Joanna James
While Doha may be one of the Middle East’s most potent retail hubs, there’s more to the capital of Qatar than its iconic malls and impressive department stores. Here are 8 cultural points of interest tourists must visit during a getaway to the desert metropolis.
As one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, the National Museum of Qatar should be every traveller’s first stopover during a sightseeing tour of Doha. The unique architectural features of the building designed by Jean Nouvel aside, the venue remains the country’s foremost cultural institution when it comes to Qatari history and its evolution over the centuries. Housed within what was once the palatial residence of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani, the exhibits at NMoQ are as impressive as they are striking.
Although Katara Cultural Village is often ranked among Doha’s top entertainment hotspots, the venue, which is dedicated to ancient art forms, crafts and performance styles, is a testament to Qatar’s cultural diversity and heritage. Whether you visit the vast compound to watch artisans at work or attend a traditional musical performance, this cultural village with its retail outlets and interactive exhibitions is a one-stop epicentre for culture buffs.
Travellers enjoying a family staycation while based at top hotels like Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli in the heart of the city can’t afford to miss a shopping tour of Doha’s most popular Arabian bazaar. Occupying a large area, this labyrinth-like marketplace exemplifies what all bazaars in Doha and other regions of Qatar once resembled. In addition to picking up souvenirs and handicrafts, visitors can also stock up on high-quality perfumes, spices and textiles at this bustling thoroughfare.
Conveniently situated right in the middle of the city, Souq Waqif is an equally well-known landmark in the capital of Qatar. Although the structure is officially named the Al Koot Fort, this 19th-century defence building is more popularly known as the Doha Fort among locals and seasoned visitors. In addition to hosting seasonal exhibitions and cultural events, the architecture of this imposing fortress makes it a historic landmark worthy of exploration.
Designed by I.M. Pei, the architect responsible for the Louvre Pyramid, the Museum of Islamic Art is another must-visit highlight for art lovers holidaying in the Qatari city. Boasting an exhaustive collection of Islamic art that spans nearly 1400 years, the museum’s most prized possessions include its exquisite collection of textiles, ancient manuscripts, jewellery and ceramics.
Occupying pride of place at the Doha Corniche, the Pearl Monument is a fitting tribute to the country’s pearl-diving past. Celebrating the rich heritage of the country’s pearl-cultivating legacy, this particular landmark reminds locals and tourists of Qatar’s humble origins before the oil industry revolutionised the country’s economy and public landscapes.
Situated within Education City, the Arab Museum of Modern Art which is commonly referred to as Mathaf, is a lesser-known cultural point of interest that should be on every travel itinerary. Showcasing collections of modern and contemporary artworks from all across the Middle East, the museum offers a definitive look at the themes and styles dominating Arab art in this current timeline.
Composed of two watchtowers dating back to the end of the 19th century, the Barzan Towers are easy to miss when touring the confines of Doha’s Umm Salal Mohammed. Serving as historic observation decks, the towers, which were originally constructed to preserve water resources, are now famed for their traditional architecture and the panoramic views accessible from their vaulted location.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
