Things to do in Doha

Activities, attractions and tours

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Photo provided by Visit Qatar
Photo provided by Visit Qatar
Photo provided by Visit Qatar
Photo provided by Visit Qatar

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Top places to visit

1. City Centre Shopping Mall

The City Centre Shopping Mall is one of Doha’s oldest shopping centers and remains one of the largest in the region. It is loved by locals, expats and tourists who come to browse the 350 stores or enjoy the range of entertainment options. At peak times the mall can accommodate up to 70,000 visitors. Visit the City Centre Shopping Mall for international brands including items fitting a mid-range budget.
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Spend a relaxed, air-conditioned day in one of Qatar’s largest malls as you enjoy shopping, dining and family entertainment options.

2. Doha Corniche

Visit the Doha Corniche to look outward at the Persian Gulf or inland to the West Bay’s eclectic skyline of tall buildings. The walkway along the water extends for 4 miles (7 kilometers). Enjoy a sunrise here before high temperatures later in the day make being out of air conditioning uncomfortable.
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Stretching for miles in front of Doha’s skyline, this quiet promenade is a great place to take a peaceful stroll or a morning jog.

3. Souq Waqif Art Center

The Souq Waqif stands in an area of Doha where nomadic people of Qatar and maritime traders have long come to trade with local residents. Visit the renovated site of the Souq Waqif to observe traditions that have lasted for centuries.
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For a sense of traditional Qatari life, visit this marketplace in the heart of Doha. Shop, appreciate the architecture and have a meal here.

4. Villagio Mall

Visit the Villaggio Mall for some of the best shopping in Doha. You’ll find a lavish shopping center decorated in Venetian-style art and architecture complete with its very own winding canal. Explore the huge range of fashion stores as you wander over pretty bridges and under beautifully ornate ceilings.
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A Venetian theme makes for an atmospheric shopping experience at this vast mall with fashion stores, restaurants and an indoor fairground.

5. National Museum of Qatar

While in Doha, plan to visit the National Museum of Qatar to see state-of-the-art displays explaining the past, present and future of this Arab country. At the core of the futuristic building is the large restored historic Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani, whose father founded modern Qatar. Admire the artistry of the structure from a distance, then step inside to learn about cultural and natural aspects of Qatar.
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Built in the unusual shape of a desert rose, this museum uses modern displays to cover millions of years of Qatar’s history.

6. Katara Cultural Village

Visit the Katara Cultural Village to appreciate the way it aims to use art and cultural interchanges to spread messages of hope, understanding and peace across the world’s diverse people. Established with the vision of becoming a world leader in multicultural activities, the modern site blends European and Oriental architectural styles with Qatari, such as the three distinctive Pigeon Towers outside a mosque.
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Capturing the cultural essence of Qatar and Doha, this modern village was created to encourage artistic exchanges between locals and foreign visitors.

7. Museum of Islamic Art

When you visit the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) in Doha, look for geometric patterns in the architecture and in the treasures making up its far-ranging collections. Colorful ceramics, glass, jewelry, metalwork and textiles show the excellent artistry and craftsmanship in pieces created for princes, caliphs and emperors as well as common people of the Middle East and beyond. Manuscripts include beautifully illustrated Qur’ans from the 7th to the 19th century as well as writings in science and literature.
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Art from across 14 centuries is displayed inside a striking limestone building designed by I.M. Pei, with architecture influenced by traditional Islamic style.

8. Pearl Monument

As you walk eastward along the Corniche from Downtown Doha, you’ll reach the Pearl Monument, a very large symbol of Qatar’s past. A large open oyster has a gentle flow of water creating a falling water fountain from the lip of the lower shell. Most notably, a gleaming pearl rests in the center of the oyster. Visit the Pearl Monument during the day to photograph it as you pass by while seeing other major attractions in the area. Return at night when the pearl and its shell are brilliantly lit.
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For centuries, pearl diving has been an important part of Qatar’s economy. See this pretty monument that honors that tradition.

What to do in Doha


Popular places to visit

Areas of Doha

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West Bay

4/5(16 area reviews)

Glittering and shiny, this Doha neighborhood has beautiful ocean views and some of the city’s best shops, parks, hotels, restaurants and cultural attractions.

West Bay
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Diplomatic Area

4.5/5(49 area reviews)

Just north of the Doha Corniche, this neighborhood along the Persian Gulf has numerous embassies and some of the city’s best hotels.

Diplomatic Area
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Msheireb Downtown

4.5/5(3 area reviews)

Discover the revitalized center of Doha, which has a community ambiance and a vibrant dining and shopping scene.

Msheireb Downtown
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Al Sadd

Shopping and spas are just a few features Al Sadd is known for, and you can get around the area by hopping on the metro at Joaan Station or Hamad Hospital Station.

Al Sadd
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As Salatah

If you're spending some time in As Salatah, National Museum of Qatar and Doha Corniche are top sights worth seeing.

As Salatah
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Musherib

Musherib is well liked for its restaurants, and you can visit sights like Souq Waqif Art Center and Gold Souq if you have time to explore the area.

Musherib

Frequently asked questions

Is Doha worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Doha is visit Souq Waqif Art Centre. Check this major sight off your to-do list, then experience more of this area's culture and history.
How do I spend a day in Doha?
Souq Waqif Art Centre and Aspire Tower are two good places to begin your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the retail and dining options in Doha while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Doha?
The top tourist attraction in Doha is Souq Waqif Art Centre, so make sure to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Doha?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out the leading city attractions, including Souq Waqif Art Centre, Museum of Islamic Art and MIA Park. The average stay in Doha is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your adventure, Al Sadd isn't far away.
Is Doha a walkable city?
That comes down to what you'd like to see and do in Doha. Several key sights, such as Souq Waqif Art Centre and Museum of Islamic Art, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Doha's best neighbourhoods, Diplomatic Area is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Rawdat Al Khail is 5 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Doha with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with cool activities takes your trip to the next level. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Doha with kids.

What to do in Doha for adults?
Qatar National Convention Centre and National Museum of Qatar are just a couple of the things to do in Doha. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Doha?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Doha is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other major attractions you can visit without taking your wallet out. Souq Waqif Art Centre is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.