“ Qatar has developed a lot to what I have seen it during my last visit” is a common expression of any returning visitor.
The first thought that would cross your mind upon thinking of an Arabian country is ridding through the red sand dunes on a camel back. Apparently, Qatar has a lot more that the sand dunes. The country has a perfect balance between the new flanged architecture and primordial ethics.
People often paint a different picture regarding the country, they lead you to the point in believing that Qatar is an extremely strict country “That’s certainly is not the case”
Although, the culture and traditions are far more different to Western values, you will inquisitively admire how preciously the country has preserved its ethics.
You are undeniably bound to be astonished to witness how diverse Qatar is, there are people from almost all parts of the world living and working in this Arabian Peninsula.
The country’s capital city Doha is the hub and the gateway to the country.
So, how touristic is Qatar?
Here are the top 5 places in the country that you must visit.
Start your visit from Corniche:
Corniche is a waterfront broad walk that extends along the Doha Bay. Its a place where people come to unwind themselves. Enjoy the picturesque view of the skyline of Doha or grab a cup of tea and enjoy the breeze blowing through the Arabian Sea.
Explore The Museum Of Islamic Art:
Museum Of Islamic Art is an iconic building in Corniche. It represents Islamic arts for over 1400 years from 3 different continents. The architecture of the building was designed by the world’s renowned architect I.M Pei.
Stroll Through The Souq Waqif:
“ Souq” in Arabic means Market. It is always buzzed with people walking through the narrow alleys of the historical traditional market doing window shopping, or enjoying shishas.
The Souq houses various shops, boutique hotels and number of restaurants serving authentic international cuisines like Italian, Malaysian, French, Moroccan etc.
Visit The Aspire Tower:
Aspire tower or The Torch Hotel, is the tallest building in the country. Standing 300 meter tall, this was recognised as the focal point for the 15th Asian Games, hosted in the year 2004 by Qatar.
Enjoy The View At Pearl Qatar:
Pearl Qatar, is a rivera style man-made island, spread over four million square meters. Pearl Qatar is the home to massive yachts. You can simply sit in one of the many restaurants or coffee shops, sipping a cup of coffee by facing the harbour.
These are just a few highlights of what Qatar has to offer to its visitors.
The midde-east is so under-rated. I guess people tend to avoid these parts of the world thanks to all the stories of conflict doing the rounds, but in truth, I have to say they seem like some of the most culturally and historically rich places in the world. Maybe some day…
I’ve been hestitant to visit Qatar as it is often portrayed with an over abundance and focus on the rich and extravagant, but it seems like there’s a lot more to see here.
I’ve never been in any part of the Middle East; only at the airports of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Haha. Qatar has been one of the interesting places I would love to explore, particulary the gigantic structures.
Lots of things to do that I didn’t know about. I loved the architecture of the buildings in Doha’s skyline! I have to admit, I only thought of sand dunes before, too.
oh wow, Qatar is a place I have limited exposure too….it looks so clean and modern and chic! that Souq Waqif looks like a place I would love to spend some time. very cool. gorgeous photos
You are right, there are are a lot of misconceptions about Quatar, also it is relatively less known than Dubai. Your post serves in dispelling a lot of these misconceptions and Quatar comes across as a charming place to visit.
I haven’t been to Qatar but have been to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. And was pleasantly surprised by both. You’re right, they’re strict but not as strict as people fear.
Qatar is on my list, but might have to save my visit for next year.
I’ve never been, but as I route so many people on flights through Doha, it is only a matter of time…
Is there an Oryx sanctuary that can be visited?