Any traveller would agree that immersing yourself in contemporary Arab culture is the best way to spend the time till your next flight. The elegant mosques and imposing skyscrapers of Qatar’s capital, Doha, are a daydream against the shimmering backdrop of the Persian Gulf, making this city the perfect destination for a stopover of any length. Here is how to make the most of your layover to Doha.
Where to stay during your layover in Doha
The fear of running late for a flight or forgetting luggage at your hotel can hold you back from enjoying the museums and mosques of Doha. That is why staying close to Hamad International airport is the smart choice. Oryx Airport Hotel is conveniently located inside and offers a welcoming experience with a five-star twist.
Apart from its 30 restaurants and cafes serving multinational cuisines, the hotel has a vitality centre with a gym, a pool, and different spa treatments to guarantee relaxation whether its guests stay for a few hours or a few days. Some Qatar Airways packages might include a complimentary stay at Oryx hotel or give you great discounts for layover accommodation. Be sure to check what is on offer before booking.
What to see
An absolute must-visit in Doha is the Museum of Islamic art, which holds one of the biggest collections of manuscripts, ceramics, and other artefacts found across three continents. After a thorough cultural feast, you can walk along the Corniche waterfront avenue and pop in a café to try Karak tea — a flavourful drink with spices, milk, and cardamom.
Stroll around Katara Cultural Village to marvel at art installations celebrating Arabic culture and architecture. This artistic paradise is home to workshops, performance arenas, and art galleries. It is also the best place to buy handcrafted artisanal gifts.
Doha’s State Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in Qatar and stuns visitors with its traditional Arab architecture and 93 domes. It has separate prayer halls for men and women, three libraries, and stunning gardens. Visitors are advised to dress modestly and be respectful when entering the mosque.
What to do
Apart from sightseeing, there are plenty of things to do during your layover in Doha. Take advantage of the opportunities to bargain at Souq Waqif street market. The scenic corridors of this commercial landmark are straight out of a Hollywood film with stalls selling authentic Qatari crafts, antiques, and produce. After browsing, you can lounge at a shisha cafe and try some of the local delicacies.
Safari tours are also very popular in Doha — and for a good reason. Dune bashing in an SUV will keep your adrenaline pumping, while the stops in key locations will let you take in the scenic landscape. Camel rides and desert bbq meals are also available depending on the tour you choose. Night desert safaris are an excellent option for those wanting to experience the desert-dweller lifestyle under the stars.
Doha’s international culinary scene is bound to excite senses and satisfy tastebuds. Luxury highlights include Al Nahham restaurant’s sizzling mixed grill, Spice Market’s Asian-inspired seafood dishes, and Sky lounge’s gourmet desserts.
If you want to get some shopping done Villaggio shopping centre is the right place. The Venice-themed layout of the building complements its selection of affordable and luxury goods stores. You can even try a gondola ride while you are here.
A worry-free layover in Doha
Doha’s spectacular skyline will welcome you into a cultural oasis full of shopping and sightseeing opportunities. With great deals on airport hotels, Qatar Airways will ensure you have nothing to worry about during your layover in Doha. Check out our latest offers to Doha and other bucket-list destinations, check Qatar holidays out here.
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