List of Best Attractions in Doha – An Eclectic Mix of Old and New

The iconic National Museum of Qatar is a brainchild of the French architect Atelier Jean Nouvel. Inspired by the 'desert rose,' which is a mineral formation found in the Gulf deserts, it is an attempt to revisit the bygone times of Qatar, with a touch of modernity. The museum is a celebration of the past and the future of the country with its impressive collection of artwork, artefacts, and other historical documents. In 2019, it was named as a great place to visit in the world by Time Magazine. In its opening year, this iconic construction was attended by over 450,000 tourists from around the world.

Located on an island on its own, this landmark construction of Qatar reflects the nation's need to mark its status as a cultural hub in the world. The Museum of Islamic Arts flourishes with over 10,000 artefacts, relating to various Islamic art. They were collected from three continents over 1400 years. The museum has been a breathtaking construction of the Pritzker Prize-winning architect I. M. Pei, who has also made the pyramids in Louvre a reality. Offering scenic views of the Gulf waters through its iconic arches, the Museum of Islamic Art is a must-visit for anyone with a fancy for splendid architecture.

Souq Waqif roughly translates into 'Standing Market' in English. According to Qatari historians, the name hides a history where the sellers used to stand near the entrances displaying their products to potential buyers. Nowadays, tourists can expect flocks of pigeons gathered near the entrance to Souq Waqif to eat the variety of grains placed there by the souq workers. The handicraft and heritage jewellery street would interest the wandering tourist as it offers an impressive range of souvenirs such as swords and daggers. These souvenirs pass on the rich Qatari heritage to the rest of the world in an almost nonchalant manner.

Lying 350 metres away from West Bay Lagoon in Doha is the Pearl, an artificially constructed island which has become a massive sensation since its opening year. The location used to be a famous pearl diving site in the past, hence the name. With an array of high-end shopping and dining facilities, it is the first land in Doha that could be owned by foreign nationals.

Lying within a 20-minute driving distance of 5-star hotels in Doha the likes of Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli is a place that emanates the authentic Qatari air. In its entirety, the Falcon Souq is a reflection of how much importance the country places on falconry. While wandering the aisles of the souq, you will be able to observe the magnificent birds of prey tethered to their posts. The outside area will give you glimpses of the birds that are being exercised many times a day.