What to do with Children in Tow in Doha
Aladdin’s Kingdom
Qatar
Doha
In the last few decades Doha has transformed from a small city to a major regional center. The crux of Doha's economy is oil and especially natural gas. Tiny Qatar has the world's third largest proven reserves of natural gas. That wealth has been a boon to Qatar's economy and is reflected in Doha's constantly changing skyline. Everywhere you look gleaming new towers are sprouting from the desert and even the Persian Gulf.
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A CLOSER LOOK
Top places to visit
Souk Waqif
Though it has been built relatively recently, the Souq Waqif is the best place to go if for a glimpse of traditional Qatari culture. Builders utilized traditional building materials like mud and wood to give it an authentic feel. Lots of traditional Arab goods are sold here, including spices, perfume, and clothing. There's also an Art Center that features art galleries, and sells art supplies for the creatively inclined.
Heritage House Museum
This museum is located in a building dating back to the 1930s. It showcases the ethnography of Qatar. The architectural style definitely invokes nostalgia for the old Doha. The stone tower was a feature common to structures in the gulf region since they kept buildings ventilated and cool even in soaring temperatures. Even the exhibits harken back to a time now lost. Most of the pieces showcase the Qatari way of life before oil was discovered in the region.
Aladdin’s Kingdom
This outdoor theme park is a treat for children and adults alike. It was opened in 1994. A number of wonderful and adventurous rides can be opted for here. These include rollercoaster rides, go karts, bumper cars, trampolines and carousels. Also included is a video games arcade. Over twenty different rides are available here. Most visitors throng to the thunderbolt rollercoaster which zooms forth at a speed off over 70 kilometers per hour.
Doha Zoo
Children and adults will love the diversity of fauna housed here. Over 1500 kinds of animals from the globe over are housed here. These include animals specific to the region such as Qatar’s national animal the Oryx as well as birds belonging to this region; A fascinating outing for all.
Palm Tree Island
This is arguably Doha’s most well known and definitely the most popular attraction. Located in Doha Bay, the wonderful beaches are worth a visit. Children are able to enjoy in a shallow pool as well as on some fun fair rides. The dhow rides are also worth going on. Camel rides and water sports for the more adventurous are also available here.
Weaponry Museum
This is one of Doha’s most interesting museums. The collection of weapons and arms is extremely impressive and some of the exhibits truly stunning reflective of expert craftsmanship. The main attraction is the famed Lawrence of Arabia’s dagger. Other pieces comprise of silver and gold daggers and swords some of which date back to the 1500s.
Doha Fort
This is a landmark dating back to the Ottoman colonization of Doha. It was built in the 1800s. Originally this fort served as a prison. It was restored in the 1970s and since then houses a museum showcasing Qatari history. Qatari paintings and arts and crafts are on display here. Exhibits include Bedouin handicrafts, gypsum and wooden ornaments, fishing equipment and boats, historical photos, artwork including oil paintings.
Al Bidda Park
This park is a wonderful area to unwind. Adults can relax and have a good time while children amuse themselves on the Ferris wheel and the train. Boating and skateboarding/ roller skating facilities are also available here.
Islamic Arts Museum
The exterior of this museum is magnificent. The architectural style is extremely contemporary and it is definitely the face of modern Doha. The museum houses one of the largest collections of Islamic art the globe over. The pieces and exhibits are stunning and tell the story of the glorious Islamic civilization. Over 800 pieces and artifacts across 1400 years are on display in this 5 storey museum.
Muslim travel planner
Full guidePlan a Muslim-friendly trip in Doha
THE LOCAL TABLE
Halal restaurants in Doha
Greens
Stop for lunch or dinner at this fabulous vegetarian joint. There is a diverse range of vegetarian dishes to choose from which are both innovative as well as eclectic albeit divine. These dishes include goat cheese fondue and garlic and bean curd tart. Veggie lovers will love this unique eatery.
Al Shaheen
This lovely restaurant serves delicious Middle Eastern cuisine. The food is pricey but worth it. Reservations are required in this sophisticated and busy restaurant. The décor is wonderful, both chic sophisticated and at the same time simple. Customers are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding bay as well as lovely Arabic music.
Al Bateel
Mouth watering Arabian delights are served here. Fresh ingredients are used to churn out these high quality dishes. There is a wide range of authentic dishes to choose from here. Don’t miss out on dessert. Some delectable ice creams and sorbets are served here. The ship like interior of the restaurant is also quite eclectic.
La Mer
Although pricey, the food served here is exceptionally good. Famed amongst the elite of Doha the Mediterranean dishes served here are truly divine. Customers are also able to enjoy fantastic views of the sea below.
Al Saha Restaurant
Although pricey, the food served here is exceptionally good. For a taste of Lebanese cuisine come here and treat yourself to some unforgettable Lebanese delights.
LeNotre Paris
Stop for lunch or dinner at this fabulous restaurant. The atmosphere is cool and hip; the deco contemporary. The dishes served are mouth watering. Fans of Parisian cuisine will be much more than satisfied.
Crepaway
Vivacious and down to earth best describes the ambience of this restaurant. The crowd usually consists of youngsters who come to enjoy the live music and the karaoke. Dishes served include, soups, sandwiches, burgers, pizza and pasta. Desserts here are delicious as well and include Chocolate lover, oreogasm, and orange and magna melt.
Ruby Wu’s
Foodies are unlikely to leave this place disappointed- delicious Chinese dishes from stews to chicken to vegetable dishes are served here. The garlic chicken and dumplings are divine. The atmosphere too is fantastic, very chic and elegant.
Balhambar
This is a well known restaurant in Doha serving delightful traditional Qatari dishes. Both meat and sea food lovers will not be disappointed; this eatery serves some of the most delectable sea food dishes and roasted lamb.
Al Bandar
This is one of Doha’s better known restaurants. It is no wonder as mouth watering dishes are served here- both international as well as local. The sea food, in particular, is divine. The ambience is vivacious; the interior interestingly shaped like a traditional dhow and incorporating Qatari interior design.
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Where to stay in Doha
Doha Marriott Hotel
Do not be fooled by the exterior of this hotel which is quite lackluster; the interior is chic and stylish; some rooms have balconies from which the gleaming waters of the sea below are visible. Facilities are plentiful. These include restaurants, lounges, a fitness centre, spa, outdoor pool and private beach. In room facilities include AC, satellite TV, internet, mini bars, hairdryers and in room safes.
Movenpick Hotel Doha
This fabulous hotel is located alongside the bay. The décor is chic and sophisticated. The facilities are plentiful ensuring guests a comfortable stay. In addition the staff is friendly and extremely helpful. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, a coffee shop, swimming pool, fitness centre, steam room, spa, wireless internet and currency exchange, babysitting and laundry/ dry cleaning services.
Four Seasons Hotel Doha
The magnificent exterior of this hotel is matched inside in terms of the high quality service provided. The interior is stylish and an excellent mix of Qatari and European décor. Hotel facilities include restaurants, a spa, a fitness centre, tennis courts, room service and laundry services. In room facilities include AC, satellite TV, internet, mini bars, hairdryers and in room safes.
Ritz Carlton Doha
This is arguably one of the most lavish of Doha’s hotels. The décor is spectacular and sophisticated with white and black gleaming marble, the management has paid attention to details. From the rooms guests will be treated to beautiful views of the beach below. Rooms are spacious and extremely comfortable. Hotel facilities include restaurants, internet, a spa, a fitness centre, indoor and outdoor pools, boating and jet skiing squash courts, tennis courts, babysitting services, a boutique, room service and laundry service.
Somerset West Bay Doha Hotel
This lavish hotel comprises of about 200 suites comprising of two to three bedrooms. Included within suites is a dining area as well as a kitchen. The space is therefore more than ample. The décor is elegant, sophisticated and simple. The hotel also looks out onto the Arabian Gulf so guests will be treated to breathtaking views of the Gulf below. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, a fitness centre, a children’s playground, wireless internet and laundry services. The location is also extremely central and a majority of Doha’s main attractions are located in the vicinity.
Grand Hyatt Doha
Located in the West Bay Lagoon District, the Grand Hyatt Doha is a five star hotel with breathtaking beach views, and luxurious suites. The hotel was designed with the grandeur of an Arabian palace in mind, with beautiful courtyards and richly decorated, spacious guest rooms. Every room is fitted with the latest technology and amenities. The Grand Hyatt Doha also features four restaurants and two lounges, 3 large outdoor swimming pools and one indoor lap pool and a fully equipped fitness centre. There is also a dayspa, meeting room and business facilities and three large boardrooms.
Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha
The five star Kempinski Residences & Suites, Doha is currently the tallest building in Qatar, so be sure to visit even if you can't afford to stay there.
Movenpick Tower and Suites Doha Hotel
This hotel has a fantastic location; it stands in the vicinity of the airport, the exhibition centre and Doha’s most popular shopping complex. The décor is simple, classy and elegant. The dark furniture is complemented by light colored curtains and bed spreads. The ambience is peaceful. Hotel and room facilities are plentiful including, restaurants, a café, an indoor pool, a spa, a fitness centre, a salon, and massage services, a pool for children, wireless internet, room service, laundry services, babysitting services, satellite TV, and mini-bars.
Sheraton Doha Hotel & Resort
This hotel has a wonderful location and stands in the vicinity of the city centre. The scenic beauty of the area is worth mentioning. Rooms look out onto the beautiful clear turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf. The hotel also comprises of over fifty acres of beautifully landscape gardens. Rooms are spacious and more than comfortable. Hotel facilities include restaurants, room service, babysitting services, laundry services, massage services, a salon, a sauna and a gym, tennis courts, squash courts and swimming pools.
Hotel Rydges Plaza Doha
This hotel is usually opted for by travelers on business. Its location in the centre of Doha is the primary reason for this. This daunting skyscraper affords incredible views of the surrounding city as well as the sea. Hotel facilities include a bar, a pool, a health club, room service, laundry services and a gym.
History and today in Doha
Doha’s Residents
Doha has a population of over 400,000 people. Locals constitute a very small percentage of the total population whilst expatriates account for a sizeable percentage of it. A majority of these expatriates come from Pakistan, Bangladesh and India; others come from Arab nations as well as from Europe and South Africa. Doha’s residents have experienced improvement in their standards of living and have shared in the wealth the country has generated as a result of the oil exports and the consequent construction and development projects, as well as the burgeoning tourism industry. The majority of the residents are Muslims, although there are many Christians as well as Hindus. The city boasts of a number of mosques as well as churches and minorities are allowed to practice their religion without the interference of the state. A number of languages are spoken in Muscat including Arabic, English and Urdu. The population is truly a salad bowl of various nationalities. The residents are hospitable as well as tolerant.
Annual Temperature
..........a- January; 1. High: 22 °C 2. Low 12.5 °C; ..........b- February: 1. High 23 °C 2. Low 13 °C
Public Holidays
28 Dec(2008) - Islamic New Year; 27th June- Accession of the Emir: 3 September- Independence Day 21 September – Eid-ul-Fitr 28 Nov - Eid-ul-Azha
Fast Facts
-Location: To the East of the Gulf Peninsula lies beautiful Doha bordered by Saudi Arabia and the U.A.E.; -Dialing code: +974; -Emergency/Useful numbers: Police, Fire and Ambulance - 999 Telephone Directory – 180 International calls – 150 Internet Service - 111 Flight Enquiry – 4622999 Doha Airport – 4656666 General Post Office – 4466000 Qatar Tourism Authority - 4411555
When to go
The best time to visit Doha is in the winter, between November and March. Temperatures are cool and comfortable, sometimes even downright chilly. The average daily temperature ranges from the low 10s to the low 20s. Most of the 7.5 cm of rain that Doha receives annually comes during the winter. There are plenty of outdoor activities, events, and festivals to keep you busy.
Visa Information
There are a number of different visas available for those wishing to travel to Doha. A tourist visa can be sought in Doha itself upon arrival. The citizens of thirty three countries including the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Australia, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxemburg, Malaysia, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, The Netherlands and Vatican City, are eligible for such a visa upon arrival. The visa will be issued when travelers prove that their passport is valid for the next six months at least; have proof of hotel bookings or addresses of their hosts’ homes, have sufficient funds for the duration of their trip, have a return ticket and pay the visa fee of 100 Riyals. The tourist visa is valid for two weeks although it can be extended by one more week.
Doha in a Day
Start early in the morning along the Corniche. First head to the Qatar National Museum. It opens at 09:00 and if you get there early you'll have the place nearly to yourself. Next head to the nearby Museum of Islamic Arts and check out exhibits spanning 1400 years of Islamic civilization. Stop for lunch at one of the many excellent seafood restaurants along the Corniche. Al Shaheen and Al Bander are both excellent choices for lunch.
Doha History
The Qatari Peninsula has been settled by various civilizations for millenia. Modern Doha was the site of a small fishing village known as Al-Bida prior to 1825. When the first Al Thani sheikh took control of Qatar, he made Doha its capital. The name Doha means 'big tree', and refers to a large tree that stood in the original village. Qatar earned its autonomy in wars with Bahrain in the 1860s and the Ottoman Empire in the 1880s. Two majestic sites dating back to this period include the Al Wajbah and Doha fortresses.
Doha Today
In the last few decades Doha has transformed from a small city to a major regional center. The crux of Doha's economy is oil and especially natural gas. Tiny Qatar has the world's third largest proven reserves of natural gas. That wealth has been a boon to Qatar's economy and is reflected in Doha's constantly changing skyline. Everywhere you look gleaming new towers are sprouting from the desert and even the Persian Gulf.
Exchange Rates
1 dirham = 0.991533 Qatari riyal (1 Qatari riyal = 1.00854 UAE dirhams)
Useful information
Shopping
Hyatt Plaza
This is another of the many malls that have been established in Doha to cater to the luxury lifestyles of the residents of the city. As in other malls, a diverse range of products are available here, from fashion to accessories to foot wear to music, to beauty and health products are on display for purchase here.
City Centre Doha
This is a famous shopping mall in Doha which is absolutely gigantic; It sells a diverse range of products. Both International and local brands are represented here. Over three hundred shops are located here. In addition to the traditional handicrafts, leading names in fashion, accessories, footwear, perfumes, and cutlery are located here. A bowling alley, ice skating rink as well as rock climbing facilities are available here.
Landmark Shopping Mall
This is a famous shopping arcade in Doha which sells a diverse range of products. Both International and local brands are represented here. Leading names in fashion, accessories, footwear, sports gear, electronics furniture, perfumes, music and electronics are located here. There is a huge Marks and Spencer and Virgin music store located here too.
Villaggio Mall
This is another of the many malls that have been established in Doha to cater to the luxury lifestyles of the residents of the city. As in other malls, a diverse range of products are available here. A number of international European brands are housed here. This mall is all the more interesting since its interior is supposed to be reflective of Venetian architectural styles. Gondola rides and a cinema are located here for entertainment.
Gold Souk
This market is a must stop for any tourist visiting Doha. The market is busy and popular amongst locals and tourists. It is arguably the most well known of Doha’s markets. Numerous stalls are housed under one roof selling gold jewelry. Beautiful necklaces, ear rings and rings of intricate design etc. are available here.
The Centre
This mall houses a number of stores selling everything from clothes, jewelry, cosmetics, shoes, and perfumes to household items. Also located here is a card and gift shop. Prices are reasonable.
Centre Point
This mall sells a variety of products. There is a Home Centre, Baby shop, Splash, Shoe mart and Lifestyle located here.
Royal Plaza
This is a famous shopping mall in Doha. Various brands are housed under one roof here. These include both international brands such as Calvin Klein, Versace, Burberry, Bulgari, Fendi, Benetton, Vera Wang and a number of other luxurious names, as well as local brands. Some products are sold at reasonable prices.
Lulu Hypermarket
A number of reasonably prices products are available in this well known department store. The home appliances are especially easy on the pocket.
Souk Waqif
This souk is a must stop for all tourists visiting Doha. An excellent way to learn about Doha’s history and re-live the lives of people 200 years ago; the souk retains the traditional feel of this traditional market. The souk was renovated and exaggerates the primitiveness of this market by making use of mud huts and timber beams. Souvenirs, traditional Qatari dress, indigenous perfumes and spices are all available here.
Signature sights in Doha
Qatar National Museum
Located in a building dating back to 1900 this museum is housed in what was once the residence of the royal family of Sheikh Al Thani. Tourists must stop here and take time to appreciate the beautiful exhibits on display here. This is a great way to enlighten oneself about Qatari history and culture. Exhibits include Islamic architecture, Qatari jewelry, furniture, traditional dress as well as circumcision tools.
Qatar Philatelic and Numismatic Club
This club is extremely interesting and stamp collectors and enthusiasts are bound to love the stamp collection on display here. This would be a delightful way of learning about the history of Qatar and the victories that this proud nation has achieved over the years.
Jungle Zone
This attraction is massive, covering an area of over 3500 square meters. Children are bound to love this jungle zone which is an indoor amusement park. Rides include Jungle Train, Elephant Jet, Honey Swing, Lion's Lair, The Crazy Jump, Mountain Coaster, Wild Flume, Eureka, Jungle Castle, Video Arcade and Redemption Games.
Al Shaqab Stud Farm
For horse lovers this is the place to go. This four hundred acre farm houses the Emir’s mares and stallions. These beautiful animals are worth looking at. Tourists will be dazzled by the grooming and dressage of these horses, and have the opportunity to take jumping lessons as well.
Festivals and events in Doha
Fencing Grand Prix
This annual event is held in Al Sadd Club. It is conducted by the Fencing Federation of Qatar. The event lasts 3 days and is open to all fencers who hold licenses. Winners get an extremely generous cash prize of $30,000.
Qatar Masters Golf
This event is held annually and is quite popular amongst the local people as well as golf enthusiasts from the world over. Golfers from the globe over converge on the city of Doha to compete in this tournament. Some of the biggest names in golf are no strangers to the city of Doha. The event is held in Doha Golf Club.
Doha Cultural Festival
This festival is held annually. This event began in 2002. It is held and celebrated with much enthusiasm. There are many activities and festivities that accompany this event. These include International folkloric shows, heritage villages, countryside lifestyles exhibition, horse exhibition, children’s cinema festival, poetry night, musical night, Islamic calligraphy exhibition, costume shows and plays. The event lasts about 10 days and is held at venues throughout Doha including the Visual Arts Center, Alwaseel auditorium, the Ritz Carlton and a number of shopping malls.
Emir GCC Camel Races Final
This event is held annually; the venue is the Al Shahaniya Race track. The finals of the races are always held here turning this into a venue for a select crowd of wealthy camel owners to compete against each other and win prizes. This is more than entertaining for participants
Festival of the Senses
This annual festival is themed around sports. The venue is the Corniche and a number of tents are erected at this time, one each for taste, touch, smell and sight. This festival is unique and very interesting; in that it entails everything to do with sports- the importance of nutrition in sport, the various sporting equipment and gear, the smells associated with these as well as visual displays and photographs chronicling sport related activity over the years. A giant screen displays live sporting events from around the world.
Doha tours and experiences
Cleopatra Tours
Address: P.O Box 989, Doha
Darwish Travels
These reliable tour operators have many options from which tourists can choose. The tours are similar to those offered by Net Tours. The rates are identical as well. The Doha city tour lasts about four hours and costs about 60 U.S Dollars. Tourists are taken to the Qatar National Museum, a stud farm to see the Qatari ruler’s horses, a number of markets and souks. An alternative tour also lasting four hours takes visitors to a camel track and Oryx farm just outside Doha. This trip costs 75 U.S. Dollars. Other four hour long trips take travelers on a desert safari and this costs about 100 U.S Dollars. Other tours include deep sea fishing, night dhow cruising and overnight desert safari. The rates for these latter tours are revealed on request.
South Travels
These tour operators offer a variety of tours of the city of Doha, both half day as well as full day. These include cultural trips, historical tours, shopping tours, desert safaris, fishing trips and a dhow cruise. These last from anywhere between four hours and eight hours. The cost is anywhere between 50 and 130 U.S Dollars. This is an excellent way of discovering Doha. Many of the souks and major attractions are covered in these tours. The guides too speak English fluently making the trips all the more informative.
Net Tours
These tour operators also have a variety of packages to offer. The Doha city tour lasts about four hours and costs about 60 U.S Dollars. Tourists are taken to the Qatar National Museum, a stud farm to see the Qatari ruler’s horses, a number of markets and souks. An alternative tour also lasting four hours takes visitors to a camel track and Oryx farm just outside Doha. This trip costs 75 U.S. Dollars. Other four hour long trips take travelers on a desert safari and this costs about 100 U.S Dollars.
Gulf Adventures
These operators offer a variety of packages. In the half day tour of the city lasting roughly three and a half hours, tourists are taken to the historical and cultural sights of Doha. Such a tour costs each person about 80 Qatari Riyal. An alternative tour is the drive around Doha where tourists are able to acquaint themselves with the major attractions of the city without getting off. This two and a half hour ride costs about 55 Qatari Riyal. The good evening Doha tour lasts three and a half hours and costs 180 Qatari Riyals, the objective is to explore beautiful illuminated Doha. Generally speaking sites visited on these tours include the dhow harbor, Qatar National Museum and the traditional souks.
Doha masjids and Muslim travel
Masjid
Masjid
Mosque
Mosque
Abu Manaratain Mosque
Abu Manaratain Mosque
Al Sadd Mosque
Ibn Umayah St, Doha, Qatar
Bin Mahmood Juma Masjid
Fereej Bin Mahmoud North, Doha, Qatar
Abdul Wahhab Mosque
Al Muhandiseen St, Doha, Qatar
Transportation
From the Airport
Doha International Airport is located between the western edge of the city and the Persian Gulf, just a few kilometers from the city center. A new airport, New Doha International Airport, is located just to the west and should be open by 2012. Doha is quickly emerging as an international air hub.
Car for Hire
Renting a car in Doha is easy and advisable. It is also costly. They are a number of car rental service providers. These include:
Taxi
There are two types of taxis in Doha, both operated by Mowasalat. Karwa taxis can be found throughout the city. They're recognizable by their unique green color. Rates start at 4Qrs, plus an additional 1.20Qrs/km. At night and outside Doha, the rate increases to 1.80Qrs/km. Be sure that the meter is running.
Bus
Doha's bus system was introduced in 2005, with only two routes initially. It's run by Mowasalat, and the buses have the same distinct green color as the taxis. Today most of the city is close to a bus route, but coverage is by no means comprehensive. It is mostly used by poorer people who cannot afford their own car, but the buses are new and comfortable. If you happen to be along a route, it is a convenient option. Many stops have air conditioned hatches to escape the heat.
Driving Tips
Driving yourself is the best way to get around Doha due to the lack of taxis and public transportation. Qatar's roads are generally new, with lots of wide arterials and traffic circles. Unfortunately, they were not designed well and traffic congestion is commonplace. The lack of public transportation certainly doesn't help. Qatar's drivers do not make things any easier and they can be quite reckless.
Metro
Traffic in Doha is constantly congested, and the bus system is woefully inefficient. To address these ills, construction of Doha's metro is underway. The first phase is expected to open in 2016, ahead of the 2022 World Cup. Unfortunately if you plan on visiting before then, you're out of luck.
Health and Safety
Health and Safety in Doha
For those travelling in Doha there are some points worth remembering. Whilst Doha is one of the safest cities in the world it is always advised to remain vigilant. Avoid dark places, especially deserted places at night. If it is necessary to walk at night be sure to walk in big groups.
Travel news
Events
Msheireb Museums Opens Sawaed, a Contemporary Art Exhibition Honouring People as the Drivers of Progress
Msheireb Museums, in collaboration with Al Markhiya Gallery, has opened Sawaed, a contemporary art exhibition that explores the role of people in shaping development, progress, and social change in societies.
Special offers
Exclusive hotel rate - up to 30% on selected rooms; complimentary meal plan upgrade; from OMR 190 per person.
Banyan Tree Doha At La Cigale Mushaireb Meal Upgrade
For Muscat-origin travellers booking a Doha flight+hotel package, the offer includes up to 30% off selected rooms plus a complimentary meal-plan upgrade; it is for 2-night stays and must be booked/travelled by 31 Dec 2026.
