Discovering Qatar e-Guide: Winter 2020/21

ISSUE 79 WINTER 2020/21

E–G U I D E

Discovering Qatar

C O N T E N T S • Qatar at a Glance • Getting Around Qatar • Foreign Embassies in Qatar • Digital Qatar • Traveller Information • Living in Qatar DISCOVERING EGUIDE M79.indd 1

• Leisure Activities • Special Features Perfect 2020 Vision New Minimum Wage Law It’s Camping Season To Protect and Preserve 12/3/20 3:43 PM

Founder & Managing Editor Hilary Bainbridge Marhaba endeavours to quote accurate information and updates each of its sections every issue. However, the company accepts no responsibility or liability for any false, inaccurate, inappropriate or incomplete information presented, whether in print, on the website, or on social media channels. Š 2020/21 Marhaba Information Guide.

All Rights Reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without written permission of the publishers.

Editorial Sarah Palmer (Editor) , Ola Diab (Deputy Editor) , Terry Sutcliffe Online Lubuna Jeffin Advertising Howard Bainbridge, Charlotte Wright Digital Lalaine Turqueza , Weslee Dizon, Ramla Mohamed Abdirahm Retail Sales Ayen Molina Design and Artwork Dick Tamayo , Mar Principe , Arnel Ramos Dana Public Relations PO Box 3797, Doha, Qatar Tel (+974) 4465 5533, 4465 0083 Fax (+974) 4465 5588 General Information marhaba@qatar.net.qa Retail Sales retailsales@marhaba-qatar.com

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�‫مـركــز قـطــر اﻹجـتمــاعي والثقــافـي للــمكفوفــ‬ Qatar Social & Cultural Center For Blind

�‫مـركــز قـطــر اﻹجـتمــاعي والثقــافـي للــمكفوفــ‬ Qatar Social & Cultural Center For Blind

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Discovering Qatar

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The information contained in this guide has been checked and verified as correct as at the time of compilation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, information is subject to change.

Follow marhaba.qa for the latest updates.

In this issue

Emergency and Important Numbers

Digital Qatar

Map of Qatar

Main Urban Centres

Cultural Awareness

Doha City and other maps

Arabic Phrases

Getting Around Qatar

Qatar at a Glance

• Karwa Taxis • Mowasalat Doha Limousine • Karwa Bus • Other Taxi/Limousine Services • Doha Metro • Greater Doha Metro System

• • • • • • •

Common Courtesies • Geography Demography • Climate Language and Religion The Ruling Family • The Qatari Flag Government • History • Economy International Relations Transport and Communication

Qatar’s Government Structure Events December 2020 – March 2021 Foreign Embassies

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Traveller Information • Visas • eCash Cards • Entry Visas • Airlines • Travel Agencies

Hamad International Airport • Arrivals/Departures • eGate • Parking • Buses, Taxis and Limousines • Lounges • The Airport Hotel • Connectivity • Medical and Fire Emergencies • Travelling with Animals • Duty Free • Food and Beverage • Art Installations

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Discovering Qatar

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The information contained in this guide has been checked and verified as correct as at the time of compilation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, information is subject to change.

Follow marhaba.qa for the latest updates.

Features

Things to see and do in Qatar, from Archaelogical Sites to Organised Tours

World’s Safest Country

Leisure Activities

Perfect 2020 Vision

Clubs, societies and activities, from Arts and Crafts to Water Parks and Play Zones

New Minimum Wage Law

Discovering Qatar

Sightseeing

World Energy Qatar It’s Camping Season

Living in Qatar • Newspapers • Television and Radio • Places of Worship • Government Online • Hukoomi • Useful Documents/Processing • The Qatar Labour Law • Register at Your Embassy • Residence/Work Permits • Renew a Residence Permit • Exit Permits • Residence Cards • Health Related Services

Maps

Housing

Doha Bay and Corniche

50

• • • •

Doha Central Area

51

Msheireb Downtown Doha

52

Al Wakra

54

Mesaieed

55

Southeast Coast

56

To Rent • Letting Agents To Buy • Lawyers and Legal Relocation Services/Removal Firms Other Housing Considerations

Utilities and Services • • • • • • •

Water and Electricity Gas • Telephone and Internet Public Wireless Internet Postal Services and Mail Courier Services Birth, Marriage and Death Liquor Permit

Pets • Ministry Dept for Animal Resources • Import and Export Guidelines • Private Veterinary Clinics and Services

Qatar

11

Northeast Coast

45

Al Khor

46

Greater Doha

48–49

Lusail City

57

The Pearl‑Qatar

128

Katara Cultural Village

138

Souq Waqif

146

Souq Al Wakra

152

Next issue: April 2021

The information contained in this guide has been checked and verified as correct as at the time of compilation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, information is subject to change. Visit marhaba.qa for the latest updates.

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Marhaba PDF - Final.pdf 1 10/21/2020 3:09:54 PM

C

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Y

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Reserve NOW at Qetaifan Island North is characterized by a first-class luxury residential community, consisting of beach villas with stunning waterfront views; some of which are directly overlooking the beach shore and others overlooking the sea.

As well as apartments with spetacular sea views,some of which overlook Lusail city and others are on the lively sea walkway.

For information: +974 4423 7830

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

@qetaifanprojects

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www.qetaifanprojects.com

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Emergency and Important Numbers Consumer Protection

800 5000

Government Call Centre (Hukoomi)

109

iParks 4406 9955 Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs (MADLSA) 4028 8888 Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE)

155

Emergency and Important Numbers

Ministry of Foreign Affairs 4011 1111

Emergency Services

Ministry of Interior (MOI)

236 7111

Ministry of Justice

137

Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME)

184

Police, Fire and Ambulance

999

Worldwide emergency (from mobile phones)

112

Emergency Services for the Deaf

992

Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC)

16016

Traffic Patrol Police Department (Madinat Khalifa) 2344 4444

MOI eServices and Metrash2

234 2000

Paediatric Emergency Centres (PEC) Airport (Matar Qadeem) 4467 7671 Al Daayen (Al Khor Coastal Road) 4423 3801 Al Rayyan (Al Furousiya Street) 4481 5447 Al Sadd (Suhaim bin Hamad Street) 4439 6020 Al Shamal (Al Ruwais) 4027 3000

National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) 4404 8844 Public Works Authority (Ashghal)

188

Qatar Post (QPost) 4446 4000 Report Environmental Violations

998

Supreme Judiciary Council

16007

Telecom and Communications Roadside and Break Down Assistance Directory Assistance 180 Mowasalat Taxi 4458 8888 International Calls Inquiry 150 Qatar Assist 5545 5252 Ooredoo 111

Important Numbers

General Information Qatar Meteorology Department 4448 0444 Local Time

140

Airport Hamad International Airport (HIA) 4010 6666 4010 9555

Airport Fire and Medical Emergency 4010 9222 For more on travel and airport information see Traveller Information and Hamad International Airport in this section.

Animals In the event of a pet emergency, see Pets in this section.

Foreign Embassies See Foreign Embassies in this section.

Health Enquiries Nesma'ak (Hamad Medical Corporation) Hayyak (Primary Health Care Corporation)

800 7110

Traffic and Minor Accidents General Directorate of Traffic

234 4444

Madinat Khalifa Traffic & Investigation 2344 4444 Utilities Kahramaa (electricity and water)

Taxi, Limousines and Metro See Getting Around Qatar in this section. m

991 Checked & Updated October 2020

Airport Security

Vodafone

16060 107

Government Entities Baladiya 184 DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE Š

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141

1

Al Majd (Orbital Road) Ras Laffan Mesaieed 4

Lijmiliya

14

Semaisma

2 1

3

6 Qetaifan Island North The Pearl-Qatar

Al Sheehaniya

33

Al Majd Road 2

Al Kharsaah (site of Solar Power Plant)

or SAA Corrid

56

39

5

lw Sa

a

ad Ro

2 Al Majd Road

7

Salwa Beach Resort

SAA Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor

WOQOD

All Rights Reserved. 10.2020 No part of this map may be reproduced or copied without the written permission of the publishers marhaba.qa

This map is intended as a guide only. Some abbreviations have been used due to limitations of space. Feedback is appreciated.

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Cultural Awareness

Cultural Awareness

Please do...

Please don't...

use greetings and formalities as they are particularly important. It is considered impolite to start any conversation or request without at least saying 'Hello' or 'Excuse me'.

look or stare at people closely especially women. This general courtesy is particularly important in a society where modesty in dress and behaviour is mandatory.

be mindful when talking to or asking local or Arab women for information, if you are a man. Respect the fact some women in this region are private people in public places. They are more than willing to help other women, so if you are in a mixed group, let the women do the talking!

be offended if your handshake is refused by the opposite sex. Handshakes are often refused to members of the opposite sex. It is not meant personally, but simply a religious and cultural prohibition applicable to Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

dress modestly in Qatar, which is a Muslim country with conservative dress codes for both males and females. Avoid shorts and short skirts, strapless and crop tops and other forms of revealing and transparent clothing especially to work, schools, malls, parks and other familyfriendly destinations. Government offices will turn away people for inappropriate clothing.

take photographs or videos without permission of people (including the police or armed forces) or sensitive sites in public or private spaces.

Many men and women here are priavte and strongly object to being photographed or videographed.

take the now fully operational Doha Metro for faster and cheaper transportation! Or hail taxis, which are safe, clean and metered. The majority of the drivers speak English. You can order a taxi by using the Karwa, Careem or Uber apps and have a car at your location within minutes.

sit with the soles of your shoes or feet facing towards your hosts; it is considered insulting.

Equally, don’t sit with your back to other guests.

bargain with shopkeepers in local souqs. Always counter the original offer with a lower price than you expect to pay and work slowly upwards to what you wish to spend. look out for separate counters and sections for men and women in banks, ministries and other public service centres. enjoy the outdoors as much as you can during winter. In the summer, temperatures reach over 40 C and humidity over 50% so enjoying the outdoors will be challenging. During this season, make the most of doing outdoor activities such as going to beaches, walking in parks or dining al fresco.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

be annoyed if your guest/contact is late – schedules are more flexible in Qatar.

drink too much alcohol so that your behaviour is affected in public. Alcohol in Qatar is a strictly regulated concession and there is zero tolerance for drink-driving, drunkenness or rowdy behaviour. go barefoot in the sea where stonefish lie camouflaged along the shoreline. Although rare, the poisonous defence mechanism causes excruciating pain and needs a hospital visit.

Also be on the lookout for jellyfish, particularly in the summer months. forget to read about the Public Hygiene Law with violations up to QAR25,000 and jail sentences. Do not throw or leave waste on the streets or public spaces. Spitting in public spaces is also prohibited. m

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Arabic Phrases

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Arabs place great importance on greetings, often greeting each other with a number of phrases and fixed responses enquiring about each other’s health, wellbeing and family. As a courtesy, it is important for visitors to learn the basics of how to say hello and goodbye when in their company. *Indicates if you're speaking as a female or when you're speaking to a female.

Courtesies/Responses

Days of the Week yum yum yum yum yum yum yum

al al al al al al al

ahad ithnain thalatha arba’a khamees jum’a sabt

Time What time is it? a-sa’a kam?

One, two, three a-sa’a wahda, o’clock thintain, etc.

Late mut’akhar Early badri Tomorrow bukra The day after ba’ad bukra Yesterday ams What time is the appointment? as-sa'a kam al maw'idd?

When do you open/close? mata taftahoon/tosakkiroon?

Ramadan blessings

shuff!/*shuffi wain? a'la yameenak a'la shamalak a'la tool aqif/*aqifi imshi ta’al/ta'ali yalla qulli/*qullili mata? or emta? jeeb/*jeebi hatha hathaak mafi mafi mushkila mafi waqt mush mumkin khallas Insh'Allah Wallah/akeed Ramadan kareem

Eid blessings

Eid mubarak

Numbers 0 sifr

٠

1 wahad 2 ithnain

١ ٢

3 thalatha 4 arba’a

٤

5 khamsa 6 sitta

٦

7 saba’a

٣

٥

٧

8 thamanya 9 tissa’a

٩

٨ ١٠

10 a'ashara 50 khamseen 100 mi’a 500 khamsmi'a 1,000 alf 2,000 alfain 10,000 a'asharat alf 100,000 mi’at alf

Essential Foods

Shopping/Eating Out

Bread Water Tea/Coffee Milk Fish Meat Chicken Cheese Fruit Vegetables

Where is the market? wain al souq?

I want to buy... ureed ashtiri...

Do you have ...? a'ndak…?

Have/Don’t have fi/mafi How much is it? kam qeemtah?

Cheap/Expensive rakhees/ghali Newspaper/Book jareeda/kitaab Map of Doha khareeta al doha Bank bank Money Exchange surrafa Restaurant mata'am What kind of food? ay ta'am ladaikum?

Toilets al hammam

khubbuz maa, moya chai/gahwa haleeb samak laham dejaj jubna fawakih khudrawat

Travel I want a taxi areed taxi How much is the taxi? kam al ijar?

I want to rent a car ureed astaajer sayyara Where is the airline office? wain maktab at tayaran?

Take us to the airport khuthna ila al matar

Emergencies Please help me Police station I’m feeling ill I need a doctor I need a hospital Ambulance Pharmacy There's a fire ©

sa’idni low samaht markaz al shortah ana mareedh ureed tabeeb ureed mustashfa sayyara is'aaf saydaliya fi hareeqa

MARHABA

Checked & Updated October 2020

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

Look!

Where?

On your right On your left Straight on Stop!

Go! Come!

Let's go!

Tell me When?

Bring me/give This That There isn’t any No problem There is no time Impossible Finished If God is willing For sure

Arabic Phrases

Peace be upon you assalam a'laykum And upon you be peace wa’alaykum salam Good morning sabah al khair May your morning be bright sabah al noor Good afternoon/evening massa al khair May your afternoon/evening be bright massa al noor Welcome marhaba or tafaddal/*tafaddali Goodbye (Go in peace) ma’a salaamah May God protect you Allah yehmik/*Allah yehmiki How are you? kaif halak?/*kaif halik And you? wa ant?/*wa anti Thank God al hamdu lillah Thanks shukran Welcome (in response to 'thank you') a'fwan Please min fadlak/*min fadlik Yes/No na’am or aiwa/la I'm sorry ana mutaassef/*ana mutaasefa Congratulations mabrook

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Qatar at a Glance

Qatar at a Glance Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world and both visitors and residents have the opportunity to experience the courteous and hospitable nature of Arab culture. However, bear in mind that Qatar is a conservative Islamic state – by following a few simple rules in public you will more than repay the warm welcome shown to you.

Common Courtesies Please dress modestly when out in public. As a show of respect towards the culture and tradition of Qatar, visitors and expatriates (both men and women) should dress conservatively. Avoid exposing the knees, shoulders, cleavage and stomach.

Likewise, avoid tight, revealing clothing. Although there are many people who show disregard for the dress code here, it is in your best interest to avoid any unwelcome attention. Be particularly modest during the holy month of Ramadan. Visitors should also be mindful of the conservative dress code which is often required at the beach and by the pool in public. Topless sunbathing is prohibited. Public displays of affection between men and women are discouraged and behaviour that is considered immoral could result in prosecution.

There are many photographic opportunities in Qatar, but exercise discretion when photographing local residents, even from a distance. It is wise to ask their permission first. Muslim ladies are very modest, so if you are a man, it is best to approach another man when asking for directions or advice.

There are stiff fines for consuming alcohol other than on licensed premises or at home (you must have a liquor permit to buy alcohol for use at home). Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offence, and could lead to prosecution and deportation.

Alcohol is never sold or served during the month of Ramadan, or on the nine days of Eid al Adha. The country applies a zero-tolerance attitude to drugs.

Draft laws have been submitted for a new anti-tobacco law to give public places including shopping centres more power to enforce no smoking on their premises.

Time

Currency

Qatar local time is three hours ahead of GMT, also known as Universal Coordinated Time. It is fixed across the country and throughout the year. There is no summer daylight saving.

The official currency is the Qatari Riyal (QAR), which is divided into 100 Dirhams. The exchange parity has been set at the fixed rate of USD1 = QAR3.64. See Banking and Finance for details of banks and currency exchange houses.

Hours of Business The working week in Qatar is from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday (a sacred day of worship for Muslims) and usually Saturday being days off.

Government ministries’ working hours are from 7 am – 2 pm, Sunday to Thursday; the oil, gas and petrochemicals companies follow a similar working week. Some private businesses follow a one shift workday, but many have two: roughly 8 am – 1 pm and 4 pm – 8 pm. Shop times vary but are generally 8:30 am – 12:30 pm and 4 pm – 10 pm; although shopping malls tend to be open all day between the hours of 10 am and 11 pm. Some shops do not open on Fridays, while others open for a couple of hours early in the morning and reopen in the late afternoon. Most malls now open on Fridays at 1:30 pm, with shopping centres opening at 4 pm.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Public Holidays The dates of religious public holidays (Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha) are fixed according to the Hijri (Islamic) calendar. The commencement of the Holy Month of Ramadan is confirmed the night before by the sighting of the new moon.

In 2021, the first day of Ramadan is expected to begin on 13 April, Eid Al Fitr on 13 May, and Eid Al Adha on 20 July. Qatar's National Day is 18 December each year. National Sport Day takes place on the second Tuesday of each February. For those in the banking and finance sector, there are additional one day public holidays in January and March, depending upon the institution they work for.

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Geography • Qatar is a peninsula of 11,521 sq km located halfway down the west coast of the Arabian Gulf.

• The territory encompasses several islands including Halul, Sheraouh, Al Beshairiya, Al Safliya (which is a marine protected area) and Al Aaliya.

77

141

1

Al Majd (Orbital Road) Ras Laffan Mesaieed 4

Lijmiliya

14

Semaisma

2

• The coastline covers 563 km with shallow coastal waters in most areas and many coves and inlets.

1

3

6 Qetaifan Island North The Pearl-Qatar

Al Sheehaniya

33

Al Kharsaah (site of Solar Power Plant)

Qatar at a Glance

• The terrain is flat and rocky, covered with sand flats and sand dunes. There are some exceptional low-rising limestone outcrops in the north and the west.

Al Majd 2 Road

or SAA Corrid

56

39

5

• The country is centrally placed among the states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which groups it with Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman.

lw Sa

a

ad Ro

2 Al Majd Road

7

Salwa Beach Resort

SAA Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor

WOQOD

All Rights Reserved. 10.2020 No part of this map may be reproduced or copied without the written permission of the publishers marhaba.qa

This map is intended as a guide only. Some abbreviations have been used due to limitations of space. Feedback is appreciated.

Demography • Qatar's population in October 2020 was 2,717,360, according to the Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA).

• Males made up 1,960,876; women account for 756,484.

• Other population centres, apart from Doha, include Dukhan on the west coast, Mesaieed City and Al Wakra in the south, and Ras Laffan, Lusail City, The Pearl-Qatar, and Al Khor in the north. Ras Laffan Industrial City (RLC) is creating a population expansion in Al Khor and the adjoining areas.

Projects are underway to provide new housing and amenities in the area.

Climate

Language and Religion

• The country has a moderate desert climate with mild winters and hot summers. Winter nights can be cool, but temperatures rarely drop below 7°C.

• The official language of the country is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood.

• Humidity levels can be very high on the coast during the summer months.

• All official documents (such as visa and resident permit applications) must be completed in Arabic.

• Rainfall is scarce (average 70 mm per year), falling on isolated days mainly between October and March.

• Islam is the official religion of the country, and Shari’a (Islamic Law) is the principal source of legislation.

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The Ruling Family

Qatar at a Glance

His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Amir of the State of Qatar

• The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, assumed power on 25 June 2013.

• The ruling Al Thani family was among a tribal group who had settled at the 'Gibrin' oasis in southern Najd, before their arrival in Qatar during the early 18th century. Initially, they settled in Zubara in northern Qatar, moving to Doha in the mid-19th century. The family is a branch of the ancient Arab tribe, the Bani Tameem, whose descent can be traced back to Mudar bin Nizar.

• The name Al Thani is derived from that of the family’s ancestor Thani bin Mohamad bin Thani, who was the first sheikh to rule modern Qatar.

The Qatari Flag

His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Father Amir

His Excellency Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani Prime Minister and Minister of Interior

• The national flag is maroon with a broad vertical white stripe at the pole, the two colours being separated with a nine-point serrated line which indicates Qatar as the ninth member of the 'reconciled Amirates' of the Gulf, after the 1916 QatarBritish Treaty.

• White signifies the internationally recognised symbol of peace. Maroon symbolises the blood shed during the several wars that Qatar has undergone, particularly in the second half of the 19th century.

Government • The Amir is the ruler of Qatar. Rule is hereditary, with power transferred from father to son. If no son is available, power is transferred to the person whom the Amir chooses within the Al Thani family.

• The Amir is the head of the constitutional authorities, holding both legislative and executive powers. The Amir appoints the prime minister and ministers.

• The Council of Ministers (Cabinet), the supreme executive authority in the country, assists in implementing the general policies of the State.

• A 35-member Advisory Council debates economic, political and administrative matters referred to it by the Cabinet.

• The first provisional constitution was issued in 1970, and amended in 1972 upon independence. In April 2003, an overwhelming 96.6% of Qatari voters said 'yes' to a draft permanent constitution which became effective DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

on 8 June 2005, transforming Qatar into a democracy.

• In 1999, free elections were held to form a 29-member Central Municipal Council (CMC) for the first time in Qatar’s history. Women were allowed to vote and run as candidates.

The constitution was amended in 2003 to allow for the direct election of 30 members of the Advisory Council. Held every four years, the elections for the sixth edition of CMC was held in April 2019. In accordance with the provisions of Decree No 17 of 1998, a candidate is required to be an original Qatari citizen or to acquire citizenship provided that their father is born in Qatar; to be registered in the voters’ lists in the constituency which they wish to represent, and has a permanent residence within its borders; have not previously been convicted of an offence against honour or trust; is at least 30 years of age; is literate and known for their competence and honesty.

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History

Economy

• Archaeological discoveries, inscriptions and artefacts prove that Qatar was populated as early as 10,000 – 8,000 BCE.

• Qatar, with proved gas reserves of nearly 900 tn standard cubic feet in its North Field, and oil reserves of over 25.2 bn barrels, has one of the fastest growing economies and the highest per capita income in the world.

• In the middle of the 1st century CE, Pliny the Elder referred to the nomads of the area as the 'Catharrei' – an apparent reference to their constant search for water.

• One of the world’s earliest maps, The Map of Ptolemy in the 2nd century CE, shows the word 'Catara' at the head of the bay.

• During the 16th century, the Qataris aligned with the Turks to drive out the Portuguese.

Subsequently, along with the entire Arabian Peninsula, they fell under the nominal rule of the Ottoman Empire for four successive centuries – with the real power and control remaining in the hands of the sheikhs and amirs of Arab tribes.

International Relations • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strives to establish and develop close direct ties with all peace-loving countries and peoples of the world. It is keen to participate actively in efforts to deal with the concerns and challenges that the Gulf region encounters.

• Qatar was actively involved in the discussions leading to the foundation of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and has hosted a number of their Supreme Council Summit Meetings.

• Investment laws allow foreign investment in many sectors including agriculture, industry, leisure, tourism, health, education and the exploitation of natural resources, energy and mining – see Trade and Investment in the Banking and Finance section for details.

Qatar is a member of: • The United Nations (UN) and its subsidiary global organisations • The Asian Group of the United Nations Human Rights Council • The Organisation of Arab Oil Exporting Countries (OAPEC) • The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank • The World Trade Organisation (WTO) • The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) • The Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) • The Arab League • The UNESCO World Heritage Committee • European Council (observer member)

Transport and Communication • The country is served by Hamad International Airport (HIA). For more information on airports, see Traveller Information and Hamad International Airport in this section.

• Metered taxis and limousines are easy to find and there is a comprehensive public transport system.

• Qatar has a modern road system linking it with other GCC countries.

Checked & Updated October 2020

• Qatar maintains 100 embassies abroad as well as 11 consulates and two other representations. Doha hosts 99 embassies, and one consulate.

• While developing its huge hydrocarbon reserves, Qatar has also diversified its economy, and emphasis is being placed on private-sector industrial development, education, health, sport and tourism.

Qatar at a Glance

• Qatar played an important role in the Islamic civilisation when its inhabitants participated in the formation and provision of the first naval fleet.

• In just decades, Qatar has developed into a major global supplier of energy and is the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and a world leader in gas-to-liquids (GTL) production.

• The Doha Metro is now fully operational, including three out of the four lines (Red, Gold and Green) and 37 stations. The future phases involve the introduction of an additional line (Blue) and the expansion of the existing ones, with more than 60 additional stations and the first expansion will be completed by 2026. See more in the Infrastructure section and Getting Around Qatar in this section.

• The telecommunications system is currently being upgraded to an entirely fibre-optic network. m ©

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Qatar's Government Structure

Qatar's Government Structure

The General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers acts as a link between the ministries, supreme councils and other government bodies. The Minister of State for the Council of Ministers is the Prime Minister, currently HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, who chairs each session and signs any decisions made. He is also able to advise the Amir on how to form the cabinet. The General Secretary is HE Dr Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi (Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs).

HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (above) named a new cabinet the day after becoming the Amir of the State of Qatar on 25 June 2013. The last full reshuffle was in November 2018, when ministries were restructured under a new portfolio.

However, Amiri Order No 1 of 2020 appointed a new prime minister due to the resignation of the previous incumbent.

In the 2018 reshuffle, The Amir combined commerce and industry under one ministry, appointed new ministers to the justice, labour and social affairs, and municipality and environment ministries, and decreed changes to the boards of Qatar Petroleum and Qatar Investment Authority in view of ministerial appointments.

The Amir is the Head of State and the Commanderin-Chief of the armed forces. The Advisory Council represents the legislative power, while judicial authority is in the hands of the law courts with judgments announced in the name of the Amir. The Amir is assisted by the Council of Ministers (the cabinet), the Prime Minister and supreme councils.

The Prime Minister and other ministers are directly appointed by the Amir; he will also accept their resignations or relieve them of their appointment,

by Amiri Decree.

The Advisory Council (Shura Council) was established in 1972. It currently comprises 45 members, 30 directly elected in a secret general ballot, with the remaining 15 appointed by the Amir. The Advisory Council has legislative powers, is responsible for the general budget for public projects, and other matters dealing with economic, administrative and political issues. Each annual session lasts eight months, opened with an address by the Amir, and sessions are generally open to the public.

The first Central Municipal Council was established in the early 1950s. Free elections to form the Central Municipal Council were held in 1999, the country's first steps towards democracy and the encouragement of women to run as candidates and be involved in public affairs. The Council has members from each of the 29 constituencies and elections are held every four years.

For more information regarding Qatar's political set-up, visit Hukoomi, the Qatar e-Government service, portal.www.gov.qa and the Government Communications Office gco.gov.qa/en

The current list of cabinet of ministers: • Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani – appointed January 2020 following the resignation of HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani.

HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani was appointed Chief of the Amiri Diwan in November 2014, and also sits on the board of the Sports and Social Activities Support Fund (Daam).

• Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs HE Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah – appointed Minister of State for Defence in January 2016 and Deputy Prime Minister in November 2017. He has been a member of the Council of Ministers since 2011 when he was Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; from 2013 to 2016, HE Al Attiyah was Minister of Foreign Affairs.

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marhaba.qa • Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani – appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs in January 2016 and Deputy Prime Minister in November 2017. In November 2018 he was appointed Chairman of Qatar Investment Authority.

• Minister of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs HE Yousef bin Mohammed Al Othman Fakhroo – appointed November 2018.

The ministry was formed in 2016.

• Minister of Municipality and Environment HE Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie – appointed November 2018. He has been the Managing Director of Qatar Railways Company from March 2011, additionally becoming CEO in January 2017. He has also held positions with Barwa, Qatari Diar Group, and Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa).

Qatar's Government Structure

• Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari – appointed November 2018 under the renamed ministry (was previously the Ministry of Economy and Commerce).

• Minister of Justice and Minister of State for the Council of Ministers Affairs HE Dr Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi – appointed November 2018. From June 2013 he was Minister of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs.

Pictured from left: HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani; HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari; HE Mohammed Abdul Wahed Ali Al Hammadi; HE Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari

• Minister of Education and Higher Education HE Mohammed Abdul Wahed Ali Al Hammadi – appointed June 2013. He is also the President of Qatar National Committee for Education, Culture and Science.

• Minister of Public Health HE Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari – appointed January 2016.

She was previously the Managing Director of Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) for nine years. Among various positions on advisory boards, she is also a member of the Sidra Board of Governors and the Board of Directors of Qatar Foundation for Social Work.

• Minister of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs HE Dr Ghaith bin Mubarak Al Kuwari – appointed June 2013.

• Minister of State for Energy Affairs HE Saad Sherida Al Kaabi – appointed November 2018.

At the same time he became Deputy Chairman of Qatar Petroleum, in addition to his role as President and CEO of the national petrochemical company.

• Minister of Finance HE Ali Sherif Al Emadi – appointed in June 2013. He is also Chairman of the QNB Group, President of the Executive Board of Qatar Airways, and Deputy Chairman of Qatar National Tourism Council.

• Minister of Transport and Communications HE Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti – appointed January 2016 after the two ministries were merged. He was previously the Minister of Transport, a position he held from 2013. m ©

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• Minister of Culture and Sports HE Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali – appointed January 2016 when the Ministry was formed by merging the Ministries of Youth and Sports, and Culture, Arts and Heritage. He was previously Minister of Youth and Sports from June 2013.

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FEATURE

World’s Safest Country

By Ola Diab Qatar is the safest country in the world, according to 2020 mid-year Crime Index by Numbeo, the world’s largest user-contributed database on cities and countries.

F

or the second consecutive year, Qatar has been named the safest country in the world by Numbeo in their annual Crime Index. This year, 133 countries have been included in the ranking.

This is the third time Qatar has taken the title as the world’s safest country on Numbeo – first in 2017, then again in 2019. Qatar has been the safest Arab country since 2015.

According to the Ministry of Interior (MOI), Qatar's outstanding record during the period is considered as an extension of its achievements since 20152019, maintaining the number one position in the Arab world. In as statement, MOI said, ‘It reflects the constant and outstanding level of security and safety enjoyed by the country, and the significant decrease in the rates of crimes.’

According to the classification rules of the report, countries are ranked in reverse order – Qatar ranked 133 in crime rate by registering the lowest crime rate with 11.80 points out of 100. In the Safety Index, Qatar ranked first by scoring 88.20 points

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out of 100. Qatar has been rated low and very low for crimes such as home break-ins and home theft, mugging and robbery, car theft, property crimes such as vandalism and theft, drug use or dealing, violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery, corruption and bribery, and being subject to a physical attack because of your skin colour, ethnic origin, gender or religion.

The Numbeo database has been publishing annual reports since 2009, based on crime rates in the countries of the world. The Crime index is measured according to the laws of the countries, as there are acts that constitute crimes in some countries while they are not deemed crimes in some others, which gives a real measure of the crime rate in countries in accordance with applicable laws.

The report also takes into account the different types of crimes and their classification according to the laws on crimes, offences and violations. The indicators also depend on a set of standards related to the rates of crime and violence such as murder, terrorism, the cost of crime and other standards.

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Doha Declaration In July 2020, Qatar confirmed that the global programme to implement the Doha Declaration issued by the Thirteenth United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in 2015, has proven its effectiveness and achieved the highest possible outcome in support of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

This came in a speech of Qatar, delivered by the ambassador of Qatar to the Federal Republic of Austria and the permanent representative of Qatar to the UN and international organisations in Vienna, Sultan bin Salmeen Al Mansouri, via video conference in July 2020 during the meeting of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Vienna on the activities of the global programme under the slogan 'Transforming Policies into Actions'.

According to Al Mansouri, the member states of the UN unanimously adopted the Doha Declaration a few months before the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the Doha Declaration had its forward-looking vision in support of this plan and its emphasis on seeking to implement comprehensive policies and programmes that promote socio-economic development and provide support to other member states in their endeavours to this end.

The implementation of the UN's sustainable development agenda in 2016 began during the same year of the launch of the Doha Declaration Global Programme which is funded by Qatar, the largest funding programme provided by one country in the history of the UN Office.

This synchronisation confirms the foresight of the political leadership of Qatar and its belief in global

solidarity when it decided to transform the Doha Declaration and the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development into action programmes for community prosperity and the promotion of world peace.

He reviewed the achievements of the global programme during the past five years, and said that the sustainable development plan pledged to ensure no one will be left behind, and the global programme to implement the Doha Declaration, achieved this goal in a practical way when it reached about 2 mn people from 192 countries, and more than 55,000 people benefitted from more than 500 activities of support and capacity building activities, most of them from developing countries in Latin America, Asia and Africa. The programme still has time to achieve more goals.

Al Mansouri added that although the global programme to implement the Doha Declaration achieved many goals contained in Goal 16, which falls within the mandate of the UNODC, the 17 goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 169 goals are integrated and indivisible goals with the aim of achieving a balance between the three dimensions of sustainable development: the economic, the social and the environmental dimensions. Therefore, the global programme has comprehensively contributed to the implementation of all the goals of the sustainable development plan.

Al Mansouri affirmed the commitment of Qatar to continue working with the UNODC to build on the achievements of the global programme to implement the Doha Declaration and to continue to contribute to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development at all levels. m Š

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Milipol Qatar 2021 International Event for Homeland Security & Civil Defence 13th Edition

NEW DATES

15 - 17 March 2021

Register online: www.milipolqatar.com

Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre (DECC) Organized by Ministry of Interior

#MilipolQatar - www.milipolqatar.com

The World’s Leading Network of Homeland Security Events

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Events December – March

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marhaba.qa

Significant Dates and Public Holidays • 18 December – National Day • 1 January and 3 March – for those in the banking and finance sector • 9 February – National Sport Day See the key at the end of the calendar for contact details of various venues.

Events are subject to a change of dates/cancellation due to the coronavirus (COVID-19).

See daily updates at marhaba.qa and follow the advice of the Ministry of Public Health.

December 2020 The Year of Culture Qatar – France 2020 Every year, Qatar Museums (QM) runs a cultural exchange programme called ‘Years of Culture’, with exhibitions, festivals and events. This year it features a series of events celebrating the relations between the State of Qatar and the Republic of France through partnerships between French and Qatari organisations and individuals, as well as the Embassy of Qatar in Paris, the Embassy of France in Doha, and The French Institute. In 2021, The Year of Culture is between Qatar and the US. See all the news and updates at yearsofculture.qa and marhaba.qa

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Final concert of the Year of Culture The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra with conductor Christophe Rousset closes a year of cultural celebration. +QNCC

Ongoing

Torba Farmers Market The popular market continues through the winter month. The community can come together to browse local farm fresh produce, garden plants and cut flowers, food and beverages, and artisan goods. The market is dog-friendly as well! Every Saturday 8 am – 6 pm, with COVID-19 precautions in place. Education City

Ongoing

QNL Heritage Library permanent exhibition More than 400 books, manuscripts, historical photographs, maps, globes and travellers' instruments, depicting the interaction between Arabs and the West over the last few centuries, along with the history of science, literature, writing and travel. Events and workshops are online until further notice. qnl.qa

Ongoing

Katara Cultural Village A number of in-person and virtual exhibitions, including The International Handicrafts and Traditional Productions Cultural Market (in-person), Fine Arabic Calligraphy, Femmes à la Mode, 'Trace' by Jawaher Al Mannai, 'The Unreachable Mirage by Masoud Al Bulushi, 'Heritage' by Hassan bu Jassum, 'Patches' by Hadi Qasous, and 'Cultures Collision' by Hassan Taleb Alsalat (all virtual). ^Katara

7 – 10

Project Qatar The Qatari construction sector is the fastest growing in the Gulf region.

The expo provides easy market access into this lucrative market, making it essential for everyone wishing to seize a share of these opportunities, whether as a buyer or supplier. projectqatar.com øDECC

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Qatar National Day 2020 An annual public holiday marking the commemoration of Qatar's unification in 1878, deepening solidarity, unity and pride in the State's national identity.

The Organising Committee of the Qatar National Day celebrations announced that Darb Al Saai activities will be not be held this year, due to current circumstances; competitions and Photo © Al Jazeera seminars will instead be broadcast online at doha360.qa/en. At the time of writing, it is unclear if celebrations will take place at Doha Corniche and other locations. Read about news as it happens at marhaba.qa ©

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Events December – March

Until 31 Dec 2020

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marhaba.qa What's on at National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) Until 3 Jan 2021

Events December – March

Splendours of the Ancient East: Antiquities From the Al Sabah Collection (right) Celebrating the relationship between Qatar and Kuwait, Qatar Museums presents an exhibition featuring around 170 objects owned by Sheikh Nasser Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah and Sheikha Hussa Sabah Al Salem Al Sabah, showcasing the creativity by artists from the Ancient Near East.

The history of art in the region shows certain themes prevail, such as stylised animal motifs, carved hardstones and the influence of the nomadic tribes from central Asia, which remain in Islamic art today.

Starts 17 Dec Mal Lawal 3 (Home Edition) A platform for Gold plaque with enamel collectors living in Qatar to share their personal decoration framing the bust of collections with the public, to be held in conjunction Heracles. Central Asia or Black with the Mal Lawal exhibition. Submissions from the Sea region, Hellenistic period, public are invited – send 1–3 photographs of your c 2nd century BCE. personal collections with a 100-word description of what, how and why you collect to nmoqexhibitions@qm.org.qa Opening times: Saturday – Thursday 9 am – 7 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Note: The library, playground and Old Palace are currently closed. The permanent galleries, Jiwan Restaurant, Desert Rose Café, and the gift shops have reopened with visiting precautions in place. Opening times are subject to change – check before visiting.

Admission: Adults: QAR 50. Children age 16 and under: Free. Students: QAR25 with valid university student card. Groups (25+ people): QAR25, pre-registration required. Residents of Qatar: Free with valid QID. Culture Pass Plus and Family Members, ICOM Card holders: Free with valid membership.

Fees apply for temporary exhibitions. Tickets must be purchased online in advance.

Visitors are asked to dress modestly in keeping with Qatari culture. 4452 5555, nmoq.org.qa C4

January 2021 7 – 16

Doha International Book Fair Organised by the Ministry of Culture and Sports with the participation of hundreds of publishing houses representing more than 30 countries, alongside workshops and seminars.

31.dohabookfair.qa/en øDECC

10 – 11

International Conference on Economics and Business Research (ICEBR 2021) A platform for academicians, researchers, engineers, industrial participants and students to share their research with global experts. iser.co/Conference2021/Qatar/1/ICEBR Online event

20 – 23

Qatar Health 2021 Pandemic Mitigation: Best Practice for Disaster Medicine, Mass Gatherings and Trauma Systems A collaboration between Hamad Medical Corporation and the Ministry of Public Health in preparation for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM. This academic event will provide learning for healthcare professionals and students looking to continue their professional education and exchange ideas. hamad.qa/EN/All-Events/Qatar-Health-2021/Pages/default.aspx Online event

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marhaba.qa What's on at Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)

Events December – March

Until A Falcon's Eye – A Tribute to 10 Apr 2021 HE Sheikh Saoud bin Mohamed bin Ali Al Thani (right) Sheikh Saoud’s was instrumental in many of the major collections within Qatar Museums. He amassed thousands of diverse objects reflecting his passion for natural history and antiquities; he also founded Al Wabra farm to preserve and breed endangered species. Parts of his collection can be seen at MIA, but others remain in storage – some of the objects have never been displayed in Qatar before. Among the eclectic collection in this exhibition are antiquities, jewellery, photography and artworks.

Opening times Saturday – Thursday 9 am – 7 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Note: The library and MIA Park are currently closed. IDAM restaurant, the cafe and the gift shop have reopened with visiting precautions in place. Opening times are subject to change – check before visiting.

Admission fees Adults: QAR 50. Children age 16 and under: Free. Students: QAR25 with valid university student card. Groups (25+ people): QAR25, pre-registration required. Residents of Qatar: Free with valid QID. Culture Pass Plus and Family Members, ICOM Card holders: Free with valid membership. Museum Pass: QAR100 for admission to all museums and venues, valid for three consecutive days from the date of first admission. Fees apply for temporary exhibitions. Tickets must be purchased online in advance.

Apr 2020 Visitors are asked to dress modestly in keeping with Qatari culture. 4422 4444, mia.org.qa C4 21 Jan – 19 Feb

Shop Qatar A multitude of offers and discounts, activities and prize draws at this annual festival. Look out for promotions at many of Qatar's shopping malls.

February 15 – 17

THIMUN Qatar Conference The theme for the 2021 Model United Nations conference is SDG 13-Climate Action. Every committee and commission at the event will have an agenda based on Sustainable Development Goal 13 about climate action, one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals established by the United Nations in 2015. qatar.thimun.org +QNCC

22 – 27

Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition One of the most glittering events of the year!

More than 100 international and local brands display their jewellery, timepieces, precious stones and unique pieces, with an ever-growing participation of young Qatari artists. øDECC ©

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Events December – March

March 15 – 17

Milipol Qatar 2021 Security is crucial for Qatar, the most secure country in the MENA region (Global Peace Index 2020). Milipol Qatar is held every two years and showcases the latest innovative products and services in the field of public and industrial security. en.milipolqatar.com øDECC

22 – 24

Build Your House – Ibni Baitak Exhibition The second edition will build on the resounding success of the first, which generated deals worth QAR400 mn. Visitors will be able to meet government representatives, consultants, contractors, suppliers and other industry officials, attend seminars and learn more about new products and services. buildyourhouseqatar.com/en +QNCC

23 – 27

Agriteq The 8th Qatar International Agricultural Exhibition (AgriteQ 2020) is the country's premier expo for the agricultural sector and is an ideal opportunity for industry specialists to explore a wide range of agricultural technologies, equipment and related products.

The concurrent 2nd International Environmental Exhibition (EnviroteQ 2020) will present environmental solutions and is a platform to help environmental technology providers showcase latest products and solutions. agriteq.com øDECC

Upcoming events 5 – 7 Apr

World Energy Qatar Qatar is the world's most established LNG exporter, and with production set to increase in this growth market, now is the ideal time to develop business interests. More than 150 international companies will be represented at the exhibition, while the conference will be attended by government representatives, industry leaders and policy decision-makers. worldenergyqatar.com øDECC

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marhaba.qa Hospitality Qatar 2021 International hospitality and HORECA trade show, providing local, regional and international businesses access to opportunities in the country's hospitality sector. hospitalityqatar.qa øDECC

Nov 2021

ISOCARP World Planning Congress Founded in 1965, the International Society of City and Regional Planners (ISOCARP) holds an annual congress focusing on planning themes of international interest.

The 57th World Planning Congress will explore postoil cities as the world aims to reduce pollution and other environmental concerns. It will also cover how to adapt to 'hot places' such as Doha, providing planning practices for other such cities around the world. doha2020.isocarp.org

Nov 2021

Qatar International Exhibition For Travel & Tourism (QTM 2021) The exhibition will bring together government and public sectors, and travel and tourism entities, to promote tourism resources and cultures. qtmqatar.com øDECC

Events December – March

Nov 2021

2022/23 EXPO 2022 Doha, Qatar The International Association of Horticultural Producers Exact dates to approved an application from The State of Qatar to host an A1 International be confirmed Horticultural Exhibition in March 2018 with formal recognition by the BIE (Bureau International des Expositions) on 22 November 2018.

Under the theme 'Green Desert, Better Environment', The International Horticultural Expo will bring together the world asking visitors to unite in the fight against desertification – one third of the world’s land surface is threatened by this global problem, increasing by 12 mn hectares per annum. There are four sub-themes: Modern Agriculture, Technology and Innovation, Environmental Awareness, and Sustainability.

This is the first horticultural exhibition to be held in a region with a desert climate and supports the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. dohaexpo2021.gov.qa Al Bidda Park

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marhaba.qa Throughout the Year Lectures, exhibitions and workshops • Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar Dean’s Lecture Series. 4454 8400, qatar.cmu.edu C2 • Embrace Doha Tours, workshops and events aimed at enriching the cultural experience of expats and visitors. embracedoha.net • Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar Faculty Lectures. 4457 8100, qatar.georgetown.edu C2 • Katara Exhibitions, cultural and music events and workshops. Call Centre: 182, katara.net B4

Events December – March

• Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art Exhibitions, tours, workshops and artist encounters. 4402 8855, mathaf.org.qa C2 • Museum of Islamic Art Exhibitions, tours, workshops and educational programmes, chamber music, park bazaar. 4422 4444, mia.org.qa D4 • National Museum of Qatar Tours for adults and families, activities for schoolchildren. 4452 5555, nmoq.org.qa C4 • Qatar Foundation Convocations, summits, tours, and lifestyle and business-related workshops.

4454 0000, qf.org.qa C2 • Qatar National Library Workshops, educational and academic programmes, silent book club. qnl.qa C2 • Virginia Commonwealth University of Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) Gallery lectures, exhibitions, and community classes in art, design and crafts. 4402 0555, qatar.vcu C2

Music, drama and more • Doha Film Institute Regular film screenings and festivals, workshops and educational programmes. dohafilminstitute.com • Doha Jazz Live music around town – jazz, blues, salsa, classical and Arabic Maqam. dohajazz.com • Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra Regular performances of Western and Arabic music. qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org • Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha Pub Quiz at Shehrazad on the last Monday of each month, regular tribute shows in Giwana Ballroom, and Cork & Canvas evenings. 4428 1555, radissonblu.com D3/4 • The Doha Players An amateur dramatic society that presents a range of shows and open mic nights throughout the year. See their Facebook page • The Doha Singers Qatar's largest and oldest amateur choir. dohasingers.com Events are subject to a change of dates/cancellation. The Sports Events Calendar can be found in the Sports section.

Keep up to date with all that is happening in Qatar by connecting with Marhaba: marhaba.qa, marhaba.qa/eguides MarhabaGuideQatar @MarhabaQatar MarhabaGuideQatar marhabainformationguide

Checked & Updated October 2020

To be included in our listings, email marhaba@qatar.net.qa m

+Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) Qatar Foundation C2 4470 7000, qncc.qa øDoha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) C4 4033 1111, decc.qa • Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) visitqatar.qa ^Katara Lusail Street B4 182, katara.net DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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The presitigious World Energy Qatar conference will take place 5 – 7 April 2021 at Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre and is one of the world’s biggest LNG events!

Quick facts about World Energy Qatar: • Visit trade stands and international pavilions • Meet representatives from exploration and production companies and shipping and supply chain providers • Connect with Qatari business partners • Attend the concurrent two-day commercial conference with government officials and industry leaders, and the one-day youth programme • Listen to more than 120 speakers and sign up for technical tours of Qatar’s LNG installations • There will be an expected 1,300 conference delegates and 5,000 trade visitors – this is the ideal platform for business and investment opportunities!

Get more details by reading the feature in the Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals section and visiting worldenergyqatar.com

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Foreign Embassies in Qatar

Foreign Embassies in Qatar Afghanistan B4 4493 2319 doha.embassy.af

Canada C4 4419 9000

canadainternational.gc.ca/qatar

Albania B4 4002 7413 ambasadat.gov.al/qatar

Central African Republic B3 4481 7695 ambrcadoha@gmail.com

Algeria B4 4483 8729 embalgeria.com.qa

China (People's Republic of) B3 4493 4203 qa.china-embassy.org

Argentina B4 4417 3601 eqatr.cancilleria.gov.ar/en

Costa Rica C4 4498 0094 Embassy: embcr-qa@rree.go.cr Consular: concr-qa@rree.go.cr

Armenia B4 4491 9232 mfa.am/en/embassies/qa Australia C4 4007 8500 qatar.embassy.gov.au

Cote d'Ivoire (Republic of) B4 4038 1695 ambaci.doha@gmail.com Croatia B4 4483 5188 qa.mvep.hr

Austria C4 4033 7300 bmeia.gv.at/en/austrian-embassydoha

Cuba B4 4411 0717 misiones.minrex.gob.cu/qatar

Azerbaijan B4 4493 2450 doha.mfa.gov.az

Cyprus (Republic of) B4 4493 4390 mfa.gov.cy/mfa/embassies/ embassy_doha

Bangladesh D4 4467 1927 bdembassydoha.org

Djibouti B4 4493 4657/8461 ambdji.sec@gmail.com

Belarus (Republic of) B4 4469 0989 qatar.mfa.gov.by/en

Dominican Republic B4 4411 3868 domrepemb-qatar.com

Belgium B4 4493 1499 qatar.diplomatie.belgium.be

Ecuador B4 4016 1800 cancilleria.gob.ec/catar

Benin (Republic of) B4 4493 0128 benin-qa.com

Egypt Closed – refer to the Egypt Interests Section, Embassy of Greece, 4483 2424

Bosnia and Herzegovina B4 4411 3828 en.bhembassyqatar.com Brazil B3 4483 8227/8812 doha.itamaraty.gov.br

El Salvador B4 4411 0195 embajadaqatar.rree.gob.sv Eritrea D4 4466 7934 eritreanembassyqa.org

Brunei B4 4483 1956

Eswatini (previously Swaziland) B4 4493 3145

Bulgaria B4 4412 0023 mfa.bg/embassies/qatar

Ethiopia B4 4020 7000 ethiopiaembassydoha.org

Burkina Faso B4 4472 8915 See their Facebook page

France B4 4402 1755 ambafrance-qa.org

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Georgia B4 4473 9499 qatar.mfa.gov.ge Germany C3 4408 2300 doha.diplo.de Ghana B4 4436 4486 Greece B4 4412 8150 mfa.gr/doha Hungary B4 4493 2531 doha.mfa.gov.hu India (Republic of) B4 4425 5777 indianembassyqatar.gov.in Indonesia (Republic of) C4 4465 7945 kemlu.go.id/doha Iran (Islamic Republic of) B4 4483 1550 qatar.mfa.gov.ir Iraq (Republic of) C3 4421 6730 mofa.gov.iq/doha Italy B3 4483 1802/28 ambdoha.esteri.it Japan B4 4440 9000 qa.emb-japan.go.jp Jordan B4 4483 2202 jordanembassydoha.gov.jo Kazakhstan B3 4412 8015 See their Facebook page Kenya (Republic of) B4 4493 1870 kenyaembassydoha.com Korea (Republic of) B4 4483 2238/9 qat.mofa.go.kr Kosovo (Republic of) C4 4037 2238/9 qat.mofa.go.kr Kuwait B4 4483 2111 kuwaitembassy@qatar.net.qa Kyrgyz Republic B4 4413 1519 mfa.gov.kg Lebanon B4 4493 3330 doha.mfa.gov.lb

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marhaba.qa Liberia (Republic of) B4 4412 5672 libemg.doha@yahoo.com Libya B4 4483 1231 leinqatar@gmail.com Malaysia B4 4483 6463 kln.gov.my/web/qat_doha

Mauritania (Islamic Republic of) B4 4483 6003 ambarimdoha@gmail.com Mexico B4 4450 8000 embqatar@sre.gob.mx Moldova B4 4442 1303 qatar.mfa.gov.md Morocco B4 4483 1884/85 m.embassydoha@maec.gov.ma Nepal D3 4467 5681 qa.nepalembassy.gov.np Niger B4 4421 9045 ambanigerqatar@hotmail.com Nigeria B4 4448 5000 nigerianembdoha.gov.ng

Philippines B3 4483 1585 dohape.dfa.gov.ph Poland (Republic of) B4 4411 3230 doha.mfa.gov.pl Portugal B4 4486 4691 doha.embaixadaportugal.mne.pt Romania B4 4493 4848 doha.mae.ro Russia B4 4483 6231/6821 qatar.mid.ru Senegal B4 4483 7644/77 embassysenegal@yahoo.com Serbia (Republic of) B4 4417 5181 doha.mfa.gov.rs Singapore B4 4412 8082 mfa.gov.sg/doha Somalia B4 4483 2771 dohaembassy@mfa.gov.so South Africa B3 4485 7111 dirco.gov.za/doha

Oman B4 4493 1514 office.omanembassy@gmail.com

Spain B4 4483 8986 exteriores.gob.es/embajadas/doha

Pakistan B4 4483 2525 mofa.gov.pk/doha-qatar

Sri Lanka D5 4467 7627 slembassy-qatar.com

Palestine B4 4469 2228 palemb-qa.com

Sudan B4 4483 1474 suemdoha2014@gmail.com

Panama B4 4483 7740 embpanamaqatar@mire.gob.pa Paraguay B4 4493 5218 See their Facebook page

Sweden C4 4444 9500 swedenabroad.com/doha Switzerland B3 4020 3400 eda.admin.ch/doha

Tajikistan (Republic of) B3 4412 3906 tajembqatar.tj Tanzania (Republic of) B4 4036 0860 qa.tzembassy.go.tz Thailand B4 4493 4426/4432 thaiembassy.org/doha The Gambia (Republic of) D4 4465 2002 See their Facebook page The Netherlands (Kingdom of) B4 4495 4700 netherlandsandyou.nl/your-countryand-the-netherlands/qatar Tunisia (Republic of) B4 4016 2225 embassyoftunisia.com.qa Turkey (Republic of) B4 4495 1300 doha.emb.mfa.gov.tr Uganda B4 4427 7339 Ukraine B4 4414 7297/8 qatar.mfa.gov.ua United Kingdom B4 4496 2000 gov.uk/world/qatar United States of America C3 4496 6000 qa.usembassy.gov Uruguay B4 4411 3833/4493 5739 uruqatar@uruguayembassy.org.qa Venezuela B4 4493 2730 qatar.embajada.gob.ve Vietnam B4 4412 8480 vnembassy-doha.mofa.gov.vn –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Consulates Chile (Republic of) C4 4410 1840 chile-qatar.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Checked & Updated October 2020

North Macedonia (Republic of) B4 4493 1374 mfa.gov.mk6

Syria B4 4020 8222 syrembassy.com

Foreign Embassies in Qatar

Mali B4 4483 6463 ambamali.doha@gmail.com

Peru C3 4491 5944 consulado.pe/es/doha/Paginas/ Inicio.aspx

Representative Offices Northern Cyprus B4 4483 7693 doha.mfa.gov.ct.tr ©

MARHABA

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Digital Qatar

Digital Qatar

In January 2019 both companies were granted radio spectrum licences to operate 5G commercially from the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA), with each company initially assigned 100MHz within the 3500 – 3800MHz frequency band. Both companies must roll out the 5G networks before the end of 2020 in all densely populated areas, primary roads and highways, and venues associated with the 2022 FIFA World CupTM. The ‎Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) regulates the ICT and postal sectors. The independent authority ensures fair competition while protecting consumer rights. cra.gov.qa The Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) was established under Amiri Decree No 1 of 2016, superseding the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ictQATAR) and the Supreme Council of Information and Communication Technology. The ministry has a wide-ranging mandate, overseeing and developing the ICT sector. The ministry also introduces ICT plans, policies, programmes, projects and initiatives; develops e-government programmes; and boosts capacity and digital literacy to foster a technology-friendly environment.

The Qatar Digital Government 2020 Strategy is based on four main pillars in line with Qatar National Vision 2030, the National Development Strategy, the National Communications and IT Plan, the National Broadband Plan, and other ICT plans. The aim is to make the government more accessible to individuals and businesses, including through the Hukoomi portal, which had more than 3 mn visitors during 2019.

Qatar has some of the world's most developed ICT infrastructure. Monitoring online security threats is a top priority, and the Cyber Security Division aims to protect sensitive information and ensure safety to users. In August 2020, Qatar was ranked fourth in the world for mobile speeds and in the top 40 for fixed broadband speeds (Source: Speedtest Global IndexTM).

Ooredoo was the first company in the world to launch 5G services on a commercially-available network in May 2018, rolling out a live 5G network on the 3.5GHz spectrum band. Ooredoo opened mobile access to its 5G network for compatible smartphone users in July 2019 with 100 live 5G base stations. Meanwhile Vodafone Qatar rolled out its 5G network in August 2018 and was the first to commercially launch its 5G network.

Internet use and social media The seventh annual Media Use in the Middle East survey was released by Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q) in December 2019, and is the only one of its kind in the region. The survey was conducted among 7,303 respondents across seven countries.

Studies began in 2013, examining media behaviour in Qatar, Lebanon, Jordan, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Egypt. Chapters include bias and credibility, digital privacy, free speech, internet use, media use, news, social media, and social media influencers.

One section focuses solely on Qatar. In terms of internet behaviour, Qataris are spending less time online (24 hours a week, down from 48 hours in 2017), the least amount of time spent online among the countries. They are also spending less time with family and friends, and fewer are exercising or playing sports.

The use of some social media platforms is low with a few on the decline in Qatar. WhatsApp is still the most popular platform, used by seven out of 10 Qataris, but down on 2017. Only one-third use Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter or Facebook, although the latter has had a resurgence and is now used by 30% of Qataris. Instagram is preferred by both nationals and non-nationals to follow social media influencers.

Qataris are less likely than other nationals to worry about digital privacy (either the government or companies checking their online behaviour). Only 28% favour tighter internet regulation, and roughly the same percentage for regulation of online political or cultural content.

The complete results of the survey are available at mideastmedia.org

Keep up to date with all that is happening in Qatar by connecting with Marhaba: DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

MARHABA

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marhaba.qa Personal privacy protection Qatar is the first GCC country to pass a law requiring a minimum level of protection for personal data. ictQATAR first released the draft Personal Information Privacy Protection Law back in 2011.

After consultation, Law No 13 of 2016 Concerning Privacy and Protection of Personal Data (the Data Protection Law) was issued in November 2016.

Under the Data Protection Law, provisions are made for the rights of individuals to protect the privacy of personal data. As explained in Article 2, this is data 'that is electronically processed, or obtained, gathered or extracted in preparation for electronic processing, or when a combination of electronic and traditional processing is used'.

Individuals must consent to the use of their personal information, and have the right to withdraw this consent at any time. The individual can also at any time ask to view the personal data being held and demand that any incorrect information be amended or deleted. All such requests for data access, corrections or deletions must be logged and made available if required.

Processing 'special personal data', such as race, health, religion, and criminal records, require the permission of the relevant department at the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC).

Further rules are to be issued regarding this.

Organisations have a duty of care to adhere to basic data protection responsibilities. This includes ensuring data handlers are properly trained and that necessary precautions are made to 'protect personal data from loss, damage, modification, disclosure or being illegally accessed.' Again, individuals have to consent to their personal information being used by an organisation.

Violators will face severe penalties, with a maximum fine of QAR5 mn, and a fine of up to QAR1 mn for those who send unsolicited electronic messages.

Cybercrime The law on data protection follows on from Law No 14 of 2014 Promulgating the Cybercrime Prevention Law. With the high level of internet connectivity in the state comes the increased possibility of cybercrime. According to the 2020 Global Economic Crime Survey by PricewaterhouseCoopers, 'As huge numbers of people move to digital platforms for work and social interaction, we are seeing a shift in cybercrime' due to COVID-19.

The law imposes sanctions and penalties for offences committed via the internet, IT networks, computers and other sources. Some of these provisions include the following: • Under the provisions concerning 'content crimes', it is illegal to publish 'false news' – these terms have not been defined, but there is a duty of care for news agencies, social media users and journalists to verify the source of the news before broadcasting it.

• There is a 10 year jail term and a fine of up to QAR200,000 for forging any official e-document, or a three year jail term and QAR100,000 for unofficial documents.

• A jail term of up to three years and a fine of up to QAR500,000 for the breach of intellectual property rights by using the internet (eg copyrights, patents, trade secrets, trademarks and trade names).

Digital Qatar

This law is the first in Qatar to provide specific national data protection. Previously offenders were subject to provisions in existing laws such as the Penal Code and more recently Law No 14 of 2014 Cybercrime Prevention (see further on).

Any message that is sent electronically must contain the sender's contact details so that individuals are able to withdraw their consent.

Under Article 17, any person who owns or operates a website related to children must put up a policy about how it manages the information of minors (the age of minority has not been specified). The website operator must obtain the consent of the child’s parent or guardian when processing personal data, and delete it if so requested.

And in what may be good news for some, businesses are banned from sending direct marketing messages electronically without obtaining an individual’s prior consent. Direct marketing is defined as 'sending any advertising or marketing materials via any means to individuals'.

To lodge a complaint contact the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC). Business owners may choose to seek legal advice to ensure they fully comply with these laws. Sources: MOTC, and unofficial translations of the laws. m ©

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Main Urban Centres

Main Urban Centres

Doha City The capital city is situated on a calm bay halfway along the east coast of the Qatar peninsula. Its two municipalities of Doha and Al Rayyan house the majority of the population.

The seven-kilometre Corniche links the cultural centres of Souq Waqif and the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) with the glittering towers of the Al Dafna business and residential district and The PearlQatar. Doha is the administrative, commercial and cultural centre of Qatar, providing modern amenities while at the same time preserving its past.

Lusail City is an extension of Doha to the north across an area of 38 sq km and will include four exclusive islands and 19 multi-purpose residential, mixed use, entertainment and commercial districts. The total estimated number of visitors to Lusail will eventually reach 450,000. The city includes numerous residential units, office and government buildings, and 22 hotels.

Al Khor and Al Wakra – Former Pearl and Fishing Centres Al Khor provides a pleasant weekend break from Doha, and is easily reached on Al Shamal Road (Route 1) and on the newly re-opened Al Khor Coastal Road (Route 6). There are play areas and sun shelters along the Al Corniche, as well as photo opportunities at the old fishing harbour and the nearby mangroves, which are full of bird life. There is a small museum in the old police station, showing early life in this small town, as well as some archaeological discoveries from the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. Large public gardens to the north of Al Khor (signposted from Al Shamal Road) also attract weekend picnickers. Al Farkiya Beach is another development just outside Al Khor: see the Sightseeing section for more information.

Al Khor Community is home to a large expatriate population working in Ras Laffan Industrial City.

Al Wakra is notable for its bustling fishing harbour and is just 10 minutes' drive south of the capital on Route 7. It has become a popular commuter suburb and several private schools have relocated there. Numerous mosques, old minarets, forts and wind towers offer some of the finest examples of traditional architecture – see Abu Manaratain Mosque and House of Sheikh Ghanim bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in the Sightseeing section.

The new heritage village, Souq Waqif Al Wakra, is partially open, with a few shops and some restaurants along the beach. Just inland from the beach is a fenced and beautifully landscaped park, with a children's play area.

Qatar Petroleum's Industrial Cities Dukhan Industrial City is the oldest settlement founded after the discovery of oil in the surrounding fields during the 1930s. The centre of onshore operations is undergoing a QAR1.6 bn plan to cover all aspects of urban development.

Mesaieed Industrial City is in the southeast of the country. Mesaieed itself has a port, and adjacent to the north is the hugely impressive Hamad Port, plus a new naval base. Mesaieed is undergoing a QAR14 bn renovation plan by Qatar Petroleum (QP). The town centre has a striking QP building and, beside it, a group of shops and restaurants, used by visitors to Sealine Beach Resort, Khor Al Adaid and other beaches and dunes before and after their adventures.

Ras Laffan Industrial City covers 294 sq km and lies on the east coast 80 km north of Doha. A part of QP's Industrial Cities Directorate, this purposebuilt industrial city has the largest gas exportation seaport and gas liquefaction plants in the Gulf region and is one of the biggest industrial cities in the world. Access is by invitation only. m

There are currently 19 Marhaba maps. They include the country map of Qatar, Greater Doha and maps of all provincial towns, including Al Wakra, Al Khor and Mesaieed.

Find out more about these cities and Qatar's energy industries in the Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals section.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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Mangroves

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DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Doha via Semaisma (Simaisma), Lusail & Doha Golf Club)

MARHABA

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@

The latest Marhaba Map of Doha shows details of the three lines and all stations of the Doha Metro network

The new marhaba wall map of Greater Doha is here!

Doha has grown tremendously in recent years. So, we can now show the newly important Lusail, Al Wajba and Al Wakra areas where so much infrastructure is being constructed. It also includes new and very convenient superhighways – the Orbital Road and the G Ring Road.

Every ofďŹ ce should have one!

Email marhaba@qatar.net.qa for a quote

37 POCKET MAP AD M79.indd 1

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Al Rayyan Al Qadeem

Al Wajba St

Gold line Al Aziziyah - Ras Bu Abboud

E

lA

Beverly Hills Al Rayan

Al Ray

t Al Q a l a h S

St

Red line Lusail - HIA T1 - Al Wakra Green line Al Riffa - Al Mansoura

Jarir H Bookstore

52

nA

ar

uw

adeena St Al M

eday St Al B

Education City St Al Rayya

Ansar Gallery

Al Shafi St

a ajb Al W

All trains connect at Msheireb Station

Makkah St

Al Shaqab

ta r

Imam Mohd Ibn Abdul Wahab Honda

Omar Bin Al Khattab

Swiss International

Makkah St Gate 5

Al Rayyan Municipality Food Centres

Doha College Al Wajba

Doha Metro Network

Edison

Traffic Dept HQ

St Regis

61

uk h

Al

Al Qassar

Doha Exhibition Centre

SEK Doha College WB Campus

West Bay Al Meera

Ab du lA

t Al R ayy an S

Al Shaqab

Chef’s Garden

EC Golf Club

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Qatar Nat’l Library

EC Stadium 2022

Omar Al M

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Ro

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Al Lu

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Oxygen Park

Chouiefat

Institut Francais du Qatar

Al Hazm

Khalifa St

Al Gharrafa I/C

Newton

Newton

Al Khafji St

St

66

32 33

Immigration Dept

21 High St

CCQ Boys

Elder Tree KG

Souq Al Ali

Education City

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Madinat Khalifa

Gate 2

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66

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Al Gharr afa St

Al Majd Road (Orbital)

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Al Wajba

Porsche Quick Service

Al Luqta St

Katara

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St

tic

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National Library

Oyste

t

Dukhan

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51

Compass QNCC Qatar

Car Park

Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI)

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Starfish Lane Kids

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Little Academy

St

Lusai lS

Am

2

QSTP

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Kanga’s Pouch

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Dahl Al Hamam Family Park

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Onaiza St

C

LuLu

Education City Community Housing

St

T hani B

Un

Edison

Tawar Mall

Al Markhiy

ifi

St

rhab

Al Ghaf St

67

Umm Lekhba I/C

22 Feb

51

Al Te

Al Jahanniya I/C

Ezdan Palace Landmark Mall

ACS Int’l School Ezdan Mall

Abraj Quartie

Diplomatic Club

Lusail St

1

AlRayyan Hotel

Al Riffa

31

Gulf Mall

et Stre

51 Education City Premier Inn

68

Jelaiah Complex

Qatar Canadian School

Duhail I/C

Ritz-Carlton

Legtaifiya

St on

Lycee Wadi Rawd a n St Voltaire

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Mall of Qatar

Starfish Lane Kids 2

Al Khafji St

Gulf English School

il Lusa

Japan School

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e St

Sherborne

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Riviera Gardens

Al Gharrafa Sports Club

13. Qatar Foundation Headquarters

Celebration Hall

Lagoona Mall

Grand Mondrian Hyatt

Legtaifiya Lagoon

College of the North Atlantic

Qatar Veterinary Centre

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14. Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) 15. Qatar National Library (QNL) 16. Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) 17. Sidra Medicine 18. Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) 19. Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) 20. Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) 21. Academyati

QIPCO

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Al Rayyan Stadium 2022

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Academic Bridge Program (ABP) Al Shaqab Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) Ceremonial Court Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) Education City Golf Club Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) Mosque Multaqa (Student Center) Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q) Oxygen Park Qatar Academy Doha (Primary School)

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Staybridge Suites Doha Lusail Katara Hospitality

Doha Golf Club

Jeliah St

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3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

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Doha Shooting Club

North Gate Compass

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Ministry of Education

30

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Al Izg

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Qatar University

68

Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium (Lekhwiya Stadium)

Qatari Diar

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Energy City Qatar

Newton

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Beverly Hills Lusail

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Duhail Water Pumping Station

Al Kharaitiyat I//C

2

Fox Hills South

Qatar Petroleum District

The International School of London in Qatar

Doha Festival City

4

Crescent Park

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Qatar Finland Int’l School

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Dukhan Zekreet Al Sheehaniya Sheikh Faisal Museum

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Katara Towers

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Staybridge Suites Doha Lusail Katara Hospitality

Doha Sports Park

QIPCO

Doha Golf Club Ritz-Carlton

Abraj Quartier

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St on

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Omar Al M

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Porto Arabia

Viva Bahriya

Novo Cinemas

29

30

Sedra Arjaan Residences by Rotana

Ronautica

Water taxi service 31 Boat trips/hire

Marriott Hotel Sharq Village & Spa Fisherman’s Wharf Museum Of Islamic Art The Corniche Orrie Oryx City Center-Doha Hotel Park Hilton Hotel InterContinental Hotel

Diploma

St

DECC

St

Tornado Tower

63

Newton

West Bay

Al

Qatar Sports Club

62

0 10

61

Al Fu

nduq

St da Bid Palm

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Ooredoo

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Four Seasons

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Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex Barzan

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11 12 2 17 22 13 34 5 6 17 Al Bidda Park

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NCCCR Rumailah Heart

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St

Amiri Diwan

Movenpick

Alwadi

Four Points by Sheraton

National Museum of Qatar

he St Souq Al Cornic Waqif Bin Zaid MME

Msheireb

Grand Hamad

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Al Sadd

Al Khal

Souq Waqif

Saraya

National Museum

Abbou

Ras Abu Aboud Stadium 2022

Doha Marriott

Sharq Village & Spa

Bin

a

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Ras Bu

Banana Island

by Anantara

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16 23 14 15 27

La Cigale

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mad Su h aim Bin Ha

Bin Ma

amad Ambulance Al Bidda ospital Vet Surgery

Doha Port

Museum of Islamic Art

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White Palace

Ras Bu Abboud

Abu Baqr

St

Bu Ab bou t d S

Rawdat Al Khail St

Ras

ng Rd

F Ri

St daill

Air Force I/C

Al Fa

B4

Liberia

C4

Armenia

B3

Libya

B3

Australia

C4

Macedonia

C4

C4

Malaysia

C4

Azerbaijan

B4

Mali

B4

Bangladesh

D4

Mauritania

C4

Belarus

B3

Mexico

C4

Belgium

C3

Moldova

B4

Benin

C3

Morocco

C4

Bosnia & H

B3

Nepal

E3

Brazil

B3

Netherlands

C4

Brunei

B3

Niger

C3

Bulgaria

B3

Nigeria

C4

Burkina Faso

B3

Oman

B4

Canada

C4

Pakistan

C. African Rep

B3

Palestine

C4

Chile

C4

Panama

B4

China

B3

Paraguay

B3

Costa Rica

C3

Peru

C3

Croatia

C4

Philippines

B3 B4

Kahramaa Water Project

Airport (49) I/C

B Square Mall

g

in GR

Birla

MegaMart

Rd

49

Umm Besher I/C

Najma

Ras Abu Funtas Power Station

St

Souq Al Wakra

Al Wakra

Newton British Academy

untas St Bu F Ras Celebration Hall

Soud Bin Abdulrahman Street

Al Wukair I/C

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Al Meera

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Al W

Al Wakra Hospital

Al Wakra

Mesaieed Road Hamad Port

Al Jabal St

GREATER Map Ebook M79.indd 3

eed Road

Al Janoub Stadium 2022

Ezdan Mall

7

5

Ezdan 31

Public Beach

B3

Poland

C4

Portugal

C4

Djibouti

B4

Romania

C4

Dom. Rep.

B4

B3

Russia

Ecuador

B4

Senegal

C3

El Salvador

B4

Serbia

B3

Eritrea

E4

Singapore

eSwatini

B4

Somalia

C4

Ethiopia

B3

South Africa

B3

France

B

B4

C4

Spain

B4

Gambia

E4

Sri Lanka

E4

Georgia

C4

Sudan

Germany

C3

Sweden

C4

Ghana

B3

Switzerland

B3

Greece

B4

Syria

C4

Hungary

B3

Tajikistan

C3

India

C4

Tanzania

C4

Indonesia

D3

Thailand

Iran

C4

Tunisia

C4

Iraq

C4

Turkey

B4

Italy

C4

Uganda

B3

Ivory Coast

B4

Ukraine

B3

Japan

C4

C4

C

C4

B4

United Kingdom

Jordan

C4

United States

Kazakhstan

B3

of America

Kenya

B3

Uruguay

C3

Korea (S)

B4

Venezuela

B4

Kosovo

C4

Vietnam

B3

C3

D

Hospital

Mosque

Shopping Mall

Bookstore

Religious Complex

Cultural Landmarks

Sports Stadium

Petrol Station

Government Office

School, College, Club

Veterinary Clinic

Housing Complex

Club

Sub-station

Auto Dealer

Restaurant

Non-stop Expressway

Health Centre

Road Interchange

New Interchange

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

Park

Souq Al Wakra Hotel

Me s a i

Ezdan 3

ay

sw

es

pr

Ex

Al Wukair

Vision International

Doha British

nsio

ha Do

Ezdan 10

Al Wakra Sports Club

Rd

Noble International School

GEMS Grand American Hypermarket Academy Ezdan 7 Pharmacy Ezdan 8

Exte

Ezdan 5

Ezdan 6

akra

Ezdan 4

Al W

Al Meshaf I/C

C4

Cyprus

Hotel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 14 15 16 17

Ras Bu Fontas

Barwa Village

arwa City

/

A

Full details of Qatar’s districts and zones on gisqatar.org.qa

B

Free Zone

ng Rd

F Ri

St

d

b-station

Lebanon

B3

(zones comprise one or more districts, some of which are listed below) s Ra

b uA

R kra Wa

Pak Shama

46

Masaken Mesaimeer

Religious Complex

C4

Argentina

THE ZONES OF DOHA ud

bo

Al Meera

Al

nsar lery

ri St

Sa

b Um a h Al Weteyyat I/C m Al A Le kh h m a d C orridor ba I/ C – H amad Int’l Airport

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Mesaimeer I/C

Rd

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Drainage Dept

Kahramaa Awareness Park

Kings College

t

Medical Commission

B

A

HIA T1

Ayyo

Thumama 2022

Rd

In

Sub-station

aS

ria

st

du

Supreme American Education Academy Council

jm

r

lA

C4

Algeria

C4

Airport Traffic Division

Nafie St

Na

aks form ore

ea

Concourse C

Abu

Berlitz

Tank Farm

Doha Mall Al Jazeera Academy

Oqba Bin

Oryx Airport Hotel

Oqba Ibn Nafie

Shoprite

E Ring

E Ring Rd

migration

Kyrgyz Rep

Legend

E

D

Airport

Montezine

Qatar Red Crescent

Mesaimeer Mesaimeer Services

St

44

45

t

Summit KG

Indian Cultural Centre

The Mall IAID

aS

St

Al Ahli Sports Club

jm

ed

Cambridge Girls MES

Elder Tree Nursery

Na

43

Doha Academy

LuLu

Regency Kahramaa Halls

rt

Newton Int’l

po

D Ring Rd

Hamad International Airport

48

Air

41 42

40

man ool ha

2526 Najma St

24

C Ring Rd

h Al Doha Premier Inn Al Safa Mahmoud i Mus Capital Al Jadeda ad Chevrolet Qatar Al Liwan Police W Clinic Gulf Pearls Aeronautical ital Concorde College Westin Doha Crowne B Ring Rd Jarir Bookstore Al Muntazah Hotel & Spa Plaza The Doha Heliport ab Chevrolet Centre Holiday Umm Al Meera Radisson Inn Jarir Blu Ghuwailina aalishan Sterling Al Meera Rd Oryx Al Mansoura American wa Rotana Ford C R Hospital AAB Mashreq Rawdat ssan t CCQ ing Bank Al Mana Holiday Al Matar Al Qadeem Rd Al Khail bS Girls d Garden Villa Al Jabor ali R Chrysler T g i Vision C Rin Ab CAA Bin Gulf Times Financial Marhaba Ali Safeer Arrayah Al Arabi Square Gulf Club Rd Family g Warehousing Food Centre Al Meera Alfardan Rin Al Emadi Darwish D Hospital Le Mirage Gardens Travel

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Katara The Pearl-Qatar Lagoona Mall Al Bidda Park Souq Waqif Qatar National Museum Grand Mosque QNCC Al Shaqab Mathaf Museum

Al Mourjan

Qatar National Theatre

Kuwait

B4

Cuba

Al Qassar

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Al Jazi Gardens

Al

St

Floresta Gardens

Beach

Perlita Gardens

St

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Medina Centrale

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The PearlQatar

Porsche

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SEK Doha College WB Campus era

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Doha Exhibition Centre

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Newton

Newton

Al Khafji St Institut Francais du Qatar

HQ

La Cr

21 High St

St

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4

Katara

L

St

Lusail St

6

ag o

ifi

12

6

Oyster

Diplomatic Club

14 15

10

ette ois

Lusai l St

g

ta

Marsa Malaz Kempinski

Beach

Qanat Quartier

Hilton The Pearl

Legtaifiya

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Lagoona Mall

Grand Mondrian Hyatt

Legtaifiya Lagoon

B3

Albania

Austria

Vendome Mall

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Al Ta

Lusail Marina

Afghanistan

Al Jasra Al Bidda Mohd Bin Jasim Mushaireb Barahat Al Jufairi Old Al Ghanim Al Souq Wadi Al Sail Arumaila, Armeilla Al Bidda Abdul Aziz Al Doha Al Jadeeda Old Al Ghanim Sharg Zone/ Al Hitmi/Al Rufaa Sharg Zone/Slata Doha Port Wadi Al Sail Al Rumeila, Armeilla Bin Mahmoud Bin Mahmoud Rawdat Al Khail Al Mansoura/ Bin Derhem Najma Umm Ghuwailina

28 Sharg Zone/ Al Khulaifat 29 Ras Bu Abboud 30 Duhail 31 Umm Lekhba 32 Madinat Khalifa (N) 33 Al Markhiya 34 Madinat Khalifa (S) 35 Kulaib 36 Al Messila 37 New Al Hitmi/ Bin Omran Hamad Medical City 38 Al Sadd 39 Al Nasr/Al Sadd Al Mirqab Al Jadeed 40 New Slata 41 Nuaija 42 Al Hilal 43 Al Maamoura, Nuaija 44 Nuaija 45 Old Airport 46 Mesaimeer/ Al Thumama 47 Al Thumama 48 Doha Int'l Airport 49 Hamad Int'l Airport/ Banana Island

51 Al Gharrafa/ Bani Hajer 52 Al Luqta/Lebday Old Al Rayyan/ Al Shaqab 53 New Al Rayyan Muaither, Al Wajba 54 Al Soudan, Mehairja, Muraikh, Luaib, Baaya 55 Al Soudan, Al Waab 56 Bu Hamour, Mesaimeer, Ain Khaled 57 Industrial Area 60 Al Dafna 61 Al Dafna, Al Gassar 62 Lekhwair 63 Onaiza 64 Lejbailat 65 Onaiza 66 Legtaifiya, Onaiza 67 Hazm Al Markhiya 68 Jelaiah, Al Tarfa 69 Al Egla 70 Wadi Al Banat, Al Ebb Rawdat Al Hamama

E

F

Arabian Dhows

All Rights Reserved. 10.2020 No part of this map may be reproduced or copied without the written permission of the publishers marhaba.qa

Time Rako

5 12/5/20 11:40 AM

TOWERS in Al Dafna District 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Om

ar

Al

M

uk

K

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Dusit ar

St

Centara Crowne Plaza WB

Magnum Hotel

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Hyatt JW Marriott Wyndham WB Pullman The Gate

Rabban Suites

Mathema Premium Aparthotel

DECC

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21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Al Fu nduq St

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Al Samriya Towers Asas Twin Towers Beach Tower Ministry of Justice Amwal MoFA Bilal QFC Ascott Somerset Kempinski 44 West Bay Al Rayyan Al Refaa Al Seal Al Sailiya Tower Misnad Regency Beverly Hills Ministry of Culture & Sports Al Reem Al Faisal Aamal Qatargas Ministry of Education Al Deeble Olympic Comm.

Al Qassar Burj Al Taawon Golden Bay QP District

Al Fardan Tower

32 33 34 35 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63

Dareen Al Rabban Al Zubara Sahara Al Fardan Towers WOQOD Kahramaa Ashgal Min of Municipality & Environment Ministry of Energy & Industry as 41 Hyatt Residences Dolphin Al Baker Towers Arwa Tornado Tower WTC Al Mirqab Tower Salam Tower Doha Tower Al Bidda Tower Palm Towers GOIC QIB Ministry of Interior QIC QP Comm. Bank Law Courts Barzan Tower Al Khaliji Bank

aS

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Qatar Post

Corniche

Qatar National Theater

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St

Al Bidda

White Palace

Al Rayy an Rd

Sapphire Plaza

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Al Mansour Plaza

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Radisson Blu, Doha lw

National Museum

Al Liwan Suites

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National Museum of Qatar

C Ring Rd

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Bin Mahmoud

Souq Waqif

Grand Hamad St

Asmakh S Al t

Royal Mirage Four Points

by Sheraton

Al Najada

by Oaks

Al Meena St

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Best Western Corp Gokulam Royal Riviera Horizon Manor

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Hamad Hospital

Cor nic he

C Ring Rd

10.2020 marhaba.qa

40 DOHA SPREAD Ebook M79.indd 2

12/4/20 2:05 PM

Al Matar Al Qadeem Mesaieed, Al Wakra Al Wakra Road, F and G Ring Roads Hamad International Airport Doha Marriott Hotel, Sharq Village & Spa

Sharq Village & Spa

Park

SOUQ WAQIF Al Koot Fort

Maharaja

St

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Mirqab Mall

Nissan Infiniti

Youth Creative Art Center

St lib Ta

Doha Market

Sushi Minto

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Almuftah Centre

Doha Clinic Turkey Central

Sa

10.2020 marhaba.qa

Royal Plaza Al Sadd Mall

Shebestan

Language Institute

Diet Shop Shiraz Garden

Jarir Bookstore Thai Snack Fauchon

St Al Jadeed

38

Law Court

Al Kinana St

Lulu Centre

Range Rover

b rqa Mi

Roger’s Diner Lenotre

Al Sadd

Al Sadd St

French Olive

White Palace

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Applebee’s

BMW

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White Palace

Al Ra Zubarah w ab iS t

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Westin Doha Ro ad Hotel & Spa

Retaj Res. Al Sadd Ambulance

Hamad General Hospital Car Park

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American Hospital

Aalishan

The Centre Bin Mahmoud

Al Ja zeer a St

Al Wajba Motors

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St eena Ibn S

Rawdat Al Khail

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Qatar Credit Bureau

Rawdat Al Khail Garden

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Holiday Villa

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Chevrolet Jaidah Group

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Ciao Pappa Roti Nando’s Ric’s Kountry Kitchen Financial Square

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Al Bidda Park

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Al Bidda Interchange

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Exec. Apts

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Al Mansoura

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WOQOD

Msheireb Downtown Doha

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WOQOD

Al Sulaiman Rent A Car

Hit

Al Co rni che

Mandarin Oriental, Doha

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Aljabor Vision

Hyundai

WOQOD

Mercure Msheireb Interchange

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Shioukh Mosque

Qatar Int’l

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Bi

Underground Walkway

Al Rayyan Road

Al

4

Alwadi

15

Arrayah Gulf Times

Chairman

Al Arab St

1

Amiri Diwan

Royal Qatar

sm Al A akh St

12

Najma St Assaha Lebanese Restaurant

B Ring Road

Al Mirqab Boutique

A Ring Road

Souq Waqif Park & Underground Car Park

Retaj Al Ghanem

Grand Hamad Street

Arumaila Boutique

Ai

Al Cornich eS t QCB

6 5

Safir

d Roa ing CR

7

Bin Zaid Souq Waqif

Al Meera

Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza Doha The Business Park

Al Doha Al Jadeda

Al Jazeera Apts La Rose De Sable

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Water Pots

Concorde

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Copthorne

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Jabr Bin QNB

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Museum of Islamic Art

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42

Almana Ford

DOHA CENTRAL AREA

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ud St

Al Riwaq

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Premium Sales

Abu Bakr Saddiq

Al Siraj National Museum Doha Inn of Qatar Oriental Pearl National Century Museum Diamond 2 Mwani PHCC Al Bustan Movenpick Red Crescent Al Meena St Bone & Joint Best Western Center Fraser Suites Retaj Residence Horizon Manor Swiss Belhotel MME

MIA Park

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Ras Bu Abbo

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Safeer

Oryx Rotana

C Ring Road

Tunnel

18

Park WOQOD

Indonesia Omar Bin Al Khattab

Hotel Restaurant Apartments

Mosque Hospital Health Centre

Qatar Airways

Petrol Station

Family Food Centre

Metro Stations

©

MARHABA

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Restaurants & Cafes

n Ali Bi Al Koot Fort

St ulla Abd

Souq Waqif

et tre S ed Prayer amm h o Ground Bin M Jassim

Falcon Market

A

h ak m s lA

MSHEIREB DOWNTOWN DOHA

Msheireb Mosque

Msheireb Museums

l di A Wa

Msheireb Mosque

reb hai Mus

reet

Park Hyatt Doha

Exit 5

Mercure Grand Hotel, Doha

Str

Msheireb Central Interchange Station

eet

eet i Str n a h in T lla B u d Ab Barahat Msheireb

St haim

Mandarin Oriental, Doha

Al Ka hraba

Street

RED LINE GREEN LINE GOLD LINE

Exit 1

Al Khail Street

Su Qasr

Al Rayyan Road

t ree St

Alwadi Hotel Doha-MGallery

t ood S

Msheireb Museums

lm Bin Ja

Shioukh Mosque

Al Najada

Gold Souq

Exit 4

Qatar Academy

Al Diwan Str eet

Exit 3

Four Points

by Sheraton

Msheireb Tram Network

to the Corniche and Al Bidda Park DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Exit 2

10.2020 marhaba.qa

MARHABA

42 MSHEIREB MAP M79.indd 1

12/4/20 2:10 PM

The updated Marhaba

Map of Doha 2021 The new Marhaba pocket map of Doha features the equally new metro train service now operating in Qatar.

Take the train but don’t forget to take a copy of the new Marhaba map with you!

The map can be customised and is also available in an extra-large format – every office wall needs one!

For more details, call

4465 0083

Follow us

marhaba.qa

41 DOHA SPREAD Ebook M79.indd 3

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7 ak W Al

aS

et

d

tr e

RAS ABU FUNTAS Celebration Hall

a Ro ra

Na jm

Doha Hamad Int’l Airport G Ring Road

Al Wakra Metro Station

WOQOD

Ra

uF sB

tas un

St

Salwa Road Al Majd Orbital Road Al Wukair

u Sao

a ulr bd dA

an hm

AL WAKRA

St

Al R ra

k Wa

Souq Al Wakra Hotel offers the height of old-world charm, plus modern luxury, in the heart of Al Wakra.

t

d

Jama’a Suhaib Al Rumi

St

Al

ak W

m ala Al S

sim St an Bin Ja

Rd ra

Al Wakra Hospital

Salwa Rd (Route 5) Industrial Area Hamad Port Road Al Wukair

ain

w

ad Ro air uk W Al

Ezdan

Fish Market Beach

Toyota/Lexus Service Centre

hm Abdul Ra

Ne

Ezdan Mall

air uk W Al

SOUQ AL WAKRA

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Labour Dept

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Ezdan

2

Al Meera

Sand Mound

M kra Wa

Y

t

Jama’a Hamza Bin AbdulMutlab

t iyah S Al Jam

Al Wakra Yard Farmers Market

Almana Fuso Mitsubishi Service

Al

Majlis Al Taa

S wo n

Park

Al Wakra Qatar Motors Academy Al Aurouba St

Al Meera

Al Wakra Gems American Academy

Nissan Service Seef Petrol

Doha British

Vision Int’l

St Taawon

English Modern School Al Wakra

Coffee Time

South Security Vehicle Reg Civil Defence

A l J a m i ya h S t

Al Wakra Sports Club

Al Majlis

Public Beach

oa

S zi Ra Al

u Al M

St thaf

Dhow Fishing Harbour

St

l aba Al J

St

Al Sh ati S t

Ooredoo Mast

Al Janoub Stadium 2022 FIFA World Cup QatarTM Do

Mesai eed

Al Shamal Rd

ha pr

Road

Ex es sw ay

Wadi Al Afja St

Wadi Al Afja St Do ha Ex pr es sw ay

Mesaieed Mesaieed Road

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Primary Health Centre

Mosque

Hospital

Castle

Petrol Station

Restaurant Coffee Shop

Hotel

School

Ras Al Jabal St

Time Rako

7

Khor Al Adaid Sealine Beach Resort Mesaieed Hamad Port

Al Wakra Family Beach

10.2020 marhaba.qa

WOQOD

MARHABA

44 AL WAKRA MAP M79.indd 1

12/5/20 11:57 AM

7

a Road Are

Hamad Port

Street

QP HQ

Light Industries Area

Street

Street

C4

MESAIEED INDUSTRIAL CITY

MIC Management Office Mesaieed Health Center

C1 Community C3 C2 Co mm erc ial B

City

2

Qatalum Village

ial str du

Mesaieed

Al Majd Road to Ras Laffan, Al Khor & Lusail City connecting with Industrial Area, Salwa Road, Dukhan Road & Al Wajba

Light Industrial St 701

In

Doha Hamad Int’l Airport Al Wakra

C5 3

Mesaieed Port 1

2

ed Mesaie

Sealine Road

Refinery

City St

Heavy Industries Area

Por tR oa d

QATALUM SILOS

4 QAFAC

Gas Operations

Sealine Beach Resort Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea)

Gas Operations

C1

II

C2 C3 C4

10.2020 marhaba.qa

I

C5

QP Central Office Dunes Mall Community Area MIC Int’l School Girls Public School Boys Public School Norwegian School Al Maha Club Al Shaheen Club Al Dana Club Al Banush Club Mesaieed Golf Club

©

Petrol Station Mosque Community Park B Banks Qatar National Bank Doha Bank Commercial Bank 1 Security Gate 1 2 Security Gate 2 3 Gabbro Security Gate 4 Port Security Gate

MARHABA

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3

1 h Do

Lusail, Al Khor Al Shamal Rd Dukhan Rd

al

St

Y

al St

New Industrial Area

Milaha

Logistics Village Qatar

A

Al Wakra Al Janoub Hospital d Stadium Roa r i a uk Al Wukair lW

7

SOUTHEAST COAST IWPP

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ad

Me

saie

Po

Ro

2

Roa

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Doha Metro Red Line

Al Wakra

Barwa Al Baraha

rt

Major highways

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Barwa Commercial Ras a Religious Barwa Ro Ave Abu rea Complex Funtas lA Village Barwa ria ust City Al Wakra Ind d Karwa Metro Station oa Mall gR Al Wakra Rin QRC G Yard

tri us nd

tri us Ind

Rawdat Rashed (Al Sheehaniya) Mekaines Bu Samra Salwa, KSA

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5

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Industrial Area

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Sailiya

Masaken Al Sailiya Central Market

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Al Majd (Orbital) Road

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WOQOD

Hamad International Airport

sB Ra

Doha

aE

Aspire St Zone Al Waab

2

Ras Bu Aboud Stadium Hamad Int’l Airport

QFZ Free Zone Um Alhoul

Marsa Port

Al Majd (Orbital) Road

WOQOD

Intrepid explorers tackle the daunting dunes in the south of the country

Hamad Port

Hamad Port

Mesaieed Sand Dunes

Sand Dunes

Sealine Beach Resort

Sand Dunes

Sand dunes meet the sea!

A stupendous, sandy sight and World Heritage site (you must see it at least once while you are in Qatar)

Sand Dunes

Doha

Khor Al Adaid

Mesaieed Sand Dunes

Khor Al Adaid

The Inland Sea 10.2020 marhaba.qa

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

MARHABA

000 46 SOUTHEAST COAST M79.indd 1

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Medical & Educational District North

LUSAIL CITY

North Residential Villas 6 oute oad (R stal R or Coa Al Kh

Current development of Qetaifan Island North will include this world-class waterpark

Projected Golf District

Waterfront Residential

Projected Golf District

)

Qetaifan Island North

Waterfront Residential

Fox Hills North

Lusail Stadium 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar TM

Lusail QNB Doha Metro Red line Lusail Al Wakra

rd

ouleva

ercial B

Comm

Metro Station

Energy City Qatar

Energy City Qatar

Fox Hills South

Crescent Park

Katara Towers

Beverly Hills Lusail

Place Vendome Vendome Mall

hor

Al K

Energy City Qatar

Coa

Qatar Petroleum District

l Ro

sta

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Entertainment Island

WOQOD

Lusa

Al

Lusail Marina

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tre

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MOCI

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Shafallah Centre

QNTC

Marina District

Qatar University

Katara Hospitality Doha Golf Club

QIPCO

Metro Station

10.2020 marhaba.qa

Qatar University Š

MARHABA

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DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

MARHABA

48 MOWASALAT AD M79.indd 1

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Getting Around Qatar

PRINT and ONLINE

marhaba.qa

VIP Limousines: Available at Hamad International Airport and all major five-star hotels.

Karwa Public Bus and Metro Link Mowasalat (Karwa) services an extensive public bus network with a modern and clean fleet. In addition to the regular routes, the Metro Link buses transport guests from dedicated Metro Link bus stops to the nearest Metro Station.

For information about routes, trip planning and electronic ticket purchase, download the Karwa Bus App, or call 800 7433.

The Doha Metro is now opening a new dimension in Doha’s public transport.

Karwa Taxis Karwa Taxi is the exclusive taxi operator in the State of Qatar. On arrival at Hamad International Airport (HIA), just follow the signs for the taxi rank and stressfree transportation. Download the Karwa Taxi App for bookings, call 800 8294, or hail from the side of the road. Taxis can always be found at prominent locations: malls, entertainment areas, hotels, etc. Travellers with special needs can book a minivan via the app, suitable for two or three wheelchairs and accompanying passengers. The same tariff will apply.

Tariff

Day: Meter starts at QAR10 (includes the first 5 km), then QAR1.6 per km inside Doha and QAR1.9 outside Doha. Minimum fare is QAR10.

Night: Meter starts at QAR10 (includes the first 5 km), then QAR1.9 per km both inside and outside Doha. Minimum fare is QAR10.

At HIA: Meter starts at QAR25.

Waiting charge: QAR8 for every 15 minutes.

Doha Limousine (Karwa) Doha Limousines provides three categories of limousine – Standard, Luxury and Business. All are available at the HIA limousine rank, by booking through the Karwa Taxi App or by calling 800 5466. They can be booked for specific journeys, by the hour, or rented on a short-term or long-term basis. All limousines are metered and tracked by the operation team.

Cost per journey: Prices start from a minimum rate of QAR55 from the airport and QAR40 from within the city. Overall charges depend on the category of vehicle and distance.

Other Taxi/Limousine Services Al Futtaim Vehicle Rentals Al Sulaiman Rent A Car Oasis Rent A Car Uber and Careem

4035 8000 4491 1711 4413 0011 Download the apps

Doha Metro The Doha Metro Red Line was the first line to open in 2019, extending from Lusail to Al Wakra. The Green Line runs from Al Mansoura district to Al Riffa in the west. The Gold Line runs from Ras Bu Aboud to Al Aziziya. Travel cards and credit can be purchased at self-service Travel Card Vending Machines (TVMs) in all Doha Metro stations.

105, qr.com.qa

Getting Around Qatar

The most visible taxis and public buses in Qatar are operated by Mowasalat (Karwa). Karwa Taxis and buses are turquoise, comfortable, clean, air-conditioned and safe.

Single journey: Card costs QAR3 for Standard/ Family Class and QAR15 for Gold Club.

Day pass: QAR9 (Standard), QAR 15 (Family Class), QAR45 (Gold Club), unlimited for one day.

Standard Travel Card: A reusable plastic card (valid for five years) costing QAR10, with Travel Credit added by ‘Topping Up’ from a TVM. This Travel Card does not permit travel in the Gold Club sections. This card is currently available at licensed retailers like LuLu, Jumbo and Carrefour.

Gold Travel Card: A reusable plastic card (valid for five years) costing QAR100 available from the Gold Club offices at Doha Metro stations. This card permits travel in the Gold Club sections. Add Travel Credit by ‘Topping Up’ at a TVM at any Doha Metro and Lusail Tram stations.

Purchase a Standard or Gold Travel Card and top up per your journey. Anyone aged five and above needs a Travel Card. Children aged four and below do not need a Travel Card and must be accompanied by a fare-paying adult. A child must be nine years old or above to travel alone on the network. Younger children should be accompanied by someone at least 16 years of age.

Operating hours: Saturday to Wednesday 6 am – 11 pm, Thursday 6 am – 11:59 pm, and Friday 2 pm – 11:59 pm. ©

MARHABA

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49 eBook GETTING AROUND QATAR M79.indd 1

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Al Rayyan Interchange

A l R a y y a n A l J a d e e d St Al Mukafaha Interchange

SABAH AL AHMAD CORRIDOR OPENS ANOTHER SECTION

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Ex pr es

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ay

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New interchange (previously Lekhwiya R/A)

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mad

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St

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Salwa Road Bridge

10.2020

marhaba.qa

*This new ‘double-decker’ section of Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor greatly improves traffic flow across Doha.

S

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The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) have completely opened Al Waab Interchange and Murraikh Interchange to traffic as part of the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor project works.

Ashghal had partially opened the two interchanges recently, and the opening of the rest of the junctions provides an alternative road parallel to Doha Expressway.

Al Waab Interchange and the old Lekhwiya Roundabout have been developed into two multi-level intersections, consisting of eight bridges and two main light signals.

This will help reduce the journey time by 80%, especially between Al Rayyan Interchange and Nasser Bin Salemein Al Suwaidi Interchange, which witnesses major traffic congestion.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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A new landmark in Doha: the suspension bridge over Salwa Road is Qatar's first

Half of the final bridge is now in use; when complete, capacity will double The opening includes the longest bridge in Qatar, which has a length of 2.6 km, and extends over both Al Waab Interchange and Murraikh Interchange to reach Al Mukafaha Interchange.

The vital bridge consists of four lanes in each direction to provide free-flowing traffic for those coming from Salwa Road and Al Waab in the direction of Al Rayyan and Al Rayyan Road, and vice-versa.

Ashghal has also opened a new flyover at Al Waab Interchange with a length of 1,140 m to link traffic on Al Waab Street and coming from Muaither in the direction of Al Rayyan, in addition to an overpass that connects traffic on Al Waab Street coming from Al Sadd and Doha Expressway, in the direction of Al Waab and Salwa Road, along a stretch of 740 m.

Š

MARHABA

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DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

MARHABA

52 QATAR RAIL AD M79.indd 2

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©

MARHABA

WINTER 2020/21

53 QATAR RAIL AD M79.indd 3

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al R am Sh Al oad

Greater Doha Metro System

IKEA

Al Majd Road Orbital

Al T

7

9

Arab Museum of Modern Art

Ezdan Mall

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Qatar

Premier Inn

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9 8

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Al Wajba

Al Shaqab

5

Al Ra yy

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Aspire Dome

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Khalifa International Stadium

Torch Tower Hotel

4 5

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Al Wajba St

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Al Fu ro

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St

Al Shedaida st

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Education City

Al Shafi St

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Hyatt Plaza

Al Aziziyah

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Mowasalat offers special deals for Karwa taxis for metro commuters. Karwa taxis provide services at a flat fare of QAR8; passengers travelling to and from any metro station can book a taxi through the Karwa App using promo code RAIL with a promotional fare for a journey within 3 km. Careem and Uber also offer taxi fare promotions to Doha Metro commuters.

Al Luqta St

Al Shaqab

Al W a j b

These services are provided strictly for Doha Metro customers registered with Qatar Rail, and are available during current operating hours, from 6 am to 11 pm (see below). Both can be booked through the app.

National7 4Library 3 1 2

Education City

Dukhan

Lan

Gulf Mall

Gha

erha

Interchange

Qatar Rail provides integrated answers for passengers via the Metroexpress and Metrolink services. Metroexpress is a free ride-sharing service, covering West Bay QIC and DECC stations. Operating from dedicated pick up/drop off points, the Metroexpress uses a fleet of branded Mercedes Vito vans, seating seven people per vehicle. Metrolink is a feeder bus service offering first and last mile connectivity within a 2 – 5 km radius of stations, and currently operates on 17 routes.

uh

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Mall of Qatar

Al Riffa

8

Education City Stadium

AlRayyan Hotel

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Al Gharrafa Sports Club

Sidra Medicine Mathaf

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Education City Golf Club

Al Shaqab

niya ezla

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Qatar National Library

Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC)

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Forming the backbone of Qatar’s public transport system and promoting its usage in the country, Doha Metro is an automated rail network, running mostly underground and across the city of Doha. The metro network consists of three lines – Red, Green and Gold – with 37 stations.

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Doha Metro

Doha Festival City

Operating hours: Saturday to Wednesday 6 am – 11 pm Thursday 6 am – midnight Friday 2 pm – midnight

2 Travel Cards

1

Standard

2

Gold Club

FARE PER PERSON

SINGLE JOURNEY

DAY PASS

Standard

QAR3

QAR9

Gold Club

QAR15

QAR45

Trains arrive every five minutes and the journey between stations is approximately three minutes. Use the app to plan your journey.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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In

52 GETTING AROUND QATAR M79.indd 4

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Qetaifan Islands (North)

Waterfront Residential

Fox Hills North

Lusail Stadium

Lusail

Katara Commercial Towers Boulevard

Crescent Park

Fox Hills South

Lusail City

Beverly Hills Lusail

Qatar Petroleum District

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Qatari Diar

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Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium (Lekhwiya Stadium)

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National Museum

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Plaza Inn

Al Doha Al Jadeda

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Al Mirqab Mall

National Museum of Qatar

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Grand Hamad

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Doha Clinic Hospital

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Al Bidda Park

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MARHABA a akr

WINTER 2020/21

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tria us Ind t

GETTING AROUND QATAR M79.indd 5

©

Al W

Soud Bin Abdulrahman St

Extensio n fro m Na jma S treet

IKEA

Vendome Mall

Energy City Qatar

53 12/3/20 4:02 PM

WE ARE CHANGING THE WORLD OF HOSPITALITY. Pride is what we feel when we look at our past. Passion is what inspires our present.

Perfection is our plan for tomorrow.

Katara Hospitality. Rejuvenating the iconic. Inspiring the future. Welcoming the world.

katarahospitality.com

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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Traveller Information

PRINT and ONLINE

marhaba.qa

Traveling to or from Qatar requires one to take many things into consideration. All visitors to Qatar require a visa, and certain passengers are eligible for visas on arrival. When travelling from Qatar, some expatriate residents and visitors must have exit permits. New less restrictive rules are being implemented. For your own convenience and comfort, it’s best to confirm these requirements before starting your journey.

*Though information is updated every issue, details can change. Check with the airline in advance for up to date information. Visit the HIA website, dohahamadairport.com, to be aware of travel safety measures in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For details on visas, residence permits and entry requirements, see Living in Qatar in this section or visit gov.qa and dohahamadairport.com

Visas Citizens from at least 80 countries (see below) can get a tourist visa on arrival in Qatar. They can also choose to apply for a pre-approved visa using the new online service. Nationals of 243 countries can apply via this online visa service. qatarvisaservice.com

Traveller Information

Hamad International Airport (HIA) is Qatar’s gateway to the world, and the home and hub of Qatar Airways, Qatar's five-star airline. HIA serves over 360,000 flights and 30 mn passengers every year.

Since its opening in May 2014, HIA has welcomed over 120 mn passengers. From April 2019 to March 2020, HIA served a total of 37,953,257 passengers. HIA also recorded 2,197,226 tonnes of cargo operations, 1.97% more than the previous year. It also recorded 228,896 aircraft movements, including take-offs and landings, which marked an increase of 1.75% from the previous year.

Other visas include business visit, an official visit and a work visa. Eligible Qatari companies may apply for these visas in advance of your visit. Visit the Ministry of Interior (MOI) or the Metrash 2 website at moi.gov.qa or the e-Government Hukoomi website at gov.qa for details.

Regardless of the Qatar blockade by GCC countries Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain, citizens of the GCC can get a one month visa on arrival. Residents requiring a visa are subject to conditions, one being that the applicant's profession is one of those approved by the MOI. The visa will only be issued if your Residence Permit (RP) is valid for at least six months and if your profession (as mentioned on your RP) appears on the approved list.

All expatriates living and working in Qatar must have a residence permit or a visit-to-work visa.

Requirements can change, so it is always prudent to check with the Qatari Embassy or airline well in advance of your visit. See Living in Qatar in this section for details on residence permits.

Visas on Arrival • • • • • • • • • •

Andorra • Argentina • Australia • Austria • Azerbaijan • Bahamas • Belarus • Belgium • Bolivia Brazil • Brunei • Bulgaria • Canada • Chile • China • Colombia • Costa Rica • Croatia • Cuba Cyprus • Czech Republic • Denmark • Ecuador • Estonia • Finland • France • French Guiana Germany • Georgia • Greece • Guyana • Hong Kong • Hungary • Iceland • India • Indonesia Ireland • Italy • Japan • Kazakhstan • Latvia • Lebanon • Liechtenstein • Lithuania • Luxembourg Macedonia • Malaysia • Maldives • Malta • Mexico • Moldova • Monaco • Netherlands New Zealand • Norway • Pakistan • Panama • Paraguay • Peru • Poland • Portugal • Romania Russia • San Marino • Seychelles • Singapore • Slovakia • Slovenia • South Africa South Korea • Spain • Suriname • Sweden • Switzerland • Thailand • Turkey • UK • Ukraine Uruguay • USA • Vatican City • Venezuela

Things to consider When paying your visa fee, the passport control counters will only accept credit and debit cards. Use the designated bank counter for cash payment.

Don’t commence your journey before confirming visa requirements and checking the expiry date on your passport. This will help minimise any inconvenience or delays during travel.

If for any reason you’re denied entry into Qatar, then the MOI and your airline will provide assistance. ©

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marhaba.qa eCash cards If you're eligible for a visa on arrival visit the Immigration desk and pay any appropriate fees using your credit or debit card. If you would like to pay in cash, visit the designated bank counter before approaching Immigration. The bank will charge a fee (QAR25) to process your payment.

Traveller Information

Entry visas Tourist entry visa: One month – QAR100 plus QAR50 for each c* (companion registered on the passport).

Tourist entry visa (sponsored): One month – QAR100.

GCC residents visit visa: One month with an extension period of three months – QAR100 plus QAR50 for each c* per month, subject to conditions.

Joint tourist visa for Qatar and Oman: One month costs QAR100 with an extension period of a month.

Business entry visa: For one month and a maximum of three months – QAR200 plus QAR50 for each c* Family visit visa: One month to a maximum of six months – QAR200 plus QAR50 for each c* per month. Expatriates with family status can bring parents and siblings on a visit of up to six months (up to three months for other relatives). A Medical Commission check-up is necessary to extend the visa beyond one month (within 72 hours of arrival).

Conversion of entry visa to visit/work/residence visas: QAR500 (without leaving the country).

Visit gov.qa to ensure you get the latest information and fees as they do change from time to time.

When flying with Qatar Airways, a transit visa is free of cost when you add a short transit or stopover between five and 96 hours in Doha to your itinerary without any additional fare charges. Use the multi-city booking option to include the stop when booking your flight on qatarairways.com or through a travel agent.

Priority processing All Al Maha customers, special assistance travellers and unaccompanied minors receive priority processing on arrival at HIA.

Car rental, taxis and limousines See Getting Around Qatar in this section and Useful Numbers in the Motoring section.

Airlines (local agency in brackets) Air India Air India Express Air France & KLM American Airlines Badr Airlines Biman Bangladesh Cathay Pacific (TOT) Cebu Pacific (RTT) Ethiopian Airlines IndiGo Iran Air Kuwait Airways Middle East Airlines MEA Nepal Airlines Oman Air

4416 1651 4038 7373 4036 0582 4499 5736 4482 9214 4441 3054 4445 8318 4435 3774 4416 1010 4036 7777 4432 3666 4442 2392 4434 2978 4431 7070 4414 2222

Pakistan Int’l Airlines Pegasus Philippine Airlines (ST) Qantas (DUT) Qatar Airways Qatar Airways Holidays Royal Air Maroc (ABA) Royal Jordanian SalamAir Singapore Airlines SriLankan Airlines (ABA) SyrianAir Tarco Air Turkish Airlines

4442 4442 4422 4036 4023 4423 4444 4442 4442 4499 4444 4441 3124 4443

6440 1807 7302 0602 0000 7937 1161 3888 0944 5740 1217 2912 2999 3028

*Due to the Qatar blockade, flights to and from Doha by Air Arabia, EgyptAir, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Flydubai, Gulf Air, and Saudi Arabian Airlines have been suspended.

Travel Agencies Ali Bin Ali Travel (ABA) Darwish United Travels (DUT) Mannai Air Travel Regency Travel & Tours (RTT) DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

4444 4445 4428 4434

1161 2276 2666 4444

Space Travel (ST) Tawfeeq Travels Trans Orient Travel (TOT)

4422 7333 4448 4848 4445 8458

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Have a healthy journey with all precautions taken to the finest detail for your in-flight safety.

Please visit turkishairlines.com to learn more about our travel standards and other details.

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Hamad International Airport

HIA Call Centre

4010 6666

Passport Department

4465 6490

Security

4010 9555

Lost luggage services

4462 6531

dohahamadairport.com

Airport Arrivals/Departures Meet and Assist Airport Service: 4465 6672 Al Maha Services offers a personalised Meet and Assist Service for customers arriving, departing or transiting through HIA. Bookings for Al Maha Services can be made at their designated desk in the arrivals and departures terminals 24/7 and online. Al Maha can handle the visit visa arrangements for your guests. al-mahaservices.com eGate: The MOI has activated free eGate service for expatriate passengers at the arrivals and departures terminals of HIA. Expatriates and their children above 18 years of age can avail of the service using their residence cards or passports after registration at the airport.

HIA currently has 40 e-gates installed – 21 at the departures terminal and 19 at the arrivals terminal.

At least 2 mn people use the e-gates each year.

The service comes under the 'smart passengers' project inaugurated in early 2017. Twenty new e-gates with 10 each at the departure and arrivals terminals were installed in 2018.

Self-service kiosks: The self-service kiosks implemented in the terminal by HIA as part of its Smart Airport programme has automated the check-in, bag-drop and pre-immigration security processes, which has allowed departing passengers to be processed even faster. With the use of innovative software solutions that forecast passenger traffic in real-time and measure waiting times, the airport was able to proactively minimise queuing times. HIA recently installed 62 self-checkin and 12 self-bag-drop kiosks, which include biometric technology capability.

Hamad International Airport

HIA (airport code: DOH) is classified as a five-star airport by Skytrax. HIA was recently ranked 'Third Best Airport in the World', among 550 airports worldwide, by the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2020.

HIA was also voted the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ for the sixth year in a row and ‘Best Staff Service in the Middle East’ for the fifth year in a row. HIA is also the first airport in the MENA region to be available on Google Street View, with Google launching 360-degree imagery of the airport. The world-class facility has recently been voted as the 'Best Airport in the Middle East' at the Global Traveler’s GT Tested Reader Survey Awards in Los Angeles. The architectural masterpiece combines innovation and beauty, and includes a shopping emporium, five-star hotel and world-class art installations.

Parking: The Short Term Car Park (STCP) is located near the passenger terminal. It offers covered spaces and easy access via dedicated walkways.

The East STCP is more convenient for passengers flying with Qatar Airways, while the West STCP is better suited for passengers travelling with other airlines. Valet parking is available in both the Long Term (LTCP) and STCP. The STCP is free for the first 10 minutes, thereafter charges QAR6 per hour. A lost ticket will cost QAR35.

The LTCP rate is QAR55 per day (or for every completed 24 hours) or QAR2 per hour (or any part thereof). A lost ticket will cost QAR35 in addition to the actual tariff for the duration of parking.

HIA’s parking fees remain one of the lowest in the world. HIA is currently working on adding premium parking services with a valet service.

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marhaba.qa Bus: Doha’s bus network connects HIA to various destinations across the city. Your bus fare can only be paid with a Karwa Smartcard. If you don’t already have one, purchase a disposable Karwa Smartcard from the Mowasalat Information Desk near Baggage Claim Belts 5 and 6.

• QAR10 Card: two inner-city trips within a 24 hour period

Hamad International Airport

• QAR20 Card: unlimited trips across Qatar within a 24 hour period • Regular Karwa Smartcard QAR30: QAR10 for the card with QAR20 value, available to be topped up for future journeys All buses depart from the Bus Pavilion located to the right of the passenger terminal. Exit the Arrivals hall by following the signs to the Bus Pavilion or ask at an information desk for assistance. Each bus offers a cargo area for stowing your baggage during the journey. The Karwa Bus App is avaliable on iOS and Android.

For bus routes, visit dohahamadairport.com Taxis: The bright turquoise Karwa Taxis are a convenient way to get to and from HIA. They are regulated by the government, and are safe and metered. With a base fare of QAR25, taxis accept cash or card payments in Qatari Riyals. Call 4458 8888 or 800 8294. Karwa Taxi App is avaliable on iOS and Android.

Booking a PRM taxi: If you need to book special taxis for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) call Mowasalat directly on 4458 8888, providing as much advance notice as possible.

Limousines: Chauffeur-driven limousines are available to take you from HIA to anywhere in Qatar.

To pre-book call Mowasalat Limousine on 800 5466. Use Exits 2 or 3 to leave the Arrivals area and you will find your limousine parked there.

For on-arrival booking simply approach the Mowasalat Limousine kiosk located in the Arrivals hall. For more information, visit mowasalat.com HIA Metro Station: The Doha Metro’s Red Line South station at HIA allows easy access to passengers to and from the airport with a Travel Card, costing QAR10 and you can top-up at just QAR3 per ride. Passengers will be allowed to carry two large luggage items in addition to their small bags, which must not exceed 85 cm x 60 cm x 30 cm in size. Passengers will be able to put their luggage in specially allotted areas in the trains. Doha Metro is operational Saturday – Wednesday from 6 am – 11 pm, Thursday 6 am to 11:59 pm and Friday 2 pm – 11:59 pm. For more information, call 105 or visit qr.com.qa

Arrivals Up to 360,000 aircraft per year can be handled at HIA. The eastern runway is 4,850 metres long, making it one of the longest commercial runways in the world.

Immigration: Prior to departure from their point of origin, Doha passengers must ensure they have a valid passport, and a Residence Card, before making their way to Immigration. Citizens and residents may also use the provided eGate facilities. After immigration, passengers will proceed to the baggage reclaim area. Check moi.gov.qa and dohahamadairport.com for specific requirements.

Customs regulations: After you’ve collected your checked baggage, exit the airport by passing through Customs. There are two Customs channels to choose from, depending on whether you have something to declare or not. Personal items are not usually subject to tax though luggage is inspected upon arrival. Travellers coming into Qatar must have prescriptions for medicines carried. Refer to the IATA website for specific customs regulations.

The import of firearms, alcohol, e-cigarettes and pork in any form is strictly forbidden. iata.org

Finding your check-in counter at HIA For Qatar Airways First or Business Class passengers: If you’re flying with Qatar Airways as a First or Business Class passenger, proceed to the Departure hall through Entry Gate 1 and, if required, use the East Short Term Car Park (STCP). For Qatar Airways First Class passengers, proceed to Al Safwa First in Row 1, which offers private seated check-in desks, a concierge, bellhops and other exclusive facilities. If travelling in Qatar Airways Business Class, proceed to Al Mourjan Business in Row 2.

For Qatar Airways Privilege Club members: If you are a Qatar Airways Privilege Club member or a oneworld customer, your check-in counter is located in Row 4 and if required, use the West STCP. For Qatar Airways Economy Class passengers: If you’re flying with Qatar Airways as an Economy Class passenger, then enter the Departure hall through Entry Gates 2 and 3. Check-in counters are located in Rows 4 to 6 and all other airline counters are from Rows 7 to 10. If required, use the West STCP. For other airlines: If you’re flying with any airline other than Qatar Airways, then you will find it easiest to enter the Departure hall through Entry Gate 4, and, if required, use the West STCP. DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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marhaba.qa Departures Exit Permit: Some expatriate residents of Qatar are required to obtain an exit permit from their sponsor when exiting the country. The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani signed Law No 13 of 2018 (Amending Law) in September 2018, amending certain provisions of Law No 21 of 2015 that required all migrant workers getting permission from their employers before leaving Qatar.

Exit Tax: QAR35, HIA's exit tax, will automatically be added to an individual’s ticket price. The tax also applies to transit passengers.

Regulations for hand luggage: When departing from HIA, worldwide regulations apply regarding all liquids, gels, pastes, aerosols, and electronic devices.

In February 2018, HIA and Qatar Airways successfully completed the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Electronic Bag Tag (EBT) readability tests, making HIA the first airport in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region confirmed ready to accept EBTs. The programme aims to provide a more seamless travel experience for passengers, including reduced time spent in queues, a simplified baggage drop process and increased relaxation time at the airport, as well as providing greater operating and carbon efficiency.

Check-in: Online check-in is available for most airlines, and on Qatar Airways’ website at qatarairways.com, 36 hours to 90 minutes prior to the flight departure time to most countries.

Passengers can choose a seat, print a boarding pass or have a bar-coded boarding pass sent to a mobile phone in simple and convenient easy-to-use steps.

Lounges The Oryx Lounge offers a comfortable atmosphere to sit, relax and enjoy the superior hospitality provided by the Oryx Lounge staff. The lounge offers food and beverage services, a smoking room, business centre, lockers, a quiet zone, internet facility and a gaming room for kids. All airlines' premium passengers and select card holders (AMEX, HSBC and Barwa Bank) are eligible for complimentary access to the Oryx Lounge. Economy passengers will be able to gain access to the lounge for a nominal fee of QAR200 for six hours.

The resort-like Al Mourjan Business Lounge is open to Qatar Airways and oneworld First Class and Business Class passengers at no additional cost, while Economy Class passengers throughout the network can purchase lounge access at the check-in counters, preferred travel agents, or Qatar Airways' sales offices.

The luxurious Al Safwa First Lounge is where you can enjoy delicious à la carte dining, luxury spa and treatment facilities, a full business centre, a cinematic media room and an exclusive family area. In addition to First Class passengers, Privilege Club Platinum members travelling Business Class with Qatar Airways can now access Al Safwa First Class Lounge with up to two guest passes.

Hamad International Airport

The amended law, which came into effect on 28 October 2018, allows most migrant workers covered by the Labour Law to leave the country without having to obtain an exit permit. Employers in Qatar can still submit names of workers for whom a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) would be required before granting them permission to leave the country, according to justifications based on the nature of the work.

is nearing its departure time. Dedicated lanes are available for First and Business Class passengers.

Al Maha Lounges spread across the terminal and are open to customers of Al Maha Meet and Assist Services. Facilities include unlimited highspeed Wi-Fi, shower facilities, conference rooms, a smoking room, family rooms, a business centre and a nursery. Diner's Club card holders are welcome for free.

Check-in usually opens three hours before your flight’s departure time, and closes 60 minutes before your flight takes off. Carry all the required travel documents with you, including your ticket, passport, exit permit, Residence Card, and destination visas.

The newly opened Shafallah Center Lounge, a special handling lounge by HIA and Shafallah Center for Persons with Disability, is located on concourse C at the airport terminal and is for departing and transferring passengers with special needs, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The lounge features educational, rehabilitative and recreational interactive devices and equipment, and provides passengers with special needs with assistive technologies and solutions. Trained airport staff will be available for on-ground support. Those who want to access this facility can approach the airport staff.

Clearing passport control: Present your boarding pass to staff standing just before the passport control area. They will scan it, and fast-track you (through passport control and security check) if your flight

Also available are the First Class Lounge, Business Class Lounge, First and Business Class Arrivals Lounges, Unaccompanied Minors Lounge, and Special Assistance Travellers’ Lounge. ©

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marhaba.qa in for passengers with reduced mobility. This service desk is the first counter in each check-in row, with the exception of Qatar Airways’ checkin rows where it is the last counter. The seated check-in desks offered to Qatar Airways First Class passengers are all adapted for passengers with reduced mobility.

Hamad International Airport

The Airport Hotel Transferring customers are catered for with the very best in convenience, comfort and choice.

For convenience, there’s no need to leave the terminal to avail yourself of the hotel's services.

The rooms and facilities, including the adjoining wellbeing and fitness centre, provide the ultimate in comfort. And there’s excellent choice, with six room types and a range of packages and rates on offer. hiahotel.com

Relax in one of HIA's dedicated lounges for special assistance travellers, which offers adapted washrooms, comfortable seating, televisions and a trained attendant.

Traveling with animals

Connectivity Free wireless internet: Enjoy free wireless internet access throughout the passenger terminal. Just search for 'Free Internet by HIA' on your device.

Free internet kiosks and desks: Equipped with screens, keyboards and mice, the internet kiosks and desks offer you free web browsing. The kiosks are located throughout the passenger terminal (including the boarding gate areas). Meanwhile, the desks are available at each of five activity nodes.

Just follow the signs, ask at an information desk or use the airport map to find one nearest you.

Telephone booths: You can call anywhere in the world by purchasing a prepaid calling card from Qatar Duty Free (QDF). Telephone booths are located throughout the passenger terminal (including the boarding gate areas).

Medical and fire emergencies Fully-equipped and well-staffed medical centres are operational 24/7. There are two medical centres serving the passenger terminal. One is located in Arrivals just before the Passport Control area, while the other is in Departures near the Check-in area.

Just follow the signs, ask at an information desk or use an airport map to find your way. In case of an emergency, you can also call 4010 9222 to directly contact the medical team.

Special assistance HIA is entirely barrier-free – its network of elevators, escalators, ramps, walkways and passenger train offer simple access to passengers with reduced mobility. Check-in counters include adapted service desks designed to ease checkingDISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Free wheelchairs are available throughout the passenger terminal, ask at the nearest information desk. If you require assistance with moving around in a wheelchair, inform your airline in advance so that a personal helper can be arranged.

Washrooms adapted for passengers with reduced mobility are available at many points across the passenger terminal. Just follow the signs or ask at the nearest information desk.

The earlier you get in touch with your airline when you’re planning your travels, the smoother the journey will be for both you and your animal. Your airline and vet will advise you on the latest rules and regulations and the necessary documentation.

This includes medical certificates, vaccination records and test results. Your airline won’t be able to accept your animal for travel if the required documentation and suitable carriers are not available. See Pets in Living in Qatar in this section.

Shopping at duty free Qatar Duty Free (QDF) offers passengers an array of selected designer labels, high street fashions, electronics, gourmet foods and much more. Passengers at HIA can shop at boutiques and stores such as Bally, Bvlgari, Burberry, The Boulevard, Coach, Chanel Watches, Chopard, Esquire, Giorgio Armani, Harrods, Hermès, Hugo Boss, Michael Kors, Mont Blanc, Rolex, Swarovski, Tag Heuer, Tiffany, Virgin Megastore, and WH Smith. 4010 4167, qatardutyfree.com.qa

Dining Across the airport, HIA offers passengers a taste of everything, from gourmet to on-the-go! Enjoy a meal at HIA's signature restaurant, Marché, designed to satisfy the palates and pockets of every passenger, or at any of the airport's other restaurants such as Seafood Bar, Eat Street or Camden Food Co. Try Qatar’s first and only completely plant-based café, Evergreen Organics.

Grab a hot drink or a quick bite from the Coffeshop Company, Jamocha Café, Argo Tea Café, Farggi, L'eto Café, Harrods Tea Room and more.

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'Untitled' by Rudolf Stingel

'Desert Horse' by Ali Hassan

'Oryxs' by Tom Claassen

Hamad International Airport

'Lamp Bear' by Urs Fischer

Art Installations The works of art you can see at HIA are a mix of acquired pieces and others created especially for their spaces. The latter include works by local artists – for example, Qatari artist Faraj Duham was commissioned to create large-scale murals, while Qatari artist Ali Hassan produced the 'Desert Horse' sculpture.

The most popular art installation at HIA is 'Lamp Bear' by Swiss artist Urs Fischer, which sits prominently at the heart of the airport. In the Arrivals Hall stand a series of sculptures of the oryx, an antelope native to the Arabian Peninsula, called 'Oryx' created by Dutch artist Tom Claassen, as well as 'Untitled' by Italian artist Rudolf Stingel. Stingel’s work at HIA is one of his famous large-scale interactive pieces. He covered three surfaces of the piece with reflective, aluminium-faced insulation panels, before inviting the construction team at HIA to draw on the soft walls at the time of the airport’s construction. The walls were then cast in copper and electroplated with gold, before a number of pieces were selected for permanent display at HIA.

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Hamad International Airport

marhaba.qa

'Arctic Nurseries of El Dorado' by Marc Quinn

'The Flying Man' by Dia Al Azzawi

'The Flying Man' by Dia Al Azzawi

'Other Worlds' by Tom Otterness

'Other Worlds' by American sculptor Tom Otterness is a series of eight large-scale, interactive, bronze sculptures spread throughout the activity nodes in Concourse C at HIA. With slides and seats for limbs and play-pen-like chambers for torsos, these figures invite both children and adults to engage, interact and find recreational enjoyment in the sculptures.

Marc Quinn’s mesmerising work 'Arctic Nurseries of El Dorado' graces the airport's expansive check-in hall, and is a representation of an almost mythical world. Comprising a number of bronze sculptures, Quinn creates a series of hybrid plants by taking elements from different vegetation and carefully piecing them together, before casting them in bronze.

'The Flying Man', which are two iconic sculptures designed by renowned Iraqi artist Dia Al Azzawi and have been installed in HIA’s passenger terminal for passengers. The sculptures are based on the story of Abu Firnas, a historical figure from the Islamic world who was an early pioneer in experimenting with flight.

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Hamad International Airport

'Mappemondes' by Adel Abdessamed

'Small Lie' by KAWS

'COSMOS' by Jean-Michel Othoniel

More pieces will be installed over time, from international artists including Adel Abdessemed, Maurizio Cattelan, Don Gummer, Keith Haring, Damien Hirst, Jenny Holzer, Anselm Reyle and Bill Viola. m

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The latest art piece at HIA is 'COSMOS' by contemporary French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel. It represents a colossal celestial globe echoing the trajectories of travellers from around the world. The striking piece resembles bright calligraphy drawn in space when observed side-on or from below, and appears in the shape of a blooming rose when observed from the front. COSMOS joined the latest artwork ‘Small Lie’, which was unveiled along with Qatar Museums (QM) in March 2018 at Concourse E. The large-scale figure, which is approximately 30 feet tall, was made by American pop artist and designer KAWS in collaboration with QM.

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See Doha From the Sea! Whether you are visting or living in Qatar, one thing you cannot miss is a dhow cruise on the Doha bay.

From pearl diving to fishing to trading with neighbouring countries, Qatar enjoys a unique relationship with the open seas. Experience the country’s seafaring heritage cruising aboard a traditional wooden Qatari dhow. Dhow is the generic name for a number of traditional sailing vessels with one or more masts with lateen sails.

Dhows can easily be found at Doha Corniche. A variety of colourful dhows dock along the 7 km long waterfront promenade, waiting to pickup passengers for a dhow cruise lasting anything from 30 minutes to four hours or more.

There are various local tour companies that offer dhow cruises. Full-day, halfday and evening sightseeing excursions, including a meal, can be arranged via a hotel or through any of the leading local tour companies. See Sightseeing in the Discovering Qatar section.

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There are more things to do and see in Qatar than you might imagine and so if you only have a short time here, plan your time wisely. Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC), formerly known as Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA), has a comprehensive online portal on Qatar's diverse attractions, visitqatar.qa. Check our website at marhaba.qa for what to do at the weekend as well as news, reviews and more! Pick up the Marhaba Pocket Map to help you get around Qatar as efficiently as possible.

Top Ten Things To Do in Qatar

Sightseeing

1 One of the first things to do in Qatar is visit the 7 km Doha Corniche C4 for a walk and spectacular views of the Doha skyline. Make sure to go on a short dhow cruise around the bay.

2 Also on the Corniche are the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) C4 and Al Riwaq C4 showcasing the best of Qatar's exhibits. The MIA Park C4 boasts expansive landscaping and Richard Serra's vertical steel sculpture, '7'. Take a walk around the newly reopened and lush green Al Bidda Park C4!

3 Across the Corniche is the new National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) D4, which is a physical manifestation of the story of Qatar and its people. Then walk around the NMoQ Park with a Heritage Garden of native Qatari plants, a lagoon, public artworks, playgrounds, cafés, kiosks and more.

4 Visit the old and traditional Souq Waqif D4 for garments, spices, handicrafts, souvenirs, restaurants and shisha lounges. Don't forget to bargain! The nearby Gold Souq D4 is your jewellery stop. Also visit Souq Al Wakra F5, a 'heritage village' with markets, shops and restaurants along the seafront.

5 Spend a few hours at Katara Cultural Village B4. Admire the architecture, visit the galleries or enjoy watersports at the beach. Nearby is The Pearl-Qatar B4, an artificial island, featuring luxury shopping and dining, Mediterranean-style yacht-lined marinas, upmarket residential towers, villas and internationally renowned hotels. The lush Doha Golf Club is worth a visit, too!

6 Go shopping! New malls are opening all the time – try Tawar Mall C3, Doha Festival City B2 or Mall of Qatar C1. For more traditional shopping, visit local souqs. See the Shopping in Qatar section.

7 Keep fit by playing a round of golf at the new Education City Golf Club C2 or walking around 'Sporty City', Aspire Zone D2, which includes Aspire Park D2, Villaggio Mall D2 and KidZania Doha D2.

8 Explore the waters off Qatar's coast. Go scuba diving, snorkelling, paddle boarding, or opt to join a group kayak trip through the mangroves. See the Sports Activities in the Sports section.

9 Transport yourself back in time at the numerous fortresses and ruins throughout Qatar such as Al Zubara Archaeological Site and Zekreet.

10 And finally, refuel after a busy day of sightseeing – Qatar has everything from Michelin‑starred restaurants to cheap and cheerful local treats.

Doha Bus: HOP-ON HOP-OFF On your Doha Bus day or night sightseeing tour, you will pick up a complimentary tour guide that includes a full colour route map. The bus is equipped with an audio device that operates according to the global GPS navigation system; available in multiple languages. A variety of tour packages are available, including desert safaries. Tour map and details at dohabus.com Doha Metro: TAP IN, TAP OUT To move around the city easier and faster, use the now fully operational Doha Metro, a rapid transit system across Doha and also outside Doha to suburbs such as Al Wakra, Al Wajba and Lusail City. The Doha Metro currently has three lines – Red, Green and Gold – with an approximate overall length of 76 km and 37 stations.

National Cruise: SEE DOHA FROM THE SEA Step aboard one of the most luxurious traditional dhows in Qatar, approved by QNTC. The company offers diverse cruise themes and voyages, providing four safe and pleasant premier touristic experiences including food, sightseeing and day cruises as well as special events and private trips. ©

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Use the Metro Discover the many interesting places Doha has to offer by using the Doha Metro. Enjoy a comfortable journey in a state-of-the-art automated rail network.

DECC

DECC St

HISTORY, HERITAGE & CULTURE

Qatar has its own unique culture, and where better to appreciate this than at the National Museum of Qatar.

Designed by the renowned French architect, Jean Nouvel.

CON & EX

National Museum of Qatar

Souq Waqif

The State Mosque

Qatar National Library

National Museum Station

Souq Waqif Station

Corniche Station

Qatar National Library Station

Doha wellMeet Exhi Conv open Natio iconi in Q hold Thea

SPORTS & LEISURE Education City Mosque

Katara Cultural Village

Qatar National Library Station

Katara Station

Souk Al Wakra

Museum of Islamic Art

AL Wakra

Souq Waqif Station

Station

Green spaces abound in the city which provides peaceful escapes for all and facilities for active people: running and cycling tracks, human maze, gym and exercise equipment, basketball, volleyball and tennis courts, children’s playgrounds, horse and camel rides, barbecue areas and beautiful natural landscapes perfectly suited to family picnics.

Legtaifiy

Katara S Aspire Park

Education City Golf Club

Oxygen Park

AL Aziziyah

Education City Station

Qatar National Library Station

Station

Msheireb Museums

Museum of Islamic Art Park

Al Bidda Park

Doha Golf Club

Qatar National Library Station

Msheireb Station

Souq Waqif Station

AL Bidda

Legtaifiya Station

C4

& Corniche Stations

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Lagoon

Galerie

Qatar Philarmonic Orchestra

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FIFA World Cup 2022TM

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DECC

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DECC Station

Qatar National Library Station

CONVENTIONS & EXHIBITIONS

Doha boasts two of the most modern and well-quipped venues in the world of Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE). Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) has the largest open space hall available in Qatar. The Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) is an iconic and impressive building proudly rooted in Qatar’s culture. The main conference hall holds up to 4,000 delegates & the Al Mayassa Theater is a glorious venue for 2300 guests.

Whether you are active and athletic or just a spectator, Qatar is constructing an amazing array of eight new stadiums to showcase the FIFA World Cup 2022TM. They beautifully reflect Qatari culture as well as cater for the demands of modern sports tournaments. All, except for Al Bayt and Al Thumama stadiums, are accessible using the Doha Metro network.

Have a day trip travelling to see them all!

Ras Abu Aboud Stadium

Khalifa International Stadium

Ras Bu Abboud Station

Sport City Station

Al Rayyan Stadium

Education City Stadium

SHOPPING & FASHION

AL

Riffa Station

Education City Station

Lagoona Mall

Gate Mall

Villaggio Mall

Legtaifiya Station

DECC Station

AL

Galeries Lafayette

Mall of Qatar

City Center Mall

Lusail Stadium

Al Janoub Stadium

Katara Station

AL Riffa Station

DECC Station

Lusail Station

AL

Al Thumama Stadium

Al Bayt Stadium

Aziziyah Station

New malls are regularly appearing on the landscape and are especially popular in summer when temperatures climb. They offer various indoor entertainment and leisure activities and have their own mix of branded shops and restaurants. Most venues are open until 11pm.

Wakra Station

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Sightseeing

Archaeological Sites, Forts and Ruins

If you want an insight into Qatar’s history, culture and heritage, visit one of the archaeological sites or old forts. Some of these heritage sites have been partially restored, while others exist as ruins or excavation sites. The location of forts can be found on the Marhaba map of Qatar.

For more information, visit the Qatar Museums (QM) website, qm.org.qa

Al Jumail Village On the northwest coast of Qatar lies the small traditional but ruined village of Al Jumail. It was inhabited by the Al Kubaisi family. It is a favourite weekend destination for local families, since it represents their heritage, history, the roots and origin of their ancestors.

The village comprises a set of important traditional buildings, including a small mosque with its minaret still intact. This village dates back to the second half of the 19th century and was inhabited until the beginning of the 20th century.

Al Ghuwair Castle The ruins of this 19th century rectangular fort lie 85 km northwest of Doha. Althought it carries a historical significance in Qatar's architectural stands, Al Ghuwair Castle is now almost in debris.

Al Huwaila Fort Prior to the development of Al Zubara (also written as Al Zubarah) and Doha, Al Huwaila was Qatar’s principal town and is 29 km north of Al Khor. The fort was built during the early Islamic period and was occupied by Al Musallam members of the Bani Khalid family in the 18th century.

Al Khor Tower and Museum The tower can be seen overlooking the corniche at Al Khor. It was built in 1900. Nearby is the museum – learn about the myth of Ghilan and Mae, the region’s first female pirate, and see the displays of marine life.

Al Koot Fort D4

Al Koot means both fort and jail. The building is on Jassim bin Mohammed Street. It was built in 1880 as a police station, became a jail in 1906, and is now a museum. It was renovated in the 1970s and many of the original features were lost.

Al Rakayat Fort (pictured)

A one-hour drive northwest of Doha, you'll discover an area of forts, traditional architecture and old villages. Al Rakayat is one of several desert forts dating back to the 19th century.

Located on the road between Al Zubara and Madinat Al Shamal, it is one of the few forts that were renovated in the 1980s. The restoration was done carefully so that the fort resembles the original structure. The remains of the original fort can still be seen in the courtyard.

Al Rakayat means 'well' in Arabic, therefore it is believed that the fort was built to protect the essential sources of water. The existence of a freshwater well in the fort itself and the scattered remains of a village close to the fort support this assumption. In addition, the fort was a secure place for the nearby population in case of potential conflicts between tribes.

Al Rakayat Fort has three rectangular towers and a round one. Around the three sides of the large central courtyard are aligned narrow rooms without windows, but with doors that open to the courtyard. The only entrance to the fort is located in the southern front wall.

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marhaba.qa Al Thaqab Fort (pictured) Al Thaqab Fort lies about 10 km from Al Zubara, on the eastern side of the road. With finds such as fragments of pottery and Indian glass bangles, the fort could possibly date back to the 19th century.

However the houses that surround it may indicate an earlier date.

Thaqab means the 'water in the bottom of the valley after rain'. Al Thaqab fort is one of the forts that was renovated in the 1980s but unfortunately, not authentically and carefully enough. In proximity to the fort, towards the west, there is a deep well that has been in use since 1911. The water is pumped out rather than hauled up in buckets, the latter representing an old and traditional custom still in practice today. Al Thaqab is a desert fort built of rough limestone blocks or flat slabs of beach-rocks (faroush), with three round corner towers and one rectangular tower. The inside of the fort, typically, was used by villagers to store food and water in case they were besieged.

One of Qatar’s oldest forts; it was the site of a famous battle in 1893 when Sheikh Qassim bin Mohammed Al Thani defeated the Ottomans.

Al Zubara and Al Zubara Archaeological Site A historic coastal town that is now abandoned, Al Zubara is situated approximately 100 km northwest of Doha. Founded in the mid-18th century, the town developed into a centre for pearling and international trade, and rose to become the country’s largest and most important settlement. The success of Al Zubara attracted the attention of other Gulf powers, and after several attacks the town was eventually burned to the ground in 1811. It never fully recovered and was abandoned by the mid-20th century.

Sightseeing

Al Wajbah Fort C1

Al Zubara Archaeological Site is Qatar’s largest heritage site. It has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be one of the best-preserved examples of an 18–19th century merchant town in the Gulf region. Al Zubara Archaeological Site covers an area of 60 hectares with remains of houses, mosques, large fortified buildings and a market.

With the help of an international and local team of archaeologists and scientists, the site of Al Zubara and the visitor centre in the nearby fort offer a key to understanding Qatar’s cultural identity and a model to explain the history of the pearl trade – a significant factor in the development of the modern Gulf region. Open to the public, daily 9 am – 5 pm.

Abraj Barzan (Barzan Towers) or Umm Slal Mohammed Fort, and Al Sharqi Two towers built in Umm Slal Mohammed. Burj Barzan (burj meaning tower, abraj towers) was built during the late 19th century in a unique 'T' shape, a rectangular construction with three levels and an external staircase. Both towers have been completely restored. 20 km north of Doha and built during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the fort was designed to combine civilian and military functions.

Bir Zekreet and Ras Abrouq The Ras Abrouq area is on the west coast, north of Dukhan, and is fascinating with its unusual landscape of white cliffs sculpted into strange shapes. This formation is known as hofuf, fine‑grained to pebbly coarse‑grained fluvial sandstones of the Late Miocene to Pliocene eras.

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marhaba.qa This area of Qatar never experienced permanent erected housing, however one proof of life is the fort at Bir Zekreet, which is also one of the only forts in the west. It is thought to have been built between 1809 and 1812. Around the remains of the fort is a settlement of small houses and archaeologists have discovered the remains of a building between the fort and the sea, housing three date‑presses. Here you will also find Richard Serra’s public art installation – 'East-West/West-East'.

Jabal Al Jassasiya Petroglyphs

Sightseeing

Al Jassasiya is one of a dozen rock-carving sites in Qatar. Rock carvings, so called ‘petroglyphs’, can be found around the coasts of Qatar as well as on Bahrain's Al Hawar Island. But the greatest number of carvings can be found at this major petroglyph site, north of Doha, on low limestone hills (jebel).

First discovered in 1957, the site was systematically studied in 1974 when 874 carved single figures and compositions were catalogued. These rock carvings consist mainly of cup marks in various arrangements, including rows, rosettes and stars, but also of carvings, such as boats, footprints and enigmatic symbols and signs. It is believed that the cup marks are used for playing ancient board games.

One of these board games may have been mancala. The game was known in Qatar as Al Haloosa or Al Huwaila. While it has previously been suggested that the earliest might date back to the Neolithic period, new evidence makes it likely that they are not more than a few hundred years old. To get there you will need a four‑wheel‑drive. Arrange a tour with a local tour operator (see Local Tour Companies at the end of this section), or call Qatar Museums, 4452 5555.

Jazirat bin Ghannam Island (Purple Island) (pictured) Excavations at this site 40 km north of Doha in the Al Khor area have brought to light several hearths and rectangular structures. Layers of shells have also been found – the shellfish (thais savigny) lives under rocks and produces a bright dye in contact with an enzyme and light. The site may have been used during the Bronze Age to produce dye. If true, it is the only documented dye production site in the Arabian Gulf, and the only one outside of the Mediterranean, where it was usually produced.

The island is also known for the mangrove trees, tolerant tropical trees that survive in salty, inter‑tidal, shallow lagoons where other plants rarely grow. There are almost 50 species of mangroves, but in Qatar there is only one, known as Grey Mangrove. Jazirat bin Ghannam is perfect for birdwatching, as a large number of migratory birds stay in the area during the winter. This is an open site with off‑road access, approximately 5 km from the main road. Find it on the map of Al Khor on page 34.

Murwab archaeological site Murwab is the only sizeable Islamic settlement in Qatar not located on the coast. Dating back to the 9–11th century, Murwab used to be a settlement of some 250 houses, constructed in groups, a residence and two mosques. Excavations have revealed also a group of tombs scattered around the groups of houses.

The Murwab palatial residence is known to be the oldest discovered Islamic palace in Qatar. The excavated foundation walls overlaying each other show clearly that the structure was rebuilt in the same place by reducing its size. This is a closed site.

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Beaches

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A day at the beach, sunbathing on the sand and swimming in the sea can be the perfect remedy for the stresses of the city. Luckily, Qatar is a peninsula; the coastline is over 560 km long, so there are plenty of beaches to choose from. Mesaieed is the most popular beach destination because it is the only place in Qatar where the sand dunes meet the water. Some, like the Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid) can only be reached by a four‑wheel‑drive while others, such as Al Wakra, are only a short drive away and suitable for all cars. Swimming in the Gulf waters is a relaxing experience, but beware of jellyfish in the summer! If you want to go camping, Ras Abrouq (Bir Zekreet) beach is very popular.

Many of Qatar's beaches are isolated with no facilities and there may be pollution and litter. Visitors to the busier family beaches should be aware that they need to wear appropriate clothing – nothing too revealing. Bring everything you need with you: food and plenty of water, sunscreen, towels and a first aid kit – and please take away all your rubbish.

Al Ghariya Just 4.5 km beyond Fuwairit (see entry on next page) is Al Ghariya beach. On Al Shamal (North) Road, take the Al Ghariya turnoff, follow the tarred road and keep to the right when the road splits. After the Al Ghariya Beach Resort, drive 1.5 km until you reach an abandoned village. The best spot is further north beyond the old Scout Camp.

Al Jassasiya Near the Jabal Al Jassasiya Petroglyphs is the beautiful turquoise waters and soft sand of Al Jassasiya beach, perfect for a camp or barbecue. The water is shallow and may not be suitable for swimming.

Al Mafjar Located in the historic and abandoned village of Al Mafjar in the northern tip of Qatar is Al Mafjar Beach, which is surrounded by abandoned historic ruins. It is a good beach for watersports, swimming, snorkelling and hiking. Al Mafjar Beach is close to Umm Tais National Park, an important protected habitat for birds and other animals.

Al Maroona Situated on the northern tip of Qatar, just before Fuwairit, Al Maroona is known as '42 km Beach' or 'French Beach'. The sand is soft and golden and the water is crystal clear with fascinating sea life to explore. You may see starfish, turtles, tiny hermit crabs, jellyfish and plenty of other fish.

Al Ruwais

At the northern tip of Qatar, at the end of Al Shamal (North) Road and about 110 km from Doha, are some quiet beach areas with coves and inlets, and picnic and shaded spots. The rock formations are very different in this region and wildlife such as dugongs (an aquatic animal) can be seen. Al Shamal Municipality has started implementing a project to provide the beach with shades and solar energy-run lights.

Al Sultan Beach Resort Located on Al Khor beach, Al Sultan Beach Resort is just a short drive from Doha. With its own private beach, sizable swimming pool and Jacuzzi, the resort is wonderful for water activities and just relaxing the day away. Opening times: Open 24/7. Admission: QAR125 adults, QAR75 children.

Contact: 4472 2555/2666, alsultanbeachresort.com ©

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Al Thakhira The largest area of mangroves – and the oldest – can be found around Al Thakhira and Al Khor.

A great way to explore the mangroves is by kayak, available from several tour operators and specialist companies. All of these can be booked in advance, and many companies offer both morning and afternoon trips. Al Khor is about 35 – 40 km from Doha. Drive through the town and bear left at the northern end of the Corniche, heading towards Al Thakhira. Turn right at the next roundabout; take the first left and pass through the gap between the houses. Heading left away from the village, pass the car park and jetty onto a track across the salt marsh, which eventually leads to a small wadi (desert depression) and then to the beach. At high tide the salt marsh can turn treacherous, so park near the wadi unless in a four‑wheel‑drive vehicle.

Al Wakra The old fishing town of Al Wakra is undergoing continuous redevelopment. The 4 km coastline stretches from the hills to the fishing harbour. The beachfront traditional village called Souq Waqif, Al Wakra is a replica of life 200 years ago. The Al Wakra family beach in the Al Jabal area has volleyball and football areas, shading, showers and toilets. The water is shallow but with lots of rocks, and children should be supervised. Solar power is being utilised to provide lighting.

Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara C5 (pictured) Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara feels a world away from bustling Doha but is only a 25-minute journey by luxury ferry from Al Shyoukh Terminal located in the city’s downtown area or a 10-minute helicopter ride directly from the airport with bird’s eye views of the spectacular coastline. Bask on their private 800 m beach, refresh yourself at the 100 m long lagoon pool, or master the waves in their surf pool and enjoy a wide range of watersports. You can also sign up for snorkelling and scuba diving adventures. Opening times: 10 am – 7 pm. Admission: Weekdays: QAR350 per adult or child (5 years and above), QAR100 (for boat transfers) for children between 2 and 4, children under 2 enter for free.

Weekends and public holidays: QAR500 per adult or child 5 years and above, QAR100 (for boat transfers) for children between 2 and 4, children under 2 enter for free. Contact: 4040 5050, doha.anantara.com

Dukhan Dukhan is on the west coast, 90 km from Doha. The most direct route is via Al Luqta Street past Education City, following the signs for Dukhan. At the gates to Dukhan, turn left and follow the coast road for 9 km until you reach Dukhan Water Sports. The tarred road ends here, but to the south there are plenty of places to stop. The beaches are sandy but watch out for sharp rocks under the water.

Farkeh

A family beach with a 1,350 m seafront just outside Al Khor. To get there, coming through Al Khor, go past Al Khor Mall, and at the next roundabout, turn left – there is a sign saying 'Al Farkeeh beach'. Follow the road for several hundred metres, past the sign for 'Marina Scouts Club', and keep going straight until the next sign for 'Al Farkeeh'. Turn left and the beach can be seen in the distance. There are play areas, wooden sheds, watchtowers, and other facilities. See Al Khor and Al Thakhira map on page 34 Opening times: Sunday to Wednesday 7 am – 10 pm; Thursday/Friday/Saturday is for families only, 7 am – midnight. Admission: Free.

Fuwairit 80 km from Landmark mall on the Al Shamal (North) Road, look out for interchange exit number 79, as the signpost for Fuwairit is just before the bridge. Come off the road, turn right at this sign and follow the DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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Jazirat bin Ghannam island (Purple Island)

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surfaced road leading to a small village. Upon reaching the outskirts of the village, turn left onto a rough track running parallel to the coast. Drive for about a kilometre to get to the beach. From here turn right for the main beach and watch the kitesurfers, or turn left to see the unusual formations of eroded jebel that run down to the water’s edge. Watch out for rocks in the water.

Drive through Al Khor and go straight (first exit) over the first roundabout. At the second roundabout, go straight over again (second exit) and immediately take the right turn‑off, at the sign for Dolphin Energy.

With the Qatargas/RasGas tower on the right side of the road, go straight for just over 5 km. Turn right at the sign for 'Flower Each Spring' and follow the road round to the right – this is an unmade road but suitable for all vehicles. The car park can be seen ahead – park here as cars cannot go any further.

'Purple' Island gets its name from the dye extracted from the sea snail (shellfish called thais savigny), evidence of which can be found all over this coastal stretch of land. The 'island' is surrounded by mangroves and is accessed via a causeway (broken away in parts). Climb to the top of the jebel for a 360° view of Al Khor. Coordinates for the car park are 25.41.36N/51.33.16E.

Katara Beach B4 Katara Beach is 1.5 km long public beach at Katara Cultural Village. A play area is located by the beach where children can enjoy a variety of activities, games and rides as well as child friendly watersports. The beach also features the luxurious 4,600 sq m Katara Beach Club by LivNordic Spa & Wellness, which features two gender separated floors of Scandinavian-inspired health and wellness principles of health.

Opening times: Beach opening and closing timings vary according to season. Call for up to date opening times or visit katara.net Admission: QAR50 for those at the age of 18 and above; QAR25 for those between the ages of seven and 18; children below the age of seven enter for free; separate fees apply for watersports and lessons. Contact: 4408 1017/1985, 7002 9360, katara.net

Mesaieed (Sealine) Mesaieed is the industrial town at the original centre of the petrochemical industry, 40 km south of Doha. There are some good beaches to the south of the town and this is where the barchans (crescent‑shaped) sand dunes begin. Mesaieed is home to Qatar's most popular sand dunes and the luxurious Sealine Beach, a Murwab Resort. Dune buggies and quad bikes can be hired here near the resort. It is busiest at the weekend – cars, buggies and quad bikes will be driving in all directions on the beach, so exercise caution. Four‑wheel‑drive vehicles are necessary if veering away from the main beach area – don’t forget to select your vehicle's lowest gear when approaching the softer sand.

Ras Abrouq or Bir Zekreet (pictured) The bay is at the tip of a peninsula northeast of Dukhan and is a popular spot for weekend campers and watersports enthusiasts. It can be a rough journey, but if you have a four‑wheel‑drive it's fun to explore.

Follow the smooth and wide Dukhan Road, but turn off at the new interchange about 5 km before Dukhan. Pass The Cuban Hospital on the left and onto the road that heads up the northeastern side of the Ras Abrouq peninsula. After 2 km, turn left or right at the Qatar Petroleum site and pipeline. Turn left and you will see an abandoned police post on top of a jebel after 9 km. Go round the hill base and over the causeway on your left to get to the tip of the peninsula. Full of interesting coves and bays, you may see flamingos in the half-moon bay. If you turn right, you will go past the Ministry of Muncipality and Environment’s SCENR reserve for gazelles and ostriches. ©

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If travelling up to Bir Zekreet, it's worth taking some time going inland and finding the 'film set' built into the rock faces of the jebels with small, rough stone buildings where a film was produced several years ago. From here drive up the jebel face – if in a suitable vehicle – and in the distance you will see a small fort. This was used as the location for a TV series, and is open to the public.

Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort (pictured) Rising majestically from the sands, where the blue waves of the Arabian Sea meet the dunes, lies Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort, a haven of comfort, luxury, and leisure. Qatar’s first leisure destination, Sealine Beach Resort is the perfect place to get away from the thriving urban life. With more than 58 luxurious villas equipped with modern facilities, and opening on to a rear patio, leading directly to the beach, Sealine Beach Resort offers a wide range of fine cuisine as well as recreational activities such as watersports, desert safari,​football, basketball, beach volleyball, etc. Opening times: 8 am – 5 pm. Admission: QAR300 per adult, children five and below enter for free, children above 5 can visit at half price. Contact: 4021 4000, sealinebeachqatar.com

Simaisma Beach Just 27 km north of Doha is the small village of Simaisma. The beach stretches out from a natural jetty, skirts around a small cluster of mangroves and continues around the bend. On the south end is a small hill with a derelict building; a nice silhouette at dusk. Enjoy the mangroves, which play a vital role in land preservation. Try to avoid crushing the mangrove roots. The beach also boasts 121 palm trees, 265 sidra trees and a variety of seasonal plants. The family beach has been developed to include green areas with 18 big shades and 15 smaller ones, along with open areas for barbecues.

Simaisma, A Murwab Resort Simaisma, A Murwab Resort is a luxurious retreat on Simaisma Beach. The property features 52 villas, and facilities include a private beach area and watersports. The resort has a year-round outdoor pool and barbecue. The resort is also home to Six Senses Spa, which is arranged over two floors with dedicated male and female areas. Spa goers can enjoy a selection of signature massages, facials by Subtle Energies, locally-inspired treatments and beauty services. Opening times: 10 am – 7 pm. Admission: QAR250 per adult, QAR125 per child. Contact: 4479 9555, simaisma.com

TaliaMare Beach Club B4 Located in The Pearl-Qatar's Qanat Quartier, TaliaMare Beach Club is a beach club, lounge and restaurant. It offers a seafront dining experience in an exclusive area. The oasis offers privacy as well as a family outing with sunbeds, cabanas, shisha and more on offer. On weekends, the place delivers a vibrant setting with enticing beach games, movie projections and a wide variety of events for all ages.

Opening times: 10 am – 10 pm. Admission: QAR300 for Family Day Pass, QAR150 for Adult Day Pass, QAR50 for Child Day Pass. You can get a daily pass from the website. Reservations are required. Call ahead. Contact: 4488 8370/3030 2063, taliamare.com

Umm Bab There’s a small cluster of palm trees beside the breakwater that earned the beach its nickname ‘Palm Tree Beach’. From Doha proceed along Salwa Road for 29 km beyond the Industrial Area, and past the Mukainis satellite earth station. Turn right at the next interchange and follow the road for a further 40 km until you reach the roundabout at the Umm Bab cement works. Go straight across and on cresting a small hill, you will see the coast stretched out below and the distinctive group of trees. The sand is very soft, so proceed with caution.

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Mosques

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Mosque etiquette There are numerous mosques in Qatar, some of which are very old, that are still used for daily prayer by local Muslims. There are over 2,000 mosques across Qatar, managed by the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, which was created in 1993.

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Non‑Muslims are able to enter most mosques, except for the Shioukh Mosque next to the Amiri Diwan on the corner of Al Rayyan Road and Jassim Bin Mohammed Street. Entry to all mosques is free of cost. It is best to visit mosques outside of prayer times.

Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center (Fanar) organises tours of its own mosque near Souq Waqif, and those at Katara Cultural Village and Education City. Visitors must remember to dress appropriately: no shorts, short skirts or dresses, sleeveless tops or other revealing garments. Women will be asked to wear an abaya and to cover their hair. In some mosques, abayas and scarves are provided.

Abu Manaratain Mosque Even though manaratain means ‘two minarets’ in Arabic, this mosque only has one tall, slender tower.

Restored in 2004, this unusual mosque in Al Wakra lacks the high walls typical of Qatari mosques. The mosque can only be visited externally.

Aspire Mosque D2 With 1,460 sq m, accommodating 700 men and 150 women for prayer, Aspire Mosque incorporates the most appropriate form and architectural finishes, falling into harmony with the adjacent buildings.

Education City Mosque C2 (pictured) The mosque, a large white cavernous structure with Quranic verses embossed into its large ceiling, is dotted with small lights, and has the capacity to hold approximately 1,800 people in its indoor prayer halls and outdoor courtyard. The main (male) prayer room on the first floor features an in-house, as yet unstocked library, and a large gilded mehrab, a semicircular niche in the wall of a mosque that indicates the qibla (the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca and hence the direction that Muslims should face when praying), in a Quran verse-lined alcove. Upstairs, a female gallery room complete with a separate seating area is sectioned off from the main prayer room by a high wall. The mosque rests on five structural pillars and is decorated with verses. Underneath, water flows from four streams originating from a garden that lines the perimeter of the building. Two tall, slim minarets jutt out of one side of the structure, rising some 90 m in the air in the direction of Mecca. Islamic calligraphy forms the heart of the building, inscribed on almost every element of the structure’s surface, from roofs to ceramic tiles to glass windows. Contact: 4454 6600, qf.org.qa/community/education-city-mosque

Hamad International Airport (HIA) mosque D5 The public mosque is located just outside the passenger terminal, within walking distance from the Departures hall. The shape of a water droplet inspires the mosque’s architecture, and it offers spectacular views of the lagoon and Amiri Terminal.

Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab Mosque (The State Mosque) C3 Located on Khalifa Street/Onaiza Street, the renamed State Mosque is the largest in Qatar and can accommodate 10,000 worshippers inside and 30,000 outside. Traditional‑style lighting illuminates the outer courtyard, where there is granite seating. The main prayer hall has 28 large domes and a single ©

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minaret 65 metres high. Structurally inspired by the 'Bo Al Qabib' mosque designed by Sheikh Jasim bin Mohammed Al Thani, the founder of modern Qatar. While it is not open to the public, it is a very impressive yet understated piece of architecture and spectacular at night.

Katara Masjid (Blue Mosque) B4 Located in Katara Cultural Village, the Katara Masjid is one of the most beautiful mosques in the country.

Designed by globally-known Turkish mosque designer, Zainab Fadil Oglu, and a team of restoration specialists from Dolma Palace in Istanbul, the interior and exterior architectural designs, together with the minaret, the dome, and the prayer niche (mihrab) are all inspired by several famous mosques found in various cities and capitals of the Islamic world.

Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center (Fanar) D4 (pictured) The distinctive curled minaret makes Fanar one of Qatar's most iconic buildings. Opposite Souq Waqif on Grand Hamad Street, the centre offers non‑Muslims the opportunity to learn more about Islam through various activities, including attending Friday prayers, taking a tour of the mosque, learning Arabic or downloading publications from the website. Check their Facebok page for events and schedules.

Contact: 4444 7444, binzaid.gov.qa

Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Mohamed Al Abdulrahman Al Thani Mosque D2 Also known as Al Rayyan Mosque, the Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Mohamed Al Abdulrahman Al Thani Mosque is located opposite the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club. The mosque is one of the largest mosques in Qatar with sky high minarets of up to 60 m and domes of 39 m, covering an area of over 9,000 sq m. As many as 2,500 worshippers are able to pray in the mosque, with a separate prayer area for women. The mosque also includes small libraries within the walls and pillars of the prayer hall consisting of a large collection of Qurans, and with at least 100 books and religious reading material in various langauges.

Simaisma Mosque North of Doha on Al Khor Coastal Road (Route 6) is Simaisma, a 19th century fishing and pearling town, where the mosque is open from sunrise to late afternoon. Dating back to 1938, it used to house a madrassa (school) teaching the holy Quran to children as well as being a place of prayer. Visitors are advised not to enter the mosque or to take photographs during prayer time. Snacks and refreshments can be bought near the mosque, and if you wander south along the coast when the tide is low, you can see the traditional hadra (inter‑tidal fishing traps).

The Golden Mosque B4 Located in Katara Cultural Village, The Golden Masjid is garnished with extremely small golden chips, and it represents Ottoman style. Katara offers, in masjids, several religious programmes and a series of religious lectures delivered by a group of prominent and esteemed religious scholars. Katara also organises advanced courses in Quran memorisation that are widely attended by a considerable number of children from different age groups. Such courses bear significance because they instil the virtuous values and the good manners of the holy Quran.

The Grand Mosque (Shioukh Mosque) D4 Situated on the Corniche next to the Amiri Diwan, and alongside the clocktower, the Grand Mosque features some striking architecture, with numerous domes and a distinctive green and white colour combination. Although not open to the public, it still presents a photo opportunity.

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Museums And Art Galleries

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3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum When open, this museum will demonstrate to the world that sport and Qatar are intrinsically linked.

The 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum will be an amazing experience with interactive and unforgettable exhibits, inspiring objects and unique activity areas. It will be constantly updated and designed to educate and entertain, delivering state-of-the-art sport from around the world.

Ahead of its opening, the museum is reaching out to residents through temporary shows in venues around Doha. Themes centre around the cultural phenomenon of sport, and include the Olympic Games, as well local and international sports events that occur in Qatar.

Qatar Museums (QM) C4 QM, formerly known as Qatar Museums Authority (QMA), is a government entity that oversees museums across Qatar including National Museum of Qatar, MIA, Mathaf, QM Gallery at Katara, Al Riwaq and more. In addition, it oversees archaeological sites throughout Qatar such as the Al Zubarah World Heritage Site Visitor Centre.

For more information, visit qm.org.qa

Contact: 4452 5555, qm.org.qa, 321.qa

al markhiya gallery Building 5, Katara Cultural Village B4 Fire Station Artist in Residence C3 Promotes emerging and established Arab artists. There are two exhibition spaces for al markhiya gallery – Katara Art Center, Building 5 and Fire Station Artist in Residence.

Opening times: Exhibition space, daily 10 am – 9 pm. Admission: Free.

Contact: 6609 9687, 6600 8750, almarkhiyagallery.com

Anima Gallery and Lounge 30 La Croisette, Porto Arabia, The Pearl‑Qatar B4 The gallery focuses on local, regional and international contemporary art; there is also a restaurant.

Opening times: Gallery: Sunday to Thursday 10 am – 7 pm, closed Friday and Saturday. Lounge: Daily 9 am – midnight. Admission: Free. Contact: 4402 7437, 4029 6726 (lounge) animagallerylounge.com

Fire Station Artist in Residence C3 (pictured) The Fire Station is an interactive artistic platform that brings together talent from various disciplines in one creative and open space. The station was built in 1982 as a Civil Defense building, and was occupied by the fire brigade until late 2012 when it was transformed into an artistic hub. Today the Fire Station is a unique entity in the region, allowing artists to come together in one space to produce artwork and allow for collaborations and interactions with the local, regional and international art scene.

The Fire Station hosts several art residency programmes including Artists in Residence programme, New York Art and Residency and Paris Art Residency. It is also the home of Cass Art, an art supplies shop, and Café #999.

Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 7 pm; Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Admission: Free; Fees apply for temporary exhibitions. Contact: 4422 4222, firestation.org.qa ©

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Katara Art Center B4 Located in Katara Cultural Village, the centre is devoted to the support of local and regional art and design. The centre’s mission is reflected in a rich range of workshops, events and temporary projects.

Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 10 pm, Friday 2 pm – 9 pm.

Contact: 4408 0244, dohakac.com

Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art C2 A member of Qatar Foundation (QF), Mathaf is situated in Education City in a renovated former school building. QF is led by HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, while Mathaf is part of QM, led by HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. An initial group of works, gathered by HE Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani, was transferred to the public institution. Now holding over 9,000 works collected over the past 30 years, the collection emphasises artistic trends and sites of production of modern art. Mathaf organises major exhibitions, both historical and experimental, and large-scale education programmes, performing an important role as a centre for dialogue, research, and as a resource for fostering creativity. See the Events Calendar in this section for details of exhibitions, and marhaba.qa for up to date information.

Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 7 pm; Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm Admission: Free admission for Qatar residents (with Qatar ID); QAR50 for non-residents; QAR25 for students (with student IDs). Fees apply for temporary exhibitions. The library and café are open during museum hours.

Contact: 4402 8855, mathaf.org.qa

Msheireb Museums D4 Msheireb Museums celebrate the history of four historic heritage houses in the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha. Located within the oldest part of the capital, they form an important part of Qatar’s national history. They reveal unique aspects of Qatar’s cultural and social development in inspiring to create trusted environments in which the people of Qatar will engage, converse and exchange thoughts about both their past and their future. Msheireb Museums are an integral aspect of the inner city’s regeneration of the old commercial centre with its traditional community-based lifestyle. The restoration of the four heritage houses, Bin Jelmood House, Company House, Mohammed Bin Jassim House and Radwani House, into world-class museums forms a vital part of the Msheireb Downtown Doha development. Msheireb Museums is open for guided tours by appointment.

Opening times: Monday to Thursday 9 am – 5 pm, Friday 3 pm – 9 pm, Saturday 9 am – 9 pm, closed Sunday. Last admission 30 minutes before closing. Contact: 4006 5555; museums@msheireb.com Guided tour: msheirebmuseums.com

Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) and Al Riwaq C4 (pictured) Representing the full scope of Islamic art, the MIA collection includes manuscripts, ceramics, metal, glass, ivory, textiles, wood and precious stones. Collected from three continents, including countries across the Middle East, and reaching as far as Spain and China, the museum’s artworks date from the 7th through to the 20th century. The pieces represent the diversity of the Islamic world, and are of the highest quality. Designed by noted architect I M Pei, the museum building rises from the sea at the end of Doha’s Corniche. Inspired by classic Islamic architecture, the building further glorifies the pieces DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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Adjacent to the MIA is the QM Gallery – Al Riwaq, a spacious, contemporary venue, covering a total area of 5,000 sq m, featuring temporary exhibitions by QM with a rotating schedule of exhibits of art and cultural artefacts.

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contained within it. The MIA is the flagship project of Qatar Museums (QM). There is access to the MIA Park through the museum (see Parks).

Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 7 pm; Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Last admission 30 minutes before closing. Galleries, gift shop and café shut 15 minutes before closing. Admission: Free admission for Qatar residents (with Qatar ID); QAR50 for non-residents. Fees apply for temporary exhibitions.

Visitors are asked to dress appropriately. Contact: 4422 4444, mia.org.qa

National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) D4 (pictured) Designed by world-renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, the new 40,000 sq m NMoQ building is forged using an interlocking disc design inspired by the desert rose. The museum is one of the most significant cultural projects and most recognisable landmarks in the country. The NMoQ tells the story of Qatar and its people from more than 700 mn years ago to present day.

Serving as a monument to a historic way of life in Qatar, the museum officially opened in March 2019.

Seemingly growing organically out of the ground, NMoQ’s structure surrounds the Old Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani – his family home and seat of the government for 25 years. The museum is organised in three 'chapters' – Beginnings, Life in Qatar, and Building the Nation – presented in 11 galleries. The visitor’s chronological journey, which extends through more than 2.7 km of experiences, starts in the geological period long before the peninsula was inhabited by humans and continues to the present day. Oral histories, archival images, artworks, music and storytelling contextualise the impressive array of archaeological and heritage objects as well as manuscripts, documents, photographs, jewellery and costumes.

Opening times: Sunday to Wednesday 9 am to 7 pm; Saturday and Thursday 9 am – 9 pm; Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Admission: Free admission for Qatar residents (with Qatar ID), and children at the age of 16 and below; QAR50 for non-residents; QAR25 for students (with student IDs).

Fees apply for temporary exhibitions. Contact: 4452 5555, nmoq.org.qa

Qatar Photographic Society (QPS) Building 18, Katara Cultural Village B4 Photographic courses in English and Arabic, call for current schedule. Also ad hoc exhibitions.

Opening times: Daily 8 am – noon and 4 pm – 8 pm. Admission: Free; call for details of course fees.

Contact: 4408 1812, qpsphoto.qa, katara.net

QM Gallery Katara Building 10, Katara B4 The gallery is a temporary space allowing the museums in Qatar to present their upcoming collections and host Qatari and international artists. A wide range of exhibitions take place, such as photography, archaeology, art, sports, architecture and sculpture.

Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 7 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm, closed Sunday. Admission: Free. Contact: 4452 5555, qm.org.qa ©

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Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani Museum (FBQ Museum) (pictured) At his farm near Al Sheehaniya, 20 km west of Doha, Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani has built his own private museum of more than 15,000 pieces collected from his travels around the world. The museum has a huge and varied collection of artefacts in its different halls including fossils, manuscripts, textiles, weapons, ceramics, woodwork, contemporary art, pre-Islamic coins and foreign currency, as well as a special section devoted to Qatari and Bedouin heritage, including fishing boats and traditional Qatari houses. There are also vintage cars and motorbikes from around the world, with more than 100 models representing every decade of manufacture. The museum also includes the private Al Samriya Farm, which is home to a herd of more than 1,000 Arabian oryx and gazelles, and visitors will see a number of peacocks wandering around the wooded areas. The sizeable farm includes Al Samriya Riding School, a horse riding school at Al Samariyah Equestrian Academy (ASEA), which is an indoor/outdoor riding arena with horse stables for boarding and riding lessons for children and adults.

Opening times: Monday to Thursday 9 am – 4:30 pm; Friday 2 pm – 7 pm; Saturday 10 am – 6 pm; Sunday 9 am – 4 pm. Visitors are advised to contact the museum in advance. Admission: QAR50 for Qatar residents (with Qatar ID); QAR75 for non-residents/tourists; QAR25 for students (ages 6 – 17 with Qatar ID); QAR50 for students (tourists; ages 6 – 17); QAR60 for tourist group (15 and more); QAR15 per person for tour guide. Contact: 4486 1444 (Al Samriya), info@fbqmuseum.org, fbqmuseum.org Getting there: Exit the Dukhan Road at Al Dehailiyat Interchange. If you are coming from Doha, it is the fourth exit on the roundabout; coming from Al Sheehaniya it is the first exit. There is only a small signpost with ‘Museum’ (on brown background, and ‘Al Dehailiyat’ on blue). The next sign has the full name: Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani Museum.

Souq Waqif Art Center Souq Waqif D4 Exhibitions of local and international modern art.

Opening times: Daily 8 am – 10 pm. Admission: Free. Contact: 4417 6204, swacqatar.com

The Media Majlis The Media Majlis is located at Northwestern University’s in Qatar, Education City, which is dedicated to the exploration of journalism, communication, and media in the Arab region. The Media Majlis features a multi-screen façade, as well as space where exhibition content and technology converge. The technology elevates a visitor’s experience by inviting them to participate in a global conversation on a continually changing media landscape.

Opening times: Sunday to Thursday 9 am – 5 pm. Admission: Free. Contact: 4454 5000, mediamajlis.northwestern.edu

VCUarts Qatar Gallery Qatar Foundation C2 The art gallery at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), a centre of excellence for education and research in art and design. There are also exhibitions of work by international artists, staff and students.

Opening times: Sunday to Thursday 9 am – 5 pm Admission: Free Contact: 4402 0555, qatar.vcu.edu DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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Natural World and Nature Reserves

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Al Dosari Zoo & Natural Reserve Mohamed Al Dosari's Park and Natural Reserve is a private park located in Al Khuraib, 7 km north of Al Sheehaniya and 40 km from Doha. Owned by Mohamed Al Dosari, a Qatari, the zoo houses various kinds of animals, birds and reptiles, and a heritage centre. The zoo is spread over 100,000 sq m. Every visitor to the park is taken on a guided tour of the animal reserve and offered tea and Arabic coffee.

Open-air barbecues are permitted in the park and many families gather here on weekends. There are umbrellas and Arabian huts that reflect on housing in the past, and many available spaces to sit under trees, which make the park one of a kind in Qatar. Entry to the farm, park and all other activities are free. Twelve housing units and 11 cottages have been added to the park for overnight visitors.

Bird Watching Migratory birds are becoming increasingly attracted to Qatar since the introduction of parks, gardens and agriculture. Several species breed in Qatar before escaping the summer heat. Ornithologists have identified over 280 species of which 25 are year‑round residents. On the Al Khor coast there are gulls, cormorants and waders, geese, mallard and teal in the ponds and reeds. At Bir Zekreet you can see flamingos. Other popular places to spot birds are Doha Golf Club, Khor Al Adaid, Al Ruwais and Sealine Beach Resort.

Dahl Al Misfir Cave (pictured) Located off Al Salwa Rd near Rawdat Rashed, Dahl Al Misfir Cave is regarded as one of Qatar’s most well-kept secrets and vividly exciting destinations. The 40 m deep cave can sometimes give off an ethereal faint, moon-like phosphorescent glow. The glow is the result of fibrous gypsum deposits, which are found in the centre of the peninsula and have given rise to the geological phenomena known as ‘desert roses’ (clusters of roughly rose-shaped gypsum crystals).

Desert Safaris A desert safari is a must. Most local tour companies offer package tours, which vary in price depending on the size of the group, with half and full-day trips, overnight camps and sunrise desert safaris available. Go dune-bashing with a professional guide, go for a swim, and recharge with some barbecued food and refreshments. The overnight tour is at a desert camp with traditional Bedouin tents, filled with Persian carpets and plush cushions. Alternatively, set the alarm clock and travel out early to see the sun come out over the desert dunes.

Khor Al Adaid (The Inland Sea) The Inland Sea is one of Qatar’s finest treasures and a tourist hotspot. Best undertaken in a four‑wheel‑drive to reach the country’s southernmost point – it’s also a good idea to go in a convoy and with somebody who has been before. Enjoy the crescent‑shaped sand dunes that rise above the shallow tidal lake. Local tour companies organise day trips and overnight camps and provide drives along the dunes, as well as picnics, barbecues, folkloric entertainment and occasionally, camel riding and sandboarding. If driving yourself, download the Inland Sea app, available for iOS and Android. ©

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Mangroves (pictured) A large area of vegetation attracting varied bird life, including flamingos and herons, Al Thakhira mangroves can be found just north of the seaside city of Al Khor, and present a large expanse of natural greenery in sharp contrast to the surrounding desert landscape. Qatar is home to the Avicennia Marina, also known as the grey or white mangrove tree, communities of which form several forests around Qatar's shores. The largest area of mangroves – and the oldest – can be found around Al Thakhira and Al Khor. A great way to explore the mangroves is by kayak, available from several tour operators and specialist companies. All of these can be booked in advance, and many companies offer both morning and afternoon trips. For further information, contact one of the local tour companies.

Scuba Diving Scuba diving is a popular pastime, given the clear and warm waters surrounding the country, and is the perfect way of getting up close and personal with the local marine life. Qatar is making strenuous efforts to protect the marine ecosystem. Vehicles, tyres and old building materials have been deposited on the sea bed to draw back marine life and over the last 20 years these man‑made reefs have seen a resurgence in sea life. Various species can be seen, including: bottlenose dolphin; dugong (or sea cow); Hawksbill turtle; blue angelfish; long‑spined sea urchin; sea squirt; surgeonfish; blue‑spotted stingray; and ghost crabs.

Singing Sand Dunes

Getting there Stories of strange, low‑pitched sounds in the sand have intrigued When coming from Doha on people for generations in Qatar and it's one of the few places in Salwa Road, turn left at the the world it can be heard. The sound is caused by the friction when Mesaieed Interchange. a thin layer of sand blows down the leeward side of the dune. The eerie resonant humming can be heard from up to 10 km away as See the map of Qatar at the it is amplified by the crescent shape of the barchan (derived from beginning of the guide.

Kazakh) dunes. You can find the ‘Singing Sand Dunes’ 40 km southwest of Doha. Although the ‘singing’ occurs naturally, you can trigger it by sliding down the dune or running along its crest; you will be able to hear and feel the vibration. Take a large tray with you for an impromptu slide down the sand. Be warned – the sand is very hot during the summer.

Umm Tais National Park There is a national park on the northeastern tip of Qatar on the uninhabited island of Umm Tais. The mangrove forests, beaches and varied geological structures, changing water levels and sea currents, provide a varied habitat that is teeming with marine and bird life. It also nurtures an important turtle‑nesting beach. For further information, contact one of the local tour companies.

Al Wabra Wildlife Preservation Al Wabra Wildlife Preservation (AWWP) is an associated member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), the only member in Qatar. This is a quality stamp acknowledging that AWWP works towards the highest standards in the captive care of wild animals. AWWP is an internationally reputed research and conservation centre collaborating with several government and non-government organisations across the world. Close to the town of Al Sheehaniya, Lubara farm accommodates AWWP. This private breeding and research centre is home to a collection of wild and exotic animal species either rare in captivity or threatened in the wild. The preservation is non-commercial and not open to the public. awwp.alwabra.com DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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Parks and Recreation Areas

Aspire Park

The Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) Public Parks Department is responsible for the design, development and maintenance of public parks in Qatar.

There are at least 92 public parks across Qatar. Doha is home to at least 38 parks, followed by 29 in Al Rayyan, three in Al Sheehaniya and five in Umm Slal. Entrance is generally free. mme.gov.qa

The 5/6 Park contains open green space of about 107,000 sq m, including about 11,800 sq m of small shrubs and tree fences, in addition to 1,500 trees. In the heart of the park is a plant maze spread across 6,500 sq m shaped as the map of Qatar. Next to the maze is a 3,000 sq m hill about 5 m above ground level. The park includes many facilities, including restaurants, cafes, toilets and prayer areas, garden furniture, lighting poles, shaded areas for families, play areas for children and games suitable for different ages, designated areas for celebrations and spaces to display artwork. The park also includes exercise areas, 1.3 km pedestrian path, 1.3 km jogging path and an 880 m cycle path, in addition to bicycle parking slots. The park hosts a collection of artwork including ‘Al Somoud’ designed by Qatari artists Faisal Al Hajri, and two others from the collection of Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art – 'Poem' (1963-65) and 'Poem in Three Verses' (1963–65) by Lebanese sculptor and painter Saloua Raouda Choucair.

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5/6 Park C4

Al Abraj Park C4 Al Abraj Park opened in September 2019 at West Bay (Onaiza). The design of Al Abraj Park, which means towers, offers a variety of activities, including a green central events area, an exercise area and a walking track built with recycled rubber and local Qatari materials. The park also includes a cafeteria, toilets, tree-shaded seats and wooden pergolas. The park covers 5,800 sq m and houses 130 different and distinctive types of trees. The bushes cover about 240 sq m while the grass covers about 3,500 sq m of garden area. To date, 76 km of pedestrian and cycle paths have been completed, and other works such as landscaping, tree planting, street furniture, lighting and kiosks are still ongoing.

Al Bayt Stadium Park Adjacent to the upcoming Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor is the new Al Bayt Park, which opened to the public on 11 February 2020, coinciding with National Sport Day. The park, which has a total area of around 1,331,900 sq m, includes a park, a water body, 56,000 sq m of pedestrian walkways, a 4,415 m-long running track, a 3,444 m-long cycling tracks, and a car parking area that can accommodate up to 6,000 vehicles and 300 buses, among other facilities. The park itself occupies a space of 944,000 sq m and has 369,585 sq m of green areas, including playgrounds. The park has 1,050 trees and six restaurants in addition to 10 locations for mobile cafes and fast food joints. It has 54 light columns powered by solar energy and an adequate number of kids' play areas and games besides other facilities such as toilets and playgrounds. Located near the entrance is the barbecue kiosk, where diners will find a delicious selection of grills on the menu. Guests can also purchase raw marinated grills and grill them using one of the three equipped outdoor grill stations. Kiosks open from Tuesday to Saturday 12:30 pm – 10 pm.

Al Bidda Park C4 Bordering Al Corniche Street, Al Bidda Park is Qatar’s first pet-friendly park and the biggest green space in the country. For those more active, there are opportunities galore: running and cycling tracks, a human maze, gymnasiums, outdoor exercise equipment, basketball, volleyball and tennis courts, an open theatre that seats 850 people, as well as playgrounds, barbecue areas and beautiful landscaping. A variety of bike rentals are available at the park's two bike rental shops. There are also buggies to help visitors move around the park comfortably. The park is approximately 1.25 mn sq m and has underground parking spaces for 6,000 cars. Pet owners are free to use the park but should ensure their pet is kept on a lead at all times, and to bring their own bags and pooper-scooper as these are not available in the park. Opening times: Open daily from 4 am. Park closing times are at midnight during the week and at ©

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marhaba.qa 2 am on weekends. Barbecue stands are available for rental at QAR50 per four hours. Admission: Free. Contact: 4428 7709, 4428 7777, 5028 0404 (Saikl Bike)

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Al Khor Corniche The first and second zones of Al Khor Corniche Development Project opened in March 2018 to the public. The third zone is still underway. The three zones will cover an area of about 28,000 sq m, featuring 6,000 sq m of green spaces, play areas, 116 parking spaces, 256 seats and 46 umbrellas.

Al Khor Family Park (Al Khor Park and Zoo) (pictured) The new and improved Al Khor Family Park reopened in February 2020. The park, which first opened in 1983, closed in November 2019 for maintenance and redevelopment purposes. The 240,000 sq m park features a zoo, battery-operated train, restaurant, mosque, museum, mini golf area, wall mural, skating area, children’s play area, basketball court, food kiosks, drinking fountains, and an amphitheatre.

One of the park's main attractions is the mini zoo, which includes seven new sections with a large number of different birds and animals. There are 290 new animals, bringing the total number of animals to 315 (49 different species). There's also an aviary, which contains a waterfall, a lake and is home to different birds. The park is a wonderful destination for those who want to spend some quality time away from the city rush. Opening times: Daily 4 am – 10 pm. Admission: QAR15 for adults; QAR10 for children under the age of 10 and persons with special needs. QAR50 to feed animals. Train ride: QAR5 per person and free for persons with special needs. Contact: 4426 5050

Al Legtaifiya Park B4 Al Legtaifiya Park, Zone 66, is an inclusive playground and the latest breakthrough for Accessible Qatar, a Sasol initiative designed to support inclusion and accessibility for people with disabilities in the local community. Sasol wanted to provide a solution for children with disabilities unable to play on playgrounds to be able to play with their friends. They found the right solution through the inclusive playground equipment.

Information about accessibility of venues in Qatar is now available through the Accessible Qatar App.

Al Tawasul Traditional Park The park is a miniature version of Al Khor Family Park. The 28,500 sq m park is home to a number of animals and birds. The mini-zoo is divided into two sections, with 10 glass cages and one giant cage with bridges, trees and nests. The park also boasts a room for vets to treat animals, as well as space to prepare their meals. The park is home to quarantine rooms and a laboratory for observation. This familyonly park has a train, a children’s play area, a basketball court, amphitheatre and skating area, among other offerings. Electronic ticketing gates have been installed to facilitate visitors access to the park.

Opening times: Daily 4 am – 10 pm Admission: Free. Contact: 4426 5050

Al Wakra Park (Al Wakra Public Garden) F5 A large landscaped park with different ornamental plants, as well as palm and olive trees, at the end of Al Aurouba Street and near Al Wakra beach. There are plenty of trees providing shaded sitting areas, a children's play zone and a large pool next to the cafeteria.

Aspire Park D2 One of Qatar’s biggest parks is behind Hyatt Plaza with a vast expanse of green lawn and baobab trees, a large lake with ducks and geese, football fields, a multi‑surface 3 km walking/jogging track and fitness equipment. There is plenty of parking and free Wi‑Fi. Aspire Play Park has two sandy areas, fitness stations and paved areas for cycling, roller‑skating and skateboarding, which can still be used at nighttime thanks to solar‑powered lighting. The 'smart park' has introduced the first smart benches, which use renewable energy and advanced technology, providing wireless chargers, USB ports, Wi-Fi access point and an integrated cooling system which keeps seating cool during the hot summer days.

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marhaba.qa Opening times: Park: daily 24 hours; restaurants and restrooms: 8 am – 10 pm; lifeguard: 6 am – 10 pm. Admission: Free. Contact: 4413 8188

Baladna Park

Barzan and Simaisma Olympic Parks The Barzan and Simaisma Olympic Parks feature swimming pools, fountains, football fields, walking tracks and many more activities. Both parks have green areas, restaurants, kids zone, football grounds, tennis courts, basketball court, swimming pool, cycling track, fountains, walking lanes and toilets. The Barzan Park is located in Umm Slal Ali; the Simaisma Park is behind the Simaisma Youth Centre at Simaisma, near Al Khor.

Sightseeing

As part of Baladna Farm, located in the Umm Al Hawaya area (North Road, Exit 44), Baladna Park is an outdoor family entertainment park. In addition to the farm and restaurant, activities include a zoo, a lake, a carnival area and outdoor activties and entertainment such as pedal car racing, cow chariot, trampoline, zip lining, bumper boats, obstacle course and more. Opening times: Sunday to Thursday 10 am – 7 pm; Friday noon – 8 pm; Saturday 10 am – 8 pm. Admission: Free. Prices range for the outdoor amusement and theme park activities.

Contact: 4424 6000, baladnapark.com

Crescent Park A3 Spreading over an area of 275,000 sq m, the park features a unique design to provide an exceptional experience of Lusail City's sustainable parks with the use of recycled water to irrigate green areas. The park has old waterways, bicycle and pedestrian tracks, and shaded areas, as well as public squares, seating areas, a forest and children’s play areas. Sports facilities include a large football field, two acrylic basketball courts, two beach volleyball courts, three acrylic tennis courts and other facilities.

The park has two large restaurants, 530 parking spaces, direct access to Lusail Tram system, and easy access to the park directly from all areas of the city. Opening times: Open 24/7. Admission: Free.

Contact: 4497 7770, lusail.com

Dahl Al Hamam Park C3 Close to Landmark mall, on the corner of Arab League and Al Markhiya Streets, this large park has a subtle modern design, calm ambience and more than 50 varieties of trees. The gardens have an extensive children's play area, a bicycle track, a football ground and basketball court. The park also boasts a cave and a newly-constructed maze, representing the streets of old Doha to discover traditional Qatari games. Amenities include cafeterias and toilets. Closed in the morning. For families only.

Doha Corniche C4 A popular destination for strollers and joggers as the path curves along the waterfront from the port to the Hotel Park at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel. The Corniche is one of the most beautiful in the Middle East, with its many grassed areas and views across the turquoise water of Doha Bay. There are bicycles available for rent, a children's play area, fitness stations, café and restaurants, and free Wi‑Fi. Traditional dhow boats dock along the 7 km‑long Corniche for visitors to enjoy a ride on the sea during the day or night.

Hotel Park C4 (pictured) Situated adjacent to Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, Hotel Park provides 80,000 sq m of park space, with over 34,500 sq m of green space to enjoy picnics, play areas and outdoor family gatherings with family-friendly playgrounds with 17 activities and fitness zones with 12 challenges. It's one of Qatar's few pet-friendly parks. Hotel Park has food and beverage outlets offering a diverse palette of authentic cuisine and desserts. To add to an impressive garden and restaurant offering, Hotel Park has four levels of underground parking with access to Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) through an underground tunnel link. Hotel Park’s comprehensive paid parking has over 2,500 spaces spread over four underground levels with entrances to Al Corniche Street, Al Funduq Street and Al Majlis Street.

Opening times: Open 24/7. Admission: Free. Contact: 4456 7665, 5597 8387, hotelparkdoha.com ©

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Sightseeing

Katara Hills B4 (pictured) Set over 361,500 sq m of green spaces, Katara Hills is divided into Northern and Southern Hills with at least 3,300 plants and trees from different continents, featuring gardens and green meadows with manmade rolling hills, valleys, peaks, water features, play areas, exercise and jogging tracks, with bespoke urban art installations, lighting, outdoor furniture, and signages.

Within Katara Hills is the colourful Katara Gardens, which is 32,700 sq m of flowers, plants and lawns in geometric shapes and styles with 225 trees from different countries.

Opening times: Open 24/7. Admission: Free. Contact: 182, 4408 0000, katara.net

Lusail City, Marina Promenade A3 The promenades along the Marina District and South Qetaifan Islands form the urban waterfront edges.

Seating is planned along the water with views out to the sea, in addition to walkways, restaurants and access to marinas. The promenade also features various musical water and light fountains as well as oversized outdoor chess sets. Opening times: Open 24/7. Admission: Free. Contact: 4497 7770, lusail.com

MIA Park C4 The MIA Park can be accessed through the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) or from the Port Road entrance on Al Corniche Street. Designed by PEI Partnership Architects of New York, it features '7', a vertical steel sculpture by internationally acclaimed American artist Richard Serra. Plants indigenous to Qatar have been used and pedestrian pathways are shaded by the use of hills and 'swails' (sail shading). There are playground areas for children, and consideration for those with special needs or requiring wheelchair accessibility. Cafés and kiosks sell snacks and souvenirs. Bicycle rentals are available. Opening times: The park’s cafes are open daily 3 pm – midnight, while the children’s play areas are open 24/7.

Admission: Free. Contact: 4422 4444/4402 8634, mia.org.qa

Oxygen Park D2 Located in Education City, Oxygen Park has been inspired by the wind eroded rocks and fluid land formations of the desert. The running tracks are embedded creating an exciting training ground with looping tracks, cooled tunnel sections and steep hills. The park features running tracks, equestrian facilities, underground pitches, recreation areas and soundscape-filled, refreshing folly spheres. Located within Oxygen Park, the Qur’anic Botanic Garden is the first of its kind in the world, home to at least 60 plant species mentioned in the Holy Quran, and those in the Hadith and Sunnah, the sayings and traditions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The display gives an explanation of the significance of every plant's mention in the Holy Quran, as well as their scientific explanations. Date palm, olive, fig, citron, senna, ginger, aloe, camphor and other plants have been included. Opening times: 6 am – 10 pm. Admission: Free. Contact: 4454 0284, qf.org.qa, qbg.org.qa

Simaisma Park The park first opened in 1991 with an area of 5,099 sq m and then reopened in 2013, after maintenance and rehabilitation, covering 9,477 sq m. The park includes water coolers, toilets, a shaded children's play area, and pergolas with shaded seating. The park's highlight is its botanical garden, which contains distinctive canary palm trees, date palm trees, Sidr trees, Parkinsonia trees, tecoma shrubs, perennial plants and seasonal flowers.

The Desert Park The family park opened in April 2019 in Al Sheehaniya. The 13,804 sq m park is distinctive as it is designed in the form of a desert tree. It has 62 different types of wild trees and a 400 m walkway. The park also has a mini zoo with a number of different types of animals like oryx and gazelle. There are also 12 designated pergolas for barbecues, a shaded children's play area, sitting areas, two exercise areas, and restrooms for men and women.

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Souqs

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Souq Waqif D4

Sightseeing

Since ancient times, traders and merchants have congregated in traditional markets to both socialise and provide for the daily needs of the local community. These souqs are still very much part of modern life in Qatar. Some specialise in a particular product area such as fish, fruit and vegetables, or spices. Others cover a vast and varied range of different items such as clothing and fabric, gold and jewellery, spices or kitchen wares.

A cultural hotspot, Souq Waqif includes a covered labyrinth lined with shops and stalls selling spices, dried fruit, nuts, textiles, Arabic oud and incense, pots and pans, and much more. Getting lost and enjoying the atmosphere is a fun way to spend a morning or an evening. Remember to haggle with the shopkeepers! Follow up your shopping by dining at one of Souq Waqif's many restaurants – see the Dining Guide Listings in the Souq Waqif section for inspiration.

A map of the souq area and a detailed description of what it has to offer is also in the Souq Waqif section. Opening times: 10 am – noon/4 pm – 10 pm; restaurants generally remain open all day until late.

Gold Souq D4 In Souq Al Najada on Ali Bin Abdulla Street, in front of Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli, is the new Gold Souq, a block of over 40 shops that specialise in quality 18‑ and 22‑carat jewellery. Gold is often beautifully handcrafted by second and third generation skilled craftsmen, many of whom will be happy to make up a piece of jewellery to your own unique design, as well as resize, repair or buy gold from you. To sell gold you need a purchase receipt or authorisation from the police.

Traditional 'bridal jewellery' is on display in many of the shops – solid gold belts, headdresses, necklaces and hair ornaments, given to Qatari girls by their future husbands prior to the wedding. Gold is priced according to the weight of the gold on the day’s market, whether it is hand or machine crafted. Prices are significantly lower here than in most other parts of the world, and with skilled bartering you can walk away with a really good bargain. Look out for pearls, which used to be Qatar’s economic backbone.

The older, second gold market is located behind Souq Al Faraj D4 near the Karwa bus station, surrounding Ali Bin Abdulla Street and Al Ashat Street.

Souq Al Wakra F5 Built to look old and traditional, Souq Al Wakra (Heritage Village) gives one a feeling of having stepped into the past. The small shops in the complex resemble conventional Qatari buildings featuring walls with a mud coating and classic big wooden doors and lanterns. The ceilings of the roofs are made of palm leaves. The souq also houses a mosque with gates and a walkway made of wood and a well symbolising the old lifestyle in Qatar. Its ample parking space and fresh sea air make a welcome difference. Souq Al Wakra welcomes visitors to swim or just relax on its beach from 10 am – 6 pm under the supervision of lifeguards.

While travelling from Doha to Mesaieed, it’s located to the left. For more information, see the Souq Al Wakra section.

Other souqs There are dozens of souqs across Qatar. It depends on what you're looking for. For affordable ready made clothing, fabric, tailoring, electronics, carpets and more, visit Souq Al Ali D4, Souq Al Asiery D4, Souq Al Dira D4, Souq Al Jabor D4 or Souq Najada D4.

For more information on souqs in Qatar, see Shopping in Qatar in the Shopping section. ©

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Tradition and Tours

Sightseeing

Buildings Qatar Museums (QM) has been actively restoring many of the old buildings in Qatar. So far these include: Al Wajba Castle, dating back to the famous battle when the Qataris defeated the Ottomans in 1893 under Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammad Al Thani; the Al Nejada Houses in one of old Doha's streets date back more than 60 years and were built of traditional materials; and the houses at Al Mufair Village in Al Shamal were restored in 1988 to be used as a set for a Qatari television series. QM has a number of ongoing projects – visit qm.org.qa for details.

House of Nasser bin Abdullah Al Missned Located in Al Khor and currently under restoration.

The Father Amir, HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani’s consort, HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser was born and raised in this house. Designed to look like a traditional Qatari private residence it was built in the second half of the 20th century by her father, the late Nasser bin Abdullah Al Missned. Qatari authorities are developing a master plan that will best preserve this site as a remembrance of Her Highness for future generations.

House of Sheikh Ghanim bin Abdulrahman Al Thani F5 Built by pearl merchant Majid bin Saed Al Saed at the beginning of the 20th century on the beach at Al Wakra, Sheikh Ghanim bin Abdulrahman Al Thani bought the house in 1960. Debis, a traditional date‑based food, was once produced, stored and later sold from the ground floor of the house. It was restored in 2004.

Sheikh Abdulla bin Jassim Al Thani Palace (The Old Palace) D4 The Old Palace was originally built in the early 20th century by Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani, the father of modern Qatar. For approximately 25 years the palace was at the centre of Qatar’s political leadership, serving as residence of the Royal Family and seat of government.

In 1975, the palace was converted into the Qatar National Museum, which included a Museum of the State, a lagoon and a very popular marine aquarium. In 1980, the building won the Agha Khan award for restoration and rehabilitation of Islamic architecture. The Old Palace is now fully restored and is at the heart of the new National Museum of Qatar. The latter has been designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel.

Wind Tower House D4 Before the introduction of electricity, the square wind tower, known as a badghir, provided an effective form of natural air‑conditioning. The DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

last remaining building of its kind in Doha, the Wind Tower House, just off Grand Hamad Street in the former Najada Shopping Plaza, used to be an ethnographic museum. Built in the early 20th century and first restored in 1982, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture took the building over and made it a Gulf Architectural Heritage Centre. Although closed to the public, the Wind Tower House provides a unique photo opportunity.

Katara Cultural Village B4 Katara is Qatar's focal point for multi‑cultural activities, with concerts, festivals, and art and photography exhibitions throughout the year.

Katara also hosts educational and religious events, and bazaars. Katara is a beautiful collection of Arabian-style buildings, with alleyways protected from the sun with 'swails' (sail shading).

There is a stunning mosaic‑covered mosques and bird‑feeders, and plenty of outlets offering snacks and al fresco dining. The Katara Opera House is home to the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra and concerts are regularly held in the theatre and amphitheatre. There is also a beach (see Beaches) and art galleries (see Museums and Art Galleries). For more information, see the Katara Cultural Village section.

Opening times: Daily 24 hours – visitors should check first with individual restaurant, society or gallery. Admission: Free (except for beach activities). Contact: Call Centre 182, katara.net

Sports AL SHAQAB C2 AL SHAQAB was established in 1992 to build on Qatar’s Arabian horse heritage and be a leading equine centre of excellence while providing an engaging experience for the community. Originally started as a stud farm, it has now developed into a multi-dimensional equestrian centre that not only breeds pure Arabian horses but also educates children on the art of horsemanship and equestrianism, as well as train riders and horses for long-distance endurance races. An equine veterinary medical centre has also opened.

In 2004, AL SHAQAB became a member of Qatar Foundation. AL SHAQAB’s impressive facilities, which are distinctively designed in the shape of a horseshoe, cover 980,000 sq m. With a stateof-the-art main arena comprising both an indoor and outdoor venue capable of holding over 5,000 spectators, AL SHAQAB is part of Qatar’s growing reputation on the world stage that showcases its ability to host major international sports events at the highest level.

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marhaba.qa camels live all year round, increasing in numbers when there is a big event.

Colourful camel trains can be seen, with traditionally-dressed riders and camels adorned with bright colours. Local tour companies may be able to arrange trips to coincide with races – see local tour companies for contact details.

Camel Races

Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC) D2

Camels have been synonymous with this region since the Bedouin started using them for transportation, as well as for food and milk.

The camel is still a prized animal – now this includes for entertainment purposes! A 30-minute drive west of Doha on the Dukhan road will take you to the camel racetrack in Al Shaihaniya, where you can see camels in one of the Middle East’s most popular sports. The racing season is from October to May, with several prestigious events held in March and April. Behind the racetrack is a ‘camel city’, where thousands of men and

The Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC) has been the centre of equestrian activity for generations. Horse racing is a popular sport in Qatar, with around 40 race meetings a year.

See purebred Arabian and Thoroughbred horses in action when they take part in prestigious events such as the Amir’s Sword and the Qatar International Trophy races.

Opening times: Races are usually on Wednesday and Thursday 4 pm – 7:30 pm, October to April.

Admission: Free. Contact: 4419 7704, qrec.gov.qa

Sightseeing

Opening times: Sunday to Thursday 9 am – 3:30 pm.

Al Shaqab also organises tours of its facilities for institutions and the general public to raise awareness on equestrian culture.

Visit the website to register for tours which take place Sunday to Thursday at 7:30 am and 3:30 pm. Contact: 4454 7361, alshaqab.com

Tours If you want to explore off-road, it is often easier and safer to go as part of an organised tour.

Tour companies offer half and full days, including overnight camping trips to the Inland Sea. Heritage sites are popular destinations. Other ideas include: • Activities, such as diving trips, deep‑sea fishing, sandboarding, and more.

• A boat cruise along Doha’s Corniche or out to Al Safliya Island.

• Local knowledge: an experienced guide will provide commentary while touring around the camel market, Doha’s Corniche, the dhow‑building yard, the falconry market, malls, parks, souqs and mosques (appropriate clothing required).

LOCAL TOUR COMPANIES 365 Adventures

3339 3323

365adventures.me

Al Corniche Safari (Qatar Inbound Tours)

7745 1196/5553 1002

inboundtoursqatar.com

Arabian Adventures Qatar

4436 1461

arabianadventures.com.qa

Doha Bus

4442 2444

dohabus.com

Gulf Adventures (Qatar Excursions)

4422 1888/5585 7044

gulf-adventures.com

National Cruise

6600 0926/7799 9666

nationalcruise.com

Q Explorer

4472 5146

q-explorer.com

Qatar International Tours

4455 3954/5552 7225

qittour.com

Regency Sealine Camp Qatar

4496 6204

regencysealinecamp.com ©

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Checked & Updated October 2020

• A desert tour, with bedouin‑style camping at places like Khor Al Adaid and Bir Zekreet, including traditional cuisine and music, sand‑boarding and watersports. m

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Leisure Activities

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✔ Indicates either an activity for children or an activity in which children can participate.

Arts and Crafts 7th Heaven Arts Center D3 A visual art centre in Al Waab, offering workshops in printmaking, ceramics, drawing, painting, graphic design, photography, Arabic calligraphy and more.

7thheavenarts.com ✔ Art Laboratory B4 Offers art programmes, training and workshops for different ages at Building 18 at Katara. 5011 1751/52, info@kataraartlab.com ✔ Arts and Crafts Center B3 A vibrant centre in Al Duhail South, offering art classes and workshops for all ages. Caters to events, birthdays, schools and universities. 4486 5201, artsandcrafts.qa ✔ Café Céramique D4 A café at The Mall on D Ring Road where you can paint and design your own ceramics. 4467 1100 ✔ IAID Performing Arts (IAID) D4 and Al Wakra Offers progressive courses from beginner to advanced covering colour theory, art styles, drawing and painting techniques, shapes and figures, visual art perception and portraits.

4432 0974, 4441 1234, 4427 1166 (Al Wakra), iaidonline.org ✔ International Artists of Doha (IAD) Group for professional artists living in Qatar who get together and exhibit on a regular basis. 6699 0122, see their Facebook page for more details.

Katara Art Center (KAC) B4 Courses and workshops in photography, printmaking, design, drawing, painting, ceramics and more at Building 5 at Katara. 4408 0244, dohakac.com ✔ Qatar Art Center (QAC) C3 Art residency and art hub, founded in 1993 by HE Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani. 4487 7488, qatar-art-center.business.site

Qatar Fine Arts Association B4 Located at KAC, the association aims to raise the level of scientific and technical artists, and maintain their production. 4408 1469, dohakac.com

Leisure Activities

Marhaba updates this information for every issue, however, details may change after going to press.

Please check with the organisation concerned. If your organisation is listed in these pages, email any changes to us at marhaba@qatar.net.qa. Many of the locations for the following listings can be found using the map pages in this guide. Marhaba pocket maps can be purchased at bookshops and stores around town.

VCUarts Qatar Community Education C2 Courses in jewellery design, fashion design, dressmaking, drawing, Photoshop, Illustrator, watercolours and more. 4402 0555, qatar.vcu.edu

Boat and Fishing Trips, and Watersports Many tour companies offer half- and full-day dhow trips and fishing trips which often include lunch.

Trips to Safliya Island are popular and watersports are available at an extra cost. See Sightseeing in this section for contact details of tour companies and Sports Activities in the Sports section for Watersports.

AquaSports (Previously Paddle Qatar) B4/C4 Runs a range of tours, camping activities, school, educational and team building trips, beach barbecue and kayaking tours at The Pearl-Qatar and the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA). 6696 3494, aquasportsq.com ✔ Blue Pearl Experience Multiple locations Organises outdoor adventure, camps and watersports activities at The Pearl-Qatar, Doha Golf Club, Fuwairit, Zekreet and Sealine. 6660 2830, bluepearlexperience.com ✔ Fishing and parasailing trips Call Bassel on 5551 8100 National Cruise Organises cruises and tours on the sea including dinner cruises, city tours, corporate cruises, birthdays and other special occasions as well as fishing and beach trips.

6600 0926, 7799 9666, nationalcruise.com ✔ ©

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marhaba.qa • Novo Cinema, The Pearl-Qatar B4 10 screens including IMAX and VIP. VOX Cinemas, Doha Festival City B2 A 19-screen cinema multiplex including one 4DX. 4435 4444

Clubs and Hobbies

Leisure Activities

Novo Cinema, Souq Waqif

Qatar Sea Angling Association Founded in 1987 to encourage anglers to meet up regularly to share knowledge, bait and tackle tips, and a little adventure fishing around Qatar as well as support local research. qsaa.net Regatta Sailing Academy B4 Windsurfing instruction offered for all ages at Katara Beach.

5550 3484, regattasailingacademy.com Ronautica Middle East B4 Yacht charters, day boat charters and fishing trips. Contact the Harbour Master at The Pearl-Qatar. 4409 5279, ronauticame.com

Cinemas Asian Town Cinema F3 Grand Mall near the Industrial Area. 4499 9013 Cineco 3, Al Khor Mall 3-screen cineplex.

4029 6503/4453 3445 Cineco, Gulf Mall C3 A 13-screen multiplex.

4031 0600 Cineco, Villaggio Mall D2 Offers 13 cinemas including one IMAX 3D. 4451 7001 Cinema Land, Landmark Mall C3 Offers three screens. 4487 5222

Doha Writers' Workshop A community of teachers, students, and professionals interested in writing, reading, and the art of sharing experiences through words. Join their Facebook group for more details.

Elvis Presley Fan Club Officially recognised by Graceland and Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. Join events, activities and outings. qatarelvisfans.qa Friends of the Environment Centre (FEC) C3 Raising environmental awareness and conservation. 4487 4125/7301, fec.qa (Arabic) ✔ Friends of Nature (FON) C3 Located in Ezdan Mall, Al Gharrafa, FON is a non-profit organisation, which organises environmental awareness programmes and activities. 7002 0543 (Arabic) ✔ HOG Qatar Chapter (Harley Owners Group®) Aims to increase the level of enthusiasm toward Harley Davidson motorcycles. harley-davidsondoha.com Motor and motorcycling rallies Organised through Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF).

The federation accepts volunteers interested in marshalling at the rallies. 4437 9884, qmmf.com Qatar Astronomy Club For anyone who loves astronomy, stargazing, or is generally interested in the beauty of Qatar's night sky. See their Facebook page for more details. ✔ Qatar Billiards & Snooker Federation (QBSF) D4 Founded in 1991 to establish a base of players who are able to lead the sport of billiards, pool and snooker. qbsf@qbsf.qa, qbsf.qa

Flik Cinemas, Lagoona Mall B4 Platinum and Gold Class multiplex offering four screens.

4443 2757

Qatar Chess Association D4 Chess training and tournaments for children. 4494 4292/91/90, 4469 4349 (girls), 4465 9791 (boys), qatarchess.com ✔

Flik Cinemas, Mirqab Mall D3 Offers eight screens. 4434 0737

Qatar Duners Connect with other bikers, and take on the dunes. Join their Facebook group for details.

Mall Cinema, The Mall D4 Offers three cinemas.

4467 8666

Qatar Flying Club Earn a private pilot’s licence.

4457 1491, qatarflyingclub.net

Novo Cinema Call Centre 4031 5803, novocinemas.com/qatar • Novo Cinema, 01 Mall E3 Five-screen cinema.

• Novo Cinema, Mall of Qatar C1 19-screen cinema, IMAX, and MX4D. • Novo Cinema, Souq Waqif D4 Four standard theatres and a VIP 7-star screen.

Qatar Natural History Group (QNHG) Share a broad range of interests including archaeology, geology, botany, marine life, conservation and the natural world. qnhg.org ✔

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Qatar Quilt Guild A guild of ladies meet for sewing and technique workshops and contests. See their Facebook page for details.

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Qatar Culinary Professionals (QCP)

Qatar Scientific Club E3 Over 4,000 members attend classes and seminars including scuba diving, remote-control aero modelling, astronomy and electronics. Children aged 9 – 12 can join the Children’s Club. 4469 6200, qsc.org.qa (Arabic) ✔ SustainableQatar An independent, volunteerbased organisation addressing environmental issues relevant to Qatar. sustainqatar@gmail.com, sustainableqatar.com Youth Hobbies Center D4 Photography programmes for teens at Katara. Basic skills required. 4408 1812, katara.net ✔

Clubs – Recreational A few of the social clubs in and outside of Doha provide a wide range of facilities for sport and leisure activities. Many membership options are available and cater for singles, couples and families.

• Al Khor Community For information on social clubs in Al Khor call 4473 3666/35 or visit akcommunity.org (the three clubs mentioned below are for Qatargas and Al Khor International School employees only) Al Thakira (Dhakira) Club Al Nakheel Club Al Waha Club • Dukhan Water Sports 4014 1894 (for employees only) • Indian Cultural Centre D3 4468 6607 • Qatar Fertiliser Company (QAFCO) Clubs Al Banush Club 4409 1777 (for employees only) See Sports Activities in the Sports section for a comprehensive list of sports clubs.

Comedy Stand Up Comedy Qatar (SUCQ) A coalition of comedians living in Qatar, hosting stand up comedy shows regularly. See their Facebook page for details.

Culinary Deema Community Center Offers cooking and baking workshops for children. 5593 1053, see their Facebook page for details. ✔

Leisure Activities

Qatar Reads C2 Previously known as the National Reading Campaign (NRC), Qatar Reads is a programme by Qatar Foundation (QF) that aims to communicate the importance of reading and create interest in reading among all residents. Qatar Reads hosts a variety of outreach initiatives. To attend or volunteer, visit qatarreads.qa ✔

Qatar Culinary Professionals (QCP) D3 An association representing professional chefs in the food service industry in Qatar. 4418 0654, qatarcp.org The Cooking Academy C3 A local culinary start-up providing cooking classes for professionals and food lovers. 4039 0497, cookingacademy.qa

Cultural and Language Courses See Education Courses, Tutoring and Lectures and Arabic/Islamic Culture Courses in the Education section.

Dance B/Attitude Spa B4 At Beverly Hills Tower, offers zumba, salsa, latino fitness and more.

4412 2046, battitudespadoha.com ✔ Bailamos Salsa School Multiple locations Teaches salsa, bachata, tango, and more at all levels at Millennium Plaza Hotel. Bailamos Latino Night on Tuesdays and Urban Latino Night on Saturdays at The Club at The St. Regis Doha. 7040 4143, bailamossalsa.com Cabana Club D4 At the Radisson Blu Hotel, holds ballet, hip hop, salsa, bachata and more for adults and children – various levels. 4428 1621 ✔ IAID Performing Arts (IAID) D4 and Al Wakra Classical and contemporary dances of India, jazz, classical ballet; contemporary, dance and hip hop for teens and kids. 4432 0974, 4441 1234, 4427 1166 (Al Wakra), iaidonline.org ✔ ©

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marhaba.qa Drama Doha Players Theatre C2 An amateur dramatic society that produces plays and musicals on weekdays between 8 am and 1 pm only. administrator@thedohaplayers.com, thedohaplayers.com ✔

Leisure Activities

Groups and Associations 1st Doha Scout Group, British Scouting Overseas (BSO) Delivers an active programme of indoor and outdoor activities for English-speaking children aged 6 – 18 years from all backgrounds.

1st-doha-scout-group.org ✔

Jazz, zumba and hip hop B4 At The Ritz-Carlton, Doha. 4484 8000, ritzcarlton.com ✔ Pre ballet and ballet for kids D4 Classes for all levels held at International Centre for Music.

4467 1354, icmqatar.com ✔ Salsa n Candela C3 Founded by Candela Entertainment, Salsa n Candela provides salsa, Cha-Cha, bachata, Brazilian Zouk, kizomba, tango and other latin dance classes, as well as organises events and provides entertainment services. candelaentertainment.com Salsation and Zumba B4 At InterContinental Doha Hotel & Residences. 4484 4444, doha.intercontinental.com Yama Yoga Studios C4 At Asas Twin Towers, Al Dafna, offers ballet, broadway jazz, pop and hip hop dance classes. 5572 1728, yamayogastudios.com ✔

Debating and Public Speaking Al Khor Toastmasters Affiliated with Toastmasters International. 7000 8644, alkhortoastmasters.org Birla Gavel Club D4 At Birla Public School. Fee: first year QAR225 and annual QAR100.

7727 9583 ✔ Doha Toastmasters Club D4 Meet on first and third Saturday at Holiday Villa Hotel from 7 pm – 9:30 pm. 5575 1693, dohatoastmasters.org Doha Gavels Club D4 Toastmaster club for children. Part of Doha Toastmasters Club.

5572 0680 ✔

American Women's Association Active women's group for all nationalities. awaqatar.com British Guides in Foreign Countries (BGIFC) For girls only, aged 5 – 14 years. To register your daughter visit bgifc.org.uk, dess.org ✔ Canadians in Qatar All are welcome.

Join their Facebook group for details.

Croatians in Qatar For more information and details about events, visit hrvatiukataru.com Doha Mums Group of over 1,000 mums from 90 countries, offering more than 80 events a month, including New Arrivals Coffees; playgroups and holiday parties; support groups; children with special needs; children's library. dohamums.com ✔ Dutch Speaking Association of Qatar (DSA) Welcomes those who speak Dutch. dsaqatar.org ExpatWoman Qatar Join the forum and get to know other expatriate women, organise activities, meetups and gatherings. expatwoman.com/qatar French in Qatar Website in French with lots of news and events. vivreauqatar.com German Ladies Coffee Morning A time for chatting, making friends and sharing information. doha.diplo.de How Women Work (HWW) A community group empowering women to succeed through workshops, conferences, and professional events. hwwglobal.com Indian Women's Association, Qatar (IWA Qatar) Exchange expertise in various cultural social fields. iwaqatar.com

QatarDebate Centre C2 A member of Qatar Foundation (QF) and the national debating organisation for Qatar. qatardebate.org

Lebanese Community in Qatar (LCIQ) A community group for Lebanese in Qatar with more than 4,000 members to get to know each other, and organise events. Join their Facebook group for details.

Qatar Toastmasters Club D4 Meet on the first and third Sunday every month at 6:45 pm at Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha. 3311 5520, qatartoastmasters.net

Qatar Expat Women Helps women with the transition from their homeland to Qatar. See their Facebook page for more details.

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marhaba.qa Qatar Irish Society Organises social, sporting and cultural events throughout the year in order to promote closer relations in the Irish community in Qatar. qataririshsociety.com Qatar Professional Women's Network (QPWN) An informal networking group for any woman regardless of nationality, profession, age or educational background. qpwn.org Scots in Qatar Holds regular functions throughout the year including St Andrew's Night Ball, Burns Supper and summer ceilidhs. scotsinqatar.com

Sudanese Professional Association and Sudanese Women's Association (SWA) in Qatar A formal association of Sudanese professionals that organises professional, business, social and cultural events throughout the year for the Sudanese community in Qatar. See their Facebook page for more details.

Swedish Association of Qatar (SAQ) Regular gatherings and social events for children and adults. saq.nu ✔ The Cambridge Society of Qatar Cambridge University alumni in Qatar who meet regularly to socialise, listen to eminent speakers and to discuss ways of promoting links between Qatar and Cambridge University. alumni.cam.ac.uk Tuesday Ladies Group (TLG) D4 Support group for expatriate women. Meets at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha for tea, coffee and cakes every other Tuesday. tlgdoha.com

Groups Seeking Volunteers There are many non-profit, non-governmental organisations that one can volunteer at in Qatar including charity organisations as well as animal shelters.

Cat Assistance Team of Qatar (CAT) Volunteer-based cat rescue group that fundraises to support cat rescue in Qatar. All proceeds go to TNR (trap-neuter-return), cat care and rescue.

See their Facebook page for more details.

Doha Environmental Actions Project (Deap) A team of volunteers seeking to restore the natural beauty of the beach and sand dunes in Qatar and raise awareness on the importance of preserving the environment. See their Facebook or Instagram pages for more details. ✔

Leisure Activities

Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center (previously known as Fanar) D4 Hosts numerous events for people of all nationalities and beliefs. 4444 7444, binzaid.gov.qa

Paws Rescue Qatar A group of individuals who rescue and rehome dogs and cats. pawsrescueqatar.org Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS) A non-profit organisation dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of animals in Qatar. Funded purely by public donations along with offers of support from volunteers, it is home to over 200 animals.

5539 6074, qaws.org ✔ Qatar Red Crescent (QRCS) Qatar's first volunteering charitable organisation, QRCS works to help and empower vulnerable individuals and communities in Qatar and across the MENA region.

QRCS is an active member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. qrcs.org.qa

2nd Chance Rescue – Qatar A branch of Park View Pet Centre provides fostering, adoption and dog walking services. 5540 6254, see their Facebook page for details.

Qatar Volunteers A volunteer group that participates in fundraising events, blood donation, beach cleanups, and national and international disaster response. See their Facebook page for details.

Animal Resources Department D4 The government vet has a trap-neuter-return (TNR) team and offers free treatments, neutering, spaying, vaccinating and microchipping. 184/4426 1656

Reach Out To Asia (ROTA) Volunteer Club ROTA supports neighbouring countries as they overcome developmental difficulties. To volunteer, call 4454 1603, reachouttoasia.org

BarkinQ – Volunteers for Dogs Run by a dog-loving couple, rescuing stray or abandoned dogs to rehome abroad – not a shelter.

5573 2144, see their Facebook page for details.

TNR Qatar A volunteer organisation promoting trapneuter-return (TNR), the humane solution to the cat overpopulation problem, saving cats lives. See their Facebook page for details. ©

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marhaba.qa Health and Fitness See Sports Activities in the Sports section and Health and Wellness in the Health and Beauty section for comprehensive listings of activities and classes.

Libraries

Leisure Activities

British Council Qatar D3 Information Centre has books, magazines, videos, DVDs and internet access. 800 5501, britishcouncil.qa ✔ Institut Français du Qatar B3 Provides information about different aspects of French and Frenchspeaking culture and civilisation: literary, artistic, social, scientific and technical.

4493 0862, institutfrancais-qatar.com ✔ Qatar National Library (QNL) C2 Gives residents access to nearly one million books, periodicals, and special collections. The Heritage Collection, located in the centre of the QNL building, includes rare and valuable texts and manuscripts related to Arabic and Islamic civilisation. Also featured is a dedicated Children’s Library containing more than 150,000 books in varioes languages, educational toys, arts and crafts materials, and innovative learning software. The Teen Collection is aimed at visitors aged 13 – 18, and includes more than 30,000 books and magazines, computer labs, graphic novels, interactive learning tools, and a specially-designed events space.

QNL members can pick up a membership card, while those not yet registered can do so by presenting their Qatar ID. Register at library.qnl.qa/selfreg. For more information, visit qnl.qa or call 4454 0100 ✔ VCUQatar Library C2 The public may join the library for a small deposit and borrow art, design, architecture and innovative media books, ebooks, research, articles, images, videos and more. qatar.vcu.edu/library ✔ Qatar Concert Choir

Music Groups and Choirs Doha Chamber Choir A cappella choir has vacancies for all voice parts, especially tenor.

Rehearses weekly from September to June.

Varied repertoire. Performs for booked events only (weddings, parties, etc). 7011 8887, qatarconcertchoir.com Doha Community Music Ensembles A full size symphony orchestra and wind symphony for amateur musicians. Open to new members of all ages and nationalities. 3385 7784, dcmeqatar.com ✔ Doha Jazz A leader and provider of Jazz bands, Doha Jazz performs several genres of jazz and other styles such as blues, Arabic and classical music. 5571 0746, dohajazz.com Doha Singers A choral group that presents several concerts every year. dohasingers.com Drumming Circles Teaching African djembe drumming and rhythm. Open to all. Bring your own drum or use one provided. Contact Patrick Dilley on 3384 2330, drummingqatar.com ✔ IAID Performing Arts (IAID) D4 and Al Wakra Music courses include piano, keyboard, guitar and vocals in Western notations, following the London College of Music (LCM) syllabus. Examinations are held every six months by LCM examiners. 4432 0974, 4441 1234, 4427 1166 (Al Wakra), iaidonline.org ✔ International Centre for Music D4 Offers classes in piano, keyboard, violin, guitar and music theory, as well as voice lessons. 4467 1354, icmqatar.com ✔ Qatar Concert Choir A not-for-profit audition choir performing a wide range of classical and contemporary choral music. qatarconcertchoir.com Qatar Little Voices Led by the director of Qatar Youth and Junior Choirs, Little Voices is a lively once-weekly music appreciation programme and a pre-choir entry class for young children. Class size is limited. 4036 3139, hub@sisq.qa ✔ Qatar Youth and Junior Choir Qatar Youth Choir, for singers aged 14 – 18, is an ambitious youth choir, singing from the great classical and contemporary choral repertoires. Qatar Junior Choir is for younger boys and girls aged 8 – 13 years and is the feeder choir to the more senior Qatar Youth Choir. qyj-choir.com ✔ Siwar Qatar's leading Arabic youth choir established by Al Jazeera Children's Channel, bringing together Arabic traditions with fresh and exciting music. jeemtv.net/en/shows/siwar ✔

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marhaba.qa Angry Birds World

Ezdan Mall C3 Fun Ville A play area for kids between 1 – 12 years of age. 4479 6754 ✔

Gulf Mall C3 GOFUN Qatar An indoor facility, providing a variety of play areas and game machines. 4031 0651, gulfmalldoha.com ✔

Hyatt Plaza D2

Water Parks and Play Zones Farah Multiple Locations A full indoor theme park that combines the typical Family Entertainment Center (FEC) environment with Various Activity Rooms (VAR) designed to encourage imaginative play, social and pretend play opportunities, skill development and other open-ended play opportunities. 4427 2807/4017 8934, farahqatar.com ✔ KidZania Doha D2 In Aspire Zone, children can freely explore a 5,500 sq m child-sized city, and perform real-life tasks with more than 60 hands-on activities designed for children aged 1 – 14.

4482 6222, doha.kidzania.com ✔ Megapolis Entertainment Center B4 An indoor entertainment destination in Medina Centrale at The Pearl-Qatar, offering an array of games and activities such as escape rooms, virtual reality simulators, bowling, darts, billiards, karaoke and more. 4437 8444/84, megapolisqatar.com ✔

City Center-Doha C4 Fun City Rides, activities and video games for the whole family. 4483 9502, citycenterdoha.com ✔

Doha Festival City B2 Angry Birds World The world's first Angry Birds World, featuring over 20 rides and attractions for all ages. 4042 0444, angrybirdsworld.qa ✔

Landmark Mall C3 Circusland Has rides, games, trampolines and a large activity zone suitable for the whole family.

4487 6111/333, landmarkdoha.com ✔

Mall of Qatar C1 KidzMondo More than 70 scaled-down businesses including a central plaza, fire station, clock tower, police station and hospital theatre. 4028 5888, kidzmondodoha.com ✔ Xtremeland A multi-entertainment centre with 7D Theater, Drop & Twist Tower, Giant Slide and Clip N Climb activity and more for children of all ages!

4486 5473, mallofqatar.com.qa ✔

Mirqab Mall D3 Funderdome (Hangout and Jump) An indoor family entertainment centre which focuses on fun, healthy exercise and creative activities.

4443 9740, funderdomedoha.com ✔

Royal Plaza D3 Ray's Reef A play area for children between the ages of six months and 14 years, offering arts and crafts, mini movie theatre, water play zone and more. 4413 1122, royalplazadoha.com ✔

Tawar Mall C3 BOUNCEinc Qatar An indoor trampoline park with more than 100 interconnected trampolines.

4408 6500, bounce.qa ✔

The Mall D4

Snow Dunes A snow park at -4˚C all year round, themed around a fantastical Arabian town, complete with its very own Arabian-style castle.

4035 4444, snowdunes.qa ✔

Fun Day An indoor children's theme park.

4465 7969, themalldoha.com ✔

Virtuocity A digital gaming hub equipped with full motion racing simulators, escape rooms and a multipurpose eSports arena. 4042 0499, virtuocity.qa ✔

Gondolania Theme Park and Ice Arena The indoor theme park includes a 4D cinema, bowling, laser wars, go-karting, ice arena and more.

4403 9800, gondolania.com ✔ m

Villaggio Mall D2

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Winter Wonderland Bowling alley and ice skating rink. 4493 3355, citycenterdoha.com ✔

Leisure Activities

Jungle Zone This indoor jungle themed playground has rides for different age groups and a video arcade area. 4499 9699, hyattplaza.com ✔

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It’s Camping Season

By Ola Diab

C

amping season is here! As cooler weather approaches, camping trips are an ideal getaway especially as most people are staying in the country with travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2020–21 winter camping season began in October 2020 and will continue until March 2021.

The registration for the five-month-long winter camping season opened on 14 October and continues until 31 December. Registrations can be done electronically through the Municipality and Environment (MME) website mme.gov.qa and its mobile app, Aoun, as well as through government service centres operating across the country According to MME, at least 2,400 camps were booked in the 2020–21 winter camping season.

A total of 17 areas are included, such as Sealine, Al Shamal, Zubara, Dukhan, Zekreet, Al Khor, Khor Al Adaid, Al Waab, Fuwairit, Al Mazrooah, Al Ghariya and more.

Registration for the 2020–21 winter camping season opened in phases. Registration for camp sites in Al Shamal, Al Ghashamiyah, Sealine, Ras Matbakh, Arida, Zekreet, Al Naqiyan, Al Kharara, Ashiraj, Al Sariyah, and Umm Al Maa opened during Phase 1. Applicants pay QAR10,000 as security, which will be refunded after the camping season.

The regular charges in Al Shamal, Al Ghashamiyah, and Al Naqiyan are QAR3,000. Campers interested in Ras Matbakh, Arida, Zekreet, Sealine, Ashiraj, and Umm Al Maa will have to pay QAR10,000. The camping period in these areas for Phase 1 will run from 13 October 2020 to 28 March 2021.

Registration for camp sites in Al Reem Reserve, Al Marona, Al Mazrooah, Umm Al Aafa’i, Al Hasham, Abu Zahlof, Al Zubara, Al Udaid, Al Khuraij South,

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and Bu Samra opened during Phase 2. Applicants will have to pay QAR3,000 for camping in Al Mazrooah, Umm Al Aafa’i, and Al Hasham.

However, those who want to camp in Al Reem Reserve, Al Marona, Abu Zahlof, Al Zubara, Al Udaid, Al Khuraij South, and Bu Samra pay QAR10,000 as charges in addition to QAR10,000 refundable security money. Camping season for Phase 2 will run from 16 October 2020 to 4 April 2021.

Registration for Phase 3 camping began on 18 October for camping in Rawdat Rashed, Rawdat Aisha, Al Khor, Al Waab, Imgaitna, Al Ghariya, Al Mufair, Ras Al Nouf, Al Otouriyah, Al Sane’ah, and Al Rees West.

Phase 3 applicants will be charged QAR3,000 for camping in Rawdat Rashed, Rawdat Aisha, Al Khor, Al Waab, Imgaitna, Otouryah, Al Sane’ah, and Al Rees West. Campers who register for Al Ghariya, Al Mufair and Ras Al Nouf will have to pay QAR10,000 as charges in addition to the refundable security money. Camping season for Phase 3 began on 20 October and will conclude on 8 April 2021.

Applicants should be Qatari citizens aged 25 or above, and should adhere strictly to camping terms and conditions, and follow environmental protection laws.

All these areas are still open to the public with beaches and entertainment for all. In addition to the imposed restrictions of COVID-19, MME has introduced measures against violators to protect and clean the environment in cooperation with working observers. In addition, MME has launched the Best Camp Award as an incentive aimed at pushing the camps to preserve the environment.

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Sealine or Mesaieed Beach Home to the Sealine Beach Resort, a Murwab Resort and Qatar’s popular sand dunes, Sealine or Mesaieed is the most popular desert and beach destination in winter and throughout the year. It’s also the most popular destination for camping with most tourist or adventure companies setting up camp there.

This is where people can spend a day, or a night or more to enjoy the outdoors by swimming, sand duning or bashing, bonfires, barbecues and more.

Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) opened its medical clinic at Sealine on 31 October 2020 in time for the 2020-21 winter camping season.

Operating for the 10th year, the easily-accessible Sealine Medical Clinic is located on a main road adjacent to the busy beach, resort, mosque, shopping area, and other services and amenities in the area.

The fleet is ready to respond to all emergency calls from campers in the Sealine resort and surrounding areas during the camping season.

The new 4x4 ambulances have been modified to cope with the special terrain in the Sealine and surrounding areas, to enable them to reach patients safely and swiftly.

The clinic will operate from 3 pm on Thursday until 5 pm on Saturday throughout the camping season and will remain open until at least the end of March 2021.

Camping during COVID-19 It is mandatory for all campers to download and activate Ehteraz mobile app and not allow anyone without the app or ‘green’ status to be in the camp.

The Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) has issued COVID-19 precautionary measures for winter camping season 2020-21, banning the entry of infected or suspected cases of coronavirus in camps.

Dos • Campers should follow the guidelines and policies related to the prevention and preventive measures to curb the spread of COVID-19, including maintaining social distancing, and wearing face masks.

• Campers should take suspected people with COVID-19 symptoms to health centres designated for that category as soon as symptoms appear.

• Campers have also been directed to follow rules regarding the size of the gathering determined according to the area and the nature of the place and in line with COVID-19 restrictions.

• As per the rules and regulations, camps should have numbers, which are issued by MME. The numbers should be displayed prominently in at least A4 size. Campers are required to show their licenses to the inspectors whenever needed and allow them to inspect the premises to ensure compliance with rules and regulations.

• Campers should also strictly adhere to provisions of laws and ministerial decisions, especially those related to protecting the environment.

• Campers should maintain necessary hygiene and preserve marine and coastal environment.

• Campers should cooperate with patrolling units.

The licensee of the camp bears full responsibility for the camp, and the safety and security of people and properties inside the camp. In addition, there should be security guards at large camps.

Donts • Campers should also not rent their camps to other individuals.

• People infected with COVID-19, those coming in direct contact with coronavirus patients or showing symptoms, and those awaiting the results of their screening tests are not allowed to camp, as per the safety procedures issued by the health authorities.

• It is prohibited to use camps to quarantine or isolate infected people or those coming in contact with infected persons or suspected cases. The license issued to a camper is for personal use and it is not allowed to rent the location of camp or give it to someone else. It is also prohibited to use the camp for other activities or using materials which are harmful to the environment.

MME has the right to carry out inspections to ensure compliance with prescribed precautionary measures. m ©

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Living in Qatar

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marhaba.qa

Whether you are a resident or a visitor to Qatar, there are many things to know about your stay in Qatar from day to day activities to government tasks.

Visas For details of how to apply and types of visas available, see Traveller Information in this section.

Accidents and Medical Emergencies The number for emergencies – fire, police or ambulance – is 999.

Newspapers

The Arabic dailies published in Qatar include Al Arab, Al Sharq, Arrayah and Al Watan. Most newsagents deliver newspapers if asked. Dailies are also available online.

Television and Radio Al Jazeera: The most watched Arabic news channel in the Arab world is broadcast from Doha in English and Arabic. The radio service broadcasts 24/7 news and current affairs in English on 101.7 FM. Oryx FM: A French service, transmits 24/7 on 94.0 FM. oryxradio.qa Qabayan Radio: First and only Filipino radio channel in Qatar, operating on 94.3 FM. qabayanfm.com Qatar Television (QTV): Operates Channel 1 in Arabic. qtv.qa QBS Radio: Operates daily on 97.5 FM in English. qbsradio.qa Quran Radio Qatar: Operates 24/7 in Arabic with more than 10 talk shows on 103.4 FM. quranradio.qa Radio Olive: A Hindi FM station, broadcasts 24/7 with information, music and entertainment to the diaspora fom the Indian Sub-Continent on 106.3 FM. olive.qa Sout Al Khaleej (Voice of the Gulf): An Arabic live radio station, broadcasts Arab music and entertainment on 99.0 – 100.8 FM. soutalkhaleej.fm

Places of Worship Islam is the official religion of Qatar but many expatriate communities hold church services.

All religious associations need to register with Qatar International Christian Ministry (QICM) to be considered legitimate. 7 am – 2 pm

Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Rosary E4 Daily Mass: early morning and evening in English and other languages. 4416 5400/5550, ourladyofrosarychurch.org Immanuel Mar Thoma Church – Doha, Qatar E4 Member of Inter Denominational Christian Church.

4416 5701, imtcdoha.com Rehoboth Assembly Church (RCCG) E4 A parish of the redeemed Christian Church of God. Teenage Church and Children's Club available. 5046 8941, rccgrehobothqatar.org

Living in Qatar

There are three local English daily newspapers published in Qatar: Gulf Times, The Peninsula and Qatar Tribune – plus the international New York Times. Other international titles arrive a little later.

Church of the Epiphany E4 Anglican/Episcopal Church. 4416 5726, social.epiphany-qatar.com

Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center (Fanar) D4 Al Juma’a Khutba and prayer in English for male and female Englishspeaking Muslims on Fridays. Open Sunday to Thursday 8 am – 1 pm and 5 pm – 8 pm.

4444 7444, binzaid.gov.qa

Government Online Whether you are a resident or a visitor to Qatar, dealing with one or more of the country's government offices is going to be a necessity at some point in your stay. You can do it the oldfashioned way, visiting the offices and transacting your business directly with government officials, or do it the more convenient way – online.

Hukoomi This is the awardwinning government website, gov.qa.

Available in English and Arabic, it is the first place to look when you have government-related queries. It serves as an access point to the many services provided by the government and allows everyone, visitors and residents alike, to make transactions online. ©

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marhaba.qa Regularly updated, it has many e-services and links to various government ministries, councils, departments and institutions. It also provides information and articles about Qatar.

Launched in 2017, Hukoomi 3 enables the use of up to 650 online services accessible remotely without having to visit a government office. The new portal offers an additional 500 services.

Living in Qatar

Hukoomi can be accessed via apps for Android and iOS. Registration: Some services, such as driving licences, require online registration with a Qatari ID card for residents and nationals or a passport number for users outside Qatar.

Ministry of Interior (MOI) Services MOI is committed to keeping both citizens and residents continuously informed and updated about their services and ease of access to them. They can be found at moi.gov.qa, on Twitter, YouTube and Facebook. Some services are available in Arabic, English, Hindi and Urdu to meet the diverse language needs of its users.

Metrash2 The MOI constantly improves and simplifies its services delivery channels and procedures.

In light of this, MOI introduced its unique service Metrash2 that enables Qatari nationals and residents to apply for and obtain more than 150 services that save their time, effort and money, while enjoying the convenience of using their smartphones.

For support and enquiries: 234 2000

Metrash2 includes: Visa services • Personal and corporate traffic services • RP services • Exit permit issue • General MOI enquiries MOI's Emergency Service for the Deaf 992 uses advanced technological equipment to enable users to contact the emergency centre by: • Dialling 992 using a 3G camera from their computer or mobile phone.

• Sending an SMS to 992 mentioning clearly the type of the problem and service needed – such as Ambulance, Civil Defense or Police – and the name of the user and the address, and the injuries or deaths if any, and then contacting the police.

eCASH Card The MOI will only accept credit, debit and eCASH cards as payment for many services including visas, residence permit applications and renewals, payment of fines.

The eCASH Card is a non-personalised prepaid card, obtainable from Qatar National Bank (QNB), which can be used to pay for such fees at ministries and government departments displaying the eCASH symbol. To purchase the card you need to show your ID card, or if you are a nonresident, your passport.

Features: Valid for two years • No bank account needed • Reloading facility • Refundable credit in case of card loss or cancellation • Available to visitors and residents • Check balances and reload at any QNB ATM. Cost: One-off issuance fee of QAR20 • Reload with a minimum of QAR50.

Issuing counters at: Traffic Department branches: Madinat Khalifa (HQ) C3, Al Maamoura D4/E4, E Ring Road/Matar Qadeem D4.

Immigration Department branches: Al Gharrafa C2, the Industrial Area, Hamad International Airport (HIA) D5, Al Wakra and Al Khor. eCASH cards are not personalised so it is essential to report your lost or stolen card as soon as possible. To report any suspicious transaction not initiated by yourself, call your bank, some of which have dedicated fraud lines.

Useful Documents/Processing You need to prove your identity in Qatar for all government and commercial transactions, so have plenty of: • Passport-size photos and several copies of the passport of each family member.

• Copies of your marriage (attested) and birth certificates.

• Original educational qualifications (copies are not accepted), which will need to be authenticated in your country of origin, along with a Bonafide Certificate.

• Emailing 992@moi.gov.qa DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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marhaba.qa Translating a document: The official language in Qatar is Arabic. Each page of each document must bear the translation firm’s official stamp for it to be considered valid.

Asia Translation and Services Centre 4444 0943 Qatar Translation Centre 4443 5354 Translations Studio provides professional translation, proofreading and editing in all languages. Contact Yvonne Ikram (appointed translator by EU Law), translations-studio.com

Government Services Complex: There are government service complexes across the country – Al Wakra, Al Daayen, Al Sheehaniya, Mesaimeer, Onaiza, Al Zubara, Al Hilal (C Ring Road), Al Rayyan, Umm Salal and The Pearl-Qatar. Sun to Thu 7:30 am – 1 pm/3 pm – 7 pm, Fri and Sat closed. Call the Government Contact Center at 109 for more information.

The complex provides services of six ministries and government entities, namely: Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs; Justice; Commerce and Industry; Foreign Affairs; Education and Higher Education; and Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa).

The Qatar Labour Law – Kafala The relationship between an employer and employee is regulated by the Qatar Labour Law. A copy of this can be downloaded via Hukoomi or read on qatarlaborlaw.com/qatar-labor-law, qatarlaborlaw.com/amendments In October 2019, the then Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Abdullah bin Nasir bin Khalifa Al Thani announced Qatar’s move to abolish the system, which entered into force in 2020, marking the end of an employee sponsorship system.

Sponsorship: All expatriate workers in Qatar require sponsorship to work in the country.

Minimum Wage: According to Law No 17 of 2020 on Setting the Minimum Wage for Workers and Domestic Workers, the minimum wage for all private sector workers, including domestic workers, is set at QAR1,000 per month as a basic wage, as well as QAR500 per month allocated by the employer for accommodation expenses and QAR300 per month for food, unless the employer already provides adequate food or accommodation for the employee or domestic worker. The new law will come info effect in March 2021.

Working hours: A 48-hour week is the maximum allowed under Qatar Labour Law without overtime pay. Government offices and many private companies have a two-day weekend on Friday and Saturday, although a one-day holiday on Friday is still common in the private sector.

Hours of business: Government offices tend to work a single shift 7 am – 2 pm; private companies may work a single shift or split morning/late afternoon shifts with longer hours.

Living in Qatar

Mandoub: Most organisations offer help to their employees on arrival and have a government liaison officer (mandoub) who is responsible for completing much of the official documentation.

Contract: Three copies of the employment contract should be signed by both parties. The employer and employee each retain a copy, the third copy is kept at the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs C4 after verifying it.

It is illegal for sponsors to keep their employees' passport and travel documents after the visa formalities are over. Sponsor fine: not less than QAR10,000.

End of service benefits: Employees completing a period of continuous service for more than one year are entitled to an end of service benefit on the termination or expiry of the contract of employment. This is mandatory in the current labour law, effective from January 2005.

Migrant workers can now change jobs before the end of their contract subject to a notice period. The adoption of Law No 19 of 2020 provides greater clarity regarding termination of employment. To terminate an employment contract and change jobs, workers must provide at least one month’s written notice if they have worked with the employer for two years or less, or two months’ notice if they have worked with the employer for over two years.

Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs C Ring Road D4 including a Women's Section. There is also an office on Street 13/ Al Kasarat St in the Industrial Area (see map in the Motoring section). 4028 8888 ©

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Living in Qatar

responsibility to deal with all the paperwork and to pay the annual fee at the Immigration Department in Al Gharrafa C2, the Industrial Area E2 or Mesaimeer E3. Families residing in Al Wakra F5 and Al Khor should apply locally.

Workplace Disputes The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani issued Law No 13 of 2017 amending some provisions of the Labour Law, and forming the Labour Dispute Resolution Committee. All labour disputes are received through the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs to resolve disputes. The maximum period for reviewing the disputes before the committee is one month, including the time for any potential appeal.

Labour Relations Department: File your complaint within one year of the event with the section for workers’ rights and grievances. 4028 8888 Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs: Has its own dedicated 24-hour confidential hotline number for its own employees who have employment grievances.

National Human Rights Committee in Qatar: Protects and consolidates human rights of all, subject to the jurisdiction of Qatar. 4404 8844, hotline 6662 6663, nhrc-qa.org

Register at your Embassy All nationals working or residing in Qatar are advised to contact their country’s embassy to register or subscribe to its services. See Foreign Embassies in this section for contact details.

Residence/Work Permits Expatriate workers must have a residence permit for themselves and each member of their family unless they fall into exempted categories. You need a Qatari sponsor to obtain a residence work permit enabling you to sponsor your family.

Work residence permit: QAR1,260 per year (QAR1,000 annual fee, QAR100 for the ID card, QAR100 for the Labour Department paperwork costs, QAR60 for validation stamps). Work Residence Permits are renewed each year by the expatriate’s employer. It is usually the sponsor’s DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Register as a working woman: (On husband’s sponsorship) QAR500 per year. Women on family sponsorship can work in Qatar without a separate residence work permit by obtaining a licence from the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs, Women’s Section. When you have been offered a job, the company must obtain an application form from the Labour Department and submit it with the following: • Three original copies of your employment contract (QAR60 for authentication).

• A no objection letter (NOC) signed by the family sponsor giving his consent for you to work.

• Originals and photocopies of passports and ID for you and your family sponsor.

• Originals and photocopies of all your relevant academic and professional qualifications.

• A certificate of good conduct from the MOI. • Copy of your resignation letter from your previous employment (if applicable).

• A photograph and fees.

Payment: Via credit card or eCash card from Qatar National Bank (QNB) sold on or near the premises.

Family residence permit: Spouse and child over 18 – QAR500 per year, child under 18 – QAR400.

Every member of the family residing in Qatar, including babies, must have an individual family residence permit. Holders of residence work permits can sponsor their immediate family (spouse and children) if they earn over QAR10,000 a month. Workers are allowed to sponsor their sons under 25 years of age who have not completed university studies and unmarried daughters of any age. The sponsorship law allows women in independent jobs to sponsor their husband and children (conditions apply).

The General Directorate of Passports is in the process of introducing new procedures that will enable people to submit their family residency applications electronically and online via the Hukoomi website, Metrash 2 and the internal services system.

Documents required: Salary certificate from employer; copies of passports of family members; attested marriage, birth and degree certificates (as required); copy of electricity bill; six months worth of bank statements; stamped and registered

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marhaba.qa accomodation lease. Final approval of the residence permit depends on the decision of the recruitment committee. Check gov.qa in case of changes.

Domestic staff residence permit: QAR300 per year (on personal sponsorship). Employees must have a minimum salary and be married with a resident working spouse in Qatar (proof of which is required). Fill in the application form at your local Immigration Department. There are sometimes restrictions on the nationality you can employ so check before you start the process.

Recruiting privately: Obtain the visa yourself for domestic staff (or use the office mandoub), register a contract with the Qatari Labour Department and complete any paperwork with the national’s embassy in Qatar. You must then go through an official recruitment agency to complete the entry process. Domestic workers in Qatar earn an average of QAR1,500 a month.

Requirements and regulations are subject to change so please check when applying.

Recruitment agencies: These have a list of staff for you to choose from and will complete all the formalities for you.

Medical Procedures For Residence Permits Qatar makes it mandatory for workers from several Asian, African and Middle Eastern countries to submit a health certificate before their entry into the country. You must complete these procedures before you can get a residence work permit or family residency: Blood-type certificate: This can be obtained from any clinic for both adults and children. You must have this certificate before going for your medical test.

Medical test: This includes a blood test (not to be confused with blood type) and a chest X-ray, for adults only, carried out by the Medical Commission in Abu Hamour E3, 4467 9111. Cost QAR100.

Alternatively the service can be provided at Al Ahli Hospital, Doha Clinic, Al Emadi Hospital or American Hospital Doha. moph.gov.qa Fingerprinting: A few days after completing the medical test, only adults need to go for electronic fingerprinting. Headquarters are at Salwa Road (by the Industrial Area Interchange) F2, open Sunday

to Thursday 6:30 am – 5:30 pm, 234 6666. Other service centres are located in Al Khor, Al Shamal, Duhail, the Industrial Area E2 and Mesaimeer E3.

Large organisations can ask the MOI’s mobile unit to fingerprints on site.

Collecting Residence Card: Usually ready after three days to one week; collect from the issuing office, Immigration Department, Al Gharrafa C2, 4489 0333. The Residence Permit sticker in the passport has been abolished and replaced by an all-encompassing Residence Card, also held by children.

Living in Qatar

In August 2017, HH the Amir ratified Law No 15 on service workers in the home (Domestic Workers Law). The cabinet adopted the law in February 2018. The law guarantees workers a maximum 10-hour workday, a weekly rest day, three weeks of annual leave, and an end-of-service payment of at least three weeks per year.

Residence Cards Identity cards are compulsory for all residents of Qatar, including children, with a work or family residence permit. It is issued after the formalities for residence permits are completed and can be used instead of your passport for all transactions in Qatar. Carry your card with you at all times.

Also known as a Residency Pemit (RP), the card bears your name, nationality, date of birth, occupation, an ID number and its validity.

Containing personal data of the holder, the card also bears your passport number, passport expiry date, residency type, sponsor's name, signature and more. The cards also have electronic chips for storing personal and biometric data. You will be required to present your card every time you enter and exit the country. It will also be accepted at airlines/airports around the world as the official document to prove residence in Qatar.

Renew a Residence Card Your sponsor must renew your residence work permit, but you can renew your family’s residence permits.

Qatar Post’s e-Resident online service: You can renew your Residence Permit and passport with an optional home delivery service via Metrash 2 and Qatar Post. To apply at Qatar Post, get ID Card application forms at the General Post Office in Al Dafna C3; the form must be completed and ©

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signed by both applicant and sponsor. Submit with a valid passport, ID, one photo and the relevant fee, either to the Post Office or Immigration Department. Cost: Spouse or child over 18 years – QAR500; child under 18 years – QAR300; domestic staff – QAR300. Additional charges apply for the renewal of the ID card and processing fees – QAR20. Call Centre 104, qatarpost.qa Renew online: Fill out the required information via the online application form. Select renewal period (from one to three years). Select delivery option and pay the appropriate fees. gov.qa The MOI currently has Self-service Machines (SSMs) at 15 locations including the main post office, Landmark Mall, Villaggio Mall, Royal Plaza, Hamad International Airport, Lulu Hypermarket – D Ring Road, Ministry of Interior headquarters, MOI Services building at Mesaimeer, MOI Traffic Department, Police Training Institute, Education City Health Club, and MOI administrative building. Visit hukoomi.qa for details of all locations. Users, both individuals and licensed company representatives, can renew certain residence cards, collect exit permits, pay traffic violations, check expiry dates of passports, visas, driving licences and more.

The MOI has added two new services to its website and mobile app Metrash 2. New services include issuing and reactivating the Residency Permit (RP). The issuing and reactivation of an RP requires the completion of a medical test. To issue a new RP, fingerprinting is necessary.

Exit Permits The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani signed Law No 13 of 2018 (Amending Law) in September 2018, amending certain provisions of Law No 21 of 2015 that required all migrant workers getting permission from their employers before leaving Qatar. The amended law, which came into effect on 28 October 2018, allows most migrant workers covered by the Labour Law to leave the country without having to obtain an exit permit.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

However, this amended law did not originally cover all workers, such as those working in the military or government institutions, until January 2020. Decision No 95 of 2019 was issued to allow expatriates in the following categories to have the freedom to temporarily or permanently leave the country during the period of validity of their employment contract: staff in ministries and other government agencies; employees in public bodies and institutions; employees in the oil and gas sector and affiliated companies; employees working on marine vessels; workers engaged in agriculture and grazing; and workers in private offices. As per Decision No 95 of 2019, domestic workers should notify employers should be notified at least 72 hours prior to the departure.

In September 2018, the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs (MADLSA) announced that employers may submit names of up to 5% of its employees who will continue to require exit permits. Companies need to upload the list of such employees on the MADLSA website. MADLSA will then move those lists to the Ministry of Interior. Employers are not required to seek an employee’s consent prior to including a name on the list.

Wives and dependent children under the sponsorship of their husbands or fathers do not require an exit permit.

The Expat Exit Grievance Committee remains in place to accept complaints from workers prevented from leaving the country for any reason. Until advised otherwise, the following fees remain in place for those who still require an exit permit: Multiple use exit permits for expatriates: Valid for one year – QAR500.

Exit permit for those sponsored by companies or organisations: Valid for one week – No charge.

Exit permit for those on personal sponsorship: Valid for one week – No charge.

Electronic exit permits: Government agencies and private companies can now issue exit permits electronically through an authorised signatory within seconds using the eGovernment website, gov.qa. Sponsors can issue the permit via the internet and their mobile phones worldwide.

Manually processed exit permits: Many smaller organisations still process exit permits by hand. The mandoub is licensed as a company representative to obtain this on your behalf.

Paperwork must be signed by your sponsor and bear the company stamp. Permits must be presented, along with your passport, at the Immigration counter at Departures.

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marhaba.qa Overstay fines: Check gov.qa for current fees.

Online visa/permit information Detailed information about all types of visas and visa applications in English can be found online at Hukoomi, gov.qa, or at the MOI website, moi.gov.qa

eGate The MOI has activated free eGate service

Health Related Services Health Cards To access the government healthcare system and facilities, it is essential to apply for a health card. This can be issued only after you obtain a residence permit. Babies under one year receive free vaccinations and medical treatment under the state healthcare system. Cash is not accepted for payment at Primary Health Care Centres (PHCC) – only a valid debit or credit card or payment card obtainable from QNB (see eCASH cards, earlier in this section).

Application Qatar guarantees health services to all citizens and residents in government medical institutions through a health card system. The system provides the cardholder with a medical record file containing all his/her medical data saved in the nearest health care centre. You can renew your health card online, or replace a lost or damaged card.

Process Citizens and residents of Qatar may apply for a health card to access services at any of the Hamad Medical Corporation’s healthcare facilities or hospitals. It contains your ID number, nationality, photo and date of issue. To obtain a health card, visit PHCC nearest to where you live.

There you need to fill out the appropriate forms.

You will be issued a PHCC health file number.

The health centre will either issue you with your card immediately or ask you to return within a few days to collect it. Health cards are issued during morning working hours only. Call 107 or 16067 for more information. phcc.qa, hamad.qa Cost Qatari and other GCC adult residents and children QAR50; non-Qatari adult residents and children QAR100. If you lose your health card but

it is still valid, Qatari nationals will need to pay QAR50 for a replacement, non-Qataris QAR100.

If you lose your health card and it has expired Qatari nationals will need to pay QAR100 for a replacement, non-Qataris QAR200. You must pay using a credit or debit card. No cash is accepted.

Renew or replace your Health Card through Hukoomi via these simple steps, gov.qa

Living in Qatar

for expatriate passengers at the arrivals and departures terminal of Hamad International Airport (HIA). Expatriates and their children above 18 years of age can avail of the service using their residence cards or passports after registration at the airport. HIA currently has 40 e-gates installed – 21 at the departures terminal and 19 at the arrivals terminal. The service comes under the 'smart passengers' project launched in early 2017.

– Load the online application.

– Enter your ID number. Choose to renew, or 'Reprint' if you wish to replace your lost or damaged Health Card.

– Choose your preferred delivery option.

– Pay appropriate fees online.

Private Medical Insurance Some companies provide their employees with free health insurance (but this may be tied to using a local private hospital) or you can arrange your own. Many of the larger private clinics have various options, including family packages. The government is currently working towards making private health insurance mandatory.

Medical, Home and Life insurance Arabia Insurance

4442 2682

AXA Insurance

4483 2995

Insure Direct

4040 9414

Libano-Suisse

4466 4406

MetLife

Qatar Insurance Company (QIC)

800 9711 800 0742

Vaccination Vaccinations for overseas travel, for visitors to Qatar, and childhood immunisation are all available from the Vaccination Unit at Mesaimeer Health Centre E3, 4406 4222. The Communicable Disease Centre in Hamad Bin Khalifa Medical City C3/D3 operates the Travel Clinic where people can go for vaccinations and health advice before travelling. Vaccinations are by appointment only, 4025 4003. Some Primary Health Care Centers offer travel immunisation as well, 107 ©

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Living in Qatar

Housing To Rent

Lawyers and Legal

Many employers provide accommodation or a housing allowance for their employees as part of their contract. You are strongly advised to ensure that it is sufficient, especially with the continuing trend of fluctuating rent prices in Qatar. You may rent a stand-alone villa or a villa located in a compound with a pool and leisure facilities from around QAR12,000 monthly, with studio/one bedroom apartments starting at about QAR5,000. Alternatively, an unfurnished onebedroom apartment leases for somewhere around QAR8,000 per month at The Pearl-Qatar and Lusail City.

If you are looking to buy a property you may wish to contact one of the following legal companies for advice: Al Kaabi Law Firm 4443 6222 Al Tamimi & Company 4457 2777 Clyde & Co LLP 4496 7434 Dr Ghada M Darwish Karbon Law Firm 4488 9050 Hassan Al Khater Law Office 4443 7770 Law Offices of Gebran Majdalany 4442 8899 Patton Boggs 4453 2500 Simmons & Simmons 4409 6700 Sultan Al Abdulla & Partners 4442 0660

The Rent Dispute Resolution Committee is responsible for settling rent disputes between landlords and tenants. The party that files the complaint before the committee must pay a fee of QAR100, in most cases giving tenants a six‑month eviction period.

All contracts, whether new or old, must be registered by the landlord at the Office of Registration of Rental Contracts within 30 days of signing the contract. The lease you sign must be written in English and Arabic. Check exactly what is included as necessities, such as air conditioners are expensive to purchase and maintain.

Serviced flats: Furnished flats with cleaning and laundry services provide another option for long or short-term stays.

Letting Agents These agents have a wide variety of property on their lists as well as experience in the local market.

Al Emadi Enterprises Alfardan Properties

4466 6625

Al Jazi Real Estate

4440 8488 4483 8786

Coreo Real Estate & Relocation

4016 7000

Cushman & Wakefield

4483 7388

Just Real Estate

4491 3311

Mirage Int'l Property Consultants

4444 4431

To Buy Expatriates can purchase property in several developments in Qatar and local banks provide long-term mortgages to suitable applicants. For more information see the Banking and Commerce section.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Relocation Services/Removal Firms There are several moving companies in Doha and many international employers will pay for your relocation. You can move locally by doing the packing yourself and hiring a truck from the Najma Souq area D4, but you will not be insured!

CEVA Logistics 4436 9439 GAC International Moving & Relocation Services 4420 5600 Gulf Warehousing Company (GWC) 4402 3555 Professional Real Estate & Relocations 4409 9806 Qatar Logistics 4407 6262

Other Housing Considerations Furnishing: See the Shopping section for details of furniture outlets. There is always plenty of second-hand furniture around. Look on display boards at supermarkets and in schools, try websites such as qatarliving.com or Buy it, Sell it, Swap it, Qatar on Facebook. Najma has locally produced furniture and a second-hand market D4.

Air conditioning: This is essential in summer and requires regular maintenance and servicing.

Home Cleaning/Pest Control Services: Home cleaning services are available which can be flexible to meet your requirements. Major pest control is usually carried out once or twice a year to coincide with the start and end of summer.

Cleaning Specialists and Pest Control: Al Mutwassit Cleaning & Pest Control 4436 7555 Boecker Public Health 4444 3744 Hegy International 7759 8405 Qatar Home Services 3060 3076/4427 1197 Qatar Pest Control Company (QPC) 4422 2888

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Cushman & Wakefield are proud to be the longest established International Real Estate advisor in Qatar where we have been offering our international and local clients sound real estate advice for over 15 years in all things Real Estate

VALUATION LEASING INVESTMENT FEASIBILITY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

edd.brookes@cushwake.qa

+974 4483 7388

Cushmanwakefield.qa

cushwake_qatar

cushwakeqatar

CushwakeQatar ©

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Utilities and Services Water and Electricity

Discovering Qatar

Kahramaa, Qatar’s Water and Electricity Department, provides both electricity and water.

The mains electricity is usually 220 – 240 volt with three square pin sockets. If you are visiting from a country that has 110V supply, please check the suitability of your electrical appliances before plugging them in. Many appliances have two pin plugs but adaptors are available in local shops.

Water: Buildings in Qatar usually have tanks to store water as mains water is not pumped continuously and often has low pressure. It is safe to drink the water in Qatar at source but the supply network and domestic storage tanks require regular cleaning and replacement. Tap filters of various kinds are readily available. Many people prefer to drink bottled water and you can arrange to have one of the water companies deliver five gallon flagons to your home.

Some areas still rely on water tankers to deliver.

Always use a government licensed tanker as they are cheaper than private ones.

Caution The amended clauses of Law No 26 of 2008 under Law No 20 of 2015 on rational consumption of water and electricity states that Qatar is taking all measures to stop extravagance of the country’s vital resources of electricity and water and ensures resources are protected for future generations.

Severe penalties for wasting water through a hose or pressure pipe can reach up to QAR20,000 for first-time offenders, while wasting electricity can incur a fine of QAR10,000. Kahramaa runs a campaign known as Tarsheed to help Qatar reduce its consumption of electricity and water by 20% and 35% respectively.

Connecting to electricity and water: To activate the supply, download an application form from hukoomi.qa, and include the reference number of the property for both electricity and water. These are supplied by the owner or found above the door to the property. Kahramaa has announced it has stopped receiving paper applications.

• Sign the application form using the same signature as that on your tenancy agreement and ID (a copy of both are required).

• The owner of your rental property will have to give you a completed transfer form to put the utilities in your name, in addition to the owner's ID (if privately owned) or a copy of the building's commercial registration (CR) commonly referred to as the company's computer card.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

• Take these and a refundable deposit of QAR1,200 for electricity and QAR800 for water to any of the Kahramaa offices.

Paying water and electricity bills: Amounts for both utilities are sent out monthly on one bill, sign up to receive an email. The monthly estimate is adjusted from time to time with a meter reading by Kahramaa. There is an online ready reckoner to help you estimate your household consumption. Watering a small garden raises the cost considerably.

Payment for services can be made: • At all major banks, via banking apps, and at QNB ATM's • Online through Hukoomi at gov.qa or Kahramaa at km.com.qa • Via Ooredoo Self Service Machines • By the Visaphone service – call 991, select 3, give your Visa card number to the customer service operator • Via an application available on iOS and Android 24-hour hotline (all branches): 991 Customers can report complaints or make enquiries.

Main Office: Al Dafna C4, 4484 5555. The Customer Service Department is open Sunday to Thursday 6:30 am – 2:30 pm. Call centre: 991.

Service centres: Al Hilal • Al Khor • Al Wakra • City Centre Commercial Centre • Madinat Khalifa • Musheireb • Salwa Centre • D Ring Road Home delivery of mineral water: Al Manhal & Nestlé Pure Life Rayyan Natural Water

4433 5777 4443 6999

Water tank cleaning: Al Mutwassit Cleaning & Pest Control 4436 7555

Gas Shafaf containers are lightweight LPG cylinders made from a fiberglass and plastic composite, and are available in all WOQOD service stations, various supermarkets and other retail outlets.

Cylinders are available for consumers in two refill sizes, 12 kg and 6 kg, to fit various domestic household needs, or to be used outdoors during trips and camping. The cylinders are fireproof and do not explode, even in the case of fire.

Additionally, you can monitor gas levels for prompt replacement. Each empty cylinder weighs only 5 kg, that is half the weight of regular steel cylinders, making these cylinders easy to carry and use. woqod.com.qa

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marhaba.qa Telephone and Internet To obtain a local telephone number, you can only do so with a Residence Permit. Local mobile numbers can be obtained at any of Qatar's two sevrice providers, Ooredoo or Vodafone Qatar. A new mobile sim card costs QAR50.

The international dialling code for Qatar is +974.

Local calls from private houses and businesses are free, but hotels charge a nominal fee for local calls made from the room. For international calls inquiry, call 150.

Mobile Number Portability (MNP): Users are able to keep their existing mobile number when switching to another service provider.

For important numbers see Emergency and Important Numbers in this section.

Ooredoo Qatar Public Telecommunications Corporation (Qtel) was the first and sole telecom provider in Qatar for 20 years. In 2013, Qtel rebranded to become Ooredoo. It offers a comprehensive package of services ranging from landline to mobile phones, fixed and mobile internet, broadband and entertainment services. ooredoo.qa 4G LTE wireless technology is available. Customers can access the network only through 4G-enabled devices such as the Ooredoo My-Fi device and the Ooredoo 4G USB modem. Ooredoo 5G is ready now, and Ooredoo is the first-in-the-world to launch it on a commercially available network. Ooredoo is able to use 5G through the apps they are developing.

Ooredoo's app is available for download at ooredoo.qa/app for iOS and Android, to aid customers in managing their accounts and services.

Mobile phone • Hala is a pay as you talk, no contract option.

Credit can be topped up by a variety of recharge methods, from top-up cards available at many retail outlets to credit transfer from other Ooredoo mobile users, eVouchers, eTopUp, online or direct top up from their Self Service Machines (SSMs).

• Shahry is a pay monthly service with a choice of price plans and packs.

• Other mobile services include mobile money with MoneyGram and HD Voice.

• 5G service is now available

Rates: Local landline to landline calls are free.

Off-peak rates apply to mobile and international calls from 11 pm – 6 am.

Residential Packages: This three-in-one service includes the core pay-monthly mobile phone plan, high-speed internet connection (ADSL), and landline subscriptions with three options.

Residents over 18 years old can apply at Ooredoo shops or their authorised dealers. Visit an Ooredoo Shop with your Qatari ID and home electricity number (Kahramaa) to book your installation time and finalise your Internet service. eShop: Buy services and hardware online.

Broadband Internet Services: Offers customers a range of packages to suit individual needs, in and outside the home. There is an online service which allows you to view bills, make payments and add, modify, or suspend a service. Alternatively, visit an Ooredoo shop, a bank, SSM or one of their authorised dealers.

Discovering Qatar

Ooredoo (formerly Qtel) and Vodafone Qatar provide International Direct Dialling (IDD) to most countries. Dial 00 (or +) to call out.

Landline Telephone

Nojoom is the customer reward programme.

Subscribers can earn points to spend on all their services (mobile, landline, internet and TV) and redeem them with the company or with a number of their partners. Call 111 from an Ooredoo phone, visit the website or register via the app.

Ooredoo Passport Travel without worrying about roaming charges with Ooredoo's Passport Partners in more than 60 countries (including GCC). Weekly: QAR100, get 100 roaming minutes for calls and 1GB of roaming mobile data (2GB in the GCC).

Monthly: QAR350, get 300 roaming minutes and 4GB of roaming mobile data (8GB in the GCC).

Check availability in the country you're traveling to.

Telephone Information Services (Ooredoo) Local directory enquiries

180

Vodafone Qatar Vodafone Qatar is part of an international telecom company, Vodafone Group, and is owned by Qatar Foundation. Vodafone Qatar offers a choice of flexible mobile phone, internet and broadband services. Visit vodafone.qa, one of their stores or a partner outlet.

Mobile phone • There is a wide choice of prepaid and postpaid plans to suit different requirements, plus welcome packs. Recharge is available online or at Vodafone stores and their partner outlets.

• Vodafone Passport Pack is a roaming pack, which gives you the freedom when travelling to receive 100 minutes of incoming calls, calling to Vodafone Qatar numbers and 1GB of data for QAR100/week (1GB extra in GCC countries). ©

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marhaba.qa • All-new Unlimited 5G plans: All plans allow you to experience 5G speed with unlimited data, calls and SMS.

and smartphones. Hotspots include many cafés, coffee shops, libraries, the airport and other public places.

Vodafone Qatar also offers a choice of pre- and postpaid internet services. Details of its Superfast Broadband Home Phone Service, including an update of its fibre coverage in Qatar, are available on the website.

iParks: The following are some public parks with free wireless internet: Al Khor, Al Khor Corniche, Al Maamoura Family Park D4, Al Wakra F5, Dahl Al Hamam C3, Dukhan, Hotel Park C4, Al Sheehaniya, Umm Slal, Aspire Park D2, MIA Park D4, and Simaisma. More iParks will follow in due course. Hotline (24/7): 4406 9955

Discovering Qatar

Call Vodafone Qatar on 800 7111 from your Vodafone mobile, visit vodafone.qa or one of their outlets.

Accessing television services There is an ever-increasing number of options for receiving satellite or cable television, installed through any of the local cable companies.

Through Ooredoo Ooredoo tv has replaced the existing Mozaic TV, and offers over 400 live channels, 4K picture quality and advance control through phone or tablet computers. Ooredoo has become the first operator in the region to offer a commercial 4K service, which allows viewers to enjoy a high definition experience even on the largest screens.

In addition to watching channels on tablets, the service has been designed as an evolution in home entertainment services, combining apps, on-demand and live television in one easy-to-use box.

Ooredoo tv offers four feature-filled packages called ‘Extras’ – Arabia Extra, Asian Extra, International Extra and Super Extra. To subscribe call 111 or visit any Ooredoo or Starlink shop. ooredoo.qa

Installing a satellite dish Orbit Showtime Network (OSN), home to over 100 channels of entertainment, can be contacted on 4031 0090 (new customers), 4447 7177, by visiting osn.com or by contacting a local authorised dealer.

Satellite/Cable Providers • Almuftah Cable Vision

4442 5810

• Qatar Multitech Trdg & Contg

4435 3565

• Rukun Al Qala Trdg & Contg

4442 0200

Public Wireless Internet Internet connections: All hotels as well as some restaurants, cafes, parks and other public venues in Qatar offer free internet connectivity.

Hotspot Broadband Wi-Fi Services: Ooredoo and Vodafone offer high-speed internet access at selected locations within Qatar, connecting Wi-Fi enabled devices such as laptops, tablets, DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

How to connect Using a computer: Connect to the iParks WiFi, enter your mobile number and click the ‘submit’ button on the web page. You will receive an SMS notification with a PIN. Enter this PIN into the authentication field and click the ‘connect’ button.

Using a smartphone: Enable your Wi-Fi and simply SMS 'iParks' to the toll free number 92194.

Click on the link received to gain access.

Postal Services and Mail Mail delivery in Qatar is the responsibility of Qatar Postal Services Company (Qatar Post).

The General Post Office: The main post office is located in the Al Dafna area of Doha C4, near the Corniche. Postal services offered include regular letter and parcel postage/delivery, bill payment, ID renewal, and money transfers/orders. Qatar Post recently opened a new branch in Madinat Khalifa.

Paid parking is applicable at the main post office.

In 2017, Qatar Post had a revamp with a host of initiatives, including rebranding of its logo and prioritisation of modern services such as e-commerce and Express Delivery, and is also positioned to open 28 new branches and 10 new smart lockers. Visit qatarpost.qa or download their app available on iOS and Android, call 104 Open: Sunday to Thursday 7 am – 9 pm; Saturday 8 am – 11 am/5 pm – 8 pm; Friday closed Options to receive mail locally and globally • PO Box Personal • PO Box Zero • Home delivery • Smart lockers Options to send mail locally and globally • 24 retail stores • 201 street post boxes • Standard, Express, Priority, Premium services For Business Solutions, contact business@qatarpost.com

Post Office Boxes To apply: Download and complete the application form or obtain one from any post office. Return it with the original, plus one photocopy of your ID

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marhaba.qa and a refundable deposit of QAR100. Companies need to provide a copy of a commercial registration licence, a copy of the authorised signatory and a refundable deposit of QAR100.

Discovering Qatar

Cost: Personal electronic boxes at the General Post Office cost QAR500 per year including one key. Company electronic boxes start at QAR1,500 per year including one key.

At other branches, personal standard boxes cost QAR200 per year, plus QAR60 for three keys.

Company standard boxes cost QAR500 per year plus QAR60 for three keys. Call 104 or visit qatarpost.qa

Qatar Post e-Resident An online service in partnership with the Ministry of Interior and Immigration Department, which allows residents to renew their dependents residence card.

Connected Qatar Post’s e-commerce service allows shoppers to buy items online and get them delivered directly to their homes or to a 'smart locker'.

Shoppers can sign up online, and avail of hasslefree shopping and delivery from the US, the UK, and Asian online stores. They can then buy items online that can be sent to these locations.

Packages will be forwarded on to them in Qatar – either directly to their homes, to one of 30 post office branches in the country or to a smart locker.

These smart lockers are in locations across the country, open 24/7, making it a convenient option for registered users to pick up their packages.

With lifetime membership, shoppers can buy goods online using the overseas address as a shipping location. The items are stored in a warehouse for up to 21 days, allowing shoppers to bundle together a number of parcels to minimise shipping costs.

Qatar Post aims to get parcels delivered within five to eight working days, and has an online tracking system. Parcels can be up to 1.5 m in length and the maximum length plus girth cannot be more than 3 m. Delivery charges will be based on the weight of the package. connected.qa

Courier Services Arabian Shipping and Logistics Co

4462 2262

Aramex

4420 0111

DHL Express

4458 7888

FedEx

4484 1111

Qatar Post

4446 4000

UPS Express

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

4011 9600

Birth, Marriage and Death Birth Under Qatari law, a woman must be married to give birth in Qatar.

Birth certificate: The authorities in Qatar issue a birth certificate to every child born in the country (including expatriates) but children born to non-Qatari parents are not entitled to Qatari nationality by reason of their birth here.

The registration department now registers all births electronically and issues electronic certificates within 60 minutes. The hospital will advise you on the process. Cost for expatriates: QAR20, moph.gov.qa New births in Qatar have to be reported to the relevant authorities within 15 days.

The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani issued Law No 3 of 2016 on regulating the registration of births and deaths in Qatar. The law makes it mandatory to report all births that take place within the country to the offices concerned at the Ministry of Public Health. Persons who can report such births include the father of the newborn, if present; male adult relatives of the child, or female relatives, if males are not available; the physician or any authorised person who helped in the delivery of the baby; directors of public hospitals or penal institutes or officials of the place where the delivery took place; and the captain of a ship or an aircraft or any other means of transport where the birth took place. The information to be provided include the date of birth according to the Hijri and Gregorian calendars, time and place, and the gender of the baby along with his/her name. The name should not be shared by a sibling or be a compound name, and it also cannot be against public norms.

Other mandatory information includes the names of both parents, the person who helped in the delivery and the person who reported the birth.

The hospital provides two letters after the birth, one of which will bear a government number. In private hospitals go to the hospital administrator who will allocate a number. Take these two letters plus both parents’ passports, parents’ birth certificates, marriage certificate, residence permits, visas, vaccination card and copies of all documents to an approved hospital. Complete a form and pay QAR20 for each copy of the certificate, which may be issued the same day.

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marhaba.qa Expatriates can then register their child’s birth at their embassy and obtain a passport (not all embassies provide this service, check with yours). A newborn can accompany its parents until it is two years old, but an application for a residence permit (RP) for a newborn must be submitted within 60 days of the birth, or the parents face a fine of QAR10 a day.

Marriage

Death Notifying the police is mandatory and in some cases they may require a post-mortem. Get help from the relevant embassy, which will be able to advise you at this sad time. Newborn deaths and stillbirths have to be reported within seven days.

A person's account will be frozen as soon as notification of his or her death reaches the bank, until such time as the deceased's beneficiaries produce an official inheritance certificate duly authenticated by all relevant authorities. The exact format of this will be dependent upon the jurisdiction of the deceased's home country. If a will is in place a court order or other approved and authenticated document will be required.

The bank may then forward payment to the relevant benficiary/beneficiaries.

For joint accounts, Article 351 of The Commercial Code states that joint account holders will be considered to have equal shares unless otherwise agreed in the contract. When one of the account holders dies, the remaining holder must inform the bank of their intention to either continue with the account or to close it within 10 days of the date of death. Further details can be obtained from the relevant bank.

Humanitarian Services Office This office has been set up in coordination between Ministry of Interior (MOI), Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hamad Medical Corporation, General Authority of Customs, Qatar Airways, Public Prosecution and other relevant authorities.

The office is managed by the Unified Services Department of the MOI, and will provide services for repatriating the deceased abroad via a single window system. The new unified service office is located behind Hamad Hospital mortuary, close to the HR Department of Hamad Medical Corporation, next to the Retaj Residence Al Sadd. The office is open daily from 7 am – 9 pm.

Making a Will If you want to make a will here in Qatar, there are a number of firms well-versed in local law who could assist and advise you (see Lawyers and Legal earlier in this section).

Liquor Permit The purchase and transportation of alcohol by individuals in Qatar is strictly regulated and liquor for home consumption only is available in Doha from the Qatar Distribution Company (QDC) E3 which issues a permit. Call their Permit Department on 4429 9777. QDC is open Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 9 pm, Friday 3 pm – 9 pm.

New memberships can be made by emailing customerservice@qdc.com.qa. You will need a letter from your employer addressed to QDC detailing your position, salary and benefits, accommodation, together with a copy of your passport or ID.

Discovering Qatar

There is no civil marriage in Qatar for non‑Muslims. Certain embassies and churches will perform marriages for expatriates. See Places of Worship earlier in this section.

Reporting false or incorrect information in the case of both births and deaths or using illegal and fraudulent methods is punishable with a maximum jail term of three years and a fine of up to QAR100,000, or either. Those who are legally required to report a case of birth or death but fail to do so within the stipulated period face a maximum jail term of six months and a fine of up to QAR10,000, or either.

On approval of an application the applicant will be required to pay an annual license fee, paid on a pro-rata basis, based on Residence Card validity.

Renewals can be made by emailing permit@qdc.com.qa.

Entry into the shop and purchases can only be made by those holding a valid membership card.

The permit holder's spouse can also hold a card for the same account.

In addition, the shop at QDC has a range of pork products. You need a liquor permit to enter QDC, but pork products will not be deducted from your monthly alcohol allowance. The shop is closed during the month of Ramadan, and 10–14 days before Eid Al Adha. Rules issued should be strictly adhered to. Alcohol is for personal consumption only and must be taken home directly from QDC.

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As regulations and requirements relating to the import and export of pets are subject to change, it is recommended that you contact a pet relocator specialist to help you. m

VET CLINIC

LOCATION

NUMBER

EM ER G

EN C

Y

• Have a vaccination document or passport which must include the microchip number, date of birth and required vaccinations and treatments.

Advanced Veterinary Clinic

Madinat Khalifa South C3

4443 5357

✔

✔

✔

✔

British Veterinary Center – Doha

Al Waab D3

4411 6151

✔

✔

✔

Dr Faris Al Timimi Clinic

Katara Cultural Village B4

4408 1492

Dragon Animal Care Center

Duhail B3

4441 1866

✔

✔

✔

Parkview Pet Center

Madinat Khalifa North C3

4417 1560

✔

✔

✔

✔

Pets Care Clinic

Al Hilal D4

3322 7664

✔

✔

✔

Qatar Vet Center

Al Aziziya D3/Duhail B3

4016 1366

✔

✔

✔

✔

Royal Vet Clinic

Al Waab D3

7000 3156

✔

✔

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Checked & Updated October 2020

• Have a health certificate issued by a competent authority from the country of import.

Airlines require a health certificate, obtainable from the Animal Resources Department. You will need to take your pet for an examination and show current vaccination records. The export document is valid for seven days. Present it at the QNT Office in the Cargo Section at Hamad International Airport at least five days before you wish your pet to travel and book a flight there. You will need to pay the full fare plus handling charges at this stage. Your pet needs a travel kennel that complies with the airline’s regulations.

TR DO AI G NI NG

• Have a certificate issued from an accredited laboratory not less than three months and not more than 12 months prior to the date of entry that shows the serum neutralisation test against rabies of more than 0.5 IU/ml.

You are strongly advised to check all health requirements and regulations with relevant government authorities and the relevant country well ahead of time, up to six months. Contact your local vet, animal support organisation and pet relocator specialist in Qatar and refer to the relevant countries' government website.

BO A DO RDI GS NG

• Be more than four months old.

Exporting a Pet All pets must be vaccinated against rabies and must be microchipped. You will then need to arrange rabies serology tests to obtain the necessary certification.

A CA RDIN TS G

Importing a Pet Pets may be imported as cargo or excess baggage. If you ship your pet as cargo, it will go to a special facility for pets where it will be cared for until it clears customs. However you choose to import your pet, you will need a permit from the Department of Animal Resources. You can get this up to two weeks before the date of travel and it is valid for one month. To get an import permit, your pet must:

Short-nosed cats and dogs (eg Persians and pugs) are embargoed on many airlines, including Qatar Airways. Your pet's travel kennel must comply with the IATA regulations, iata.org. Some dog breeds are banned in Qatar – check with a pet relocator specialist or visit gov.qa

N

Cremation: Must be arranged through your veterinarian.

The above requirements are current but may be subject to change at any time.

BO

There are free vaccination and trap/neuter/return services for cats and dogs. All animals should be microchipped – the department offers this service, as do all the veterinary clinics in Qatar.

As you cannot obtain an import permit from outside the country, it is recommended that you use one of Qatar’s pet relocation specialists to handle the importation.

CA TIO

The Ministry of Municipality and Environment's Department of Animal Resources is in charge of animal control and veterinary supervision of animal diseases. The department issues import permits, and oversees the exportation, transfer and transit of pets across borders. There are strict controls on the movements of endangered species. The Municipality's Department for Animal Resources operates a large veterinary clinic in Al Rayyan D2.

For the Main Veterinary Clinic call 4426 1656, or apply online to request an appointment via the Ministry of Municipality and Environment: 184, hukoomi.qa

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FEATURE

New Minimum Wage Law

By Ola Diab Qatar announces changes to the labour market in the country by amending the minimum wage law and scrapping the No Objection Certificate (NOC).

A

s part of Qatar’s ongoing efforts to introduce legislative reforms, the state introduced a basic monthly minimum wage of QAR1,000 for migrant workers, including domestic workers, and abolished the No Objection Certificate (NOC) requirement to change jobs.

The new minimum wage law in Qatar was published in the Official Gazette in August 2020, and will come into effect in March 2021. Qatar is the first country in the region to adopt a non-discriminatory minimum wage.

According to Law No 17 of 2020 on Setting the Minimum Wage for Workers and Domestic Workers, the minimum wage for all private sector workers, including domestic workers, is set at QAR1,000 per month as a basic wage, as well as QAR500 per month allocated by the employer for accommodation expenses and QAR300 per month for food, unless the employer already provides adequate food or accommodation for the employee or domestic worker.

The Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs (MADLSA) will be working with employers to update all employment contracts where workers earn less than the amount established by the new law.

labour market. A Minimum Wage Committee will be formed and tasked with studying and reviewing the minimum wage of workers in Qatar.

The government also introduced Decree Law No 18 of 2020 amending some provisions of Labour Law No 14 of 2004, and Decree Law No 19 of 2020 amending some provisions of 2004 Law No 21 of 2015 regulating the entry and exit of expatriates and their residence, which protects the rights of both employers and employees, and facilitates the employer change process. According to MADLSA, this will drive greater competition in Qatar’s labour market by allowing employees to change employers and allowing employers to attract the best talent from the local market.

As part of MADLSA's efforts to boost the effectiveness of the Wage Protection System, the new amendments to the Labour Law prescribe stricter penalties for employers who fail to pay their workers’ wages and introduce penalties for employers who fail to provide adequate accommodation for their workers, in line with the standards established by the ministry.

'The State of Qatar is committed to creating a modern and dynamic labour market. In line with Qatar National Vision 2030, these new laws mark a major milestone in this journey and will benefit workers, employers, and the nation alike,' said HE Yousuf Mohamed Al Othman Fakhroo, Minister of MADLSA. The new minimum wage was decided on following extensive consultations with a specialised national committee composed of relevant authorities in Qatar, such as the Ministry of Interior and MADLSA, as well as the International Labour Organization (ILO). The law is the first of its kind in the Middle East and will provide additional stability to Qatar’s DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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The new amendments also include increasing the number of labour dispute resolution committees in an effort to tackle the number of labour disputes, facilitate workers’ access to their rights, and expedite legal proceedings.

Under Qatar's Kafala or sponsorship system, migrant workers needed to obtain their employer's permission – a No Objection Certificate (NOC) – before changing jobs. With the announcement, migrant workers can now change jobs before the end of their contract subject to a notice period.

In addition to removing the need to obtain an NOC, the adoption of Law No 19 of 2020 provides greater clarity regarding termination of employment. To terminate an employment contract and change jobs, workers must provide at least one month’s written notice if they have worked with the employer for two years or less, or two months’ notice if they have worked with the employer for over two years.

To ensure compliance with the changes, MADLSA is working with competent authorities to upgrade the Wage Protection System, strengthen the capacity of inspectors, and apply stricter penalties to companies that violate the law.

According to ILO, this new law, coupled with the removal of exit permit requirements in 2019, effectively dismantles the Kafala sponsorship system.

Improving Qatar's labour laws The new labour reforms are the latest in a series of ongoing labour reforms by Qatar to improve the country's labour and legislative laws. Many human rights and labour organisations have been working with Qatar to improve the country's labour laws. The International Labour Organization (ILO) has been working with the Qatari authorities since November 2017 through a three-year technical cooperation programme. An ILO Project Office in Doha, established in April 2018, has been supporting the labour reform agenda.

– Law No 10 of 2018 (PRP Law) – in Qatar as well as travel in and out of the country without an exit permit – Law No 13 of 2018 (Amending Law).

The new laws were welcomed by the International Organization for Labour (ILO), referring to them as a ‘huge step’.

Attracting the desired combination of migrant workers, protecting their rights, and ensuring their safety is part of the human development goals of Qatar’s National Vision 2030. m

'By introducing these significant changes, Qatar has delivered on a commitment. One that will give workers more freedom and protection, and employers more choice. We are witnessing what can be achieved when governments, workers and employers work together with the ILO to promote decent work for all', said Guy Ryder, ILO DirectorGeneral.

In 2018, the Ministry of Interior and MADLSA, under the patronage of The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, signed new laws to allow the majority of expatriates and migrant workers to apply for a permanent residency permit ©

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Perfect 2020 Vision

By Sarah Palmer

The Amir, HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, at HH The Amir Sword 2020 in February.

T

he start of a new decade saw Qatar staying on track with its ambitious plans to diversify the economy in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

of which have now returned to normal operations.

This has all contributed to reducing the number of deaths – Qatar continues to maintain one of the lowest COVID-19 mortality rates in the world.

However, as was the case with the rest of the world, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many aspects of people's lives.

In the midst of the coronavirus, the healthcare system adapted equally well to the way the population accessed its services. In order to meet the needs of its patients while protecting the health and wellbeing of everyone, PHCC now offers home visits by health professionals, virtual consultations, and the delivery of medical consumables and medications. Members of the public can also undergo prebooked drive-through testing at designated facilities.

Immediately from the onset of the pandemic, Qatar's healthcare sector has worked tirelessly to handle the crisis and safeguard the community.

Nationals, expatriates, individuals and familities have all been able to access high-quality healthcare.

Much of Qatar's successful strategy in dealing with the pandemic has been due to the efforts of the COVID-19 Health Tactical Command Team, a joint operation between the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), Public Health Care Corporation (PHCC), and Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC).

The strategy employed by the team has led to the extensive testing of people, an emphasis on tracking and tracing cases, and ensuring those affected have been isolated and treated, to curb the spread of the virus to the community. The early detection of cases has enabled prompt treatment and quarantine measures.

The MoPH set up a number of field hospitals at the start of the pandemic for COVID-19 patients, many DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE Š

Meanwhile, HMC continue to open state-of-theart facilities and offer new services as part of their expansion plans. Rumailah Hospital's new daycare unit under the Department of Geriatrics at Hamad Medical Corporation has benefitted more than 1,000 elderly patients since April. The new physician-led service at Al Wakra Hospital aims to improve acute pain management in surgical patients and patients with burn injuries, and its success means it will be soon be offered to more patients and at other HMC hospitals.

Read more about Qatar's healthcare system in the Health and Beauty section.

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HH the Amir in 2020 The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, participated in the 75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly and High-Level Meeting to Commemorate its 75th Anniversary in September. Speaking at the opening session, HH The Amir stated that the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic remind everyone that the Earth and its peoples are only one family, and that the establishment of the United Nations represents great hope for humanity after the horrors of World War II. 'We are on the threshold of the third decade of the current century, and despite the estimated efforts, the world is facing unprecedented challenges, foremost of which is the exacerbation of regional and international trouble spots and problems of disarmament, terrorism, the environment and sustainable development.'

HH the Amir added, 'We affirm the firm position of the State of Qatar in support of the principles, charter and goals of the United Nations, and stress the need to implement the political declaration adopted today and to enhance pluralism and diplomacy. Respecting the sovereignty of states and activating the role of women and youth in all fields.'

HH the Amir acknowledged the country's commitment and ability to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in his speech during the 49th ordinary session of the Shura Council in November.

The speech praised the country’s health system reliably dealing with the pandemic, making Qatar one of the world’s least affected countries. The address went on to emphasise the continuous investment in developing the health system and medical staff, including prevention, daycare centres, and hospitals. HH the Amir also lauded the success of measures taken to reduce the economic and social impact of the pandemic.

HH the Amir announced during the meeting that elections for the Shura Council will be held in October 2021, a move welcomed by the Cabinet. The United Nations will also establish the Office of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism for Parliamentarians headquarters in Doha.

Read more about the royal family and the political system in the Discovering Qatar section.

Business and Infrastructure The country has gradually reopened businesses and international travel under clear, phased guidelines, but has kept the number of new cases in check, thanks to continued testing and quarantine rules for incoming passengers.

Oil, gas and petrochemicals remain an important part of Qatar’s economy, representing two-thirds of its GDP and almost 80% of export earnings.

In June, HE Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs and the President and CEO of Qatar Petroleum, signed the largest LNG shipbuilding agreements in history. This was to secure 100+ ships costing over QAR70 bn, accounting for around 60% of the global LNG shipbuilding capacity through to 2027.

Qatar withdrew from the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in January 2019 to focus on its gas sector. Producing onethird of the world’s liquefied natural gas (LNG), part of this focus is on expanding supply.

One of a number of mega-projects currently underway, the North Field Expansion Project, is moving ahead as scheduled in order to meet the proposed increase in capacity to 126 mn tons per annum. All remaining engineering, procurement, and construction contracts are due to be ©

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signed before the end of the year. The expected commissioning of Barzan natural gas facility could support domestic gas production and contribute positively to Qatar’s growth.

Read more about developments at home and overseas in the Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals section.

The emphasis on economic diversification away from the oil and gas industry has somewhat countered the volatility of oil prices seen in 2020, with Qatar's performance better than its neighbours due to successful economic diversification via large-scale projects.

According to the revised IMF forecasts in its World Economic Outlook of April 2020, GDP growth is expected to fall to -4.3% in 2020 and pick up to 5% in 2021, due to the outbreak of the Covid-19, and assuming a post-pandemic global economic recovery, as well as the end of an expected boom in the services sector ahead of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM. The IMF estimated inflation to decrease to -1.2% in 2020 and increase to 2.4% in 2021. Plans to introduce a value added tax (VAT) have been postponed to 2021 at the earliest.

The private sector is playing a greater role in the economic development of the country, with new laws to support the increase in foreign investment. The recently ratified Law No 12 of 2020 on Public-Private Partnership (PPP Law) is a key move for the development of Qatar's infrastructure, allowing the private sector to play a bigger role in the delivery and operation of major public sector projects.

Meanwhile, the amendment of the law allowing foreign investors to hold full ownership in Qatar’s residential and commercial sectors is expected to give a massive boost to the country’s real estate sector. More freehold zones sees the government diversifying away from oil revenue.

A number of financial initiatives have been implemented by the government throughout 2020:

• The emerging logistics zones and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) were exempted from rents for six months.

• Expired licenses and commercial registrations have been automatically renewed, with fees to be paid at a later date.

With the controlled, phased reopening of malls and shops, there has been a surge in consumers buying homegrown produce such as fruits and vegetables, and consumables such as paper products and beverages. At Al Wakra Central Market, Hassad Food, a subsidiary of Qatar Investment Authority, exempted stores and barns from paying rent for six months, and has now cut rents by 50% for the next two years.

Environmental awareness was a theme for Qatar Airways in 2020, which launched a new carbon offset scheme for passengers during Sustainability Week in November. The scheme allows passengers to voluntarily offset their carbon emissions from their flight journeys when booking tickets. Travellers can make a donation to a wind turbine farm which supplies clean electricity to the Indian National Grid, to reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The project consists of 54 wind turbines which generate 108 MW and avoids 210,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year.

The airline's latest sustainability efforts come as part of its partnership with IATA and profit-forpurpose company ClimateCare, joining several other airlines globally to reduce their impact on the environment. Qatar Airways currently operates more than 700 weekly flights to just over 100 destinations, and plans to increase the network to more than 125 destinations by the end of the IATA Winter Season, according to HE Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive.

Read more about the economy and investment opportunities in the Banking and Commerce section.

• The private sector has been given a QAR75 bn support package, and QAR10 bn injected to boost the country’s capital market.

• Food and medical goods were exempted from customs duties for six months, with this reflected in the sales price to the consumer.

• Certain sectors (hospitality, tourism, retail), commercial complexes and logistic areas were exempted from electricity and water fees for six months.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM Qatar was awarded the rights to host the FIFA World CupTM in December 2010, with sustainability as one of the main aspects – this desire started at the bid stage and it will continue through to the end of the tournament. The State aims to use the power of football to open up a world of amazing experiences and build a lasting legacy that fits in with both FIFA's vision and Qatar's national development goals.

Even The Amir was working remotely during 2020! HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani is seen here presiding over the first meeting of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy in 2020 via video conference.

FIFA and the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) began to develop and implement the event’s first joint Sustainability Strategy in 2015.

It was formally unveiled in January 2020, with five sustainability commitments: • Human Pillar: To develop human capital and safeguard workers’ rights.

• Social Pillar: To provide an inclusive tournament experience.

Qatar has a slew of mega-projects underway, many of which will be completed in time for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, an event that provides a unique showcase for the country’s economic achievements and plans for the future.

• Economic Pillar: To catalyse economic development.

Main roads and highways continue to be developed, with new junctions and intersections offering commuters easier access around the country. Al Khor Coastal Road is now one of the biggest, widest in the country with accompanying 32 km of cycle paths, and Al Shamal Road is undergoing a mammoth restructure, connecting it with the Doha Expressway and Mesaieed Road.

• Governance Pillar: To set an example of good governance and ethical business practices.

Work also continues on the stadiums for the World Cup. The Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD) has accredited staff for sustainable operation and maintenance, and the stadiums are achieving major sustainability ratings from GORD's Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS).

Read more about how the country is gathering momentum in the build-up to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM in the Infrastructure section.

• Environment Pillar: To deliver innovative environmental solutions.

Supporting this, 22 objectives have been described in detail, together with more than 70 initiatives and programmes to deliver the strategy and achieve the objectives set. These were identified with the help of more than 100 national and international governmental, non-governmental and private-sector organisations, via surveys, workshops meetings and the circulation of drafts.

The development process for the strategy also included a full human rights salience assessment, a first for a mega-sporting event.

The FIFA World Cup 2022™ First Sustainability Progress Report, published in October, gave an update on the progress made by FIFA, SC and the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 LLC in 2019 regarding the five sustainability commitments.

Key achievements included: • The opening of Al Janoub Stadium, after exceeding its targeted sustainable construction management certification.

• The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ headquarters in Doha becoming the first office tower in the country to receive sustainable building certification for operations.

• The continued implementation of SC's programme monitoring compliance with its Workers’ Welfare Standards, and the expansion of SC’s recruitment fees reimbursement scheme benefitting 16,500 workers on related projects and 18,000 workers on other sites. ©

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The world finally got to know more about the World Cup matches when the schedule was released in July. Hosts Qatar will kick off the tournament on Monday 21 November 2022 at Al Bayt Stadium (pictured right), a 60,000-capacity arena taking its name and design from the traditional tents used by nomadic peoples in the Gulf region.

The local kick-off times for group matches have been set for 1 pm, 4 pm, 7 pm and 10 pm. The simultaneous kick-offs for the last round of group games and knockoutstage timings are 6 pm and 10 pm.

Khalifa International Stadium will host the play-off for third place on 17 December, with the final one day later (National Day) at 6 pm at Lusail Stadium in front of an 80,000 crowd.

Read more about this and other events in the Sports section. For details about the Sustainability Strategy and the schedule for the 2022 FIFA World Cup QatarTM, visit FIFA.com/sustainability, sc.qa, and marhaba.qa

Labour Reform Not only businesses have benefitted despite this somewhat difficult year. August ushered in a new era for the labour market, ending the requirement for migrant workers to obtain their employer’s permission to change jobs, and becoming the first country in the region to adopt a non-discriminatory minimum wage.

Law No 17 of 2020 sets a minimum wage of QAR1,000 and will apply to all workers, including domestic workers. In addition to the basic minimum wage, employers must ensure that workers have decent accommodation and food.

If these are not provided, employers must pay allowances of at least QAR300 and QAR500 to cover the costs of food and housing.

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The Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs (MADLSA) will be working with employers to update all employment contracts where workers earn less than the amount established by the new law, and a Minimum Wage Committee will be formed, tasked with studying and reviewing the minimum wage of workers and domestic workers.

Under Law No 19 of 2020, migrant workers can now change jobs before the end of their contract without having to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer. This new law, along with the removal of exit permit requirements earlier in the year, ends the 'kafala' sponsorship system.

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The new amendments also include increasing the number of labour dispute resolution committees in an effort to tackle the number of labour disputes, facilitate workers’ access to the rights, and expedite legal proceedings.

It is envisaged that these changes will not only protect employee rights, but enforce stricter penalties for employers who fail to pay wages, and introduce penalties for employers who fail to provide adequate accommodation for their workers.

These new labour laws have been well received by international observers the International Trade Union Confederation, the International Organisation of Employers, and the International Labour Organization – the latter worked closely with the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs and with employers’ and workers’ organisations over labour market mobility and the new minimum wage in Qatar.

Read more about living and working in Qatar in the Discovering Qatar section.

Marhaba has also had a successful year! Joining the ever-popular printed guide are our new, comprehensive e-Guides.

'This year has been one of adaptation, as we now have a 'new normal' for how we live our lives. Our focus has never wavered though – we are still passionate about being the premier resource to life in Qatar, by delivering high quality news stories and being a one-stop-shop for everything you need to know about the country.

Now we have e-Guides to complement our printed books, so it has never been quicker or easier to get all the information you could ever want about Qatar.

'We would like to thank our clients and readers for continuing to support us in 2020, and we look forward to seeing you all in 2021!'

Hilary Bainbridge Founder and Managing Editor of Marhaba Information Guide To view our e-guides, simply visit marhaba.qa/marhaba-eguides and start reading! While you're there, why not take a look at our hospitality listings, food and motoring reviews, events calendar, and the most up to date news? You can also stay connected by following us |on social media and by signing up for our weekly newsletter. m

©

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• PREMIER TRAINING FACILITIES • HIGHLY QUALIFIED TRAINERS • GROUP AND PERSONAL TRAINING

• CROSSFIT AND HIIT CLASSES • STRENGTH & CONDITIONING • HEALTH & WEIGHTLOSS

OUR LOCATION

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T23, 22 La Croisette Parcel 12, Porto Arabia The Pearl, Doha, Qatar

CrossFit is a core strength and conditioning program using constantly varied functional movements performed at high intensity, in order to produce dramatic gains in health and fitness. Intensity is essential for results, the more work you do in less time, or the higher the power output, the better the results will be. At CrossFit TXXIII we strive to see people demand more of themselves to achieve things they never knew was possible, both in the gym and in life.

Our Unloaded class is programmed using the same principles of constantly varied, functional movements, but without the heavy barbells or technical lifting. The program utilizes the high intensity, fat burning metabolic effects of traditional CrossFit workouts. Don’t be fooled though, these workouts are not easy! We have just “unloaded” the barbells.

tel (+974) 7701 6555 info@cft23.com T23 UNLOADED Unit 53, Building No 05 Medina Centrale, The Pearl Doha, Qatar tel (+974) 5027 2285 unloaded@cft23.com

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The Pearl-Qatar

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The information contained in this guide has been checked and verified as correct as at the time of compilation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, information is subject to change.

Follow marhaba.qa for the latest updates.

All you need to know about the magnificent manmade island

Dining Listings Details of places to eat and drink at The Pearl-Qatar, from fine dining establishments to fast food outlets

The Pearl-Qatar Map Your guide to restaurants, retail outlets and activities

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The Pearl-Qatar

The Pearl-Qatar Overview

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The Pearl-Qatar The Pearl-Qatar is an innovative urban development in Qatar. With Mediterranean-style yacht-lined marinas, state-of-the-art residential towers, luxury villas, 5-star hotels and residences, chic shopping at top brand name boutiques, a host of world-renowned restaurants, and leisure and entertainment facilities, The Pearl-Qatar is the perfect destination for tourists and residents alike.

The Pearl-Qatar

Abraj Quartier Abraj Quartier consists of seven towers, five of 36 storeys and two of 42 storeys, the latter straddling the access road to the mainland and forming the 'gateway' to The Pearl-Qatar. Also known as the ‘The Pearl Gateway Towers’, the Abraj Quartier is considered the ideal location of choice for many businesses, with the two highly prestigious 42 storey towers standing at around 201 metres, each housing a panoramic floor of breathtaking views towards the mainland across the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf.

Beach Villas Comprising discreet island residence style homes, with private beaches, Bahri Villas and Fanar Fayrouz Villas offer some of the finest private accommodation available at The Pearl-Qatar.

Costa Malaz The exclusive marine bay area known as Costa Malaz is an oasis of calm and quiet luxury.

Both architecture and landscaping evoke the atmosphere of a tropical island in this area of outstanding beauty. Overlooking an extensive harbour entirely bordered by a 'natural' beach, privacy and spaciousness were design imperatives for the resulting villas. Fusing many styles of island-inspired architecture, these villas exist in a haven set within tropical paradise. Marsa Malaz Kempinski – the exclusive hotel island in the centre of Costa Malaz – is fringed by pristine sand, and provides an elegant retreat with delightful views.

Floresta Gardens Located east of Viva Bahriya is one of the most prized locations on the island. Home to an estimated 1,400 residents, consisting of 285 apartments and 100 townhouses, this precinct’s master concept revolves around a concentric

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introvert, colosseum style layout. The core living centre and soul of the Floresta Gardens community will be the ‘Club House’ and the promenade that circles it.

Giardino Village Carefully positioned amid lush, landscaped parkland and picturesque lakes, Giardino Villas is a highly prized residential district. Ranging in plot sizes from 558 to 1,168 sq m and ideally situated in one of the most secluded and unassuming neighbourhoods of The Pearl-Qatar, on completion the Giardino Villas precinct promises to be one of the finest and most luxurious residential dwellings.

Isola Dana The jewels in The Pearl-Qatar’s crown, Isola Dana comprises nine independent islands and the most private residential precinct in the development.

Named after the world’s most rare, valuable and perfect pearls, Isola Dana is set apart from the main body of The Pearl-Qatar to afford privacy and discreet independence. Palatial homes will adorn these exquisite 18,000 sq m islands, the likes of which cannot be seen anywhere else in the Middle East, and rarely anywhere in the world.

La Plage South One of the premier locations within The PearlQatar, La Plage South is located at the southern tip of the island, overlooking widespread beaches toward the skyline of Doha in the distance. Taking advantage of the configuration of the shoreline, the La Plage South plot has been developed in a series of semicircular apartment groupings.

The five sea facing blocks progressively step down from a maximum height of seven storeys to one storey and encapsulate outdoor recreational facilities, extensive leisure pools and landscaping opening out onto the beaches.

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marhaba.qa lively 2.5 km pedestrianised concourse lined with fine shopping and dining.

of The Pearl-Qatar, offering a unique blend of residential, shopping and leisure experiences with the charming ambience of the Mediterranean.

Within Medina Centrale, one can find a full range of retail and community services, a wide selection of food and beverage outlets, and parking for 3,500 cars. Supporting the broader community at The Pearl-Qatar, Medina Centrale also serves as a prime residential area in its own right. It's home to the indoor Megapolis Entertainment Center, a popular entertainment centre for high-end arcade games, from car racing simulators, to bowling, billiards, and karaoke, and also Novo Cinemas.

Qanat Quartier

Perlita Gardens A mixed villa and townhouse development in a secluded environment that is embedded in lush landscaping that spectacularly emulates a feeling of living in the heart of a natural environment.

Immediately to the south of Medina Centrale lies the Perlita Villas precinct, characterised by lush greenery while saltwater lakes provide beautiful aspects and the opportunity to pursue numerous water sports.

As you would expect in a precinct of this scale, there is plenty of space to move around in this gated 'garden' community of villas and townhouses.

Porto Arabia The thriving cosmopolitan heart of The Pearl-Qatar, Porto Arabia captures the sophisticated essence of the French Riviera. Conducive to the highest standards of living, it is reminiscent of a continental harbour, yet positively alive with Arabian warmth and charm. The epitome of Riviera Arabia living, and home to The Pearl-Qatar's main harbour, Porto Arabia combines elegant towers and townhouses in a spectacular location. Inspired by French, Italian and Spanish architecture, the Island's first phase is set around a colourful waterfront – La Croisette – a

With its colourful Venetian character, Qanat Quartier is carefully planned around intricate canals and pedestrian-friendly squares and plazas.

Each waterway is spanned by stylish bridges which further evoke the soul of Italian romantic living.

Edged by sandy bays embracing the Arabian Gulf, Qanat Quartier is an intriguingly complex area in which a true Riviera lifestyle can be enjoyed.

The first public beach club and lounge in Qatar, which is not located inside a hotel or resort, has opened at Taliamare Beach Club at Lido Venezia Beach in Qanat Quartier. The district is extremely popular with its residents as well as visitors as it has evolved into a unique retail village. Don't miss stepping on the Music Steps, linking QQ7 boardwalk with the mezzanine level.

Viva Bahriya

The Pearl-Qatar

Medina Centrale The popular Medina Centrale is the Town Centre

Featuring true beachfront condominium living, Viva Bahriya is perfect for families and all who seek a more relaxed lifestyle. Complete with its own stretch of pristine beach, it is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Architecturally themed to echo the very best of the Maghreb – with Moroccanstyled townhouses and apartments exuding Moorish elegance – complete with its own stretch of pristine white sand gently lapped by a warm, inviting sea, Viva Bahriya is perfect for families and those seeking a more relaxed locale.

In a nutshell...

The Pearl-Qatar is a relaxed waterfront project of residential apartments, villas, cafés and restaurants, and luxury retail outlets. There is an unlimited superb selection of restaurants, and some of the top luxury brands in the world – offering everything from couture fashion, to exquisite jewellery and fabulous home décor. m

Porto Arabia 4409 5255 | Medina Centrale 4409 5155 thepearlqatar.com B4 ©

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The Pearl-Qatar THE PEARL-QATAR A few choice dining options among many

The Pearl-Qatar

Legend: A = All-day dining; B = Breakfast; C = Café; D = Dinner; L = Lunch

MEDINA CENTRALE

PORTO ARABIA

Restaurants

01 La Croisette

Al Majles Diyafa Arabic (A) 4441 1888

Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar (A/C) 4409 5236

Applebee’s American, Tex-Mex (L/D) 4444 5343

Burj Al Hamam Lebanese (A) 4409 5238

Baladna Arabic (A) 5000 8872

Gold Gourmet (C) 4479 1644

Biella Italian (L/D) 4421 0025

Le Relais de L’Entrecote French (L/D) 4442 8118

Build It Burger American (L/D) 4437 8411

The French Olive French/Italian (A) 4488 8328

Debs W Remman Lebanese (A) 5000 1644

02 La Croisette

Eggspectation All-day breakfast (A) 5040 9900 Fatburger American (L/D) 4029 9999 France Delice European (A) 5047 0189 German Doner Kebab German (L/D) 4464 1179

Anime Cafe Asian (A) 3303 8088 Elevation Burger American (A) 4002 7256 Isla Mexican (L/D) 4409 5285

Hasan Kolcuoglu Turkish (L/D) 4039 4531

06 La Croisette

La Casa Twenty Eight International (A) 4412 7342

Megu Japanese (L/D) 4409 5237

Le Vendome Pearl Oriental (A) 5521 8844

The Atelier Art Cafe (A/C) 4038 4023

Lord of the Wings American (L/D) 4417 4366

The Village Grill Arabic (L/D) 4463 3336

Miftah w Finjan Qatari (A) 3100 0565

10 La Croisette

Nando’s Afro‑Portuguese (L/D) 4466 4545 Sammach Seafood Arabic (L/D) 4427 4568

The Noodle House Asian (L/D) 4442 9321

Sawani Al Aker Oriental (L/D) 4411 1183

12 La Croisette

Shater Abbas Arabic (L/D) 4411 1390

Shakespeare and Co International (A) 6629 3821

Subway Healthy sandwiches (A) 4444 4043

14 La Croisette

Triangle American/Italian (L/D) 4444 0656

Dean and David Healthy food (L/D) 4444 0601

Which Wich Healthy Food (L/D) 4444 5560

Junko Sushi Japanese (L/D) 4002 8294

Zaatar W Zeit Lebanese (A) 4482 0213 Ziryab Arabic, Indian (L/D) 5000 9876

Cafés Chocolate Coffee Lounge (A/C) 4444 2504 Dip N Dip Desserts (C) 4444 0539 Gahwetna Desserts (A/C) 3329 0600 Il Gelato di Bruno (C) 4444 9317

15 La Croisette Stick House Desserts (A/C) 5585 7849

16 La Croisette PAUL French (A/C) 4451 3065 Sabah W Masa Lebanese (A) 4436 6519 The Yellow Chilli Indian (L/D) 4029 8463

Karaki Snacks (C) 4437 8477 Maia Desserts (C) 4480 0982 Menchies Frozen Yogurt Desserts (C) 4444 0310 Mokarabia (A/C) 3333 5516 Turquoise Café and Gallery (A) 4483 7497 Violette Chocolatier Desserts (A/C) 4444 5565 DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Medina Centrale

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THE PEARL-QATAR A few choice dining options among many

Legend: A = All-day dining; B = Breakfast; C = Café; D = Dinner; L = Lunch

18 La Croisette

Miky’s Deli & Minimart American (C) 4441 0990

Arabesque Arabic (A) 4409 5271

Torte Delizia (C) 3032 8288

Carluccio’s Italian (A) 6690 1777 Emirgan Sutis Turkish (A) 4441 3626

20 La Croisette

Nineteen Ninety Continental (L/D) 5041 1990

The Pearl-Qatar

SubZero Coffee shop (C) 4017 0422

31 La Croisette Tea Club (D/C) 5080 0233 Yasmine Palace Arabic (A) 4411 1502

Mado Turkish (A) 4436 4622

QANAT QUARTIER

22 La Croisette Casa Paco Spanish (L/D) 4002 7944

Al-Qudsi Restaurant Oriental (L/D) 4002 8272 Aryaas Express Indian (A) 4477 1596

23 La Croisette

Aspro Cafe European (A) 6669 5669

Karak Mqanes (A/C) 3394 9898 Royal Tandoor Indian (L/D) 4002 0777

Baskin Robbins Ice cream shop (L/D) 4020 8000 Burger Street American (A) 3383 8263

25 La Croisette

Cue Whimsical Cafe Coffee shop (C) 4444 2031

Crabtonite American (L/D) 5029 9660

Evergreen Organics Vegan (A) 4472 0437

Chocolataria Equador Qatar (A/C) 4444 2811

Ginger Club Asian (L/D) 5078 8666

27 La Croisette

Mssamen & Atai Moroccan (D) 4490 7060

La Maison Du Pain French (A/C) 4468 9879

Nova Venezia European (L/D) 5029 9063 The Breakfast Club International (A) 4437 4320

29 La Croisette

Viva Mexico by Mr Taco Mexican (A) 4444 9920

Basta 23 Arabic (A) 5000 2755

Volume Cafe Coffee shop (A) 4476 0914

30 La Croisette Al Aker Cuisine Arabic (A) 6677 7077

Triangle, Medina Centrale

Crabtonite, Porto Arabia

The Pearl-Qatar Help Desk 800 6222

Viva Mexico, Qanat Quartier ©

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Beach

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Qanat Quartier Paddle Boarding NIYA Yoga Fitness Centre Marina Real Estate Veterinary Clinic Car Hire

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Medina Centrale Monoprix Furniture Outlets Banks Fitness, Health & Spa Accessories Laundry Pharmacy Ooredoo Vodafone Ministry of Interior

Megapolis Entertainment Centre Flight Simulators 12-lane Bowling Alley Karaoke Rooms Billiards & Snooker Indoor Golf Simulator Xbox and PS4 Game Zone Dining & Retail

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Medina Centrale Baladna Biella Al Majles Diyafa Lord of the Wings Hasan Kolcuoglu Ziryab Restaurant Shater Abbas Debs W Reman Res. Triangle La Casa Twenty Eight Il Gelato di Bruno Eggspectation Which Wich Life with Cacao Maia Fatburger Applebee's Mastihaship Caffè Vergnano 1882 Miftah w Finjan Subway Mokarabia Nando’s Sammach Seafood Zaatar W Zeit German Doner Kabab Diner Station Chocolate Coffee Lounge Build It Burger Eden Cafe Karaki Turqoise Café and Gallery

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The Pearl-Qatar

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One of Doha’s premier shopping districts, The Pearl-Qatar’s Mediterranean-style marinas are lined with stylish cafés, restaurants and elegant boutiques featuring many of the world’s top luxury brands

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Burj Al Hamam Le Relais de l'Entrecote Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar The French Olive Isla Elevation Burger The Village Grill Megu The Atelier Cafe Häagen Dazs Urban Jazz Kitchen The Noodle House Shakespeare and Co Junko Sushi Dean & David Crabtonite American Stick House Costa Coffee Caribou Coffee

La Plage South 16 PAUL Sabah W Masa The Yellow Chilli The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf 18 Arabesque Carluccio’s Emirgan Sutis SubZero 20 Mado 22 Casa Paco 23 Java U Karak Mqanes Royal Tandoor 25 Fleurs et Cafe Chocolateria Equador Qatar

27 Flat White Specialty Coffee La Maison Du Pain 29 Basta 23 30 Anima Lounge Al Mayass Miky’s Deli & Minimart White Sugar 31 Nineteen Ninety Tea Club Torte Delizia Yasmine Palace

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Live moments that are truly yours

murwabhotelgroup.com

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Katara Cultural Village

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The information contained in this guide has been checked and verified as correct as at the time of compilation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, information is subject to change.

Follow marhaba.qa for the latest updates.

Katara Cultural Village

Katara Cultural Village Overview Learn more about this continually evolving development

Dining Listings Details of places to eat and drink at Katara Cultural Village

Katara Cultural Village Map Your guide to restaurants, clubs and societies and more

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Katara Cultural Village

Katara Cultural Village

Katara Cultural Village is one of Doha's premier attractions, with something to entertain both residents and visitors alike. Take a stroll with us as we explore the unique experience of Katara.

Katara sits on the waterfront along Lusail Street, just a few kilometres north of Al Dafna.

The project began some years ago under the direction of the Father Amir​, HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Its aim is to position Qatar on the international, regional and local stage for art, music, theatre, photography and much more.

Another landmark you cannot miss is the amphitheatre! Situated prominently in the middle of Katara, the building is an architectural masterpiece based on the classical Greek theatre and Islamic features with seating for 5,000 spectators, who over the years have been treated to many open-air concerts and film screenings.

Some form of the name 'Katara' has long been used to represent Qatar. The country was first known as 'Catara', due to the map drawn by the geographer Claudius Ptolemaeus in 150 CE, published in 882 CE – 1477 CE and afterwards the Historical Atlas of Islam. It also gave the geographical location of the Qatar peninsula under the name of Catara, North West of Gerra or near it, and to the west of the town of Cadara.

Just outside the ampitheatre stands Lorenzo Quinn's The Force of Nature II. The bronze, stainless steel and aluminium sculpture by contemporary Italian artist Quinn also appears in London and New York and is a piece created in the wake of the 2009 tsunami in the Pacific Ocean.

'Catara' became 'Katara' after it appeared on the geographical and historical maps of the early 18th century, first depicted in a French map of the Arabian peninsula coastline, sea and gulf. It was decided to revive Qatar's old name to maintain the connection to the country's heritage.

Today, the multidimensional project brings together all the cultures of the world, with theatres, concert halls, exhibition and art galleries and facilities.

The project also adheres to the goals laid out in Qatar National Vision 2030, to preserve the heritage and traditions of the country while also embracing those of other nations.

When in Katara, you cannot miss the Pigeon Towers. Three are located near the Katara Masjid and the others are near Al Jazeera Media Café. Pigeons and other birds can rest within the holes of the towers, which can house up to 14,000 birds. Katara also provides water and food to the pigeons. Constructed of unfired mud brick, lime plaster and gypsum, the towers range from 10 to 22 metres in diameter and stand at least 18 metres high.

Look out for another visual masterpiece: Gandhi’s Three Monkeys by Subodh Gupta. Three sculptures show heads wearing military gear: one wears a gas mask, one with a soldier’s helmet, and the third with a terrorist’s hood. Each piece is made up of cooking appliances, buckets, and glass bowl, and are based on Gandhi’s famous visual metaphor – the three wise monkeys that ‘see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil’.

For music fans, the Opera House is home to the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), as well as hosting other concerts. The orchestra performs and promotes Western and Arabic music with approximately 40 performances a year at the opulent Opera House, which blends modern architecture with traditional Islamic design. Details of concerts can be found in our Events Calendar in the Discovering Qatar section, and by visiting qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org and marhaba.qa

Katara Masjid and Pigeon Towers DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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marhaba.qa Katara also has an excellent drama theatre, with traditional Arabic architecture bringing a sense of being out in the open air to the stage. It is used for plays and film screenings, with separate space for receptions and functions before and after performances. There are also a number of halls and galleries available to use for conferences, seminars and exhibitions.

Visitors are welcome to walk in and see for themselves the architectural wonder of these mosques. Both offer religious programmes and lectures delivered by prominent religious scholars, as well as courses in Quran memorisation for children of all ages.

The Katara Publishing House promotes culture, knowledge and literature in Qatar. Every year a Qatari personality who has made important contributions in culture, literature or thought will be honoured as part of its 'Litterateur Trophy.' To date, Katara Publishing House has published over 100 books, including 60 novels in Arabic, English and French.

Katara Publishing House can be found next to Building No 15, near the Amphitheatre Boulevard.

The 1.5 km Katara Beach is perfect for relaxing and to partake in one of the many beach activities, such as parasailing or kneeboarding. Admission: QAR50 for those at the age of 18 and above; QAR25 for those between the ages of seven and

In addition, Katara Beach Club by LivNordic Spa & Wellness is gender separated over two floors with treatment rooms including their signature snow room, saunas and salt rooms. The relaxation areas are inspired by the Aurora Borealis and even have a fireplace. Those using the gym and fitness studios will be treated to views of the private beach with cabanas and beach bags.

A recent addition to Katara is the much-anticipated 21 High Street (Katara Plaza), a 38,000 sq m outdoor luxury shopping complex, which is home to Galeries Lafayette Doha, the first Evian Spa in the Middle East, and the first dedicated children’s mall, which is set to open soon. kataraplaza.com Set over 361,500 sq m of green spaces, Katara Hills is divided into Northern and Southern Hills with at least 3,300 plants and trees from different continents, featuring gardens and green meadows with manmade rolling hills, valleys, peaks, water features, play areas, exercise and jogging tracks, with bespoke urban art installations, lighting, outdoor furniture, and signages.

Katara Cultural Village

Designed by globally-known Turkish mosque designer, Zeynep Fadillioglu, the Katara Masjid, which is also known as the Blue Mosque, is one of the most beautiful in Qatar. The decorations of the Masjid (which means 'mosque') were designed by a team of restoration specialists from Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul. The outer surface is lavishly adorned with turquoise and purple mosaic. The interior and exterior architecture, together with the minaret, the dome, and the prayer niche (mihrab) are inspired by famous mosques in cities of the Muslim world.

Meanwhile the Golden Masjid is inlaid with tiny golden chips, representing the Ottoman style.

18; children below the age of seven enter for free; separate fees apply for watersports and lessons.

Katara continues to grow in both size and the amenities offered to the public. Phase IV, also known as the Southern Expansion Project and which began in 2016, has been completed. The iconic and unique mixed-use development consists of a wide range of facilities to complement those already offered, with 12 buildings and further parking spaces.

The buildings house a chain of restaurants and cafes, libraries, exhibition hall, cinema and other cultural centres such as the first planetarium and astronomical observatory in Qatar, Al Thuraya Planetarium, and the Marina District with a maritime restaurant and eight marine chalets.

For more information, visit katara.net, or call 182 or 4408 0000 m

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BREAKFAST

LUNCH

DINNER

DELIVERY

Dining Guide Listings

Albisana Restaurant

3331 3368

Lebanese

✔

✔

✔

✘

Al Jazeera Media Cafe

4034 2220

International, cafe

✔

✔

✔

✘

Ard Canaan Restaurant

4408 0811

Arabic

✘

✔

✔

✘

Cafe Pouchkine Qatar

4447 3566

Russian, European

✔

✔

✔

✘

Chac'Late

4408 0733

Cakes, snacks

✔

✔

✔

✘

Chapati and Karak

4408 1408

Indian street food

✔

✔

✔

✘

Croft Alley

5061 4666

Healthy food, cafe

✔

✔

✔

✘

Joe's Cafe

4428 6556

Cafe

✔

✔

✔

✘

Khan Farouk Tarab Cafe

4408 0840

Egyptian

✔

✔

✔

✘

La Gelateria Fina

4488 0777

Desserts

✔

✔

✔

✘

Le Vesuvio

4408 1500

Italian

✘

✔

✔

✘

L'wzaar Seafood Market Restaurant

4408 0710

Seafood

✘

✔

✔

✘

Mamig Armenian Restaurant

4408 0800

Armenian

✘

✔

✔

✘

Marsa Katara

4408 0202

International

✔

✔

✔

✘

NOVIKOV

4449 3744

Japanese, Chinese

✘

✔

✔

✘

Poffertjes

6696 1676

Desserts

✘

✘

✔

✘

Red Velvet Cupcakery

4408 0700

Cafe, desserts

✔

✔

✔

✘

Saffron Lounge

4408 1234

Indian

✘

✔

✔

✘

Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge

4408 2000

Turkish

✘

✘

✔

✘

U Burger

3131 9151

Burgers

✘

✔

✔

✘

U'sha Frshka

6614 1543

Beverages

✘

✔

✔

✘

The Pearl-Qatar

KATARA

Chapati and Karak DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

TELEPHONE

Chac'Late

CUISINE

Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge

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Katara: Your Ultimate Culinary Destination

Street food is on offer at Katara Cultural Village's Tasty Street!

Tasty Street is located along the courtyard opposite Al Jazeera Media Café, and occupies an area of ​​6,300 metres. It can accommodate hundreds of cars, and the stalls are organised in an orderly manner to ensure comfort for visitors. Orders will be delivered to cars, following the highest safety standards to ensure the safety of everyone. Tasty Street has nearly 40 stalls featuring restaurants and cafes offering a variety of gastronomic options.

Tasty Street is open daily, from 3 pm to 2 am, until 31 March 2021.

Katara Cultural Village brings some of the world's best and most loved cuisines. There's a variety of restaurants to choose from! Flavourful and rich Indian cuisine is available at Saffron Lounge, indulge in Asian cuisine in Novikov Restaurant and Lounge, the best of Armenian and Lebanese cuisine can be found at Mamig, enjoy pasta, pizza and more at the Italian Le Vesuivo, visit Turkey at the lavish Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge and explore Greek cuisine at the new Hellas Restaurant.

More details are avaliable in the following Dining Listings, or visit katara.net ©

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Cultural Foundation Katara provides cultural, gastronomic and leisure activities in a village atmosphere of not so long ago.

See the stunning amphitheatre, a luxurious opera house, cinema and theatre.

Savour first-class menus, international cuisine and attentive service at many fine restaurants for unique Arab and international delicacies.

16

PLACES OF INTEREST A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y

Albahie Auction House Al Tamimi Vet Clinic Al Thuraya Planetarium Amphitheatre Arab Postal Stamp Museum Bird Houses Doha Film Institute Falcon Centre Force of Nature Galeries Lafayette The Golden Masjid Katara Art Centre Katara Beach Club by LivNordic Spa Katara Hall Mosque / Masjid Opera House / Drama Theatre Poetry Majlis Qatar Fine Arts Society Qatar Museums Gallery Qatar Music Academy Qatar Photographic Society Regatta Sailing Academy Sout Al Khaleej Radio Station Ghandi's Three Monkeys Visual Arts Centre

RESTAURANT/CAFES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24

Mamig Khan Farouk Tarab Cafe Chapati and Karak Saffron Lounge L’wzaar Seafood Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge Albisana Red Velvet Cupcakery Le Vesuvio U‘sha Frshka Chac’Late La Gelateria Fina Al Jazeera Media Cafe Ard Canaan Restaurant Croft Alley Marsa Katara Novikov Cafe Pouchkine

Joe’s Cafe Poffertjes U Burger Hellas Boho Social Bayt El Talleh

10.2020 marhaba.qa

©

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Social distancing has kept us apart, but we cannot stay away any longer!

Introducing our online cultural sessions that keeps us connected and allow us to take you on a journey through Qatar's past and present, the lifestyle of the Bedouins and Sea dwellers, the Majlis, Hospitality, Heritage & much more

EMBRACE DOHA ‫اﺣﺘﻀـــــــــﻦ اﻟــــــــــﺪوﺣﺔ‬

embracedoha.com

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Souq Waqif

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The information contained in this guide has been checked and verified as correct as at the time of compilation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, information is subject to change.

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Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif Overview Get to know one of Doha’s oldest trading areas, full of charm and vitality

Dining Listings Details of places to eat and drink at Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif Map Your guide to restaurants and activities

©

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Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif is Doha's lively traditional market. Take a stroll down the bustling alleys of Souq Waqif to explore the authentic taste of traditional commerce, architecture and culture.

Souq Waqif, the oldest souq in Doha, is situated in the heart of the city and is probably the most iconic spot in Qatar.

It was originally a weekend market used by the Bedouins when they came to town to trade their meat, wool, weaving materials and milk for staple goods. Souq Waqif is named 'the standing souq' because it is believed that water from the sea would rise, swamping the souq. However, shop owners would continue selling their products while standing in the midst of the water. It still is a bustling business area, popular among both locals and tourists.

The souq underwent a complete restoration in 2006–2008 and provides the perfect setting to shop, or dine at one of its wide range of cafés and restaurants or boutique hotels.

Inside the souq The maze of narrow alleyways is lined with small shops, displaying their wares piled high and spilling out onto the walkway. This maze of small shops offer an array of Middle Eastern merchandise from spices and seasonal delicacies such as fresh dates and nuts, to perfumes, ornate jewellery, clothing, handicrafts and a treasure trove of souvenir bargains. Each morning, the heritage police ride through on horses or camels.

The souq is also home to art galleries and hotels.

Traditional music, art and cultural shows add to the ambience of the souq which also houses a comprehensive visitor centre.

Fitting all price brackets, Souq Waqif is also home to many restaurants and coffee shops, offering traditional Qatari food as well as dishes and treats from Asia and North Africa – Indian, Syrian, DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Iraqi, Moroccan, Turkish, Thai, Persian, Italian, Malaysian, Egyptian and more! For a lighter choice, there are also cafés serving only sweets or snacks or just plain coffee.

Perfumes, garments and textiles The perfume vendors sell everything, from well known international brands to blends of essential oils as well as oud, the aromatic agarwood burnt as a sign of hospitality.

Traditional clothing includes richly decorated items or the plain and practical. Shayla and abaya are ladies' embroidered headscarves and black cloaks worn in public. The shayla make pretty evening scarves. Sirwal are baggy trousers with highly embroidered, tight ankle cuffs and are great casual wear around the home. Menswear includes bisht, embroidered cloaks worn at ceremonial occasions. You may get the opportunity to watch the embroiderers working freehand on old treadle machines, or beating the gold edging once it has been stitched. Thobes are the long white cotton robes worn by men.

Traditional robes, swords, blown-glass and brass lanterns that are made in Qatar can be found in the handicrafts area. This part of the souq gives a glimpse of Qatari tradition, with stalls that show how these hand-crafted items are carefully assembled by artisans working in the shops.Souq Waqif is home to an excellent source of great value jewellery, precious metals and stones.

Spices Upon entering the souq, visitors are greeted by the aroma of spices like cardamom, rose buds, cinnamon sticks, saffron and more. The spice and coffee traders lend their part of the souq a unique

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marhaba.qa shisha bottles, intricately designed plates, lanterns, keychains, mugs and more. Other souvenirs include dhow boat miniatures, traditional Arab dallah (coffee pots) and brass-studded wooden chests in many sizes. Woven items include bedouin weaving, traditional floor cushions, kilims and carpets as well as colourful baskets. Silver jewellery, misbah (prayer beads) and traditional gypsum carvings make attractive mementoes.

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels

Falcon souq Falconry is prevalent in Qatar and the region.

Today, falcons can be worth up to millions of Qatari riyals. One way of knowing the value is through their feathers. It takes a lot of risks to catch a falcon and to tame one. Qatar is the only country to have a hospital for falcons.

Souq Waqif

aroma, with displays of whole and ground spices and coffee. Both are purchased by weight, and if you want a jar of mixed spices as a unique gift take an empty glass container and the vendor will fill it with layers of colourful ground spices. You can also purchase sweets, rice, nuts, dried fruits and honey.

What better way to get immersed in this 'mysterious' place than to stay in one of the hotels inside Souq Waqif. Each room at Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels is decorated Arabian style, a chance for guests to experience the full pleasure of being in Doha's most iconic place. Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels offers a variety of local experiences tailored to your tastes.

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels include: • Al Bidda Boutique Hotel • Al Najada Boutique Hotel • Al Jomrok Boutique Hotel • Al Jasra Boutique Hotel • Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel • Arumaila Boutique Hotel • Bismillah Boutique Hotel • Musheireb Boutique Hotel • Najd Boutique Hotel.

For more information, visit tivolihotels.com m

Horse stud Next to the falcon souq is the horse stud that showcases the beauty of Arabian horses. Equipped with all the facilities to ensure the wellness of these animals, it also has a majlis for caretakers.

Souq Waqif Art Centre Souq Waqif Art Centre is a hub for artists in Qatar and a venue for art exhibitions, workshops and for finding art materials. The traditionally decorated centre enhances the mood, encouraging visitors to not only appreciate the artwork but also the interior.

Novo Cinemas New to the souq is Novo Cinemas, which opened in June 2018, offering five screens in 2D and 7-star luxury cinema. The cinema is in parallel with the style of Souq Waqif, decorated in traditional Qatari style. The 7-star luxury cinema or VIP theatre contains 43 seats (a normal hall has 120 seats) where you can watch a movie in fullyreclining, automated seats. The food is brought to you by a personal butler service. At the private VIP lounge or majlis select from the fine-dining menu.

Souvenirs This is the go-to section for those wanting to collect memories of Qatar from fridge magnets,

There is ample parking in Souq Waqif with three separate air-conditioned underground parking spaces: • Underground under the Souq Waqif park.

Entry can be found along the Corniche.

• Inside Souq Waqif near Al Koot Fort.

• Adjacent to Shioukh Mosque and the Amiri Diwan, off Al Rayyan Road, with an underground walkway connecting to Souq Waqif. See the map for precise locations.

Access to cash is available at the Doha Bank ATM, a branch of QNB, and Doha Exchange.

Opening times: Most shops operate 10 am – noon and reopen 4 pm – 10 pm. On Fridays, stores will close for the afternoon prayers.

Most restaurants open all day from 8 am – midnight. Some may be open 24 hours. ©

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BREAKFAST

LUNCH

DINNER

DELIVERY

Dining Guide Listings

Abo Shariha

4480 7427

Arabic

✔

✔

✔

✘

Al Adhamiyah Iraqi Restaurant

6611 1145

Iraqi, Arabic

✘

✔

✔

✘

Al Aker Sweets

3390 0084

Arabic desserts

✔

✔

✔

✘

Al Bandar Fish Market

4431 1818

Seafood, Arabic

✘

✔

✔

✘

Al Baraha Restaurant Al Najada Hotel

4470 4444

International

✘

✔

✔

✘

Al Ghaarayah Coffee Shop

5553 1050

Cafe

✔

✔

✔

✘

Al Jasra Traditional Food

5529 8871

Arabic

✔

✔

✔

✘

Al Koot Cafe

4437 6626

Cafe

✔

✔

✔

✘

Al Mandarin

3129 3741

Healthy foods

✔

✔

✔

✘

Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill Al Arumaila, SWBH

4433 6666

Grilled meats, Indian

✘

✘

✔

✘

Al Mourjan

4436 5539

Lebanese

✔

✔

✔

✘

Al Shurfa Al Jomrok, SWBH

4433 6666

Mezzeh, cafe

✘

✔

✔

✘

Al Terrace Al Mirqab, SWBH

4433 6666

Lebanese

✔

✔

✔

✘

Argan Al Jasra, SWBH

4433 6666

Moroccan

✘

✔

✔

✘

Bandar Aden

4437 5503

Arabic

✔

✔

✔

✘

Bosphorus

3348 5614

Turkish

✔

✔

✔

✔

Café-Tasse

6607 1335

Italian, cafe

✔

✔

✔

✘

Coffee Beanery

4431 3739

Cafe

✔

✔

✔

✘

Coffeeshop Company

6622 7227

Cafe

✔

✔

✔

✘

The Pearl-Qatar

SOUQ WAQIF

Al Baraha, Al Najada Hotel DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

TELEPHONE

CUISINE

Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill, Arumalia Boutique Hotel

Al Shurfa, Al Jomrok Boutique Hotel

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Dining Guide Listings

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marhaba.qa

4475 9089

Syrian

✔

✔

✔

✘

E'easair Cafe

4488 5199

Cafe, Arabic

✔

✔

✔

✘

Italia Mia Ristorante Pizzeria

4029 2282

Italian

✔

✔

✔

✘

Jasmine Thai Restaurant

5586 0011

Thai

✘

✔

✔

✘

Khariss Cafe

4437 5660

Lebanese

✔

✔

✔

✘

La Boca Argentinian Restaurant

6664 7059

Argentinian, South American

✔

✔

✔

✘

La Patisserie Al Bidda, SWBH

4433 6666

Italian

✔

✔

✔

✘

La Piazza Al Bidda, SWBH

4433 6666

Italian, international

✔

✘

✘

✘

Layali Al Qahira

4443 2999

Egyptian

✔

✔

✔

✘

Le Gourmet

4436 1789

Lebanese

✔

✔

✔

✘

Little Sailor

4466 6103

Seafood

✘

✔

✔

✘

Parisa

4441 1494

Persian

✘

✔

✔

✘

Royal Tandoor

4432 3255

North Indian

✘

✔

✔

✔

Saida

4432 8008

Lebanese, cafe

✔

✔

✔

✘

✔

✔

✔

✘

Second Cup

N/A Cafe 4487 7736

Arabic, shawarma

✘

✔

✔

✘

Shujaa Restaurant

5586 7895

Yemeni

✘

✘

✔

✘

Tajeen

4435 5554

✔

✔

✔

✘

Tea Time

4412 2267

Snacks, tea

✔

✔

✔

✘

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

4431 1966

Cafe

✔

✔

✔

✘

The Rice and The Noodle

4415 5185

Asian, sushi

✘

✔

✔

✔

The Village

4411 1243

Turkish, Indian

✔

✔

✔

✘

Zaatar W Zeit

4431 5224

Lebanese, healthy food

✔

✔

✔

✘

Al Terrace, Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel

Arabic

Argan, Al Jasra Boutique Hotel

Checked & Updated October 2020

Shawarma Station

The Pearl-Qatar

Damasca One

La Piazza, Al Bidda Boutique Hotel ©

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Doha Bay

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Dhow Harbour Souq Waqif Park

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Mandarin Oriental, Doha

Al Rayyan TV & Radio

Grand Hamad S

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Shioukh Mosque

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Museum of Islamic Art Park

Museum of Islamic Art

Souq Waqif Car Park

Places of Interest

Al Corniche Street

Goldorigin Souq In the very and centre of Doha, the souq, or market, has an atmosphere redolent of the East with the smell of spices, coffee and exotic local delicacies.

Wander around and you will see falcons, Arab dress and artefacts, gifts, spices, local sweets, nuts, honey and coffee. Souq Waqif is a great place to enjoy with family and friends in its many restaurants and coffee shops with great international cuisine.

h Abdulla Al Mahmoud ultural Centre

A Abdul Aziz Nasser / Al Rayyan Theatre B Al Koot Fort C Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Centre D Camel Area E Clock Tower F Embrace Doha G Falcon Souq H Gold Souq I Horse Area/Stable J Le Pouce by César Baldaccini K Novo Cinema L Police Post M Souq Waqif Art Center N Tourist Information Centre O Traditional Majlis P Msheireb Museums

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Musheireb Boutique Hotel Al Jomrok Boutique Hotel Al Bidda Boutique Hotel Al Jasra Boutique Hotel Bismillah Boutique Hotel Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel Najd Boutique Hotel Al Najada Boutique Hotel Arumaila Boutique Hotel

Restaurants 1 2 3 4 5 6

Bus Station

Abdel Kader Alhallab Sweets Abo Shariha Al Adhamiyah Al Aker Sweets Al Bandar Fish Market Al Baraha Restaurant

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46

Al Ghaarayah Coffee Shop Al Jasra Traditional Food Al Koot Cafe Al Mandarin Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill Al Mourjan Al Shurfa Al Terrace Argan Asherg Coffee Bandar Aden Bosphorus Cafe Tasse Coffee Beanery Coffeeshop Company Corner Cafe Damasca One E'easair Cafe Shujaa Restaurant Saida Italia Mia Jasmine Thai Restaurant Khariss Cafe La Boca Argentinian La Piazza Layali Al Qahira Le Gourmet Little Sailor Missan Restaurant Parisa Royal Tandoor Second Cup Shawarma Station Tajeen Tea Time The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf The Rice and The Noodle The Village Zaatar W Zeit

©

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Top 5 Things to See in Al Wakra Al Wakra is notable for its bustling fishing harbour and is just 10 minutes' drive south of the capital city Doha on Route 7. Following Doha, Al Wakra is the second largest city in the country.

Located in eastern Qatar, the city is believed to have a history of its own, independent from that of the capital.

It has become a popular commuter suburb and several private schools have relocated there.

Numerous mosques, old minarets, forts and wind towers offer some of the finest examples of traditional architecture – see Abu Manaratain Mosque and House of Sheikh Ghanim bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in the Sightseeing section.

There's much to see and do! Here are the top must-see destinations in Al Wakra:

Al Wakra Park (Al Wakra Public Garden)

Ezdan Mall, Al Wakra

Souq Al Wakra

Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar By Tivoli

Al Wakra Family Beach

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Souq Al Wakra

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The information contained in this guide has been checked and verified as correct as at the time of compilation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, information is subject to change.

Follow marhaba.qa for the latest updates.

Souq Al Wakra

Dining Listings Details of places to eat and drink at Souq Al Wakra

Souq Al Wakra Overview A brief look at the newest cultural hotspot in Qatar

Souq Al Wakra Map Your guide to the souq and neighbouring area

Š

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Souq Al Wakra

Souq Al Wakra

Qatar's second Souq Waqif stands in Al Wakra and is becoming a top destination for residents and tourists alike.

Souq Al Wakra, also known as Souq Waqif, Al Wakra or Heritage Village, officially opened on Al Wakra seafront in late 2014.

Following Doha, Al Wakra is the second largest city in Qatar. Located in eastern Qatar, just south of Doha, the city is believed to have a history of its own, independent from that of the capital.

In the charming, ancient city of Al Wakra is an enchanting, thriving souq that is well worth a visit for anyone interested in Qatari heritage and culture, and seeing Qatar outside of the bright lights of its capital city. Al Wakra's own thriving market – Souq Al Wakra – is full of popular restaurants and coffee shops. The souq stretches for approximately 3 km along the town’s coast, with a corniche for people to walk along. The souq is divided into 10 zones of markets, restaurants, shops, stables, and a kids playground, as well as parking and the Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar.

Setting off southward from Doha, stop for a visit at Souq Al Wakra with its maze of courtyards and alleyways, leading to a promenade of traditional shops and authentic restaurants. The souq's beach is its charm. There is much to see and do here.

Inside the souq The souq or Heritage Village is designed to resemble old Qatari homes and villages. The alleyways take you to individual 'homes' that are developing into designated markets: • Women's Accessories and Perfumes • Men's Accessories • Perfumes • Nuts

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

• Flowers and Sweets • Gold • Honey • Cheese • Fish • Birds • Swords • Souvenirs • Carpets • Handicrafts • Hawks/Falcons • Wood and more.

Relax and soak up the vitality and atmosphere at one of its eclectic mix of great restaurants and cafés which offer traditional Qatari food. The souq is known to be home to many new local restaurants and coffee shops with modern twists such as Arnag, E'asair Cafe, Al Baranda, Nineties Cafe, Al Noukhaza Restaurant and more. Restaurants serving dishes from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and Asia are also on offer.

Popular dining options are Al Aker Sweets (Arabic), Royal Tandoor (Indian) and Bennigan's (American) to name a few. For a lighter choice, there are also cafés serving only sweets or snacks or just plain coffee. Try Gharissa for local ice cream or dessert.

Souq Al Wakra Beach Souq Al Wakra stands out with its promenade, allowing visitors easy access to the beach. When it first opened in mid-2017, the beach was open and free to all for use. Now, the beach charges for certain water activities on the beach. The beach is a 'family beach' so keep in mind the conservative culture of Qatar. Swimsuits are required to access the water, and changing rooms are available for both men and women.

Souvenirs Collect memories of Qatar with Arab male and female salt and pepper shakers or cups, fridge magnets, shisha bottles, intricately designed plates, lanterns, keychains, mugs and more.

Dhow boat miniatures can be tricky to carry when

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Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar has an idyllic setting, woven into the fabric of the souq on the shores of the Arabian Gulf. The hotel comprises two buildings with a total of 101 guest rooms. Both buildings are former heritage houses, which have been preserved with the architecture mirroring a traditional Qatari house.

In keeping with local heritage, each of the guest rooms and suites features classic thatched roofs, reflecting traditional basket weaving elements. The guest rooms have been designed with colourful motifs reflecting the jubilant blues of the sea and the sandy tones of the desert, inspired by Al Wakra’s history as a pearl diving and fishing village.

Open walkways and maze-like paths lead to courtyards where multiple guest rooms can be blocked off to create private areas for groups.

Large groups will be able to stay together in guest rooms grouped around shaded majlis, perfect for celebrations or family gatherings.

Tivoli Spa offers separate treatment rooms for men and women as well as a hydro pool, steam room, Vichy Shower and Jacuzzi. A multi-functional gym in each building is also available for guests.

Souq Al Wakra

travelling but nice to have for a souvenir. Other souvenirs include traditional Arab dallah (coffee pots) as well as brass-studded wooden chests in many sizes. Woven items include bedouin weaving, traditional floor cushions, kilims and carpets as well as colourful baskets. Silver jewellery, misbah (prayer beads) and traditional gypsum carvings make attractive mementoes.

Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar has five restaurants and lounges. Jarnen offers Mediterranean all-day dining with fresh seafood sourced daily from the Al Wakra Market and barbeque grilled to order at live cooking stations. Markhan, an Arabic fusion lounge, offers the ideal place to enjoy the sunset from the terrace overlooking the gulf. Emshoot invites guests to discover the culinary delights of Asia’s diverse flavours with dishes ranging from sushi to tandoori kebabs. Serving a selection of light international dishes, guests can dine upstairs and embrace the sights and sounds of the nearby souq at Mahaadeg’s terrace. Guests can grab a quick bite for breakfast or an afternoon snack at the Lobby Lounge. In addition, majlis are situated across the property offering an authentic Bedouinstyle evening of live barbecue and other social gatherings.

The hotel is only a 15-minute drive to Hamad International Airport (HIA). It also has direct access to the adjacent Al Wakra Family Beach.

For more information, visit tivolihotels.com Parking at Souq Al Wakra is ample, right off Al Wakra Main Street as you access the souq. The extensive parking is still free at the moment. Convenient golf carts are available in the evenings to take you from the parking lot to your destination.

Access to cash is available at the Doha Bank ATM. Opening times: Most shops operate 10 am – noon and reopen 4 pm – 10 pm. On Fridays, stores will close for the afternoon prayers.

However, only a few shops and restaurants are open during the day so it's best to plan your visit to the souq after 4 pm. m

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The New Al Wakra Walkway

The Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), represented by Al Wakra Municipality, inaugurated the Al Wakra Walkway on 3 November 2020 during Qatar Sustainablity Week.

The landscaped square and walkway have been built with the use of sustainable, eco-friendly materials, such as solar lighting and recycled materials, to create the walkways, benches and more. The square is 350 m while the walkway is 700 m in length.

Al Wakra Municipality, represented by the Parks Department has also been keen to use solar lighting in many of its facilities such as Al Wakra Family Beach, as well as the public beach.

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Dining Guide Listings LUNCH

DINNER

TAKEAWAY

DELIVERY

4411 6783

Afghani

✘

✔

✔

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Al Aker Sweets Souq Al Wakra

5511 4109

Arabic, desserts

✘

✔

✔

✘

✘

Al Bait Al Kuwaiti Abdul Rahman Bin Jassim St

4431 5959

Qatari, Khaleeji

✘

✔

✔

✔

✔

Al Koufa Souq Al Wakra

4038 0655

Arabic, barbecue

✘

✘

✔

✔

✔

Al Noukhaza Restaurant Souq Al Wakra

3037 3782

Arabic

✘

✔

✔

✔

✘

Al Shahof Souq Al Wakra

5555 9252

Iranian

✘

✔

✔

✔

✔

Arnag Cafe, desserts, Souq Al Wakra 6666 7745 bakery

✘

✔

✔

✔

✔

Baiz Cafe & Restaurant International, Souq Al Wakra 4017 7777 cafe

✘

✔

✔

✘

✘

Bennigan's American, Souq Al Wakra 4417 9767 burgers

✘

✔

✔

✔

✘

Biriyani Hut Al Wakra Road

4464 1401

Indian, biryani

✘

✔

✔

✔

✔

Boardwalk Ezdan Mall

4441 2009

Burgers

✘

✔

✔

✔

✘

Chili's American, Al Wakra Road 4463 3474 Tex-Mex

✘

✔

✔

✔

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Hareem Al Sultan Kitchen Opposite Al Wakra Hospital

4476 3266

Turkish

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

LalQila Restaurant Souq Al Wakra

4417 2274

Pakistani, Indian

✘

✔

✔

✘

✘

Mercato Antico Souq Al Wakra

4441 0020

Italian

✘

✘

✔

✔

✔

Mr. Idli South Indian, Building 9, Barwa Village 4488 9375 vegetarian

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

Rotana Restaurant Building 5, Barwa Village

4476 0760

Indian, Filipino

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

Royal Tandoor Souq Al Wakra

4481 1196

North Indian

✘

✔

✔

✔

✔

Shakespeare and Co. Ezdan Mall, Al Wakra

3347 0535

International

✔

✔

✔

✘

✘

Spicy Route Building 16, Barwa Village

4444 9899

Indian

✘

✔

✔

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The Kerala House Abdul Rahman Bin Jassim St

4493 0621

South Indian

✘

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✔

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Zaman Al Khair Restaurant Al Wakra Road

4498 6111

Grill

✔

✔

✔

✔

✔

CUISINE

A few choice dining options among many

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Checked & Updated October 2020

Afghan Brothers Al Wakra Market Road

TELEPHONE

The Pearl-Qatar

BREAKFAST

SOUQ AL WAKRA, AL WAKRA & BARWA VILLAGE

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Al Aurouba Street

to Doha

Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar

Car Park 7

1

Beachfront promenade

2

Souq Al Wakra 3

6

Al Wakra Main

5

Beach

Street

4

Beachfront promenade

to Mesaieed

10.2020

Al Wakra Harbour

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Souq Al Wakra Only a few minutes from Hamad International Airport, you can revisit the life that Qataris used to lead. Souq Al Wakra is calm and has great old world charm.

Today’s visitors require modern standards and the restroom facilities are first class and well maintained. The many cafes and restaurants serve delicious fare – choose your favourite cuisine from around the world.

The family-friendly beach and beachfront promenade are especially attractive in the cool evenings when walkers and joggers benefit from the clean air and the absence of big-city bustle.

Restaurants/Cafes 1 2 3 4

Al Nouhkaza Restaurant - Arabic Bennigans - American, Burgers Arnag - Cafe, Desserts, Bakery Royal Tandoor - North Indian

5 6 7

Al Aker Sweets - Arabic Desserts LalQila - Pakistani, Indian Al Koufa - Arabic

Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar The ultimate relaxation may be found in the souq’s five-star Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar which combines an undisturbed village ambience with world class catering and spa health facilities.

1 Emshoot - Asian food inspired by the Silk Road 3 Mahaadeg - International 2 Jarnen - Mediterranean 4 Markhan - Arabic

Wakra bour ©

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