Doha travel guide: museums, souqs and the desert

Doha is a modern, safe and family-friendly city on the Gulf, with world-class museums, a lively traditional souq and the desert close by. It also makes a great stopover between flights.

Top sights

• The Museum of Islamic Art and the park around it on the Corniche
• Souq Waqif — traditional alleys, spices, cafés and evening atmosphere
• The National Museum of Qatar, shaped like a desert rose
• Katara Cultural Village and its beach
• The Pearl-Qatar for marina walks and restaurants

Into the desert

A half-day desert safari takes you dune-bashing to Khor Al Adaid, the Inland Sea, where the sand meets the water on the border with Saudi Arabia. Book with a licensed operator.

Getting around

• Hamad International Airport (DOH) is close to the city and linked to the Doha Metro's Red Line.
• The metro is modern and inexpensive; taxis and ride-hailing apps cover the rest.

Practical tips

• The currency is the Qatari riyal (QAR).
• November to March is the best season; summer is extremely hot.
• Visa rules depend on your nationality — check Qatar's official visa portal before booking.
• Dress modestly in traditional areas such as Souq Waqif.