Qatar is still considered a tourist novelty among Middle East destinations. And although this country is becoming more and more popular, many are still convinced that Qatar is expensive, strict and tedious. Time to stop believing myths and get to the truth.
The Qatari capital Doha is an uncommon option for a trip to an Arab country. The routes of tourists who want to see the Middle East usually lead to the UAE's resorts - and that's it. If you don't like the standard option, choose Doha.
Why go to Qatar
Qatar is an Arab country on the Persian Gulf coast, on the Arabian Peninsula between Africa and Eurasia. As a capital and tourist destination, Doha offers comfortable hotels and familiar city entertainment, including nightlife. But unlike the closest competitor - the UAE - the prices are lower here. And below are more reasons why it is worth coming here.
Qatar is viewed by many as solely a stopover. And some tourists don't even leave the airport. And this is a big mistake. While Qatar is indeed ideal for transit, the country is a self-sufficient tourist unit.
Rest here is unique and unique. Falconry, pearl fishing, desert picnic, camel racing, dhow (traditional Qatari boat) trips - where else have you seen this? For lovers of a more conventional holiday, Qatar won't let you down. It features gorgeous beaches, the inland sea surrounded by sand dunes (some of the highest in the Middle East), museums and art galleries, modern art installations in the open air, impressive architectural objects designed by eminent architects. All this is complemented by a comfortable infrastructure, including for families with children.
See the African desert.
To go to Africa and not visit the desert - we will not do that. We recommend you take a jeep safari for about five hours, ride on the dunes, ride camels and buggies, have dinner and watch the sunset.
If you've wanted to learn snowboarding for a long time but don't like the cold, you should try sandboarding. Everything is the same here, only instead of snow there is sand, but adrenaline and speed during the descent are no less.
Safe to visit an Arab country
Combine Doha sightseeing with another trip
Qatar Airways has flights to Asian countries with connections in Doha. Including popular Thailand. If you transfer to Doha for more than 5 hours, you can book hotel accommodation at a special price, excursions and transfers with the airline. You can also apply for a free transit visa on the website.
Qatar Airways was voted the best airline in the world in 2019, which is another reason to try this kind of flight.
View sporting events
They love sports in Qatar. In 2019, the World Weightlifting Championship was held in Doha, the World Cup will be held in winter 2022, and in 2023 - in water sports. Such a trip is an opportunity to go to the sea, visit Africa, and watch the competition live.
If mass events aren't for you, head to the Zakir area for kitesurfing and climbing training.
Must-see places
Getting around in Doha
It is not complicated to get from point A to point B in Doha. The city has a lot of transportation services to offer from city buses to corporate car rental services.
There are more and more tourists from Europe in Doha every year, so you should not wait for the moment when Qatar will become a second Egypt. Well, be sure to imagine yourself as Aladdin in the market and sing "Arabian Night" for your Instagram stories.
