through, the sound of the water gently lapping against the side of your dhow, and the amazing view of the skyline truly makes this one of the best experiences Doha has to offer.
Doha also offers a great deal of recreation activities, chief amongst which are the many sports that it offers. Golf courses, football stadiums, beaches are dedicated to water sports, racing tracks and the likes make it possible for almost anyone to enjoy the some hours outdoors. Doha is also popular for desert safaris where you can explore the desert on a speeding 4x4 that is sure to be one heck of an adrenaline rush!
Doha's nightlife, although not as vibrant as Dubai, is fully worth checking out. Head out to The Pearl Qatar and check out the snazzy bars and chic late-night lounges, or go to the Lincoln Centre and listen to some of the best Middle Eastern jazz, or just chill at a funky shisha lounge, the choices are numerous!
