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What to do in Qatar? This is a conundrum for many visiting this country for the first time, and a question that haunts those who live here, especially on the eve of the long and harsh summer. Here are a few recommendations.
1) Desert safari
A field trip to the desert is a must when visiting Qatar or any country in the Arabian Peninsula. It’s only a 40-minute drive from the city centre to the Sealine Beach resort, where amateurs and pros in the art of driving in the dunes meet before diving into the sand.
The first step, always with a 4x4 car, is to lower the air pressure in the tires to avoid getting stuck in the sand. For those who would rather not take their own vehicle to the desert, the best option is an excursion which can be organised through various local agencies.
The price varies depending on the number of people who join as well as the duration of the field trip. It can be a half-day excursion, with the pick up around 9am and return at 1pm. Other options include a full-day experience, including lunch at a traditional camp next to the sea, and one can also choose to spend the night there and have dinner.
The thrilling experience of going up and down the dunes and driving on the edge of mountains of sand is definitely worthwhile, providing a welcome breather from hectic Doha to enjoy the silence and a beautiful view of Saudi Arabia on the other side of the Inland Sea.
2) Imam Muhammed bin Abdul Wahab Mosque
Inaugurated by the Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani in 2011, it’s the country’s biggest mosque. Popularly known as the state mosque, it was named Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab Mosque after the reformist, pioneer and Muslim theologian of the 18th century.
Being one of the biggest mosques in the world, it takes about two minutes to reach from the south end to the north of the main prayer hall. The main prayer hall for men is on the ground floor, covering an area of 12,117 square metres, which has the capacity to accommodate up to 12,000 worshippers and an additional 8,000 in the open courtyard.
The main hall has 46 rows; and each row can accommodate over 250 worshippers. The mosque also has a separate prayer hall for women with a capacity to accommodate over 10,000 people.
The total land area of the mosque is 175,000 square metres, with a built up area of 19,550 square metres on three levels. The parking space is spread over 14,877 square metres, with the basement covering an area of 3,853 square metres. The basement of the mosque contains state-of-the-art washrooms and facilities for ablution.
3) Souq Waqif
Souq Waqif is the only traditional souq to remain in the Gulf and one of the liveliest places in Doha, with an increasing number of restaurants where you can taste traditional Qatari food and various specialties from the Middle East. Several cafes and restaurants stay open until late (some are open 24 hours), featuring local delicacies or the traditional shisha or water pipe.
This ‘standing market’ was built using materials available at the time, mainly stone, mud, wood and plaster. These materials give the souq a special appearance, thanks to Qatari architectural techniques.
Just off Corniche Street, which runs by the sea, all sorts of items can be found, from food to crafts, clothing and gold. The Gold Souq has a place of its own here. Much of the gold sold there is handcrafted by skilled craftsmen. Given that there is no value added tax, the price of the yellow metal is lower than that in Europe.
4) Katara Cultural Village
Located next to the sea in West Bay and surrounded by several five-star hotels is Katara Cultural Village. Catara was the first and most ancient name used for the Qatar Peninsula, since the year 150 AD. The name Katara appeared in geographical and historical maps in the early 18th century.
The Cultural Village Foundation is an exceptional project of hope for human interaction through art and cultural exchange. Before reaching Katara, it is recommended that one check out the programme of events for the day. There are several exhibitions at the numerous galleries, as well as regular shows and concerts at the Opera House or the Amphitheatre.
In addition, the wide choice of restaurants will satisfy any palate: there are coffee and sweets on offer, as well as Indian, Italian and Lebanese cuisines, among others, besides traditional cafeterias and a shop selling cup cakes. The Caribbean-like beach is a great option for families, but keep in mind that entry is not free.
The cultural village also houses several associations, like Al Gannas Assosiation for hunting, the Qatar Society of Engineers and the Childhood Cultural Center, and the Arab Postal Stamp Museum.
5) Biggest Restaurant
Located on the Corniche, Oriental Pearl restaurant is the biggest one in Doha, seating up to 1,000 guests. The building was designed and built in traditional Arabic style over an area of 8,000 square metres.
The eatery mainly serves Arabic and Italian cuisines, with 170 varieties of food prepared by 75 chefs and three executive chefs. There’s a special area for VIP and VVIP guests, which accommodates around 40 people.
Aiming to be a seven-star restaurant, it has three main sections: Syrian and Lebanese food is served at ‘Zury,’ Italian Fusion at ‘La-Tofgana’ and Arabic sandwiches and sheesha are on offer at ‘Naryeen’. The restaurant has 460 to 500 staff with six managers, 200 waiters and captains and 100 stewards to serve large numbers of guests.The Peninsula
