What to do in Qatar?

Welcome to Qatar

visitqatar.com

We are excited to welcome you to Qatar for the upcoming meeting. To help you make the most of your stay, we’ve put together some useful information about what to do in Qatar, transportation options, and recommendations for sites to visit and places to eat.

Transportation in Qatar

Taxis and Ride-Sharing:

  • Karwa Taxis: Available at the airport and around the city. Average fare from Hamad International Airport to the city center is around QAR 60-80 (USD 16-22).
  • Uber and Careem: Popular ride-sharing apps. Prices are similar to Karwa taxis, with trips within the city typically costing QAR 20-50 (USD 5-14).

Metro:

  • The Doha Metro is a convenient and affordable option. Single journey tickets cost QAR 2 (USD 0.55) and a day pass is QAR 6 (USD 1.65).
  • For more information, visit Doha Metro.

Sites to Visit

Websites

Heritage Sites

Several heritage sites offer a window into Qatar’s past, from the UNESCO site of Al Zubarah Archaeological Site, Al Jassasiya Rock Art Site, to the once thriving dye industry at Bin Gannam Island. 

Modern Doha

Katara Towers (left)

Weill Cornell University

Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar is a branch of Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, established on April 9, 2001.

➜ qatar-weill.cornell.edu

Qatar University

Since its inception in 1977, Qatar University (QU) continues to serve as Qatar’s primary institution of higher education and become today a beacon of academhas ic and research excellence in the region.

➜ qu.edu.qa

Art & Culture

From world-class museums and iconic galleries to inspiring street art, Qatar boasts a dynamic art and cultural scene.

Katara Cultural Village

Katara Cultural Village, also called Katara, is a cultural and commercial complex

➜ katara.net

Katara was born out of a long held vision to position the State of Qatar as a cultural beacon a lighthouse of art, radiating in the Middle East through theatre, literature, music, visual art, conventions and exhibitions.

This village shall be a glimpse of the future of a world where people of different cultural backgrounds overcome their national boundaries and embrace common causes to promote a united humanity.

Katara is where the grace of the past meets the splendour of the future.

Art in the Wild

Shadows Travelling on the Sea of the Day by Olafur Eliasson, near Al Zubarah
Toub Toub Ya Bahar by Salman Al-Malik, on the Corniche

➜ Al Zubarah (left) on YouTube

Museums

Islamic Art Museums

Museum of Islamic Art

Souq Waqif

The flea markets in Doha offers a wide range of locally manufactured goods, one such market is Souq Waqif.

➜ souqwaqif.qa

Swim at a Sea in the Desert

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Qatar’s Inland Sea, where crystal-clear waters are embraced by majestic dunes. This stunning natural haven is perfect for adventure and relaxation alike. Thrill-seekers can indulge in sandboarding and swimming, while fishing enthusiasts might even reel in an impressive catch, just like the catfish as big as a child that was caught by one of our visitors!

Evenings at the Inland Sea are a family favorite for barbecues, creating unforgettable memories under the stars. For a unique experience, you can enjoy a camel ride for just 50 Riyals, adding a touch of traditional charm to your visit.

Whether you’re seeking excitement or tranquility, the Inland Sea offers a slice of paradise for everyone. Come and explore this extraordinary destination today!

Desert Adventure

Enjoy a desert dune bashing adventure amidst the fabled sand dunes of Qatar with this day trip from Doha. See camels and falcons, cruise through the sand in a 4WD vehicle, and visit the Inland Sea.

Water Sports

A sailing sport that combines wakeboarding, surfing and windsurfing, kite surfing or kite boarding is a popular watersport in Qatar.

Qatar’s Unicorn, The Arabian Oryx

With long spear-like horns, sharp and contrasting markings laid, the Arabian Oryx, is one of four species of antelope that lives in harsh desert environment & is native to the Arabian Peninsula. 

The national animal of Qatar, Oryx.

The Wings of Time

Falconry is one of the oldest tales of our time. Originally, it was another way to obtain food – just as hunting by traps, spears, or fishing would be. However, hunting with a falcon isn’t just a way of hunting for your food; it’s a relationship with a predator – the fastest one in the world to be precise.

Luxury Shopping Destination

Qatar has become a booming shopping and retail hub with more and more international brands opening up stores. If you’re looking for high-end luxury brands, here are places to check out for your shopping spree!

Qatar Beaches

Winter or spring in Qatar means one thing: beach time. Since the weather is ideal for a dip in the sea, we’ve made a list of the top public beaches where you can enjoy the country’s winter sun. Pack some sunscreen and pick your favourite spot of sand in Qatar.

Places to Eat

  1. Al Mourjan
    Offers exquisite Arabic cuisine with views of the Corniche.
    Average meal cost: QAR 150-250 (USD 40-70).
  2. Nobu Doha
    Renowned for its Japanese dishes and stunning sea views.
    Average meal cost: QAR 300-500 (USD 80-135).
  3. IDAM by Alain Ducasse
    Fine dining with a French twist.
    Average meal cost: QAR 400-700 (USD 110-190).
  4. Parisa Souq Waqif
    Traditional Persian cuisine in a beautifully decorated setting.
    Average meal cost: QAR 100-200 (USD 27-55).
  5. Turkey Central
    A popular and more affordable spot for delicious Turkish food.
    Average meal cost: QAR 50-100 (USD 14-27).

We hope you enjoy your time in Qatar and find this information helpful. Should you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out:

Safe travels and we look forward to seeing you soon!

Warm regards,

The Local Organizing Committee