If you have a long layover in Doha, you’re in luck. Qatar has quickly become one of the best stopover destinations in the Middle East. Since 2017, citizens of over 80 countries can enter Qatar visa-free, making it easier than ever to leave Hamad International Airport and explore the city. With its futuristic skyline, cultural treasures, and vibrant souqs, Doha offers plenty to see and do even if you only have a few hours. I had previously spent several long layovers at Hamad International Airport which is the main hub for Qatar Airways, but had never left the airport because of the visa requirements.
Hamad International Airport is located just 15–20 minutes from downtown Doha, so you don’t need to spend your entire layover at the airport. Whether you book an organized transit tour, hop into an Uber, or spend a full day wandering, you’ll quickly discover that Doha is compact, easy to get around, and full of things to do.
In this guide, I’ll share how to make the most of your Doha stopover — from cultural highlights and shopping to beaches and traditional food. Whether you have a short layover, a full day, or even two, here are some of the best things to do in Doha, Qatar.
Hamad International Airport is conveniently located just a short drive from the city, and getting around is quick and easy with Uber. One thing I appreciated was that many public places in Doha offer free Wi-Fi, making it simple to order a ride on the go. Since Doha is not a very large city, you can cover a lot in a short amount of time.
If you have very limited time in Doha, I highly recommend checking out this Transit Tour or if you have more time, this full-day city tour. There is also an option for a Night Doha City Tour which is good for people whose flight is arriving late.
Earlier this year, my flight connections brought me to Doha again on a trip from Bangladesh to Europe. This time, I stayed for a couple of days instead of just a layover, which gave me more time to explore the city. Still, most of these tips are perfect if you only have a short stopover and want to make the most of your time in Doha.
Things to Do in Doha
Katara Cultural Village
Katara is like an open-air museum of Qatari culture and heritage. Wander through its amphitheater, galleries, mosques, and courtyards while admiring traditional and modern architecture side by side. It’s also home to cafés, restaurants, and a public beach where you can enjoy water sports. If you’re tired after a long flight, hop on one of the free buggies to get around easily.
The Pearl
Just north of Katara lies The Pearl, a man-made island that feels like Doha’s answer to Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah. Stroll along the marinas, admire luxury yachts, or stop for a coffee while watching life unfold around you. The Pearl is especially pleasant in the cooler months, when walking along its palm-lined promenades is a treat.
Relax at the Beach
Qatar has some nice beaches; however, many of them are private. You can still access these private hotel beaches by paying an entrance fee. There are also some public beaches in Doha, one located in Katara, but just remember to be respectful of the Muslim culture when visiting public beaches. At the private beaches, bikinis are acceptable.
Admire the Mosques
I’ve always admired mosque architecture, and Qatar has some truly impressive examples to visit. The Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque, the largest in the country, welcomes tourists during visiting hours, and women are provided with headscarves and abayas at the entrance. While in Katara, don’t miss the beautifully decorated Katara Mosque and the striking Golden Masjid.
The Corniche
The Corniche is a seven-kilometre waterfront promenade that curves around Doha Bay, offering stunning views of the modern skyline contrasted with traditional wooden dhows. It’s a peaceful, vehicle-free area that’s popular with locals for jogging and evening walks. Conveniently, there are even free charging stations along the way in case your phone battery runs low.
The Museum of Islamic Art
The Museum of Islamic Art sits at one end of the Corniche and is not only a world-class collection of Islamic art but also an architectural masterpiece in itself. Designed by the renowned architect I.M. Pei, the building’s striking geometric design makes it a landmark of modern Doha. The museum and its surrounding park are a photographer’s dream, and I found myself spending far longer than planned capturing both the interiors and exteriors. From the outside terraces, you can also enjoy spectacular views across the bay and the city skyline.
Souq Waqif
Souq Waqif is Doha’s oldest and most atmospheric market, a great place to shop for traditional garments, spices, and souvenirs. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and shisha lounges tucked between its narrow alleys. The best time to visit is in the early evening, when the souq truly comes alive with locals and travelers enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Eat Local Food
Be sure to try some falafel and hummus — after all, you’re in the Middle East! I had really missed this cuisine and was excited to enjoy it again in Doha. Honestly, I could live on hummus, falafel, ful, and fresh pita bread. The best part is that you don’t need to spend much — there are plenty of affordable local restaurants serving delicious Middle Eastern dishes.
Enjoy the Night Lights
The sunsets I saw in Doha were always fantastic. I had great sunset views from my hotel room (Kingsgate Hotel Doha), and every night the haze made the sunsets even more magical. After the sunset, it’s a great time to head to the souq and then take a stroll along The Corniche to admire the city lights. There are also organised night tours in Doha including a dhow cruise.
Visit Museums
Doha is home to an impressive variety of museums, each offering a unique perspective on Qatar’s history, culture, and art. The Museum of Islamic Art, which I mentioned earlier, is a must-visit, but there’s so much more to explore.
The Msheireb Museums, housed in four beautifully restored heritage buildings, provide fascinating insights into the country’s past.
The National Museum of Qatar, designed by Jean Nouvel and inspired by the desert rose, is another highlight where visitors can learn about the nation’s history and cultural identity.
For modern art lovers, the Mathaf Arab Museum of Modern Art showcases striking works by contemporary Arab artists, from paintings to large-scale installations.
If you have extra time, head just outside the city center to the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum, which houses an extraordinary private collection of cultural artifacts gathered by Sheikh Faisal during his travels.
Shopping
If you fancy some shopping, Villaggio Mall is a great modern mall with decor imitating the canals of Venice. You can find most of the international clothing brands, and there is even an ice rink.
Tours
If you have more time in Qatar, I highly recommend doing some tours to other parts of the country too.
Desert Safari and Inland Sea Tour: This half-day tour takes you to nature, and you can enjoy a ride across the sand dunes an explore the Inland Sea of Khor Al Adaid.
North of Qatar: This tour takes you to the city of Al Khor and a UNESCO World Heritage site Zubarah fort.
Where to Stay in Doha
There is no shortage of five-star hotels in Doha. Check out, for example, The Torch Doha or The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa. If you would like to stay by the beach, The Ritz-Carlton and InterContinental Doha Hotel are good options.
More budget-friendly option but still very modern and clean is Kingsgate Hotel. I stayed here and enjoyed the sunset views from my room, spacious room with a kitchenette and the hotel facilities that include a gym and pool. Many of the main attractions like The Museum of Islamic Art, Souq Waqif and The Corniche are also within a walking distance.
If you’re on a budget, there is also one hostel in Doha called Qatar Youth Hostel.
1 comment
I like this post! I was supposed to travel to Doha in May but the trip got cancelled. I’ll keep all your recommendations in mind for next time I plan a trip there!