Doha is a pocket-sized city where most of the major sites are a short hop from each other and, as such, is an excellent place for first-time visitors to Qatar. It is also remarkably well connected via the Doha Metro, and served by a slew of mid-range to luxury hotels. Beaches, waterparks, walks and world-class museums are all on offer firmly within the city limits.
It was the FIFA World Cup in 2022 that really put Qatar on the map for international tourists, and the country’s well-designed and generous stopover program – that includes discounts on luxury hotels for those spending up to 96 hours in transit as part of a Qatar Airways flight – make Doha an increasingly popular place for short stays that break up long haul trips.
When is the best time to visit Doha?
Doha’s desert climate means hot, humid summers and mild, temperate winters.
Between July and September, temperatures sit comfortably in the mid-40s and can climb to 50C and beyond. Most residents and visitors opt to stay within air-conditioned comfort during the hottest hours of the day and get some fresh air in the cooler evenings.
The good news is that there is plenty to do indoors in Doha, which is a city built for the heat. All of its malls, theme parks, hotels and museums – and even some outdoor walkways – are air conditioned, so much so that it can even feel a bit chilly indoors.
For the rest of the year – October to April and even into May and June – the climate is perfect for a holiday, especially if you plan to lounge by a chilled pool in a Doha beach club and do nothing.
Where should I stay in Doha?
Most of Qatar’s accommodation is in Doha, either close to downtown or in nearby West Bay and Pearl Island, as well as in Lusail. Doha has an excellent transport infrastructure, and every site you would want to visit is within 30 minutes of everywhere else. Given that, it may be better to choose your hotel based on facilities and price rather than on location: even if you want to spend the bulk of your time in one neighbourhood, you don’t need to stay there.
Is it easy to get to and around Doha?
Hamad International Airport is a major international hub and Qatar Airways is one of the world’s best airlines, so you will have no problem getting to Qatar. It is a little over an hour from Dubai and a two-hour flight from Riyadh, so perfect for a weekend away.
Once in Doha, the Metro’s three lines and 37 stations can get you anywhere in the city you want to go at the rock bottom price of QAR 2 per trip. Anywhere without a metro station (Place Vendome Mall or Lusail, for example) will be connected by a feeder bus or tram.
Taxis are ubiquitous and relatively cheap, with government-run Karwa taxis joined by ride sharing platform Uber (Careem no longer operates in Qatar). If you plan to stay in Doha, there is absolutely no need to hire a car.
Top things to do in Doha
With 48 hours in Doha, start your day at the National Museum, followed by Souq Waqif for souvenir shopping and lunch, and finally the Museum of Islamic Art. All three sites are within walking distance of each other, and if you have the stamina, why not head to the newly-opened Msheireb district to see incredible architecture and snazzy cafes and restaurants.
The next day, head out early to Katara Cultural Village, where you can stroll around its shops, cafes, and striking mosques and pigeon towers, and maybe go for a swim. In the afternoon, why not visit the Mall of Qatar or Doha Festival City for some shopping and a decent dinner.
How much money will I need for a trip to Doha?
Doha is not a budget location by any means, and while you *can* find hotels for as little as QAR 190 a night, you may not want to stay in them. Branded chains in downtown Doha are likely to cost between QAR 290-360 a night, and when it comes to luxury, the sky is the limit.
Budget around QAR 210 a day per person for food as a conservative estimate. You can pick up a shawarma and a karak tea from a street-side diner in Doha for next to nothing, but if you want to eat in the malls or great restaurants it can add up – particularly if you’re travelling with children.
Museum entry tends to be between QAR 35 to QAR 90, although some museums (like the Museum of Islamic Art) are free.
Frequently asked questions about Doha
Is Doha safe?
Yes, Doha is one of the region’s safest cities. Violence is almost unheard of in the city and petty crime is very unusual.
What are the rules for tourists in Doha?
Dress modestly in public, especially near mosques (cover shoulders and knees) and be mindful of the dress code on public beaches. Even in the family or women-only section, bathers tend to cover shoulders and knees while swimming, and men often wear a t-shirt or rash vest when swimming in the sea (rules are far more lax for children under 10). Customs regulations are strict, so be careful with prescription medication and check before you arrive.
Where do expats live in Doha?
Most expats live in the districts of West Bay, Pearl, Al Sadd or Lusail, with families often opting for gated communities and villas, and single people for high-rise apartments.
Dos and don’ts in Doha
Do try local dishes like machboos and luqaimat (mini donuts) at Souq Waqif and wash them down with a cup of spiced karak tea.
Don’t photograph people without permission, especially women or near military sites.
Do learn a few Arabic greetings (As-salamu alaykum).
Don’t eat or drink in public during Ramadan daylight hours (unless in a private space).
