4-Day Local's Guide to Doha: Shopping and Nightlife
Doha, Qatar
4 days
About Doha, Qatar
Experience the blend of modernity and tradition in Doha, Qatar's capital. Marvel at the stunning skyline, dominated by towering skyscrapers and the iconic Museum of Islamic Art. Explore Souq Waqif, a bustling market offering traditional garments, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Visit Katara Cultural Village, a hub of art, culture, and cuisine. Enjoy a stroll along the Corniche, a waterfront promenade offering breathtaking views of the city and the Persian Gulf. Don't miss a trip to the Pearl-Qatar, a man-made island with high-end shops and restaurants. For a taste of Qatar's natural beauty, embark on a desert safari to the Inland Sea. Doha offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and cosmopolitan sophistication.
4-Day Itinerary
Day 2
A Day of Art, Luxury, and Nightlife
Morning
Visit the Katara Cultural Village in the morning. This cultural hub offers a variety of attractions, including art galleries, theaters, and concert halls. You can also take a walk along the beach.
Lunch
Have lunch at a seaside restaurant in the Katara Cultural Village. Enjoy fresh seafood while taking in the beautiful views of the Persian Gulf.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon at the Pearl-Qatar, a man-made island known for its luxurious shops and restaurants. It's a great place to do some shopping and enjoy the upscale atmosphere.
Dinner
Dine at a high-end restaurant in the Pearl-Qatar. The island is home to several top-notch restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
Evening
End your day with a visit to a local nightclub. Doha has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many clubs offering live music and DJ sets.
Day 3
Relaxation, Shopping, and Sports
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Aspire Park, the largest park in Doha. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Lunch
Have lunch at a café in the Aspire Park. Enjoy a light meal while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon at the Villaggio Mall, one of the most luxurious shopping centers in Doha. Here, you can shop for high-end brands and enjoy the mall's unique Venetian-inspired architecture.
Dinner
Have dinner at a restaurant in the Villaggio Mall. The mall is home to several restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Khalifa International Stadium. If you're a sports fan, you might be able to catch a football match.
Day 4
A Journey Through History and a Night of Fun
Morning
Visit the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum in the morning. This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including vintage cars, Islamic art, and Qatari artifacts.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant near the museum. Try traditional Qatari dishes like majboos or harees.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring the Doha Film City, a replica of an ancient Arabic city located in the heart of the desert. It's a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region.
Dinner
Have dinner at a restaurant offering international cuisine. Doha is known for its diverse food scene, so you'll have plenty of options to choose from.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to a local nightclub. Enjoy live music and dance the night away.
Attractions in Itinerary (10)
1Museum of Islamic Art
A museum located on the Corniche in the Qatari capital Doha. The museum draws much influence from ancient Islamic architecture, yet has a unique design.
2Souq Waqif
A traditional marketplace in Doha, Qatar. The souq is noted for selling traditional garments, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
3Doha Corniche
A waterfront promenade extending for several kilometers along Doha Bay in the capital city of Doha, the Doha Corniche is a popular location with remarkable views.
4Katara Cultural Village
A cultural village in Doha, Qatar. It is located on the eastern coast between West Bay and the Pearl and spread over 1,000,000 square meters.
5Pearl-Qatar
The Pearl-Qatar is an artificial island spanning nearly four million square meters. It is the first land in Qatar to be available for freehold ownership by foreign nationals. The island is home to a variety of residential towers, villas, and retail and dining outlets.
6Aspire Park
The biggest park in Doha, Qatar. It covers an area of 88 hectares, and it is Doha's biggest park.
7Villaggio Mall
A shopping mall located in the Aspire Zone in the west end of Doha, the capital city of Qatar.
8Khalifa International Stadium
A multi-purpose stadium in Doha, Qatar, that is home to the Qatar national team. It is named after Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar's former Emir. The stadium was originally opened in 1976 and was fully renovated in 2017 for the FIFA World Cup 2022.
9Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum
A privately owned museum located in the municipality of Al Rayyan in Qatar. It houses a collection of over 15,000 items from three continents.
10Doha Film City
A recreation of an ancient Arabic village nestled in a valley in the heart of the desert. It offers a glimpse into the region's past and its cinematic future. It's a popular location for film and TV productions.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Machbous
A popular Qatari dish, Machbous is a spiced rice dish that can be made with either meat or seafood. It's a staple in Qatari cuisine and a must-try for any visitor to Doha.
Harees
Harees is a traditional Qatari dish made from wheat and meat, usually chicken. It's a common dish during Ramadan and other festive occasions in Doha.
Madrouba
Madrouba is a comforting rice porridge dish in Qatar. It's made by slow-cooking rice with milk and butter, and is often served with a side of dates.
Balaleet
Balaleet is a sweet-savory breakfast dish in Qatar. It's made from vermicelli noodles sweetened with sugar, saffron, and cardamom, and served with a savory omelet on top.
Margoog
Margoog is a hearty vegetable and meat stew, popular in Qatari cuisine. It's made with a variety of vegetables and meat, and is typically served with bread.
Luqaimat
Luqaimat is a popular Qatari dessert. These are sweet dumplings that are deep-fried and then drizzled with date syrup or honey.
Qatari Kahwa
Qatari Kahwa is a traditional Arabic coffee. It's a symbol of hospitality in Qatar and is often served with dates. It's a must-try for coffee lovers visiting Doha.
Warak Enab
Warak Enab are grape leaves stuffed with rice and spices. This dish is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and is widely enjoyed in Doha.
Salona
Salona is a traditional Qatari stew made with a variety of vegetables and meat or fish. It's a common dish in Doha households.
Qatari Majboos
Qatari Majboos is a spiced rice dish similar to biryani. It's a popular dish in Doha and is typically served with meat and vegetables.
Thareed
Thareed is a traditional Qatari dish made from pieces of bread soaked in a meat-based stew. It's a common dish during Ramadan in Doha.
Karak Chai
Karak Chai is a strong, sweet tea that's a staple in Qatari culture. It's a popular drink in Doha and is often enjoyed with a meal or as a midday pick-me-up.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Doha, Qatar as a tourist is between November and early April. During these months, the weather is cooler and more pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. This is the perfect time to explore the outdoor attractions and enjoy the beautiful beaches. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so it's advisable to book your accommodations and flights in advance.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
February 13 | Tue | National Sports Day |
April 10 | Wed | Eid al-Fitr |
April 11 | Thu | Eid al-Fitr Holiday |
April 12 | Fri | Eid al-Fitr Holiday |
June 17 | Mon | Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) |
June 18 | Tue | Eid al-Adha Holiday |
June 19 | Wed | Eid al-Adha Holiday |
December 18 | Wed | National Day |
How to get around
Rental Car
Renting a car in Doha is a popular option for visitors who want the freedom to explore the city at their own pace. There are numerous car rental agencies available at the airport and throughout the city. An international driving permit is required.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Doha and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They are metered and offer a convenient way to get around the city. Most taxi drivers speak English.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services such as Uber and Careem are available in Doha. These services can be booked via their respective apps and offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.
Public Bus
Doha's public bus system, operated by Mowasalat, is extensive and covers most areas of the city. Buses are air-conditioned and offer a cost-effective way to get around. However, they can be crowded during peak times.
Metro
The Doha Metro is a modern and efficient way to travel around the city. It has three lines (Red, Green, and Gold) that connect major points of interest. The metro stations are clean, safe, and equipped with free Wi-Fi.
Bicycle
Doha has been investing in bicycle infrastructure, with dedicated bike lanes in certain areas. Bicycles can be rented from various locations around the city. This is a great option for short distances or for exploring the city's parks and corniche.
Water Taxi
The water taxi, or 'dhow', is a traditional wooden boat that offers a unique way to explore Doha's coastline and enjoy views of the city skyline. Trips usually depart from the Doha Corniche.
Limousine Service
For a more luxurious travel experience, limousine services are available in Doha. These can be booked in advance and offer a high level of comfort and convenience.
Pedestrian
Doha is a walkable city, especially in the cooler months. Many of the city's attractions, such as the Souq Waqif and the Museum of Islamic Art, are within walking distance of each other.
Important information
Currencyر.ق QAR
Time zoneUTC+3
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone999
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage240 V
Things to know about Doha, Qatar as a first time visitor
1
Qatar is an Islamic country, and you should respect their customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially in public places.
2
The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood.
3
The local currency is the Qatari Riyal (QAR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.
4
Qatar has a desert climate with two main seasons: a cooler season from November to April and a hot season from May to October. Temperatures can reach up to 122°F (50°C) in the summer.
5
Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world. However, it's always important to take standard travel precautions.
6
The country has a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs and severe penalties for drug-related offenses.
7
Alcohol is available in licensed hotel restaurants and bars, but it's illegal to drink or be drunk in public.
8
Qatar has a strict dress code. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should not wear shorts in public.
9
Tipping is not a common practice in Qatar, but it's appreciated. A service charge is often included in your bill.
10
Public displays of affection are frowned upon and can even be illegal.
11
Friday is a holy day in Qatar, and many businesses will be closed.
12
The tap water in Qatar is safe to drink, but most people prefer to drink bottled water.
13
Qatar has a state-of-the-art healthcare system, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
14
The country is very clean, and littering can result in hefty fines.
15
Qatar uses the type D and G plug. The standard voltage is 240 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
16
Taxis are a common form of transportation in Doha. They are metered, and it's considered safe to use them.
17
Qatar is 3 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +3).
18
Photography of certain government buildings, military installations, and oil and gas production sites is prohibited.
19
The work week in Qatar runs from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday being the weekend.
20
Qatar has strict laws against homosexuality, which can lead to imprisonment or deportation.
Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | مرحبا | Marhaba | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | وداعا | Wadaeaan | Leaving or saying goodbye to someone |
Please | من فضلك | Min fadlak | When asking for something |
Thank you | شكرا | Shukran | After receiving something or someone's help |
Yes | نعم | Naam | Agreeing with someone or something |
No | لا | La | Disagreeing with someone or something |
Excuse me | عفوا | Afuwan | Getting someone’s attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | أنا آسف | Ana asef | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟ | Hal tatakallam al'injliziya? | When you need to communicate in English |
I don't understand | أنا لا أفهم | Ana la afham | When you don't understand what was said |
Where is the bathroom? | أين الحمام؟ | Ayna alhammam? | When you need to use the restroom |
How much does this cost? | بكم هذا؟ | Bikam hadha? | When you want to know the price of something |
I would like to order | أود أن أطلب | Uridu an atlub | When ordering food or something else |
Water | ماء | Maa | When you want to order water |
Help | مساعدة | Musaeadah | When you need assistance |
Can I use my credit card? | هل يمكنني استخدام بطاقتي الائتمانية؟ | Hal yumkinuni istikhdam bitaqati al'iitimaniat? | When you want to pay with credit card |
Where is...? | أين هو...؟ | Ayna hu...? | When you are looking for a specific place |
Can you help me? | هل يمكنك مساعدتي؟ | Hal yumkinuk musaadati? | When you need help |
I am lost | أنا ضائع | Ana daea | When you can't find your way |
Call the police | اتصل بالشرطة | Itasil bilshurtah | In case of an emergency |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Long-sleeved shirts
Long pants
Underwear
Socks
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimwear
Sunglasses
Hat for sun protection
Scarf or shawl for women (for visiting mosques)
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo
Travel-sized conditioner
Travel-sized body wash
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor
Shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Hand sanitizer
Travel-sized tissues
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Visa (if required)
Driver's license (for car rental)
Hotel reservation confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Emergency contact information
Local currency (Qatari Riyal)
Credit cards
Travel guidebook
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Universal travel adapter
Camera
Charger for camera
Memory card for camera
Portable power bank
Headphones
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-books for leisure reading
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Ziplock bags for organizing
Pen and notebook
Weather Conditions
When visiting Doha, Qatar, it's important to be prepared for a desert climate. The city experiences high temperatures, especially in the summer months from June to September, where temperatures can reach up to 113°F (45°C). Therefore, it's advised to visit during the cooler months from November to early April when temperatures range from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Regardless of when you visit, ensure to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen regularly as the sun can be quite intense. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for the daytime, while a light jacket may be needed for cooler evenings. The city is also prone to sandstorms, particularly in the spring months of April and May. These can cause reduced visibility and respiratory problems, so it's advisable to stay indoors during a sandstorm. Rainfall in Doha is minimal and usually occurs from October to March. However, when it does rain, it can sometimes lead to flash flooding due to the city's underdeveloped drainage system. So, keep an eye on the weather forecast during these months. Lastly, humidity can be high during summer nights and early mornings, which can make the heat feel more intense. Air conditioning is widely used in Doha, so indoor activities are a good option during the peak heat of the day. Remember, weather conditions can change rapidly in desert environments like Doha, so it's always a good idea to check the local forecast regularly during your stay.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 22° / 14° | January is one of the cooler months in Doha, with pleasant daytime temperatures and cooler evenings. It's a great time to explore outdoor attractions. |
February | 25° / 15° | February sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still comfortable for outdoor activities. The evenings can be a bit chilly, so pack a light jacket. |
March | 29° / 18° | March marks the beginning of spring in Doha. The weather is warm but not too hot, making it a good time for beach activities. |
April | 34° / 22° | April is when the heat starts to pick up in Doha. However, it's still bearable for outdoor activities, especially in the early morning or late evening. |
May | 38° / 27° | May is the start of the hot season in Doha. It's best to plan indoor activities or visit the beach during this month. |
June | 41° / 30° | June is one of the hottest months in Doha. Most activities are indoors, but you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches in the early morning or late evening. |
July | 42° / 31° | July is the peak of summer in Doha. It's extremely hot, so it's recommended to stay indoors during the day and enjoy the city's nightlife. |
August | 41° / 31° | August is similar to July, with high temperatures throughout the day. It's a good time to explore Doha's indoor attractions and vibrant nightlife. |
September | 38° / 28° | September marks the end of the hot season in Doha. The weather starts to cool down, but it's still quite warm, especially during the day. |
October | 35° / 25° | October is a pleasant month in Doha, with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city. |
November | 30° / 20° | November is one of the best months to visit Doha. The weather is comfortable, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. |
December | 24° / 16° | December is a cool and pleasant month in Doha. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy the festive season. |
Did you know?
Places near by Doha, Qatar
Al Khor
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Umm Salal Mohammed
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Al Wakrah
A city with a rich history, known for its harbor and traditional market
Al Rayyan
Home to Qatar National Library and Education City
Zubarah
A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its old fort and archaeological site
Al Ruwais
A small fishing town with beautiful beaches
Manama
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Abu Dhabi
Capital of UAE, known for its modern architecture and vibrant nightlife
Dubai
Known for its luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture and lively nightlife
Madinah
A city in Saudi Arabia, known as the second holiest city in Islam after Mecca
