Grounded in the golden sands of tradition and reaching toward tomorrow, Qatar is a desert bloom like no other.
For centuries, the treasures of Qatar were known only by pearlers, traders and tribespeople. Today, this awe-inspiring state looms large on the world stage as its sprawling desert and cosmopolitan cityscape sit firmly at the top of travelers' must-visit lists. Dream of experiencing the Middle East without spending days traversing vast deserts and distances? Qatar is a shimmering one-stop oasis where you can experience some of the Persian Gulf's clearest waters, wildest adventures and richest traditions. Not to mention an architectural ambition that has some of the world's most revered designers glancing over their shoulders. Whether you're yearning for total solitude beneath a billion stars or a galaxy of five-star shopping, dining and events, let the Gulf winds carry you to Qatar.
Top cities in Qatar
The center of this desert flower is Doha, a coastal capital buzzing with cutting-edge architecture, designer brands and gastronomic delicacies. Throughout the city, institutions like the Museum of Islamic Art and the National Museum of Qatar proudly spearhead the region's cultural renaissance. In recent years, fanciful visions like monumental public art projects and man-made islands complimenting Venetian-style canals have become a glorious reality. Qatar's second city, Lusail, leads the way when it comes to adrenaline-inducing kicks like Formula 1 racing, dune bash ing, Jet Skiing and theme parks. For travelers keen to shift down a few gears, smaller towns dot the coast and make perfect gateways to Qatar's natural wonders. One of the best is Al Khor, where kayaks wait to glide you silently past flocks of pink flamingos in the stunning Al Thakira Mangrove Forest.
Top attractions in Qatar
There's a world of things to do in Qatar, much of which is inspired by those luminous gems of the deep. Before the discovery of oil, the pearl industry shaped much of Qatar's story. In Doha, look out for the Pearl Monument, which pays tribute to the city's beginnings as a pearl diving village. Harder to miss is The Pearl Qatar, a luxurious artificial island built on one of the city's old dive sites. Journey to the peninsula's northeast to Al Jassasiya Rock Art Site and imagine the fingers that moved pearl counters across ancient board games carved in sandstone. To the west, stand on the ramparts of Al Zubarah Fort, which presides over the UNESCO World Heritage–listed ruins of the flourishing pearling town.
When to visit Qatar
Qatar enjoys two distinct seasons. The hot summer period (June to September) is perfect for beaches, water parks and museums. Winters (November to February) are mild and ideal for desert adventures or camping out under the stars.
Getting around Qatar
Getting around the capital city, Doha, is a breeze thanks to its metro system, trams and taxis. Hop-on hop-off buses, bike hire and self-guided walking trails are great ways to take in the sights. For exploring further afield, renting a car is recommended.
Things to do in Qatar
- Qatari culture is lovingly preserved throughout its world-class museums, galleries and archeological sites. It also permeates every aspect of local life. Hear it in the minaret's call to prayer, smell it in the scent of frankincense floating from souqs, and taste it in the spices and flavors belonging to the many nationalities who have dropped anchor here over the centuries.
- Qatar is blessed with hundreds of miles of unspoiled coastline and fabulous beaches. Doha's Katara Beach is easy to get to and perfect for families. Further afield, Sealine Beach is the place for camel rides at sunset, while Umm Bab's clusters of Instagram-worthy palm trees are perfect for escaping the midday heat.
- Kayak through the pristine Al Thakira Mangroves and glide past flamingos and herons. Hike the rocky landscapes of Ras Abrouq and maybe spot exotic wildlife. Or saddle up for a guided camel safari to Khor Al Adaid, an inland sea straight from the pages of a TinTin adventure.
- Qatari cuisine is influenced by Indian, Persian and North African flavors and techniques, but like the peninsula's landscapes, it's forever evolving. Wherever you roam, you'll find local favorites like machboos and saloona prepared with passion and served with pride. In Doha, these delectable flavors are exquisitely complimented by menus that span the entire globe, posing an unforgettable culinary experience to every kind of foodie.
- From kitesurfing along its coastline to sandboarding in the interior to teeing off on emerald golf greens, Qatar is a place to challenge your personal best. It's also a destination to be inspired by the world's best. A mecca for football lovers awaits with eight breathtaking state-of-the-art stadiums that hosted some of the world's greatest football players for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. From the Qatar Grand Prix to international athletics championships, the state is a go-to arena for prestigious sporting events of every kind imaginable.
- Shopping in Qatar weaves together the traditional, modern, handmade and high-tech. Lose yourself amid the spice, textile and bric-a-brac stalls at Souq Waqif, and be dazzled by the couture creations at Villaggio and Al Hazm Mall. For keepsakes and gifts, pick up intricate Arabic pottery, pashmina shawls, locally crafted perfumes and sugary dates.