Discovering Qatar: Autumn 2022 by Marhaba Information Guide, Qatar

Discovering Qatar EMERGENCY AND IMPORTANT NUMBERS QATAR AT A GLANCE GETTING AROUNDSIGHTSEEINGQATAR FEATURES: HEALTH INSURANCE NOW MANDATORY FOR VISITORS THE WHALE SHARKS OF QATAR QATAR: WORLD’S SAFEST COUNTRY TREES OF QATAR ISSUE84 AUTUMN 2022

Follow us 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. © 2022 Marhaba Information Guide. All Rights Reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without written permission of the publishers. Dana Public Relations PO Box 3797, Doha, Qatar Tel (+974) 4465 5533, 4465 0083 General Information marhaba@marhaba.com.qa Founder & Managing Editor Hilary Bainbridge Editorial Sarah Palmer (Editor) Ola Diab (Deputy Editor) Terry Sutcliffe Advertising Howard MariaCharlotteBainbridgeWrightAnicas Retail Sales Ayen Molina Online/Digital Lalaine Turqueza Weslee Dizon Ramla Mohamed Abdirahman Design and Artwork Dick Tamayo Mar Principe

Emergency and Important Numbers 2022JuneUpdated&Checked Emergency Services Police, Fire and Ambulance 999 Worldwide emergency (from mobile phones) 112 Emergency Services for the Deaf 992 Traffic Patrol Police Department (Madinat Khalifa) 2344 4444 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 Roadside and Break Down Assistance Mowasalat Taxi 4458 8888 Qatar Assist 5545 5252 Important Numbers General Information Qatar Meteorology Department 4448 0444 Local Time 140 Airport Hamad International Airport (HIA) 4010 6666 Airport Security 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 For pet emergency, see Pets in Day to Day Qatar in the Living in Qatar section. Foreign Embassies See Foreign Embassies in this section. Health Enquiries Health Unified Contact Center (COVID-19) 16000 Nesma'ak (Hamad Medical Corporation) 16060 Hayyak (Primary Health Care Corporation) 107 Government Entities Baladiya 184 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 Ministry of Foreign Affairs 4011 1111 Ministry of Interior (MOI) 236 7111/236 6666 Ministry of Justice 137 *Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) 184 *Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) 16016 MOI eServices and Metrash2 234 2000 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 Directory Assistance 180 International Calls Inquiry 150 Ooredoo 111 Vodafone 800 7110 Traffic and Minor Accidents General Directorate of Traffic 234 4444 Madinat Khalifa Traffic & Investigation 234 4499 Utilities Kahramaa (electricity and water) 991 Taxi, Limousines and Metro See Getting Around Qatar in this section. m NumbersImportantandEmergency * The asterix indicates that these ministries have changed due to a cabinet reshuffle. At the time of going to press, numbers for the new ministires were unavailable. © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

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Discovering Qatar Traveller Information • Visas • eCash Cards • Entry Visas • Airlines • Travel Agencies Digital ForeignQatarEmbassiesMap of Qatar Qatar at a Glance • Common Courtesies • Geography • Demography • Climate • Language and Religion • The Ruling Family • The Qatari Flag • Government • History • Economy • International Relations • Transport and Communication Emergency and Important Numbers Cultural Awareness Arabic Qatar’sPhrasesGovernment Structure Feature – Health Insurance for Visitors Now Mandatory All visitors to Qatar must now ensure they have health insurance before entering the country. DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA In this issue Read our special section, all about the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM! Image © Road to 2022

Discovering Qatar QatarDiscovering 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. Getting Around Qatar • Karwa Taxis and Metro Express • Doha Limousine (Karwa) • Karwa Public Bus and Metro Link • Doha Metro • Lusail Tram • Msheireb Tram • Electric Charging Stations 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 Main Urban Centres Sightseeing Things to see and do in Qatar, from Archaelogical Sites to Organised Tours Greater Doha and other maps Feature – The Whale Sharks of Qatar Qatar has the biggest whale shark concentration in the world. Learn more about these majestic creatures.© MARHABA AUTUMN 2022 Stadiums and Metro Stations Qatar Greater Doha Doha Bay and Corniche Doha Central Area Msheireb Downtown Doha Lusail NortheastCity Coast Al Khor Maps Southeast Coast Al MesaieedWakra Industrial City The KataraPearl‑QatarCultural Village Souq Waqif Souq Al Wakra Souq Area

Together we can explore Qatar Get your Vodafone SIM now. Let’s get started! Scan me now. DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA

State-of-the-art stadiums, green building practices, a far-reaching volunteer programme and incredible new technology guarantee that Qatar will deliver the first – and best – sustainable World Cup competition.

The Official Emblem of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. Its design draws on the traditional woollen shawl worn during the winter months, when the tournament will take place. The typeface celebrates Qatar’s heritage using traditional Arabic calligraphy integrating elements like the kasheeda, a lengthening of the line connecting letters to enhance the flow and elegance of the written word.

Former FC Barcelona captain and World Cup winner Xavi Hernández is a Generation Amazing ambassador. He joined Qatar Stars League team Al Sadd in 2015, winning the league title in 2019, and the Amir’s Cup in 2021 as head coach, before rejoining FC Barcelona as the team’s manager.

Qatar was awarded the rights to host the FIFA World CupTM on a momentous day in December 2010. Thereafter, the reality set in – Qatar was going to have to carefully think about how it was going to organise one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM is already unique in three ways: it will be the first to be staged in the Middle East, in the smallest geographical area, and in the winter months.

The Workers’ Welfare regularly interacts with SC workers and a dedicated hotline was established in 2017 to deal with grievances. SC’s Workers’ Welfare Standards exceed Qatar’s laws in an attempt to ensure fair recruitment policies, payment terms, overtime provisions and accommodation standards. All contracted workers are registered with an integrated electronic medical records system and undergo medical screening by Qatar Red Crescent funded by SC.

FIFA QATAR 2022 TM

The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) will act as an overseeing agency between the various government entities in Qatar whose projects related to Qatar 2022; the Local Organising Committee will benefit from the Supreme Committee’s overseeing role. SC was formed in April 2011 to oversee the mammoth task of planning and developing the infrastructure required to host the tournament in what is geographically the smallest host country. The organisation has signed stakeholder agreements with entities such as Mowasalat/Karwa, Ashghal, Kahramaa, Aspire Zone Found Qatari Diar, for projects to deliver the infrastructure for the Recognising the importance of protecting the wellbeing, safety and security of the workers involved in the projects, the Workers’ Charter was published in March 2013, followed by the Workers’ Welfare Standards in February 2014.

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Pictured from top An electronic billboard in Times Square, New York. The Official Emblem was unveiled in Doha at 20:22 local time, with thousands of spectators witnessing the synchronised projection of the emblem onto some of the country’s most iconic buildings, including Katara Cultural Village Amphitheatre, Ministry of Interior, Souq Waqif, Msheireb and Al Zubara Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

WORLD CUP

Generation Amazing

Generation Amazing has changed the lives of thousands of people, both abroad and in Qatar itself, and is helping to foster sustainable behaviours among many young people. The programme has already had a positive impact on more than 725,000 youths in 10 countries.

Volunteers were given a taste of how they can help Qatar prepare for the World Cup at the FIFA Arab Cup™ held in November/December 2021.

Volunteer Programme

A major component to making the event a success will be including many volunteers. Since launching in September 2018, the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy’s Volunteer Programme has seen more than 380,000 people

A recent collaboration is with the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) to launch a joint football for development initiative for coaching education, which will benefit thousands of children and youth across CONCACAF’s 41 member associations. Similarly, there is a partnership in place with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) for a programme in Argentina, Iraq, Myanmar and Uganda. The Youth Advocates programme promotes the values of global citizenship, as young people embark on a year-long journey to understand the different ways that football can help find solutions to multilateral and national social challenges.

Established in 2010 during Qatar’s bid to host the World Cup, Generation Amazing uses football for development initiatives to address social issues in countries in need, as per the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The initiative reaches those most in need by constructing community football pitches, delivering football for development training, and involving young people.

Aroundregister.20,000 volunteers are to be recruited, making it one of the largest activation and engagement of volunteers in Qatar’s history across the country’s diverse communities. Registration was open to everyone aged over 18, regardless of nationality, education or profession, to support events and projects in a number of Theareas.programme’s strategy has two goals: in the short-term, to serve the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM; in the long-term, to help build a database of volunteers to support national events after 2022.

Mada Assistive Technology Center Qatar is a founding member of the Accessibility Forum and a key partner in the SC’s e-accessibility efforts. Mada is a leading pioneer in the country’s digital accessibility efforts and its work has been recognised on an international level. Another member, the Qatar Social and Cultural Club for the Blind, has also been involved since the inception of the Accessibility Forum. It is chaired by Faisal Al Kohaji, a legal advisor in the oil and gas industry, and for whom digital accessibility is crucial – and for millions of football fans around the world.

La’eeb is an Arabic word meaning superskilled player. He belongs to a parallel mascot-verse with no description, he wants everyone to everyone to interpret what it looks like themselves. The fun and mischievous character will excite fans and inspire them to celebrate the first FIFA World Cup™ in the Middle East and Arab world, uniting cultures from across the world. Fans can download GIFs and stickers via social media channels, as well as screensavers and filters.

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Official mascot unveiled La’eeb has been unveiled as the Official Mascot for FIFA World Cup 2022™!

Fans with disabilities and autism coming from outside Qatar can avail of the services at the Shafallah Centre lobby at Hamad International Airport, which will offer the latest assistive technology and educational and rehabilitation equipment for the best travel experience.

Qatar will deliver an outstanding FIFA World Cup™ experience for people with disabilities. Fans will be provided access to a range of digital content as the nation aims to make this FIFA World Cup™ accessible to as many people as possible.

The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) has worked with more than 30 local organisations to ensure its digital content can be enjoyed by all fans, irrespective of their accessibility needs. This led to the establishment of the Accessibility Forum, which has proved vital in efforts to deliver the most accessible World Cup in tournament history. Members represent a wide variety of impairments, including physical, cognitive, perceptual and mental health disabilities.

Ready to receive fans with disabilities

People with disabilities, experts and stakeholders such as the Ministry of Transport and Communications and the National Tourism Council have provided vital feedback on how to improve services on such things as Qatar’s transport system and cultural attractions.

The inauguration of Khalifa International Stadium in May 2017 coincided with Qatar’s first stadium-based sensory room for people with cognitive disabilities. A number of the stadiums have now been equipped with sensory rooms, providing the best possible environment for children with autism and neurobehavioural disorders to enjoy the matches in a safe space.

VAR technology was successfully used at the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ in Russia, as well as the FIFA Arab Cup™ and the FIFA Club World Cup™. Working with various partners, the Working Group for Innovation Excellence, and technology providers, FIFA has spent the last few years further improving the VAR system, including the use of semi-automated offside technology.

All this new technology has the potential to cut VAR decision-making from 70 seconds to just 25!

FIFA announced in July 2022 that semi-automated offside technology will be used during the tournament. This support tool for the video match officials and the on-field officials should help them make faster and more accurate offside decisions.

In total, there will be 36 referees, 69 assistant referees and 24 video match officials, selected from the six confederations and overseen by chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, Pierluigi Collina.

The three referees are Stephanie Frappart from France, Salima Mukansanga from Rwanda and Yoshimi Yamashita from Japan, with assistant referees Neuza Back from Brazil, Karen Díaz Medina from Mexico and Kathryn Nesbitt from the US.

Who will be able to use exciting new technology to assist with decisions!

According to FIFA, the new technology uses 12 dedicated tracking cameras mounted underneath the roof of the stadium to track the ball and up to 29 data points of each individual player, 50 times per second, to calculate their exact position on the pitch. These 29 collected data points include all limbs and extremities relevant for making offside calls. adidas’ official match ball, Al Rihla, will feature an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor to provide another element for the detection of tight offside incidents. The sensor is in the centre of the ball, sending ball data to the video operation room 500 times per second, giving a precise detection of the kick Ifpoint.aplayer strays into an offside position, the video assistant referee will be alerted, and they can then relay a message to the on-field officials. Once an offside call has been flagged, a 3D animation will be generated and displayed on screens inside the venue.

A groundbreaking tournament for referees... History has again been made as the FIFA Referees Committee has appointed three female referees and three female assistant referees to officiate.

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• Human Pillar: To develop human capital and safeguard workers’ rights, particularly construction workers, as well as human rights issues related to the actual event, such as freedom of expression for journalists and the avoidance of discrimination.

In 2015, FIFA and the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) began to develop and implement the event’s Sustainability Strategy. This was the first to be planned and delivered jointly by FIFA, SC on behalf of the host country, and the local organisers, FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 LLC (Q22).

Sustainability

• Economic Pillar: To catalyse economic development, highlighting economic development and growth in Qatar. This will be achieved by enabling local and international businesses to become FIFA suppliers, with a priority for local entities.

In January 2020, hosts Qatar and FIFA released the event’s first joint Sustainability Strategy.

Furtherprocedures.tothis, 22 objectives have been described in detail, along 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, according to SC.

To deliver the shared vision, five sustainability commitments have been defined:

Sustainability has been one of the main aspects of this World Cup, which started at the bid stage and will continue right through to the end of the tournament. The aim is 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.

• Governance Pillar: To set an example of good governance and ethical business practices, with periodic updates of the Sustainability Strategy, stakeholder engagement and communication, and sustainable procurement

© MARHABA AUTUMN 2022 In legacy mode, the modular upper tiers of some stadiums will be donated overseas – the seats will be given to countries needing sports infrastucture, and will ensure Qatar can use the stadiums appropriately after 2022. Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium is on the site of the old Al Rayyan stadium, much of which has been reused throughout the stadium complex or becoming public art installations. Trees in the location remain in place to minimise impact on the natural environment.

• Environment Pillar: To deliver innovative environmental solutions, hosting a fully carbon-neutral FIFA World Cup™.

Furthermore, the development process for the strategy also included a full human rights salience assessment, a first for a mega-sporting event.

• Social Pillar: To provide an inclusive tournament experience for all, ensuring it is safe, welcoming and accessible to all participants and attendees.

Implementation of the Sustainability Strategy is in line with the United Nation’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This was adopted by world leaders in September 2015 and has 17 universal Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), or Global Goals, and 169 targets, which set out a vision for ending poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030.

‘Developing human capital, safeguarding workers rights, and delivering innovative environmental solutions’ are some of the points mentioned in the Sustainability Strategy.

The Sustainability Strategy for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM has been aligned with the most relevant SDGs based upon sustainability topics and human rights issues. Overall, 11 SDGs will be achieved.

The venues’ innovative air-conditioned stadiums have carbon-neutral, solar-based systems producing chilled air. This creates an atmosphere for players and fans at least 20 degrees cooler than the surrounding area, allowing the venues to be used in the future for events throughout the year. Cutting-edge cooling technology was revealed in June 2014, bringing the temperature in the the open-air fan zone for the Brazil 2014 FIFA World CupTM down to 12˚C.

The Tree and Turf Nursery was launched in February 2018 to supply the enormous quantities of grass required for the stadiums, as well as the trees and shrubs that surround them.

The match schedule for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, confirmed by FIFA on 15 July 2020, sees hosts Qatar playing in the opening match on 21 November 2022 at Al Bayt Stadium, 1 pm local time (GMT+3). During the group stage, four matches will be played on each day. Kick-off will be at 1 pm, 4 pm, 7 pm and 10 pm for the first two rounds, and 6 pm and 10 pm for the simultaneous kick-offs of the last round and for knockout stage matches. The third place match will be on 17 December at Khalifa International Stadium, and the final on 18 December – Qatar National Day – at Lusail Stadium, both at 6 pm.

QATAR

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Six of the eight stadiums are built with modular components, so that after the tournament, Qatar will donate 170,000 seats to countries in need of sporting infrastructure, as part of its 2022 Thelegacy.FIFA Club World Cup 2019™ in December 2019 was a perfect warm-up event. The world’s best football clubs from every continent gave thrilling performances and was eventually won by Liverpool FC. The Fan Zone in Doha Sports Park provided plenty of opportunities to watch all the matches, as well as enjoy live music, football-themed activities, and food and beverages.

The FIFA Arab Cup 2021™ held in Qatar in November/December 2021 featured 16 teams from across the Arab world, and is the final ‘warm-up’ event before the World Cup.

The new stadiums have been designed by the world’s leading architects and reflect a different aspect of Qatari culture, and take into consideration three priorities: access and comfort, sustainability, and post-tournament legacy. Fans can potentially see more than one match a day, as the longest distance between venues is just 55 km.

EVENTSTADIUMS

Named after the former Amir, HH Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani (grandfather of the current Amir, HH Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani), the stadium has to date hosted matches in the Gulf Cup, the AFC Asian Cup, five matches in the FIFA Club World Cup 2019™, including the Final between Liverpool and Flamengo, and a number of football friendlies. It also hosted the Asian Games in 2006 and the IAAF World Athletics Championships in The2019.arena’s new ultramodern shape has kept its instantly recognisable dual arches. Inside the stadium, seats are protected from the elements by a canopy, thanks to the installation of a larger roof over the entire spectator area – an intricate net of steel tension cables weighing 4,000 tonnes hold 92 panels in place. Meanwhile LED pitch lighting and digital floodlights add a new dimension to the fan experience – Khalifa International Stadium is the first FIFA World Cup™ venue and the first stadium in the region to use these more sustainable forms of lighting. There is also climate control provided by advanced cooling technologies, promised as part of Qatar’s successful bid, which keeps the pitch at 20°C and the stands at 23°C, using 40% less energy than traditional cooling methods.

Khalifa International Stadium

Khalifa International Stadium was built in 1976, and renovated before reopening in May 2017 for the final of the Amir Cup.

Even the pitch is new, designed with Qatar’s climate in mind and developed at the Turf Nursery. It was laid in a new world record time of just 13 ½ hours.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakra was the first design to be revealed in November 2013, and opened 16 May 2019 for the Amir’s Cup Designedfinal.

Al Janoub Stadium

by the late Dame Zaha Hadid, the stadium is inspired by traditional dhow boats and Al Wakra’s history of seafaring. Inside, bowed beams hold up the roof, reminiscent of a ship’s hull, which allows light to flood in. A detailed micro-climate analysis was undertaken to check the heat levels inside; from this study, aerodynamics were used to determine the best shape for the arena, with the roof having additional shading using a minimal amount of glass. Alongside an innovative cooling system, these features make significant contributions to temperature Incontrol.November 2018, the stadium received a Class A* sustainability rating from the Global Sustainability Assessment System, in recognition of the project’s extensive efforts to protect the environment. The impact of fans travelling to Al Janoub Stadium for matches has also been considered, with major upgrades to the road networks, reducing journey times and emissions, and the nearby Doha Metro Thestation.40,000 seater venue will host matches up to the quarter-finals. After the competition it will become the home of Al Wakra Sports Club with 20,000 seats; the remaining 20,000 will be donated to football development projects overseas. Part of the stadium’s legacy includes green spaces being developed around the complex, which fans will see as they approach the stadium. The impressive parkland has more than 800 new trees and low-water-consumption vegetation, with areas for horse riding, running tracks and cycle lanes.

Education CityStadium

Education City Stadium is a 40,000-seat venue that sits in the heart of the country’s dedicated area for some of the world’s leading universities, the home of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, and is adjacent to Education City Golf Club. The design draws its inspiration from Islamic architecture, with a façade that features triangles forming complex, diamond-esque geometrical patterns which seemingly change colour as the sun moves across the sky, with an eye-catching colourful light show at Thenight.sides of the stadium envelop the pitch, helping the advanced cooling system to operate. An integrated water and energy control and monitoring system manages real-time consumption, and reducedesignenvironmentally-conscioustheandconstructionhelpthestadium’scarbon footprint. In January 2019, the stadium received a 5-star design and build rating from the Global Sustainability Assessment System.

A number of green construction practices have been employed: More than 55% of the materials used for the stadium came from sustainable sources and 28% of construction materials have recycled contents. The surrounding precinct incorporates drought-tolerant and native species of plants in 75% of the landscaping.

After the World Cup, Education City Stadium will donate 20,000 seats to create sporting venues in developing countries. In legacy mode, the venue will suit the needs of students, faculty and other members of the Education City community by becoming a sports, leisure and social hub.

Al Bayt Stadium

QATAR

the stadium, parks and greenery feature in the surrounding precinct’s design plan, with grass and trees alongside lakes and water features – the outdoor space is equal to the size of 30 football pitches. Fans will approach the stadium on tree-lined walkways before entering the traditional-meets-modern piece of architecture.

The upgraded road system means shorter journey times and a smaller environmental impact, although there will be extensive taxi and bus facilities to minimise the number of vehicles on local roads. In legacy mode, the upper tier of modular design seating, almost half of the 60,000 capacity, will be removed and donated to developing nations. The upper area of the stadium will be converted into a five-star hotel, and a shopping centre, food court, gym and multipurpose hall will be incorporated into the venue, as well as a branch of Aspetar, Qatar’s premier sports medicine facility.

It was inaugurated 30 November 2021 for the opening match of the FIFA Arab Cup 2021™.

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Al Bayt Stadium, located in Al Khor (35 km north of Doha), is instantly recognisable, thanks to its design based on a Bedouin tent – bayt al sha’ar or ‘house of hair’. The tent structure covers the entire stadium, and honours Qatar’s past and present while also looking to the future. The tent structure provides shading via lightweight canopies which stretch out towards the pitch, joined by a retractable roof system and cooling technologies. These features allow for comfortable temperatures inside without using extra power. Al Bayt Stadium has already received a Class A* rating from the Global Sustainability Assessment OutsideSystem.

The stadium will host the opening match of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ and fixtures through to the semi-finals.

Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium is the home of local football team, Al Rayyan Sports Club. The stadium officially opened on 18 December 2020, hosting the final of The Amir Cup, becoming the fourth operational FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ venue. The arena is capable of hosting 40,000 fans.

The stadium complex has used more than 80% of construction materials from the former venue on the site (with the same name) – in fact, any trees that needed to be moved have been replanted! Any new materials have been chosed for environmental qualities. The stadium received a 4-star Global Sustainability Assessment System certification in October 2018. The stadium’s carbon footprint has been reduced thanks to energy and water efficiency measures, and its close connection to the metro. Post-tournament, the seating capacity will be reduced to 20,000 with the other 20,000 donated to football development projects overseas. In legacy mode, there will be six football training pitches and a multitude of other sporting facilities.

The stadium incorporates features of Qatari culture in its magnificent façade, one of the most striking aspects of the stadium. The glowing façade’s patterns characterise different aspects of the country: the importance of family, the beauty of the desert, the native flora and fauna, and local and international trade. The façade surrounds a compact seating structure, giving a sense of feeling much closer to all of the action on the pitch. A lightweight canopy and advanced cooling systems protect fans from the elements, providing maximum comfort.

Traditional design elements continue on the surrounding buildings, with dune-shaped hospitality areas and retail outlets. Thanks to its lighting system, the entire area will be spectacular at nighttime as the buildings softly glow.

Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium

Al Thumama Stadium in the southern suburbs of Doha is named after a native tree that grows in the region. Its intricate design depicts the traditional woven cap gahfiya – a symbol of dignity and independence, and worn by boys through to adulthood. The stadium’s design also represents the country becoming a major force in the world’s sports scene and the heritage that has shaped its path to Qatarisuccess.architectural and engineering firm Arab Engineering Bureau created the concept and schematic design, led by chief architect, Ibrahim M Jaidah, one of the region’s most renowned architects. The venue’s distinctive design won the prestigious MIPIM/ The Architectural Review Future Project Award in 2018. Fans will first see the impressive stadium from the adjacent Hamad International Airport, as they admire the circular design and outstanding roof from the skies.

Al Thumama Stadium

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QATAR

The stadium was inaugurated on 22 October 2021 for The Amir’s Cup final. In legacy mode, the stadium’s seating capacity will be reduced from 40,000 to 20,000 to meet local needs, with the remaining infrastructure donated. Aspetar will have a clinic at the stadium, while the surrounding precinct will provide sports facilities alongside running and cycling tracks. A boutique hotel inside the stadium, a mosque, and retail units will complete the services offered to the

Al Thumama Stadium is the location for revolutionary prototype stadium the Showcase, a demonstration to FIFA of how Qatar is committed to innovation and sustainability, both in the tournament and in legacy mode. The Showcase will remain in place until 2022, showing such technologies as the solar-powered cooling systems. Looking to achieve GlobalAssessmentSustainabilitySystem 4-star certification, the design saves up to 40% more water than a conventional stadium. Recycled water will be used for the 50,000 sq m of park area, with native vegetation and 400 trees across 84% of the green areas.

The design is the brainchild of Fenwick Iribarren Architects. It has been constructed using shipping containers, removable seats and other modular building blocks, a unique and colourful design in keeping with the nearby port. Most of the stadium’s major requirements – for example, seating, bathroom facilities and food stalls – operate within the shipping containers. These have been arranged in an elegant curved square which give the venue its iconic aesthetic.The dismantling of the stadium is a first for a FIFA World Cup™ venue.

Due to the temporary nature of the stadium and the clever modular design, using fewer building materials than seen in traditional stadium buildings has reduced construction costs. The project has a lower carbon footprint due to its dockside location as natural sea breezes lessen the requirements on the stadium’s cooling system.

Just about everything will be repurposed –the 40,000 seats, the containers and the roof – and donated to projects elsewhere. This means the entire stadium may be built in another location, or the elements split up and used on a number of sporting and non-sporting venues. Once the stadium has been removed, a new waterfront development will include a large public park with retail space.

The 40,000-seat venue, situated looking across Doha’s Al Dafna/West Bay skyline and the Arabian Gulf, has been built in such a way that it can be completely dismantled and reused for other sporting projects after the competition, setting a new standard in sustainability and how to reuse stadiums in legacy mode.

The stadium was inaugurated on 30 November 2021 for the FIFA Arab Cup™ and renamed Stadium 974 to reflect the number of shipping containers used, as well as Qatar’s international dialling code.

Stadium 974

Stadium 974, previously Ras Abu Aboud Stadium, is one of the most innovative and radical to be built for a FIFA World Cup™ tournament – or any sporting event!

The stadium’s design has been inspired by light and shadow, characteristics of the fanar (lantern), with its shape and façade replicating the intricate decorative motifs on bowls and art pieces seen across the Middle ArchitectsEast.Foster

Lusail Stadium is in Qatar’s city of the future, Lusail City, and will be the venue for the final match of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, closing the tournament in opulent style. Fans can travel to the stadium from anywhere in the country quickly and easily, thanks to the Doha Metro and the upcoming Lusail Tram. There are also excellent commuter links via the upgraded road network, shuttle buses from the nearby park and ride system, and even the new walking and cycle paths!

Currentcertification.plans

During construction, sustainable building practices will be employed and construction waste recycled whenever possible. Recycled water will irrigate the abundance of local plants surrounding the stadium.

Efficient water fixtures and leak detection systems throughout the stadium complex will conserve 40% more fresh water than in conventional stadiums. These measures will steer Lusail Stadium towards achieving 4-star Global Sustainability Assessment System

+ Partners have created a sleek, modern and bold shape with an impressive sloping roof. The chic, muted gold exterior will over time offer an evocative image of aged metal handicrafts, while the intricate detailing on the stadium bowl will feature a graceful, undulating trim. This will be literally topped off with a roof that showcases the best engineering and construction techniques, using materials to provide shade yet still admitting the right amount of sunlight to nourish the playing surface. When the daylight fades, an advanced lighting system will switch on with light pouring through the openings in the façade, similar to a lantern, offering a welcoming glow for fans. Once inside the stadium, a wall of colour will be joined by a wall of sound – the roof and curved sides will form a cauldron effect, with noise reverberating around the arena.

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for Lusail Stadium after the tournament suggest it will transform into a community space with schools, shops, sporting facilities and health clinics within the original exterior of the stadium and under the original roof. Most of the stadium’s 80,000 seats will be removed and donated to projects elsewhere.

Stadium Lusail

1981 When Qatar reached the final of the FIFA World Youth Championships (now the FIFA U-20 World Cup), defeating Brazil and England on the way.

The maximum number of hours that will be spent travelling between venues during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, making it possible to watch more than one match a day.

55 km The longest distance required to see matches, between Al Bayt Stadium to Al Janoub Stadium.

53,000,000 The annual capacity of Hamad International Airport in 2022.

Quick facts and

figures

9,520 Number of athletes in 424 events across 39 sports during the 15th Asian Games (XV Asiad) in Doha in 2006, widely regarded as the most successful to date –just one of many international sporting events Qatar has successfully hosted.

40,000 Seating capacity of Stadium 974 (previously Ras Abu Aboud Stadium), the first fully demountable tournament venue in FIFA World Cup™ history.

8 Number of stadiums being used during the tournament.

15 – 24°C Average temperatures in Qatar in November and December.

These facts are courtesy of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy –for more information, visit qatar2022.qa

1,500,000 Number of fans expected to visit Qatar during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.

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50 Number of nationalities working for the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, reflecting Qatar’s commitment to deliver a tournament that unites the world.

1992 Qatar reached the quarter-finals of the 1992 Summer Olympic Games’ football tournament and won its first ever Gulf Cup.

1st title Qatar will compete as the reigning champions of Asia after winning the AFC Asian Cup for the first time in January 2019.

Teams will check in at their Team Base Camp Hotels (TBCHs) at least five days before their first match, with players hoping to extend their stay from the guaranteed 15 days to 33, an achievement reserved only for the Onefinalists.ofthe

The Team Base Camp line-up shows the uniquely compact nature of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

Facilities available include treatment rooms and dedicated common areas to safeguard teams’ privacy, complying with all relevant security protocols.

The 31 teams travelling to Qatar will have a Team Base Camp (TBC) to call home at the most compact FIFA World Cup™ since the first instalment in 1930. No domestic flights are required during the tournament, enabling teams to use the same top-class facilities throughout the competition.

A TBC is the headquarters of a participating team during the competition period, combining a dedicated Team Base Camp Training Site (TBCTS) with a hotel or other form of accommodation (TBCH).

unique features of the FIFA World Cup 2022™ means that 24 out of the 32 teams will stay within a 10 km radius of each other. This provides a thrilling atmosphere in and around Doha for local and international fans to enjoy, as they watch their favourite teams train.

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Many have been built from scratch or renovated, an important part of the tournament’s legacy for grassroots football in Qatar.

Official training sessions the day before matches will also be held at the team’s training sites.

There are three types of training site on offer: local clubs, cluster training facilities, and stadium training sites.

The TBCHs range from four and five-star hotels to villas, resorts and non-hotel accommodation, including sports academy residences and school/university housing.

The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) have stated that a digital Hayya Card will be issued on the purchase of a ticket, and that this applies to all local and international fans attending matches.

m More information can be obtained from:

International fans making a matchday visit to Qatar do not need to arrange accommodation, but will still need to register their travel details in order to receive final approval on the Hayya card application. For the Match Day Pass, fans need a valid FIFA Match ticket and a valid passport.

Stay ahead of the game and apply for your Hayya Card prior to travelling to Qatar or attending matches.

FEATURE By Sarah Palmer

toWelcomeHayya,Qatar!

ans visiting the country for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM in November will need to apply for a Hayya Card.

• The official app available to download via Google Play or the App Store

The digital card is the only way that visitors will be able to enter the country during the competition period.

• hayya.qatar2022.qa/web/hayya, the fan application portal • qatar2022.qa, for details about the tournament, stadiums and more • marhaba.qa, for our free e-guide about the competition

Visitors can alternatively stay with a friend or relative in Qatar. Each person residing here can receive 10 people (relatives and friends) by registering their data on the residence platform. Each guest must also add the host’s information on the Hayya digital platform.

As well as allowing entry into stadiums, cardholders will be eligible for free public transportation – which will include the extensive metro, bus and taxi networks – and to attend the activities being held during the Accommodationcompetition.

International fans must book their accommodation after purchasing their tickets to enter Qatar and attend matches in the stadiums, while citizens and residents need to enter the match ticket number, ID number and date of birth to obtain the card.

options such as apartments, villas, apartment complexes, floating hotels, fan villages and holiday homes are offered through the official platform at qatar2022.qa/book

Once approved, the digital version of the fan ID will be available in the Hayya app, as well as in a physical form from designated collection points.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA Education FIFAStadiumCityWorldCupQatar2022TM AlShamalRoad MallQatarofVillaggio Mall Al Mansoura Al RiffaMall of Qatar EducationCity Al WakraHIA T1 Ras Bu Abboud Al Aziziyah Sport City The Pearl Island FestivalDohaCityLusail LusailQetaifanCityIsland Katara BananaIslandHamadInt’lAirport DECC Al Bayt Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM DowntownMsheirebDoha SalwaRoad VillageLogisticsQatar HamadPort Al WakraDohaExpressHighway Highway Dukhan Road Location of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM Stadiums and Accessibility by Doha Metro DohaNetworkMetro Green line Al Riffa Mall of Qatar - Al Mansoura Red LusaillineQNB - HIA T1 - Al Wakra Metro Stations Gold line Al Aziziyah - Ras Bu Abboud Al FIFAStadiumThumamaWorldCupQatar2022TM FIFAStadium974WorldCupQatar2022TMFIFAStadiumKhalifaWorldCupQatar2022TM Ahmad Bin Ali FIFAStadiumWorldCupQatar2022TM Lusail Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TMAlJanoubStadiumFIFAWorldCupQatar2022TM MetroRail network Pink OrangePurpleLineLineLine AL Riffa-Mall of Qatar

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Al Majd Road 1 3 6 2 2 2 5 41 14 7 56 33 39 141 77Simaisma, A Murwab Resort ReservoirPRPS1 Al UmmStadiumBaytQarn Al MunicipalityDaayenAlShamalRoad Al Ruwais Al Mafjar WellnessZulalResort Al FuwairitGhariyaMaroona Ras Girtas RL AlMadinatServicesSupportAreaKaaban AlRawdatFaras SimsimaUmmBirka Ras AlIndustrialLaffanCityThakhira Al Khor Jabal JassasiyaAl State of Qatar Lehwaila Madinat Al Shamal LusailSemaismaCity LijmiliyaAlQaaiya ReservoirPRPS2 Umm Al Amad Umm Slal AliAl Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve Al Otouriya Umm MohammedSlal CircuitLusail BarzanTower MallQatarofSheikh Faisal Farm & Museum Rawdat Rashed EducationCity Al Rayyan Al Sailiya IndustrialArea BarwaCity QLV MesaieedRd Al Wajba IKEADFC Golf Al AlMadinatReservoirRoadMajdPRPS3MawaterQaryat Al MuhannaAl Kharsaah (site of Solar Power Plant) Al Salamiya AlDukhanSabbanaZekreet Al Nafayid FilmCity AbrouqRas Berak Al Soudan Al Suwaihliya Leghwairiya Ain Al NumanLishaUmrairFortKhidaj Fort Al Zubara Fort Al Jemail Fort Al Rekayat Fort Al Thaghab Fort WorldUNESCOHeritageSite Ras Eshairiq Al Zubara UmmBabDukhan Al Sheehaniya The Pearl IslandBanana Island VillageBarwa InternationalHamadAirport Al Wukair MarsaPortHamadPort GRIng Road Al Wakra Mesaieed BeachSealineResort Retaj BeachSalwa&Spa Sand Dunes Khor Al Adaid Inland Sea SAA Corridor Qetaifan Island North Doha SalwaRoad ReservoirPRPS4 AlhoulUmm Al ShallaRoadMajd Hilton Salwa Beach Resort PRPS 5 Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park Qurain Abu Al Bawl Naqa ZuwayyidMasszhabiyaZubaratAlQeezanEraiqAlEraiqZubaratAl DohatSalwaBaySalwa Umm Hawta Al Kharrara SandSingingDunesEarthMakainesStationSatellite Al LagoonKaraana Qeezan Al Kharaej Bu Samra Sawda Natheel ARABIASAUDI AlKharraraRoad This map is intended as a guide only. Some abbreviations have been used due to limitations of space. Feedback is appreciated. All Rights Reserved. 07.2022 No part of this map may be reproduced or copied without the written permission of the publishers marhaba.qa Non-stopWOQOD Superhighway Upgraded Highway QatarHighwayHeritage Site Kahramaa Mega Reservoir Project Mangroves DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA

Cultural Awareness

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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. stay hydrated amd drink plenty of water. At temperatures reaching over 40°C in the summer, you need to drink at least two litres of water per day. Deep yellow unrine is a sign of dehydration. Don't forget to use a high-factor sunblock and wear a hat or cap to protect you from the sun's UV radiation.

AwarenessCultural

Please don't... look or stare at people especially women. This general courtesy is particularly important in a society where modesty in dress and behaviour is the standard. be offended if your handshake is refused by the opposite sex. Handshakes are often refused to members of the opposite sex. It is a religious and cultural prohibition applicable to Muslims and non-Muslims alike. 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 private and strongly object to being photographed or videographed. 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. drink too much alcohol so that your behaviour is affected in public. There are stiff fines for consuming alcohol other than on licensed premises. Alcohol in Qatar is a strictly regulated concession and there is zero tolerance for drink-driving, drunkenness or rowdy behaviour. The country also applies a zero-tolerance policy to drugs. 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, or hang clothes on the balconies overlooking roads or public places. Spitting in public spaces is also prohibited.

Qatar warmly welcomes visitors from across the world to its beautiful and cultural country. There's much to see and enjoy, but ensure to be mindful of the country's religious and cultural norms.

Government offices and health centres will turn away people for inappropriate clothing. avoid public displays of affection (PDA) as any intimacy in public can be considered as an act of obscenity. This can lead to arrest and a potential court case, which can include a fine, a custodial sentence and deportation once the sentence is complete.

Please do... 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'. 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! 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 family-friendly destinations.

2022JuneUpdated&Checked PhrasesArabic Arabic Phrases Courtesies/Responses 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 tafaddal/*tafaddalior Goodbye (Go in peace) ma’a salaamah May God protect you Allah yehmikiyehmik/*Allah How are you? kaif halikhalak?/*kaif And you? wa ant?/*wa anti Thank God al hamdu lillah Thanks shukran Welcome (in response to 'thank you') a'fwan Please min fadlikfadlak/*min Yes/No na’am or aiwa/la I'm sorry ana mutaasefamutaassef/*ana Congratulations mabrook Look! shuff!/*shuffi Where? wain? On your right a'la yameenak On your left a'la shamalak Straight on a'la tool Stop! aqif/*aqifi Go! imshi Come! ta’al/ta'ali Let's go! yalla Tell me qulli/*qullili When? mata? or emta? Bring me/give jeeb/*jeebi This hatha That hathaak There isn’t any mafi No problem mafi mushkila There is no time mafi waqt Impossible mush mumkin Finished khallas If God is willing Insh'Allah For sure Wallah/akeed Ramadan blessings Ramadan kareem Eid blessings Eid mubarak 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? Shopping/Eating Out 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 Days of the Week Sunday yum al ahad Monday yum al ithnain Tuesday yum al thalatha Wednesday yum al arba’a Thursday yum al khamees Friday yum al jum’a Saturday yum al sabt 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. Emergencies Please help me sa’idni low samaht Police station markaz al shortah I’m feeling ill ana mareedh I need a doctor ureed tabeeb I need a hospital ureed mustashfa Ambulance sayyara is'aaf Pharmacy saydaliya There's a fire fi hareeqa Essential Foods Bread khubbuz Water maa, moya Tea/Coffee chai/gahwa Milk haleeb Fish samak Meat laham Chicken dejaj Cheese jubna Fruit fawakih Vegetables 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 Numbers 0 sifr ٠ 1 wahad ١ 2 ithnain ٢ 3 thalatha ٣ 4 arba’a ٤ 5 khamsa ٥ 6 sitta ٦ 7 saba’a ٧ 8 thamanya ٨ 9 tissa’a ٩ 10 a'ashara ١٠ 50 khamseen 100 mi’a 500 1,000khamsmi'a alf 2,000 alfain 10,000 a'asharat alf 100,000 mi’at alf DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA

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.

Hours of Business

Common Courtesies

Qatar's National Day is 18 December each year. National Sport Day takes place on the second Tuesday of each February. This year, there will be mid-year holidays for public and private schools in Qatar from 20 November to 22 December 2022 for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.

Public Holidays

Law No 10 of 2016 on the Control of Tobacco and its Derivatives is the principal law governing tobacco control in Qatar. The law prohibits smoking in indoor public places and the sale of e-cigarettes.

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.

Time 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 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.

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 2022, the first day of Ramadan began on 2 April, Eid Al Fitr on 2 May, and Eid Al Adha on 9 July.

GlanceaatQatar

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Qatar at a Glance

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 not sold or served during the month of Ramadan, or in the 10 days before Eid Al Adha. The country applies a zero-tolerance attitude to drugs.

Currency

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 in the Business and Economy section for details of banks and currency exchange houses.

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.

• 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.

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

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

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

Climate

• 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.

Geography

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

• 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 Island, and Al Khor in the north. Ras Laffan Industrial City (RLIC) is creating a population expansion in Al Khor and the adjoining areas. Projects are underway to provide new housing and amenities in the area.

• Qatar's population in June 2022 was 2,657,333, according to the Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA).

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

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

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

GlanceaatQatar

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Demography

• 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.

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

The Ruling Family

GlanceaatQatar

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

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.

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Women

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

• 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.

His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Father Amir His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Amir of the State of Qatar His Excellency Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani Prime Minister and Minister of Interior 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 1999, free elections were held to form a 29-member Central Municipal Council (CMC) for the first time in Qatar’s history.

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

• Qatar held its first-ever Shura Council elections on 2 October 2021. The Council was established in 1972, following the passing of the Amended Provisional Basic Law of Rule in the State of Qatar on 19 April 1972, to assist the Amir of Qatar, and the Council of Ministers in the performance of their duties. One of the two main pillars of Qatar’s legislative body, the Shura Council comprises a total of 45 members, 30 of whom are elected via a general ballot, while the remaining 15 are appointed by the Amir. The term of office of the Shura Council is four years commencing from the date of the first meeting. The Council assumes the following functions in accordance with the constitution: Legislative authority, approving the general budget of the government, and exercising control over the executive authority, as specified in the constitution. shura.qa

• 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 on 8 June 2005.

The Qatari Flag • 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.

GlanceaatQatar

•

• The

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

• The

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International Relations

History

• The Organisation of Arab Oil Exporting Countries (OAPEC) and the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) United Nations (UN) and its subsidiary global organisations UNESCO World Heritage Committee US officially designated Qatar as a major non-NATO ally in March 2022 World Trade Organisation (WTO) World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) 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 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. 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. 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 Business and Economy section for details.

• The

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

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

• The

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

Qatar is a member of: European Council (observer member) Arab League Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) Asian Group of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank

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• 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.

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•

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

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

• The

m 2022JuneUpdated&Checked Economy •

• Qatar maintains 108 embassies abroad. Doha hosts 106 embassies, and one consulate.

Transport and Communication

• 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.

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

• The

• 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.

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

• The Doha Metro is 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 to be completed by 2026. Lusail Tram has started operations into Lusail City connect at Legtaifiya from Doha Metro to Lusail Tram. See more in Getting Around Qatar in this section.

StructureGovernmentQatar's

The Shura Council 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 and is able to approve the budget and general state policies, but has no say in setting defence, security, economic and investment policies. Each annual session lasts eight months, opened with an address by the Amir, and sessions are generally open to the public.

Pictured from left: HE Ahmed Nasser Ibrahim Al Fadala, Shura Council Secretary General HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior

The Amiri Diwan is the sovereign body and administrative office of HH The Amir, overseen by the Chief of the Amiri Diwan, currently HE Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.

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.

Qatar's Government Structure

Qatar’s first (and much delayed) legislative council elections took place in October 2021, with citizens voting for 30 of the 45 seats on the Shura Council. Voters had to be over 18, the 284 candidates had to be at least 30 years old 'of Qatari origin'.

Recent developments HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani named a new cabinet the day after becoming the Amir of the State of Qatar on 25 June 2013.

The Council of Ministers was again restructured in October under Amiri Order No 4 of 2021. A number of ministries were split and (re)formed, leading to a new manifesto for climate change at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. Also new are the Ministry for Social Development and Family and the Ministry of Labor, following the restructure of the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs.

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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, who chairs each session, signs any decisions made, and advise the Amir on how to form the cabinet. The General Secretary is HE Dr Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi.

A full reshuffle was made in November 2018, with ministries restructured under a new portfolio. The Amir combined commerce and industry into one ministry, appointed new ministers and decreed changes to the boards of Qatar Petroleum (now Qatar Energy) and Qatar Investment Authority in view of ministerial appointments.

Amiri Order No 1 of 2020 appointed a new prime minister after the previous incumbent's resignation.

The Shura Council (Advisory Council) was established in 1972 during the reign of Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani. Under the amended Provisional Constitution he was tasked with organising the State's structure and institutions.

HE Ahmed Nasser Ibrahim Al Fadala was appointed Shura Council Secretary General, HE Hassan bin Abdulla Al Ghanim as Speaker and HE Dr Hamda bint Hassan Al Sulaiti as Deputy Speaker.

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.

Turnout was 63.5%.

• Minister of Education and Higher Education HE Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi (October 2021).

m Qatar'sGovernmentStructure © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

• Minister of Social Development and Family HE Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad (October 2021 when the Ministry of Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs was reformed).

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; HE Al Attiyah was Minister of Foreign Affairs 2013–16.

•

• Minister of Sports and Youth HE Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali (reappointed October 2021 when the Ministry of Culture and Sports was reformed).

• Minister of Environment and Climate Change HE Sheikh Dr Faleh bin Nasser bin Ahmed bin Ali Al Thani (October 2021).

The current Council of Ministers:

• Minister of Commerce and Industry (right) HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Abdullah Al Thani (October 2021).

• Minister of Labor Dr Ali bin Saeed bin Smaikh Al Marri (October 2021 after the Ministry was split from the former Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs).

• Minister of Municipality HE Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie (reappointed October 2021 after the Ministry of Municipality and Environment was split).

• Prime Minister and Minister of Interior

• Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs HE Ghanem bin Shaheen |bin Ghanem Al Ghanim (October 2021).

HE Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad bin Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani (October 2021 when the Ministry of Culture and Sports was split).

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 Communications and Information Technology HE Mohammed bin Ali bin Mohammed Al Mannai (October 2021 after the Ministry of Transport and Communications was split).

• Minister of Transport HE Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti (the former Minister of Transport and Communications was reappointed October 2021 after the Ministry was reformed).

• Minister of Culture

•

• Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs

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 was previously Director of HH The Amir’s office and Chief of the Amiri Diwan from 2014–20. He also sits on the board of the Sports and Social Activities Support Fund (Daam).

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For more information: Government Communications Office gco.gov.qa General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers cm.gov.qa Shura Council shura.qa Hukoomi (Qatar e-Government) portal.www.gov.qa

• Minister of State for Energy Affairs HE Saad Sherida Al Kaabi (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).

•

• Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs

•

• Minister of Finance HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari (October 2021, following his temporary appointment in May 2021).

• Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, a member of the Council of Ministers HE Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Yousef Al Sulaiti (October 2021).

• Minister of Public Health (right) HE Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari (January 2016).

• Minister of Justice HE Masoud bin Mohammed Al Ameri (June 2021).

atar has maintained its position as the ‘Safest Country’ in the world according to Numbeo Crime Index by Country 2022 out of 142 surveyed nations. For crime, Qatar scored a low 13.78, while for safety, it scored a high 86.22.

Qatar:CountrySafest

according to the laws of those countries as it considers that there are acts that constitute crimes in some countries dissimilar to other countries, which gives an objective measure of the rate of crime in countries following applicable laws.

Qatar has been named the safest country in the world, according to the Crime Index by Country 2022 report by Numbeo, the world's largest user-contributed database on cities and countries. By Ola Diab

Numbeo’s crime index calculations approximate the overall degree of crime in the city or country in question, while the safety index is an approximation of the general safety levels.

In addition to Qatar, the safest countries are the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Taiwan, Isle of Man, Oman, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Japan, Armenia, and Slovenia making up the list. Venezuela recorded the highest crime rate at 83.58 and lowest safety rate at 16.42, ranking as the least safe country. Three Gulf countries ranked in the top 10: Qatar, the UAE and NumbeoOman.is the world’s largest cost of living database. Numbeo is also a crowd-sourced global database of quality of life information including countriesThecrimemeasurementsinceitsNumbeomanyofcrimeindicators,housingperceivedrates,andqualityhealthcare,amongotherstatistics.haspublishedannualreports2009,basedonoftherateworldwide.indexofcrimesinismeasured

FEATURE

Doha: Second Safest City

In addition, Qatar's capital city, Doha, has also been declared the second safest city in the world by Numbeo’s Crime Index by City 2022 report. Scoring 86.17% in the safety index and 13.83% in the crime index, Doha is ranked as the second safest city in the world, following its same position (with different index numbers) in 2021, according to Numbeo’s Crime Index by City 2022 report.

Q World's

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The global programme for the implementation of the Doha Declaration received wide international attention at the opening of the 14th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Kyoto, Japan in March 2021. It is described as a pioneering model in helping countries, especially developing ones, in dealing with organised crime, corruption, drugs and terrorism, and in building solid criminal justice systems, in addition to contributing to the implementation of the goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable InDevelopment.astatement delivered at the conference, the Minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, HE Dr Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi, expressed the gratitude of Qatar to the people and government of Japan for hosting the conference despite the great difficulties resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the early agreement on the Kyoto Declaration represents an effective roadmap that leads joint international efforts in crime prevention and criminal justice over the next five years.

He also reviewed the achievements of the Doha Global Programme that were introduced during the Kyoto Conference. The Minister made a special reference to the programme reaching 2.5 mn people in 190 countries, besides the delivery of educational materials to more than 1.4 mn students, and benefitting more than 170,000 people from 187 countries. In addition, the programme trained more than 11,000 young people on crime prevention through sport, and trained more than 1,500 judges and public prosecutors on the issues of judicial integrity.

In recent years, Qatar has continued to retain its global distinction as one of the safest countries in the world. In 2021, Doha was declared the second safest city in the world, according to Numbeo's Crime Index by City 2021 report. In 2020, Qatar was named the world's safest country by Numbeo's mid-year Crime Index by Country. Qatar has taken the title as the world's safest country at least three times on Numbeo – first in 2017, then again in 2019 and 2020. In addition, Qatar has been named the safest Arab country since 2015.

HE the Minister presented the Japanese Presidency a small memento representing a boat with a sail symbolising the unity in front of the challenges. In addition, it confirms the continuity in the work of the crime prevention and criminal justice conferences, besides establishing the principle of building the conference on the achievements of previous conferences, and that the great legacy of the crime prevention conferences since 1955 would be present at all Ambassadorconferences.

To see Numbeo's reports on Qatar, visit numbeo.com Doha Declaration

Sultan Al Mansouri, the permanent representative of Qatar to the UN and international organisations in Vienna, handed over this symbol to the Japanese Presidency of the conference.

The Crime Index by City 2022 report covered 459 cities in total and ranked Doha as the 458th city, attaining second place after Abu Dhabi (459th).

Accordingly, he affirmed Qatar's keenness to provide all aspects of support to the UN Office in Vienna on Drugs and Crime, and to actively participate in all international and regional efforts, and at the bilateral level between countries, to implement the Kyoto Declaration and achieve its desired goals. Upon the inauguration of the 14th UN Conference in Kyoto, HE Dr Al Nuaimi handed over the banner from Qatar to Japan, stressing Qatar's keenness to provide full support to the new Japanese Presidency over the congress for the success of its tasks.

m © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

He said that Qatar has not and will not spare any effort in combating crime, consolidating the principle of the rule of law and establishing a successful and effective criminal justice system, noting that Qatar topped the list of countries in MENA in the ranking of the Global Peace Index for 2020, and ranked first in the Arab World at the Societal Safety and Security index.

Foreign Embassies in Qatar QatarinEmbassiesForeign Afghanistan B4 4493 doha.embassy.af2319 Albania B4 4002 ambasadat.gov.al/qatar7413 Algeria B4 4483 embalgeria.com.qa5880 Argentina B4 4417 eqatr.cancilleria.gov.ar/en3601 Armenia B4 4491 mfa.am/en/embassies/qa9232 Australia C4 4007 qatar.embassy.gov.au8500 Austria C4 4033 dohabmeia.gv.at/en/austrian-embassy-7300 Azerbaijan B4 4493 doha.mfa.gov.az2450 Bangladesh D4 4467 bdembassydoha.org1927 Belarus (Republic of) B4 4469 qatar.mfa.gov.by/en0989 Belgium B4 4493 qatar.diplomatie.belgium.be1499 Benin (Republic of) B4 4493 benin-qa.com0128 Bosnia and Herzegovina B4 4411 en.bhembassyqatar.com3828 Brazil B3 4483 doha.itamaraty.gov.br8227/8812 Brunei B4 4483 1956 Bulgaria B4 4412 mfa.bg/embassies/qatar0023 Burkina Faso B4 4472 8915 See their Facebook page Canada C4 4419 canadainternational.gc.ca/qatar9000 Central African Republic B3 4481 ambrcadoha@gmail.com7695 China (People's Republic of) B3 4493 qa.china-embassy.org4203 Costa Rica C4 4498 Consular:Embassy:0094embcr-qa@rree.go.crconcr-qa@rree.go.cr Cote d'Ivoire (Republic of) B4 4038 ambaci.doha@gmail.com1695 Croatia B4 4483 mvep.gov.hr/qa/en5188 Cuba B4 4411 misiones.minrex.gob.cu/qatar0717 Cyprus (Republic of) B4 4493 embassy_dohamfa.gov.cy/mfa/embassies/4390 Djibouti B4 4493 ambdji.sec@gmail.com4657/8461 Dominican Republic B4 4411 embadomqatar.org3868 Ecuador B4 4016 cancilleria.gob.ec/catar1800 Egypt Closed – Egypt Interests Section, Embassy of Greece, 4483 2424 El Salvador B4 4411 embajadaqatar.rree.gob.sv0195 Eritrea D4 4466 eritreanembassyqa.org7934 Eswatini (previously Swaziland) B4 4493 3145 Ethiopia B4 4020 doha.mfa.gov.et7000 Finland B4 finlandabroad.fi/qatarsanomat.doh@formin.fi France B4 4402 qa.ambafrance.org1755 Georgia B4 4473 qatar.mfa.gov.ge9499 Germany C4 4408 doha.diplo.de2300 Ghana B4 4436 4486 Greece B4 4412 mfa.gr/missionsabroad/en/qatar8150 Hungary B4 4493 doha.mfa.gov.hu2531 India (Republic of) B4 4425 indianembassyqatar.gov.in5777 Indonesia (Republic of) C4 4465 kemlu.go.id/doha7945 Iran (Islamic Republic of) B4 4483 qatar.mfa.gov.ir1550 Iraq (Republic of) C3 4421 mofa.gov.iq/doha6730 Italy B3 4483 ambdoha.esteri.it1802/28 Japan B4 4440 qa.emb-japan.go.jp9000 Jordan B4 4483 doha@fm.gov.jo2202/3 Kazakhstan B3 4412 8015 See their Facebook page Kenya (Republic of) B4 4493 kenyaembassydoha.com1870 Korea (Republic of) B4 4483 overseas.mofa.go.kr/qa-en/index.do2238/9 Kosovo (Republic of) C4 5509 embassy.qatar@rks-gov.net4791 Kuwait B4 4483 kuwaitembassy@qatar.net.qa2111 Kyrgyz Republic B4 4413 mfa.gov.kg1519 Lebanon B4 4493 lebaneseembassyqatar.com3330 Liberia (Republic of) B4 4412 libemg.doha@yahoo.com5672 DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA

QatarinEmbassiesForeign Tajikistan (Republic of) B3 4412 tajembqatar.tj3906 Tanzania (Republic of) B4 4036 qa.tzembassy.go.tz0860 Thailand B4 4493 doha.thaiembassy.org4426/4432 The Gambia (Republic of) D4 4465 2002 See their Facebook page The Netherlands (Kingdom of) B4 4495 and-the-netherlands/qatarnetherlandsandyou.nl/your-country-4700 Tunisia (Republic of) B4 4016 embassyoftunisia.com.qa2225 Turkey (Republic of) B4 4495 doha.emb.mfa.gov.tr1300 Uganda B4 4427 7339 Ukraine B4 4414 qatar.mfa.gov.ua7297/8 United Kingdom B4 4496 gov.uk/world/qatar2000 United States of America C3 4496 qa.usembassy.gov6000 Uruguay B4 4411 3833/4493 uruqatar@uruguayembassy.org.qa5739 Venezuela B4 4493 qatar.embajada.gob.ve2730 Vietnam B4 4412 vietnamembassy-qatar.org8480 Yemen Yemen Interests Section, Embassy of Sudan ChileConsulates(Republic of) C4 chile-qatar.com Representative Offices Northern Cyprus B4 4483 doha.mfa.gov.ct.tr7693 Philippines B3 4483 dohape.dfa.gov.ph1585 Poland (Republic of) B4 4411 gov.pl/web/qatar3230 Portugal B4 4486 doha.embaixadaportugal.mne.pt4691 Romania B4 4493 doha.mae.ro4848 Russia B4 4483 qatar.mid.ru/en6231/6821 Senegal B4 4483 embassysenegal@yahoo.com7644/77 Serbia (Republic of) B4 4417 doha.mfa.gov.rs5181 Singapore B4 4412 mfa.gov.sg/doha8082 Somalia B4 4483 dohaembassy@mfa.gov.so2771 South Africa B3 4485 dirco.gov.za/doha7111 Spain B4 4483 exteriores.gob.es/embajadas/doha8986 Sri Lanka D5 4467 slembassy-qatar.com7627 Sudan B4 4483 suemdoha2014@gmail.com1474 Sweden C4 4444 swedenabroad.com/doha9500 Switzerland B3 4020 eda.admin.ch/doha3400 Syria B4 4020 syrembassy.com8222 Libya B4 4483 leinqatar@gmail.com1231 Malaysia B4 4483 kln.gov.my/web/qat_doha6463 Mali B4 4451 ambamali.doha@gmail.com5970 Mauritania (Islamic Republic of) B4 4016 2222 Mexico B4 4450 infoembqatar@sre.gob.mx8000 Moldova B4 4442 qatar.mfa.gov.md1303 Morocco B4 4483 m.embassydoha@maec.gov.ma1884/85 Nepal D3 4467 qa.nepalembassy.gov.np5681 Niger B4 4421 ambanigerqatar@hotmail.com9045 Nigeria B4 4448 nigeriaembassydoha.org5000 North Macedonia (Republic of) B4 4493 mfa.gov.mk61374 Oman B4 4493 office.omanembassy@gmail.com1514 Pakistan B4 4483 mofa.gov.pk/doha-qatar2525 Palestine B4 4469 palemb-qa.com2228 Panama B4 4483 embpanamaqatar@mire.gob.pa7740 Paraguay B4 4493 5218 See their Facebook page Peru C3 4491 consulado.pe/es/Doha5944 2022JuneUpdated&Checked © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

Digital Qatar

The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology was established in October 2021, superceding the Ministry of Transport and Communications. 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 technologyfriendly environment. mcit.gov.qa

to roll out the 5G networks in all densely populated areas, primary roads and highways, and venues associated with the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM Internet use and social media

Broadband connections ranging from 3G to 5G covers 87% of the population. In terms of social media platforms, other surveys show that Instagram and Snapchat are the most popular, with TikTok gaining popularity.

Ooredoo was the first company in the world to launch 5G services on a commercially-available network in 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 2019 with 100 live 5G base stations. Meanwhile Vodafone Qatar rolled out its 5G network in 2018 and was the first to commercially launch its 5G network.

The CRA urges citizens and residents of Qatar to be vigilant with online activities. Due to the growing number of cyberattacks, scam calls, and text messages requesting personal and banking information, consumers should verify the identity of the third party before sharing details, use a two-step verification feature online where applicable, and regularly change passwords. cra.gov.qa

QatarDigital

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 user safety.

In 2019 both companies were granted radio spectrum licences to operate 5G commercially from the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA), initially assigned 100MHz within the 3500 – 3800MHz frequency band. Both companies have

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Ministries have been rolling out digital initiatives to make government services more efficient, accessible, and customer-centric. The Qatar Digital Government programme serves individuals and businesses, with government administration now better serving citizens and residents. Part of this programme is the Qatar Digital Government 2020 Strategy, which was formulated 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.

Mobile connections increased by 35,000 (0.8%) y-o-y, giving connections of 4.67 mn, 160.6% of the population – the mobile connection figures exceed the total population as many people have multiple mobile connections. Prepaid services are favoured, accounting for more than 70% of the population.

The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) regulates the ICT and postal sectors. The independent authority ensures fair competition while protecting consumer rights.

Cybercrime With the high level of internet connectivity in the state comes the increased possibility of cybercrime, leading to the issuance of Law No 14 of 2014 Promulgating the Cybercrime Prevention Law. According to the Global Economic Crime and Fraud Survey 2022 by PricewaterhouseCoopers, '46% of surveyed organisations reported experiencing fraud, corruption or other economic crimes in the last 24 months'. Keep up to date with all that is happening in Qatar by connecting with Marhaba

In April 2022, Qatar's median download speed ranked 2 for mobile and 30 for fixed broadband. Visit speedtest.net/global-index/qatar for full performance details.

Qatar is number one globally in Internet Adoption according to ‘The Global State of Digital 2021’, a report by Hootsuite which features more than 230 countries. There were 2.88 mn internet users recorded in Qatar in January 2021, out of a population of 2.91 mn, a year-on-year (y-o-y) increase of 29,000, with 2.87 mn social media users (98.8% of total population). Google Chrome recorded a 68.3% share of web traffic, up 8.6%.

With the country racing towards total digitalisation by 2030, there is a need for more transparency, awareness and education. Qatar is at the forefront of adopting regulation, moving quicker than others in the region. To this end, the Ministry released the guidelines for the Personal Data Privacy Protection Law on 28 January 2021 to mark Data Privacy Day.

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:

• 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).

Personal privacy protection

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• 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.

For example, under Article 11 (8), controllers must ensure that processors comply with the law and adopt appropriate precautions to protect personal data. The Controller and Processor Guidelines for Regulated Entities have now clarified that the controller can ensure a processor's compliance with this Article by entering into a formal contract. There is also now clarification over Article 16, which provides that in order to process sensitive personal data, permission must be sought from the CPD Department under the Special Nature Processing Guidelines. These also set out the requirements in order to obtain permission, including a data protection impact assessment to identify processing risks.

Complaints can be lodged at the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology. Business owners may choose to seek legal advice to ensure they fully comply with these laws. translations of the

Protection is given to personal data of a private nature, such as information relating to race, religious beliefs, children, health, relationships and criminal records – this may only be processed after obtaining permission from the Ministry.

• 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.

The law includes provisions related to the rights of individuals to protect the privacy of their personal data. Article 2 states that this refers only to personal data that is electronically processed, or obtained, gathered or extracted for use electronically, or when a combination of electronic and traditional processing is used. However, it does not apply to personal data processed by individuals privately or within a family context, or to any personal data gathered for official surveys and statistics, as per Law No 2 of 2011 on Official Statistics.

Organisations must also adhere to basic data protection responsibilities. This includes, but is not limited to, ensuring data handlers receive training and that precautions in place to 'protect personal data from loss, damage, modification, disclosure or being illegally accessed.'

Sources: Unofficial

Under the law, businesses are banned from sending direct marketing messages electronically without obtaining an individual’s prior consent, and that consent is required from individuals before their personal information can be used by another entity.

Recognising the need to develop an international regulatory and legal framework to protect the digital sovereignty and data privacy of individuals and businesses in Qatar, Personal Data Privacy Protection Law (PDPPL) No 13 of 2016 was issued.

Additionally, in order to protect the youngest members of society, Article 17 states that the owner or operator of any website related to children must put up a policy about how it manages the information of minors. Website owners/operators must also get the consent of the child’s parent when processing their information. It should be noted that entities that operate within the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) are subject to the QFC's own Data Protection Rules and Data Protection Regulations from 2005.

Equally, under Article 22 consent must be obtained from individuals before sending any direct marketing electronic communications, clarified under the Electronic Communications for Direct Marketing Guidelines: consent must be explicit and unambiguous, and an affirmative act – consent through pre-ticked boxes and opt-out notices only is not permitted.

The Ministry's Compliance and Data Protection (CDP) Department has released guidelines to help everyone, whether individuals, regulated entities or stakeholders, to understand their responsibilities, rights and practices under the law. The guidelines also provide clarity on these requirements, and where possible provide checklists and template documents to support controllers with compliance with the PDPPL. Additionally, the guidelines clarify some ambiguities in the PDPPL.

laws. m 2022JuneUpdated&Checked QatarDigital © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA LIVE IN THE MOMENT EXPLORE ISTANBUL DURING YOUR LAYOVER Free touristanbul service in Istanbul for international transfer passengers who have 6-24 hours of layover time at Istanbul Airport

Citizens of the GCC, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain, can get a one month visa on arrival.

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.

Visas Citizens from over 95 countries (see below) are eligible for visa-free entry into the State of Qatar.

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

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.

Things to consider

*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, and the Ministry of Public Health's Qatar Travel and Return Policy website, covid19.moph.gov.qa, 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 Day to Day Qatar in the Living in Qatar section or visit hukoomi.gov.qa and dohahamadairport.com

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 Traveller Information

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, visitqatar.qa 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 Metrash2 website at moi.gov.qa or the e-Government Hukoomi website at hukoomi.gov.qa for details.

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.

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

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

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

Travelling 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.

Qatar Airways is the state-owned flag carrier and the official airport partner for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. The airline operates a hub-and-spoke network, flying to 153 international destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania from its base at Hamad International Airport (HIA), using a fleet of more than 200 aircraft.

Useful Numbers

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA PRINTmarhaba.qaandONLINE Air India 4416 1651 Air India Express 4038 7373 Air France & KLM 4036 0582 Badr Airlines 4444 3321 Biman Bangladesh Airlines 4444 3054 Cathay Pacific (TOT) 4445 8318 Ethiopian Airlines 4416 1010 IndiGo 4036 7777 Iran Air 4432 3666 Kuwait Airways 4442 2392 Middle East Airlines MEA 4434 2978 Nepal Airlines 4431 7070 Oman Air 4414 2222 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.

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

Business entry visa: For one month and a maximum of three months – QAR200 plus QAR50 for each c*

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

Visit hukoomi.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 Qatar in this section and in the Motoring section.

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).

Family visit visa: One month to a maximum of six months – QAR200 plus QAR50 for each c* per month.

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

Entry Touristvisasentry

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

Around

Ali Bin Ali Travel (ABA) 4444 1161 Darwish United Travels (DUT) 4445 2276 Mannai Air Travel 4428 2666 Regency Travel & Tours (RTT) 4434 4444 Airlines (local agency in brackets) Travel Agencies Space Travel (ST) 4422 7333 Tawfeeq Travels 4448 4848 Trans Orient Travel (TOT) 4445 8458 *Due to the Qatar blockade being lifted, flights between Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt have now resumed. Book your flight with Air Arabia, EgyptAir, Etihad Airways, Flydubai and Saudi Arabian Airlines online or through a travel agency. Pakistan Int’l Airlines 4442 6292 Pegasus 4442 1807 Philippine Airlines (ST) 4422 7302 Qatar Airways 4023 0000 Qatar Airways Holidays 4423 7104 Royal Air Maroc (ABA) 4444 1161 Royal Jordanian 4442 3888 SalamAir 4442 0944 Singapore Airlines 4499 5740 SriLankan Airlines (ABA) 4444 1217 SyrianAir 4441 2912 Tarco Air 3124 2999 Turkish Airlines 4443 3028 InformationTraveller

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

STUDENTS CONNECT TO WORLD WITH 20% DISCOUNT Students can now purchase their tickets with 20% discount through Turkish Airlines website, sales offices or agencies; earn lots of rewards and fly all around the world. • 40 kg baggage allowance* • First change is free of charge** • Welcome Miles will be 2000 instead of 1000 for new memberships. • Extra 25% mile earnings. Sales Period: 20AUG22 - 05SEP22 Travel Period: 01NOV22 - 31MAR23 *2*23 kg where piece concept applies. **Any fare difference between the two booking dates if exists will still apply. © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

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FEATURE

The draft regulations include provisions related to the rights and obligations of the beneficiary of healthcare services, the obligations of the insurance company and healthcare service providers, and the supervision and control of healthcare services.

October 2021, Law No 22 of 2021 regulating healthcare services in the country was passed by the Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

The draft executive regulations of the law was approved by the Cabinet in May 2022, following two draft resolutions: Draft Decision of HE the Minister of Public Health (MoPH) to issue the Executive Regulations of Law No 22 of 2021 regulating health services in Qatar, and the Draft Decision of HE the Minister of Public Health specifying the rights and duties of patients to be considered when receiving healthcare services.

By Sarah Palmer

The MoPH commented in a statement 'making health insurance mandatory as part of the law means that all residents and visitors must have health insurance through the insurance companies registered by the ministry to provide them with basic health services.'

Regarding implementation of the law, the ministry will follow a phased approach, with the first phase focusing on visitors, with certain provisions and measures to be Underannounced.thelaw, basic healthcare services for visitors include emergency and accident treatment services, as per the regulations. Cover should be for the entire duration of the visitor's stay in the country, in order for them to receive medical services.

Health Insurance Now Mandatory for Visitors

Why the health insurance law was necessary

According to the Government Communications Office, the provisions of the law oblige that the employer provides health insurance for all non-Qatari workers through insurance companies registered with the MoPH, in order to provide them with basic insurance coverage. This is for all expatriates in the private and public sector, and to include domestic workers and labourers. The same obligation to provide basic coverage applies to recruiters bringing in new employees.

A list of insurance companies can be found in Day to Day Qatar and Healthcare in Qatar, both in the Living in Qatar section. m

The obligation of an employer or recruiter towards their employees or recruits begins from the date of their entry into the country or from the date of a worker’s sponsorship transfer under a new employer or Basicrecruiter.healthcare services include preventive, curative and rehabilitative services, as well as any other services stated in the executive regulations. Employers and recruiters are to pay the insurance premium to cover these basic services, but may also request extra services subject to additional costs.

The Department of Health Financing and Insurance at MoPH will be the supervisory body for the entire project, with several levels for filing complaints, whether from individual beneficiaries, insurance companies or health facilities. A list of registered insurance companies will be issued by the Health Insurance Registration Section, visit moph.gov.qa for more information.

Qatari citizens will continue to be provided with necessary health services at all health facilities within the country without the need for health insurance, as it is the responsibility of the state. In May 2022, four Primary Health Care Centres were allocated for Qatari citizens with effect from June: Leabaib, Muaither, Al Thumama, and South Al Wakra. New health centres under construction will also be allocated for Qataris: Al Khor, Al Mashaf, Al Sadd, and Umm Al Saneem.

Insurance companies must provide employers and recruiters with health insurance cards and hospital and clinic networks tailored to them. The contract must cover all employees or recruits, to be renewed Employersannually. and recruiters must notify the insurance company upon the termination of employees to remove them from the insurance policy. If an employee or recruit fails to transfer his or her sponsorship with an employer upon the termination of his or her contract, the insurance coverage may be extended until either the policy or the legally permitted period of residence expires, whichever comes Separatelyfirst.under the law, expatriates must also acquire health insurance for any family members residing in the country.

Over the years, expatriates and visitors have been able to access basic public healthcare for free by paying a nominal fee for a government health card and heavily subsidised medication. Employers have not been obliged to provide additional private health insurance. However, Qatar's growing population has placed a heavy burden on the national health Thesystem.new law states that a mandatory health insurance system will be implemented for all resident expatriates and visitors to the country, providing basic healthcare services via healthcare providers in government health facilities and the private sector, according to the provisions of the insurance Commentingpolicy.onthe new law, the MoPH stated that the health insurance system will lead to the development of the health sector and services provided to the public.

Who is covered under the law

The challenges facing the healthcare sector resulting from the steady population growth will be alleviated, via the participation of the public and private sectors in providing healthcare services to the population. This in turn will reduce waiting times in government health facilities and provide easier and quicker appointments for medical consultations, while simultaneously meeting the health needs of the population at the highest level of quality.

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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.

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

• QAR60 per passenger: Airport development fees for all departing passengers, including those transiting for up to 24 hours.

Airport Arrivals/Departures

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

• QAR60 per passenger: Passenger facilities fee for all departing passengers, including those transiting for up to 24 hours.

HIA has been ranked and named the 'Best Airport in the World' for the second year in a row by Skytrax World Airport Awards 2022. The airport has also retained its title as the 'Best Airport in the Middle East' for the eighth year in a row. HIA has been steadily rising up the ‘World's Best Airports’ rankings since the start of its operations in 2014. HIA has also been awarded 'Best Airport in the Middle East', 'Best Airport 25 to 35 mn Passengers', 'Best Airport Staff in the Middle East', and 'COVID-19 Airport Excellence'. 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 architectural masterpiece combines innovation and beauty, and consists of a shopping emporium, five-star hotel and world-class art installations.

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in and 12 self-bag-drop kiosks, which include biometric technology capability.

• QAR10 per passenger: Passenger safety and security fees for all departing passengers, including those transiting for up to 24 hours.

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 the service using their residence cards or passports after registration at the airport.

The STCP is free for the first 10 minutes, thereafter charges QAR6 per hour. A lost ticket will cost QAR35.

International

Meet and Assist Airport Service: 4465 6672

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.

code: DOH) is classified as a five-star airport by Skytrax. Since its opening in May 2014, HIA has welcomed over 200 mn passengers and 13 mn tonnes of cargo. Once its expansion is complete in January 2023, HIA will be able to serve over 65 mn passengers annually. HIA served a total of 7.14 mn passengers in Q1 2022. HIA saw a total of 48,680 aircraft movements in Q1 2022, which included aircraft take-offs and landings. This amounts to a 30% increase compared to the same period last year. HIA handled 585,448 tonnes of cargo in Q1 2022.

Taxes: As of 1 April 2022, passengers arriving, leaving, or transiting through HIA will now have to pay an extra service tax. The fees include the following four additions:

HIA recently installed 62 self-check-

HIAexempted.(airport

Babies under the age of two, transiting passengers on the same plane, flight crew on duty, and forced flight redirection due to ‘valid reasons’, are

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.

PRINTmarhaba.qaandONLINE 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

• QAR20 Card: unlimited trips across Qatar within a 24 hour period

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 available on iOS and Android.

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

HIA Metro Station: The Doha Metro’s Red Line station at HIA allows easy access to passengers to and from the airport with a Standard Travel Card, costing QAR10 and you can top-up at just QAR2 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 are able to put their luggage in specially allotted areas in the trains. Doha Metro is operational Saturday to Wednesday 6 am –11 pm, Thursday 6 am – 11:59 pm, 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.

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. The Karwa Taxi App is avaliable on iOS and Android.

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.

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

• QAR10 per metric ton: All incoming and in-transit cargo shipments, including postage. 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.

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. The Finding your check-in counter at HIA

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• 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 at the right side on exiting the passenger terminal.

Immigration: Prior to departure from their point of origin, Doha passengers must ensure they have a valid passport, and a Residence Permit (RP), 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 portal.moi.gov.qa and dohahamadairport.com for specific requirements.

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.

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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.

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.

Lounges

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 Check-insteps.

The Shafallah Center Lounge, a special handling lounge by HIA and Shafallah Center for Persons with Disability, is located at 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. Also available are the First Class Lounge, Business Class Lounge, First and Business Class Arrivals Lounges, Unaccompanied Minors Lounge, and Special Assistance Travellers’ Lounge.

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.

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. 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.

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.

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 Indevices.February

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

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 Dukhan 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.

Some expatriate residents of Qatar are required to obtain an exit permit from their sponsor when exiting the country. According to Law No 13 of 2018 (Amending Law), most migrant workers are covered by the Labour Law to leave the country without having to obtain an exit permit.

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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.

ExitDeparturesPermit:

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import of firearms, alcohol, e-cigarettes and pork in any form is strictly forbidden. Refer to the IATA website for specific customs regulations, iata.org

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.

Passengers at HIA can shop at boutiques and stores such as Bally, Bvlgari, Burberry, Coach, Chopard, Esquire, Giorgio Armani, Harrods, Hermès, Hugo Boss, Michael Kors, Mont Blanc, Rolex, Swarovski, Tag Heuer, Tiffany & Co, and WHSmith. 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 passengers, or at any of the airport's other restaurants such as Eat Street, which includes Camden Food, Negroni, Azka, Soho Coffee, Red Mango and Burger King.

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. 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.

Medical and fire emergencies

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The Airport Hotel

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

Try Qatar’s first and only completely plant-based café, Evergreen Organics. Grab a hot drink or a quick bite from the Coffeeshop Company, Jamocha Café, Argo Tea Caffé, Farggi, L'eto Café, Harrods Tea Room and more.

Traveling with animals

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.

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).

FreeConnectivitywireless 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.

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 Day to Day Qatar in the Living in Qatar section.

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 a passenger train offer simple access to passengers with reduced mobility. Check-in counters include adapted service desks designed to ease checking-

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

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Lamp Bear by Urs Fischer

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.

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Art at HIA

Falcon by Tom ClaassenOryx by Tom Claassen

Desert Horse by Ali Hassan

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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. A new piece by Claassen was unveiled in June 2021, called Falcon. The golden bird sits on a ledge at the airport and depicts the national bird of Qatar, with the artist taking inspiration from the soft falcon feathers. The more vivid lines mimic the airline's routes from Qatar to the rest of the world, as well as the curves found in Arabic calligraphy and the folds in the fabric of traditional attire.

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.

Arctic Nurseries of El Dorado by Marc Quinn

Other Worlds by Tom Otterness 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.

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COSMOS joined the artwork Small Lie which was unveiled along with Qatar Museums (QM) in 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.

COSMOS by Jean-Michel Othoniel Small Lie by KAWS

by contemporary French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel 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.

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The Flying Man by Dia Al Azzawi

The Flying Man, two iconic scultptures designed by the renowned Iraqi artist Dia Al Azzawi, have been installed in HIA's passenger terminal. 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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Untitled 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. You can find the piece in the Arrivals Meet and Greet Hall, towards the bus terminal in the West.

Italian artist Rudolf Stingel’s work

Untitled by Rudolf Stingel

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Designed by Iraqi artist Ahmed Al Bahrani, A Message of Peace to the World is located at the Passenger Train's South Node station. Al Bahrani, who has lived in Doha since 1999, wanted to honour the work of Reach Out to Asia (ROTA), a Qatari non-profit organisation that supports primary and secondary education in underprivileged countries throughout Asia. Al Bahrani created a sculpture in the shape of a cube symbolising ROTA’s logo, with its surfaces representing the iconographic elements that stand for ROTA’s mission, with the sun, symbolising hope and happiness, radiating from the top of the cube. In this artwork named Mappemondes, Algerian artist Adel Abdessemed creates a world map using old tin cans collected from market places and streets in Dakar. Through this piece, Abdessemedd tries to highlight the consequences of the ‘throwaway culture’ of the modern world. Abdessemed creates artworks which juxtapose situations or actions carried out on everyday objects. It is located in Concourse A, near gate A7. A Message of Peace to the World by Ahmed Al Bahrani Mappemondes by Adel Abdessemed

Lusail 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 Sightseeing in this 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.

Ras Laffan Industrial City covers 294 sq km and lies on the east coast 80 km north of Doha. A part of QE'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.

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.

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 Sightseeing in this section for more information. Al Khor Community is home to a large expatriate population working in Ras Laffan Industrial City.

CentresUrbanMain

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 QatarEnergy (QE), formerly Qatar Petroleum (QP). The town centre has a striking QE building and, 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.

QatarEnergy's Industrial Cities

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 Hydrocarbon Industry in the Business and Economy section.

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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.

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.

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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 Pearl Island. Doha is the administrative, commercial and cultural centre of Qatar, providing modern amenities while at the same time preserving its past.

PocketMarhabaMap 2022 The new, updated Marhaba Pocket Map of greater Doha covers the whole area from Lusail in the north, Al Wakra in the south and Al Wajba in the east. It displays the whole network and stations of the Doha Metro and the eight stadiums of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.TM The map can be customised and is also available in an extra-large format – every ofﬁce needs one! For more details, call 4465 0083 SocialPrint/OnlineMedia/e-Guides Follow us marhaba.qa © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

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cards

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.

VIP Limousines: Available at HIA and all major five-starQatar’shotels.public transport includes taxis, buses, limousines, Doha Metro and now the Lusail TheTram.most visible taxis and public buses in Qatar are operated by Mowasalat Co (Karwa), which are comfortable, clean, air-conditioned and safe. Sila: A new app by the Ministry of Transport of Qatar’s integrated public transport system that makes planning a journey and payments a lot easier and smarter. sila.qa

Karwa Taxis and Metro Express Mowasalat Co (Karwa Taxi) is the exclusive taxi operator in Qatar. On arrival at Hamad International Airport (HIA), just follow the signs for the taxi rank and stressfree transportation. Taxis can always be found at prominent locations: malls, hotels, etc. Travellers with special needs can book a minivan via the Karwa Taxi app, suitable for two or three wheelchairs and accompanying passengers. The same tariff applies. For bookings, download the Karwa Taxi App call 4458 8888, or hail from the side of the road.

Tariff Day: Meter starts at QAR7 (includes the first 1.8 km), then QAR1.6 per km. Minimum fare is QAR7. Tariff Night: Meter starts at QAR7 (includes the first 1.8 km), then QAR1.9 per km. Minimum fare is QAR7. Tariff at HIA: Meter starts at QAR25 (includes the first 1.8 km), then Day or Night Tariff will be applied.

The Doha Metro has opened a new dimension in Doha’s public transport. The Doha Metro Red Line was the first line to open in 2019, extending from Lusail City to Al Wakra with a branch to the airport. The Green Line runs from Al Mansoura district to Al Riffa – Mall of Qatar in the west. The Gold Line runs from Ras Bu Abboud to Al Aziziya. Travel and credit can be purchased at self-service Travel Card Vending Machines (TVMs) in all Doha Metro stations. 105, qr.com.qa 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. goldclub Travel Card: A reusable plastic card (valid for five years) costing QAR100 available from the goldclub offices at Doha Metro stations. This card permits travel in the goldclub sections. Add Travel Credit by ‘Topping Up’ at a TVM at any Doha Metro and Lusail Tram stations.

Waiting charge: QAR8 for every 15 minutes.

© MARHABA AUTUMN 2022 QatarAroundGetting PRINTmarhaba.qaandONLINEGetting Around Qatar Karwa Public Bus and Metro Link Mowasalat (Karwa) services an extensive public bus network with a modern fleet. In addition to regular public bus routes, the Metro Link buses transport guests from dedicated Metro Link bus stops to the nearest Metro Station. For information about public and Metro Link bus routes, trip planning and electronic ticket purchase, download the Karwa Bus App, or call 4458 8888 Other Taxi/Limousine Services Al Futtaim Vehicle (AVR) Rentals 800 0225 Fox Transport 4462 2777 Golden Cab 3058 4748 gulfcar 800 0881 Oasis Rent A Car 4413 0011 Regency Fleets 4032 5301 Uber and Careem Download the apps Doha Metro

Additionally, you can now access the Metro Express service through the Karwa Taxi App. In certain areas, you can request for a shared ride to the closest Metro or Tram Station. It is a service that is provided free of charge, when combined with a Metro or Tram Ride.

Doha Limousine (by Karwa) Doha Limousine 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 4458 8888. Doha Limousine 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 a quality assurance team.

• Alfardan Towers, Al Dafna • Ezdan Mall Al Wakra • Fire Station: Artist in Residence

• Hamad Port • Kahramaa Awareness Park (KAP)

Metro Link: A feeder bus network providing first and last mile connectivity to Qatar Rail customers within a 2 to 5 km radius of the Doha Metro stations. qr.com.qa/metrolink Metro Express: A complementary pilot ride-sharing feeder service that connects specific service zones around Metro stations. Metro Express serves a total of six Metro stations on the red line, from West Bay QIC to Qatar University serving adjoining areas and important landmarks. The service uses a fleet of branded Mercedes Vito vans, seating seven passengers per vehicle. Metro Express service is exclusive for registered Metro passengers and can only be used in conjunction with a metro journey. Customers can book a ride through the Metro Express Doha app. qr.com.qa/metroexpress Lusail Tram

Purchase a Standard or Gold Travel Card and top up per journey. With a Standard Travel Card, it will cost QAR2 per journey. With a goldclub Travel Card, it will cost QAR10 per 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 farepaying adult. A child must be nine years old or above to travel alone. Younger children should be accompanied by someone at least 16 years of age.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA QatarAroundGetting

Electric Charging Stations

There are two free feeder bus services, Metro Link and Metro Express, which connect customers to the Doha Metro stations. The bus’s operating hours align with the metro’s.

Operating hours: The tram’s operating hours align with the metro’s. Saturday to Wednesday 6 am –11 pm, Thursday 6 am – 11:59 pm, Friday 2 pm –11:59 pm. Msheireb Tram With nine stations, the self-powered environmentally friendly tramway Msheireb Tram interconnects all of Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD), making it easier for visitors to move from one spot to the other. Visitors, residents, and tenants can find a tram car on the loop every six minutes with a 400-m hop-on/hop-off zone along the single 2 km, closed-loop track system. msheireb.com

Fare: The existing Travel Card is valid on both the Lusail Tram and the Doha Metro with no additional costs. However, customers must always remember to Tap In & Tap Out using the validator on board the tram to avoid extra charges.

• Kahramaa Headquarters • Katara Cultural Village

Of the 25 stations across four lines that comprise the Tram network, seven Orange Line stations will be available for travel initially. The available stations are Legtaifiya, Marina, Marina Promenade, Yacht Club, Esplanade, Lusail Centrall (Place Vendôme) and Energy City South. Legtaifiya station connects Lusail Tram to the Doha Metro. qr.com.qa/metro-tram

Qatar currently has more than 20 charging stations for electric vehicles, established by Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa), through the National Programme for Conservation & Energy Efficiency (Tarsheed). Qatar encourages the deployment of electric cars and plans to make 7–10% of the total number of cars to be green cars by 2022.

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

• Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl Doha

• The St. Regis, Doha Tarsheed Photovoltaic Station for Energy Storage and Charging Electric Vehicles: Charges vehicles with electricity produced from solar energy via 216 photovoltaic panels divided into two areas with a total area of 270 m, which is equal to the row for 24 cars’ spaces at Kahramaa Complex at Mesaimeer. In addition, as part of the nation’s push towards clean energy, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has begun installing 653 electric chargers and 713 inverters in 41 under-construction sites under the Public Bus Infrastructure Programme. Ashghal will construct the largest electric charging station in the region, which will be operated by solar energy and will feature high-efficiency solar cell shades, becoming the first bus station in the region working purely on solar energy.

Fare: Free Operating hours: Saturday to Thursday 9 am –noon/4 pm – 9 pm, Friday 4 pm – 9 pm.

• Ministry of Transport • Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) • Qatar Foundation Headquarters

Electric charging stations:

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• Qatar National Library (QNL) • Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) • Qatar Scientific Club

The Lusail Tram is now operational and is becoming the main transportation hub for Lusail City, the largest single sustainable development to be undertaken in Qatar. The network includes four lines and 25 stations aboveground and underground. Lusail Tram connects to the Doha Metro through two interchange stations at Lusail and Legtaifiya.

Road users coming from Al Wakra and Al Wukair can directly access Nuaija and Fereej Al Ali up to central Doha through Rawdat Al Khail Street.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has fully opened the Mesaimeer Interchange to full traffic and the final route connecting Al Wakra to Doha, as drivers coming from Mesaieed Road can reach Nuaija, Fereej Al Ali, Rawdat Al Khail Street and D Ring Road, shortening travel time by 70%.

The Mesaimeer Interchange is a vital link that provides free traffic flow towards five main roads that serve high-density residential areas, the Industrial Area and other vital facilities such as Al Thumama Stadium.

*This new section of Doha Expressway bypasses Al Wakra and connects with Mesaieed Road D Ring Road C Ring Road Airport Street

AlMaadeedSt 07.2022 marhaba.qa THIS MOST INTRICATE OF INTERCHANGES CONNECTS DOHA EXPRESS HIGHWAY WITH SOUTH AND EAST DOHA Traffic Highlight

Al JanoubMesaieedStadium

Mesaimeer Interchange Fully Open

RawdatAlKhailStreet

Doha South area has seen the development and construction of a network consisting of main roads such as G Ring Road, Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor, Industrial Area Road, E Ring Road, D Ring Road and Rawdat Al Khail Street, which contributes significantly not only towards improving traffic, but also enhancement of commercial activity in the area.

Avenue Sabah

The opening marks the latest achievements of the key junction after being converted from the highly congested roundabout to the first three-level interchange with nine tunnels linking five main roads: Doha Expressway, E Ring Road, Rawdat Al Khail Street, Industrial and Mesaieed Road, and providing ease of access to Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor and G Ring Road.

The interchange works are 6.1 km in length and have the capacity of 20,000 vehicles per hour in all directions. The new interchange will improve traffic considerably and will shorten travel time by more than 70%.

IndustrialAreaRoadDohaExpressHighway

Al Shamal, Al Ruwais Ras Laffan Al Khor Al Shamal Road Industrial Area Barwa Commercial Al Ahmad Corridor

Al StadiumThumama2022TM E Ring Road

DohaExpressHighway*

The Mesaimeer Interchange is the first interchange in Qatar that connects five main roads. The importance of the interchange is increased as it links between the south of the country, central Doha and the north.

Al NajmaThumamaStreet

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Academic Bridge Program (ABP) 2. Al Shaqab 3. Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) 4. Ceremonial Court 5. Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) 6. Education City Golf Club 7. Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) 8. Education City Mosque 9. Multaqa (Student Center) 10. Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q) 11. Oxygen Park 12. Qatar Academy Doha (Primary School) 13. Qatar Foundation Headquarters 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. 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African Rep B3 Chile C4 China B3 Costa Rica C3 Croatia B3 Cuba B3 Cyprus C4 Djibouti B4 Dom. Rep. B3 Ecuador B4 El Salvador B4 Eritrea E4 eSwatini B4 Ethiopia B4 France C4 Gambia E4 Georgia C4 Germany C3 Ghana B3 Greece B4 Hungary B3 India C4 Indonesia D3 Iran C4 Iraq C4 Italy C4 Ivory Coast B4 Japan B4 Jordan C4 Kazakhstan B3 Kenya B3 Korea (S) B4 Kosovo C4 Kuwait C4 Kyrgyz Rep C3 Lebanon B4 Liberia C4 Libya B3 Malaysia C4 Mali B4 Mauritania C4 Mexico C4 Moldova B4 Morocco C4 Nepal E3 Netherlands C4 Niger C3 Nigeria C4 North Macedonia C4 Oman B4 Pakistan C4 Palestine C4 Panama B4 Paraguay B4 Peru C3 Philippines B3 Poland B4 Portugal C4 Romania C4 Russia B4 Senegal C3 Serbia B3 Singapore B4 Somalia C4 South Africa B3 Spain B4 Sri Lanka E4 Sudan B4 Sweden C4 Switzerland B3 Syria C4 Tajikistan C3 Tanzania C4 Thailand C4 Tunisia C4 Turkey B4 Uganda B3 Ukraine B3 United Kingdom C4 United States of America C3 Uruguay C3 Venezuela B4 Vietnam B3 EMBASSY LOCATIONS WaterparkMeryal Qetaifan Island Al WonderlandWinterIslandMahaDoha DohaParkSports TowerIcon YachtClubPromenadeMarina Qetaifan Island North The Pearl Island Raffles and Fairmont Hotels are housed in the iconic Katara Towers North Beach See our detailed map of the area south of Doha MAP of AL WAKRA

TOWERS in Al Dafna District 1 Al Samriya Towers 2 Asas Twin Towers 3 Beach Tower 4 Ministry of Justice 5 Amwal 6 MoFA 7 Bilal 8 QFC 9 Ascott 10 Somerset 11 Kempinski 12 44 West Bay 13 Al Rayyan 14 Al Refaa 15 Al Seal 16 Al Sailiya Tower 17 Misnad 18 Regency 19 Beverly Hills 20 Ministry of Culture & Sports 21 Al Reem 22 Al Faisal 23 Aamal 24 Qatargas 25 Ministry of Education 26 Al Deeble 27 Olympic Comm. 28 Al Qassar Tower 29 Burj Al Taawon 30 Golden Bay 31 QP/QE District 32 Dareen 33 Al Rabban 34 Al Zubara 35 Sahara 37 Al Fardan Towers 38 WOQOD 39 Kahramaa 40 Ashghal 41 Min of Environment & Climate Change 42 Ministry of Energy & Industry 43 Min of Municipality 44 Hyatt Residences 45 Dolphin 46 Al Baker Towers 47 Arwa 48 Tornado Tower 49 WTC 50 Al Mirqab Tower 51 Salam Tower 52 Doha Tower 53 Al Bidda Tower 54 Palm Towers 55 GOIC 56 QIB 57 Ministry of Interior 58 QIC 59 QP/QatarEnergy 60 Comm. Bank 61 Law Courts 62 Barzan Tower In October 2021 many ministries were reorganised; map will be updated when locations are determined. Qatar Petroleum is now QatarEnergyOnaizaPark QatarCool NavigationQatar AlTowerFardanTornadoTowerTowerPalm B Qatar Post DohaandCornicheBay Imam Muhammad Ibn AbdulMosqueWahab Khalifa Int’l Tennis & ComplexSquash Fire Station QatarClub HotelOoredooPark Park5/6 &ParkRide Al Bidda Park Al Dafna Legtaifiya Lagoon Hamad bin Khalifa Medical City Ezdan OlympicTower QP/QatarEnergyDistrict VillageCulturalKatara Al Jazi NationalMinistryofInteriorCyberSecurityAgency QCB MM MuseumNationalWaqifSouq Al Sadd Al Bidda Corniche DECC Al Qassar Katara HospitalHamad PalaceWhite West Bay MsheirebInterchange OmarAlMukhtarStreet OmarAlMukhtarStreetStreetJasimBinAzizAbdul LusailStreet Al Sadd St Qatari Bin Al Fujaah St MushairebStBinMahmoudSt Al Rayyan Road Al Rayyan Road AlDiwanStreet AlCornicheStreet AlJazeera St AlKhaleejStreet SuhaimBi Ras Bu Abboud StreetAlMeenaStGrandHamadSt OnaizaStreet AlBiddaStreet AlBiddaStreet AlFunduq St AlCornicheStKhalifaOnaizaStreetStreet Dafna St AlMarkhiyaStreet Legtaifiya LagoonStreet ingRoad AlRumaila St MohamadBinThaniStreetAl Khafji Street AlAsmakhSt DiwanAmiri Bin Zaid Centre OrientalPearlBoxPark NationalQatarTheaterBuilding2023Expo MuseumNationalofQatar Doha PortCruiseShipTerminal Interchange5/6 BMW Al PlanetariumThuraya Boho Social Katara Beach ElBaytTalleh Banyan Tree Doha at La MushairebCigale OasisDoha Al KootNajadaFort Corp Hyatt AlephCentara The Curve Retaj Al Rayyan K Crowne Plaza WaldorfAstoria Dusit Ramada Mercure K108 GrandRegalDohaStadium CenturyJouriRoyalWesternBestRiviera Horizon Manor GoldenTulipFraserSuitesAlRiwaq HarbourFishing Museum of Islamic Art TerminalBananaIsland MuseumsMsheireb MandarinOriental DowntownMsheirebDoha ShioukhMosque WaqifSouq WaqifSouqPark MIA Park Abu Bakr Al DohaPremierMosqueSiddiqInnAiport &villageSharqSpaSapphirePlazaCentroCapital La ofMinistryCigalePublicHealth NCCCRAlHospitalRumailahMillenniumAmbulanceHospitalHeartPlaza Royal byMirageFourPointsSheraton Alwadi Park Hyatt DoubleMovenpickTouristGokulamTreebyHiltonSwissbel voco Bentley PullmanWyndhamWBMagnumHotel JWRotanaMarriottLe Meridien Hilton Movenpick SeasonsFour InterConCity MarriottMarquis SheratonGrand St. Regis DohaAlResortQassar TheKataraChediResidencesInterContinentalKataraMarzaDohaInterContinentalDohaBeach&Spa WestBay Qatar TreehouseInt’lLebaneseLyceeBonaparte Newton SEK duFrancaisInstitutQatarNewton KindergartenNewtonInt’l Chouiefat Legtaifiya Park Al Mourjan AlClubDana French Olive ShanghaiIndigrillChilisGarden Blue Salon CityDohaCenter The Gate Monoprix Al Meera 21 High Street marhaba.qa07.2022 CountdownWorldFIFACup2022Clock FIFA World Cup QatarVolunteer2022TMCenter North Beach DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA

251514 13 12 24 23 3822 39 27161719 18 654 3 2 7 1 42 26 12 DOHA CENTRAL AREA marhaba.qa07.2022 Al Meera Sharq Village & Spa Sharg I/C Premier Inn Doha Airport Hotel Abu Bakr Al Siddiq SecurityCapitalMillenniumConcordeCentralDept Safeer AlmanaFord Al Meera Holiday Inn GulfArrayahTimes Chairman WOQOD WOQOD AlRentSulaimanACarAljaborVision FinancialSquare Pappa Ric’sNando’sRotiKountryKitchen BureauCreditQatar Holiday Villa Al QurtoubahSuitesMansour RawdatAlKhailPark Aalishan AmericanHospitalTurkishHospital CAA Zubarah Ibis CCQ-Girls Sterling ArtCreativeYouthCenterLanguageInstituteNissan Inﬁniti Indonesia Sushi Minto Shiraz Garden Diet Shop PlazaCrowneDoha The Business Park Toyota Al Jazeera Apts GrandRegalDiamond 1Retaj Al Ghanem La Rose De Sable Saﬁr RestaurantLebaneseAssaha SuitesLiwan HyattOryxRegencyDoha Mesaieed, Al Wakra Al Wakra Road, F and G Ring Roads Hamad International Airport Doha Marriott Hotel, Sharq Village & Spa Tunnel National Museum of OrientalQatarPearl Century MwaniDiamond 2 Al BustanPHCC MovenpickRed CrescentBest WesternBone & KingsgateCenterJoint AlFortKoot Maharaja QatarInt’lRoyalQatarWOQOD WOQOD WOQOD Mercure HyattPark Al MotorsWajba SquareJaidahChevrolet Jaidah Flyover TheSnackThaiCentre Fauchon ApartmentsRestaurantHotelQatarAirwaysStations on the Red, Green and Gold Lines of Doha Metro networkMosqueHospitalHealthCentrePetrolStation BookstoreJarirLa CigaleRangeRoverToys ‘R Us ShebestanCentreAlmuftah CentralTurkeyClinicDoha CentreFamilyFoodMirqabMall Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Radisson Blu RetajCentreHomeInnFour Points by Sheraton Diwan Amiri ParadiseGulf OasisDoha Banyan Tree Rumailah Heart AmbulanceRetajNCCCRRes.AlSadd CapitalCentroDoha HospitalGeneralHamadPalaceWhiteCarPark CentreLuLu RoyalPlaza Al SaddMall MarketDoha Exec.LeCourtLawBlueSalonMirageApts DowntownMsheirebDoha Shioukh Mosque UndergroundWalkways Souq UndergroundParkWaqif&CarPark SOUQ WAQIF Al DohaOriental,MandarinAlwadiBoutiqueNajada InterchangeMsheireb Al Doha Al JadedaWaqifSouqMuseumNational Umm Ghuwailina Al InterchangeBidda Al BoutiqueMirqab Bin Zaid QCB WaterPots QNB Swiss Belhotel HorizonManor FraserSuitesAl Riwaq ParkMIAAlBidda Park Park Park Museum of Islamic Art Retaj Residence AlMahmoudBinSaddPalaceWhite Al Mansoura French Olive Chilis Indigrill Shanghai Garden TGIFMcDonald’sBurgerApplebee’sKing Five VapianoBruncheryGuys AliBinAbiTalibStSalwaRoad SalwaRoad AlSaddSt AlKinanaSt tSneettiHAlRawabiStAlArabSt Ibn Dirham St Ibn KhaldounSt AlJazeeraStBinMahmoudSt IbnSeenaSt JAladeedSt AlMirqab SuhaimBinHamadSt OnaizaSt Al Khaleej St RoadRayyanAl AlDiwanStAlFirdowsStAlAlCornicheStBiddaSt WadiMusheirebSt BRingRoad BRingRoad Najma StAirportStreetRawdatAl Khail St CRingRoad BRingRd AlAsmakh St Grand Hamad Street Jabr Bin Mohd St Al Meena St RasBuAbboudSt C Ring Road CRingRoad DRingRd ClAornicheSt AlMansouraSt ARingRoad Al Matar Al Qadeem QatariBinAlFujaahSt © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

AlTarfaStreetAl Rufaa Street AlYKhorYard 2 6 1 77 14 42 4 141 NORTHEAST marhaba.qaCOAST07.2022UMM SLAL MOHAMMED INTERCHANGELEHWAILA Ras Laffan Support Services Area Ras IndustrialLaffanCityAlThakhira Al DohaKhorSemaisma Ras Laffan Emergency And Safety College WOQOD Lekhdaira Main Gate Erhama Bin Jaber Al ShipyardJalahma AL INTERCHANGEZUBARA Simsima Umm RoundaboutBirka Al FAHESIndustrialKhorArea Al BaladnaFamilyKhorParkandZooPark Al PurpleCommunityKhorIslandStaffMallHospitalJointCollege LeadershipQatarAcademy Al Khor Airﬁeld AL INTERCHANGEKHOR Watch RedMetroSuperMulti-LaneMosqueTowerHighwayStationLineRouteNo.MangrovesHotel Mangroves Petrol Station Al MunicipalityDaayenLusailInternationalCircuitLusailShootingAssoc.LusailSportsArenaOlympicAlUmmAmadUmmSlalAliBarzanPark Al Kheesa LusailCity DohaGolfClub PearlTheIsland INTERCHANGEDUHAIL WOQODFAHES HamamaWOQODRawdatWOQOD Bu FesseelaALKHEESA I/C AL MAZROOAH I/C AL SAKHAMA I/CALINTERCHANGEKHARAITIYATEXIT08 INTERCHANGEIZGHAWAEXIT06 EXIT35 EXITEXIT5964 EXIT 10 EXIT 16 EXIT 20 UMM AL AMAD I/CEXIT 24 UMM GARN I/C EXIT 29 AL RASHEEDASHEFALLAHIYAEXIT32I/CEXIT40 ALEXITGHESEN48UMMALSHUKHOOTEXIT44 ETHNAITAINUMMEXIT54 UmmFarmGarnOlympicPark ASimaismaMurwab Resort 8 km 5 miles 0 0 Barzan Youth Center Umm Slal Sports Club Umm Slal Police Station Boys School Al Farkiya Beach North View Int’l School Al NavalDayeenBasePark Y Al MazrooahYard Al Majd Road 14 DohaSchoolBritish QatarAlAcademyKhor (familiesNorthSemaismaBeachand ladies) AlHuwailaRoad RouteOdThakhiraRoad77 RasLaffanAve AlKhorRoad StZekreet ysrevinUitStreet AlShamal(North)Road Al Khafji Street IKEA StreetLusail Landmark MallEzdanGulfLuLuMallMall NorthMallGateDohaFestivalCity AlMajdRoad Al Shamal Al Ruwais Al Zubara Al AlDukhanSalwaMesaieedClubAlMallDukhanWajbaRoadOfQatarRayyanSportsRoadRoadWajba Al Bayt Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM Lusail Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

AlKhorRoad(212) PurpleIsland Hospital MatbakhRas Y AlYardKhor 77 141 Route77 Umm RoundaboutBirka 4 6 1 77 Route77 AL SEMAISMA,KHOR,ALTHAKHIRA marhaba.qa07.2022 Al Khor Semaisma FAHES Al andFamilyKhorParkMiniZoo BaladnaPark OlympicPark Simaisma A Murwab Resort Park Qatar Academy Al Khor (familiesNorthSemaismaBeachand ladies) Al NavalDayeenBase Al MunicipalityDaayen North View Int’l School AL INTERCHANGEKHOREXIT35 Ras Al INTERCHANGENoofEXIT51 UmmFarmGarn Al Khor Airﬁeld Mall Al KhorJointTowersStaffCollege Civil Defence Al EquestrianUqdaComplex Police QAC/MitsubishiAnsarDowntownGallerySafari FootbridgeToyotaAlmanaNissan Al Farkiya Beach Al CornicheKhorBeach Al IndustrialKhorArea Al CommunityKhor Al Thakhira Mangroves MangrovesMangroves Mangroves OldThakhiraRoad AlShamalRd AlMajdOrbitalRoad AlKhorRoad AlThakiraRoad Al Bayt Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM Ras IndustrialLaffanCity Lusail, Katara, Al Dafna, Doha Al Shamal Al Zubara © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

AlWukairRoad HamadPortRoadMajor highways IWPP 3 SalwaRoad GRingRoadEastIndustrialStWestIndustrialStSalwaRoad DohaExpresswayAlWaabSt AlSailiyaRoad ERingRd D Ring Rd C Ring Rd Rawdat Rashed (Al DukhanAlLusail,Salwa,BuMekainesSheehaniya)SamraKSAAlKhorShamalRdRd MesaimeerRd IndustrialArea 2 5 2 1 MesaieedRoad AlMajdRoad RoadMajdAl 7 SabahAl AhmadCo QFZ (QatarZone)Free AlKhorMesaieedAdaidDoha IndustrialAreaAlMasakenSailiya CentralMarket AspireZone Al StadiumThumama IndustrialNewLogisticsAreaVillageQatar AlBarwaBarwaCityBaraha AlStadiumJanoub Stadium974 Milaha HamadPort NavalBase Marsa Port SealineBeachResort WOQODWOQOD WOQOD 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) DunesSand DunesSand Karwa Al Wukair Al Sailiya DohaMesaieed Khor Al Adaid The Inland Sea MallQRC CommercialBarwaAve ReligiousComplex AlHospitalWakra AlhoulUmm Y Al YardWakra CT2CT1 SOUTHEAST COASTHamadHamadPortAl MetroWakraStation Doha Metro Red Line marhaba.qa07.2022 Intrepid explorers tackle the daunting dunes in the south of the country DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA

marhaba.qa07.2022 AL WAKRA Majlis Al Taawon StY RAS ABU FUNTAS Jama’a Suhaib Al Rumi Coffee TimeMitsubishiService ALSOUQWAKRA BeachPublic Beach MoundSand MarketFish AlModernEnglishSchoolWakra Doha British Vision Int’l Park Al AcademyQatarWakraCelebrationHallSeef NissanAlmanaPetrolMotorsServiceFusoSouthVehicleSecurityRegCivilDefence AbdulMutlabHamzaJama’aBin Al Wakra AlHospitalWakra HotelHealthPrimaryHospitalStationPetrolCentre SchoolCoffeeRestaurantCastleMosqueShop DeptLabour ServiceToyota/LexusCentre Time Rako Souq Al HotelWakra Al FamilyWakraBeach Tea TimeOoredooTelecomsTowerEzdan2 Ezdan Ezdan Mall AlSportsWakraClub Al Meera Al Meera RasBuFuntasStNSaoudAbdulrahmanStAlWakraNewRoadajmaStreetAlWakraNewRoad AlWakraRoad AlWakraRoad AlWakraMainSt AlRaziStAlBairouniStStreet744 yJlAamiahSt Majlis Al TaawonSt AlJamiyahSt Al Wukair Road AlWukairRoad AlWukairRoad AbdulRahmanBinJasimSt AlSalamSt lSt Wadi Al Afja St Wadi Al Afja St Al Shati St Ras Al Jabal St daoRdeeiaseM Al Aurouba St Al Muthaf St 7 7 AcademyAmericanGems Al Wakra Yard Farmers Market DhowFishingHarbour Al Shamal Rd HamadDoha Int’l Airport G Ring Road Salwa IndustrialRd Area AlAlAlSalwaWukairRoadMajdRoadWukair Khor Al Adaid Sealine Beach Resort HamadMesaieedPort HighwayMesaieedDohaExpressMesaieedRoad WOQOD Al Janoub Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM Al MetroWakraStation Park & Ride Al BusWakraDepot Souq Al Wakra Hotel offers the height of old-world charm, plus modern luxury, in the heart of Al Wakra. © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

Street MesaieedIndustrialRoad PortRoad C1 4 3 C2C3 B B C4 C5 2 QatarEnergy Central Office Dunes CommunityMall 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 7 Mesaieed Port IndustriesHeavyArea Light QatalumIndustriesAreaVillageHeadquarters Community Street Petrol QatarBanksCommunityMosqueStationParkNationalBank Doha CommercialBank Bank Security Gate 1 Security Gate 2 Gabbro Security Gate Port Security Gate4321C2C1 III C5C4C3 Gas Operations QAFACQATALUMSILOS Refinery Mesaieed Health Center MIC Management Office Commercial deeaseMiCityStreet 1 2 Gas OperationsMesaieedCityStSealineRoad LightStIndustrial701 HamadPort Sealine Beach Resort Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea) Al Majd Road to Ras Laffan, Al Khor & Lusail City connecting with Industrial Area, Salwa Road, Dukhan Road & Al WajbaDohaHamad Int’l Airport Al Wakra eMsaieedIndustrialRoad INDUSTRIALMESAIEEDCITY 07.2022 marhaba.qa DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA

The

latest Marhaba Wall Map of Doha Our constantly updated Map of Doha is also available in large formats, up to 120 cm x 120 cm and it can be customised with your company or corporate logo. The map covers the whole area of greater Doha from Lusail in the north, to Al Wakra in the south and across to Al Wajba in the east. It displays all three lines of Doha Metro and all Metro stations, plus the currently operational ﬁrst seven stations on the new Lusail Tram Orange line. Also included are the eight stadiums of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. It could be the highlight of your ofﬁce. Call 4465 0083 to order one now… For more details, call 4465 0083 Follow us marhaba.qa SocialPrint/OnlineMedia/e-Guides © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

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5 In Al Wakra, visit Souq Al Wakra F5, a 'heritage village' with markets, shops and restaurants along the seafront. Also nearby is Al Wakra Family Beach and Ezdan Mall – Al Wakra

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. Near MIA is the new multicoloured Box Park C4, a food, retail and recreation park at the soon-to-be Cruise Ship Terminal.

6 Spend a few hours at Katara Cultural Village B4 and admire the architecture. Nearby is The Pearl Island B4, an artificial island, featuring luxury shopping and dining, Mediterranean-style yachtlined marinas, upmarket residential towers, villas and internationally renowned hotels. Also nearby is Lusail City A3/A4, Qatar's first smart and sustainable city with several tourist and local attractions.

Sightseeing

To move around the city easier and faster, use the 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.

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. Nearby, take a walk around the lush green Al Bidda Park C4!

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

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

4 Visit the old and traditional Souq Waqif D4 for garments, spices, handicrafts, souvenirs, restaurants and shisha lounges. The nearby Gold Souq D4 is your jewellery stop. Also close by is Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) D4, the world's first sustainable downtown regeneration project.

Doha Metro: TAP IN, TAP OUT

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 Tourism 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.

9 Explore the dunes at Sealine in Mesaieed or the waters off Qatar's coast. Go scuba diving, snorkelling, paddle boarding, or kayaking through the mangroves. See the Events and Activities section.

3 Across the Corniche is the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) D4, which explores Qatar's rich heritage and culture, and features the NMoQ Park with plants, public artworks, playgrounds, cafés and more.

National Cruise: SEE DOHA FROM THE SEA Step aboard one of the most luxurious traditional dhows in Qatar, approved by Qatar Tourism. 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.

Doha Bus: HOP-ON HOP-OFF

Top 10 Things To Do in Qatar

7 Shop at Qatar's largest malls such as Doha Festival City B2 or Mall of Qatar C1. For more traditional shopping, visit local souqs. See Shopping in Qatar in the Shopping section.

8 Play a round of golf at Doha Golf Club B3 or Education City Golf Club C2, or walk around 'Sporty City', Aspire Zone D2, which includes Aspire Park D2, KidZania Doha D2 and Villaggio Mall D2.

National Museum of Qatar National Museum Station The State Mosque Souq Waqif Station Souq Waqif Qatar

HISTORY, &HERITAGECULTURE

Use the Metro

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. National 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. & LEISURE of Islamic Art

SPORTS

Doha Golf Club Legtaiﬁya Station Oxygen Park Qatar National Library Station Museum

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.

Library Station Qatar National Library Msheireb Station Msheireb Museums Qatar National Library Station Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra Qatar National Library Station Education City Mosque Katara Station Katara Cultural Village Wakra Station Souq Al Wakra AL Museum of Islamic Art Souq Waqif Station Green

Park Souq Waqif Station Aspire Park Aziziyah StationAL Al Bidda Park Bidda & Corniche Stations Education City Golf Club Education City Station AL DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA

Lusail Central Tram Station Mall of Qatar Riffa Station City Center Mall DECC Station Galeries Lafayette Katara Station Legtaiﬁya Station Villaggio Mall Aziziyah Station World Cup Qatar Stadium Al Bayt

QNCC Qatar National Library Station DECC DECC Station

SHOPPING & FASHION

&CONVENTIONSEXHIBITIONS

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 2,300 guests.

AL AL FIFA

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. AL Lagoona Mall Place Vendome

2022TM Al Thumama

EducationStadiumCityStadium Education City Station Janoub Stadium Wakra Station Lusail Stadium Lusail Station Ahmad bin Ahli Stadium Riffa Station - Mall of Qatar Stadium 974 Ras Bu Abboud Station Khalifa International Stadium Sport City Station

Explore the city

Whether you’re active or just a spectator, Qatar has constructed an amazing array of eight new stadiums to showcase the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM. They beautifully reﬂect Qatari culture and cater for the demands of modern sports tournaments. All are accessible using the Doha Metro network; Al Bayt and Al Thumama stadiums with a special bus Havelink.aday trip travelling to see them all!

AL AL © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

The ministry is calling on the community to not approach shark gatherings if spotted and to not publicise their location. Any sighting should be reported directly to the call centre at 184. Any unsettling noises are forbidden near the areas of the sharks’s gatherings to ensure their safety and Thewellbeing.areathat hosts the gigantic white-spotted fish has been closed to the public until recently. Discover Qatar, the Destination Management Company (DMC) for Qatar Airways, launched its ‘Discover the Whale Sharks of Qatar’ tour, offering all marine lovers the chance to see the gigantic white-spotted fish from a luxurious ‘Private Charter’ yacht or a ‘Daily Explorer’ tour on a high-speed catamaran. Excursions opened Qatar has the biggest whale shark concentration in the world. By Ola Diab

in May 2022. Check the Discovering Qatar website discoverqatar.qa for a chance to get up and close to these majestic creatures in Qatar. While these magnificent creatures are the biggest fish in the ocean, they are also one of the most gentle and majestic creatures that you will find Theunderwater.reasonthis region attracts so many whale sharks is because of its unique ecosystem. The average seawater temperature in the gulf averages between 32-34°C during the summer months. However, the seawater around the whale shark viewing location is a much cooler 27°C – perfect for fish to breed. It is the abundance of fish eggs, the whale sharks number one source of food, which attracts them to the area.

Qatar Whale Shark Research

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FEATURE

In 2010, Qatar Whale Shark Research began as a collaboration between the then Ministry of Environment and David Robinson from Heriot-Watt University, who approached the ministry to authorise research on whale sharks in Qatar, specifically Al Shaheen oilfield north of Qatar, as his field of study.

The QatarSharksWhaleof

ccording to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Qatar's concentration of whale sharks reached 600 sharks in 2020 – that is yet to be documented anywhere else in the world – and more than 100 sharks have been observed in Al Shaheen oilfield. The giant whitespotted fish annually congregate 90 km away from land between the months of April and September.

The heat makes the offshore oil platforms resemble a fata morgana, which is a superior mirage or optical phenomenon. These immense steel structures have been in the region for almost 20 years and their inhabitants have played an important part in the establishment of the Qatar Whale Shark Research. Since the 1990s, offshore workers have told stories of giant sharks. Before that, local fishermen were sharing tales of a huge fish seen mainly in the summer months. However, it wasn’t until images of more than 100 whale sharks surrounding the platform taken by Soren Stig made its way to David Robinson, who then made contact with the ministry and it became clear something very unique was happening here. Although whale sharks have been known to frequent Qatari waters, Mohammed Al Jaidah from the ministry was quick to realise the importance of this discovery, and so together they formed the Qatar Whale Shark Research project in 2010. Research started in May 2010 and entailed several satellite trackers being attached to the whale sharks. The biodiversity of Al Shaheen was also studied and 'fingerprint images' were taken – a photograph of the side of the shark that identifies individuals. At the end of the season in September 2010, upward of 150 individuals had been identified through fingerprint images and DNA Operatedsamples. by the North Oil Company, Al Shaheen oilfield, is situated off the north east coast of Qatar and is one of the largest and most complex of its kind in the world. Its 100 mn barrels per m annum comprise 45% of Qatar’s oil production. Public access and fishing is banned around the platforms. Thousands of colourful fish find food and shelter between the sponges and soft coral that grow on the subsea structures. Barracudas, jacks and sharks patrol the perimeters waiting to pounce on the unwary. The platforms essentially function as artificial reefs – a marine oasis of life in a desert Consequently,sea.in 2011, the Maersk Oil Research and Technology Centre (Maersk Oil formerly operated Al Shaheen oilfield) and the then Ministry of Environment signed a Memorandum of Understanding becoming sponsors and co-researchers of this project, and to shed more light on the biodiversity in Al Shaheen area and the secrets of the whale sharks.

About whale sharks Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are the largest shark, and indeed largest of any fish alive today. They feed on plankton, which are a collection of tiny organisms that live at and beneath the surface of lakes, rivers, ponds and oceans across the planet. The distribution of whale sharks indicates the presence of plankton and the overall health of our oceans. Whale sharks are found in all the tropical oceans of the world. Their white spotted colouration makes these gentle giants easy to distinguish, and popular with snorkellers and divers at sites where the sharks aggregate off the coast. The sharks travel large distances to find enough food to sustain their huge size, and to reproduce. According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the maximum size of whale sharks is not known, but could be as large as 20 m. Females give birth to live young, but this has never been observed. Where pupping occurs and where the youngest animals situate remains a mystery, as they are very rarely found. Adults are often found feeding at the surface, but may dive to 1,000 m. Whale sharks are protected from fishing in many countries these days, but are in decline in some areas. Source: World Wildlife Fund (WWF)

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.

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

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).

Al Jumail Village

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.

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Al Khor Tower and Museum

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 all debris.

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.

Al Huwaila Fort

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 Jassasiya Petroglyphs or Rock Carvings (pictured)

Sightseeing

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, roots and origin of their ancestors.

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 now reflects its original shape.

Archaeological Sites, Forts and Ruins

Al Koot Fort D4

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.

Al Wajbah Fort C1 (pictured) 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 Khulaifi Heritage House D4 Al Khulaifi Heritage House is located within Muglina Unit Park. It has been recently restored by Qatar Museums and enlisted on the ISESCO Islamic World Heritage List in June 2021.

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.

Thaqab means the 'water in the bottom of the valley after rain'. Al Thaqab 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 Rakayat Fort 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 Thaqab Fort 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.

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.

Al Zubara and Al Zubara Archaeological Site

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.

Sightseeing

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.

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.

Jazirat bin Ghannam (Purple Island) 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 when 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.

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.

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Ras Abrouq (Bir Zekreet) (pictured) Ras Abrouq, which is also known as Bir Zekreet, 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.

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.

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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'.

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.

Al Farkeeh 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 interchange, 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 our Al Khor and Al Thakhira.

Mesaieed is the most popular beach destination because it is the only place in Qatar where the sand dunes meet the water.

Al Jassasiya Near the Al Jassasiya Petroglyphs are 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 Kharaij Located near Umm Bab, a public beach with facilities. The only way to get there involves driving over 6 km on a dirt road and it does get pretty bumpy at times. Nearby is a beach for single men and labourers.

Al Mafjar Located in the historic and abandoned village of Al Mafjar on 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.

Beaches

Opening times: Sunday to Wednesday 7 am – 10 pm; Thursday/Friday/Saturday is for families only, 7 am – midnight. Admission: Free.

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.

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 Mamlha Al Shamal Municipality opened a new beach for women in Al Ghariya in December 2021. It's the second women's only beach in Qatar. Al Mamlha women’s beach is around 15,000 sq m and can be accessed through the main entrance from the north side. At night, the beach is lit up using eco friendly solar energy. It is completely fenced and provides all basic facilities like toilets, guard rooms, umbrellas, barbecue places, rubbish bins, and rope barriers along the beach to prevent the entry of water bikes. Female guards provide protection for all visitors at the beach. Opening times: Daily 9 am – 10 pm. Admission: QAR25 for adults and QAR5 for children.

Al Ghariya

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 some pollution and litter.

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 Al Wakra is a replica of life 200 years ago. Al Wakra family beach in the Al Jabal area has volleyball and football areas, sun shades, 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.

Sightseeing

Azerbaijani

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One of the best and most popular beaches in Qatar, the beach comes right before Al Jassasiya beach with beautiful turquoise waters and soft sand, perfect for a camp or barbecue.

Al Ruwais

Al Sultan Beach Resort

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Al Thakhira

Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara C5 (pictured)

Opening times: Daily 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

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 on the Doha Corniche 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.

Al Wakra

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.

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 Maroona

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: Daily 9 am – 6 pm. Admission: QAR125 adults, QAR75 children at the ages of 4 to 10. Contact: 4472 2555/2666, alsultanbeachresort.com

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.

Jazirat bin Ghannam (Purple Island) Also known as Al Khor Island, Purple Island is one of the most popular destinations for kayaking, stand up paddling and other water sports with lush mangroves and rich bird life including flamingos. '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 a 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 includes 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: QAR10 for those at the age of 18 and above; 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.

Dukhan Dukhan is one of the most popular destinations for public beaches. Once you arrive 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.

Ras Abrouq (Bir Zekreet) 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.

Fuwairit (pictured) 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 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.

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 QatarEnergy 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 SCENR reserve for gazelles and ostriches.

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.

Just 30 km north of Doha is the village of Semaisma. The Semaisma North Beach is a 7 km guarded and fenced family beach, which has been developed to include shades, open areas for barbecues, lighting, and bathrooms and shower rooms. The last 3 km of the beach is reserved for women only.

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 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.

Simaisma, A Murwab Resort (pictured) 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 area. 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.

Semaisma North Beach

Admission: QAR250 per adult, QAR125 per child. Contact: 4479 9555, simaisma.com

Located on the sunny southwest coast of Qatar and spanning 3.5 km of private beach, Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas hideaway features a luxury spa, a marina, and a water and adventure park with slides, rides, and family-friendly attractions (See Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park in Leisure Activities in the Events and Activities section). More than 20 restaurants showcase global flavours, including an underwater dining experience. Savour garden vistas and views of the sparkling gulf from their collection of 361 rooms, suites, and exclusive villas with a pool, indoor to outdoor living spaces, and direct beach access.

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Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort

Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas

Umm Bab

Opening times: Daily QAR150; purchase at q-tickets.com (Access to Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park, gym and Kids Club is not included, however access to the Kids Club is available at the rate of QAR75 per child, per hour). Admission: Daily 8 am – 6:45 pm. Contact: 4423 6666, salwabeachresort.qa

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Opening times: Daily 8 am – 8 pm. Admission: QAR50 per car. Nearby is the Semaisma public beach, which 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 palm and sidra trees, and a variety of seasonal plants.

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.

Sightseeing

Opening times: Daily 8 am – 5 pm. Admission: QAR300 per adult, children above 5 can visit at half price, children 5 and below enter for free. Contact: 4021 4000, sealinebeachqatar.com

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.

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 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.

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)

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.

Mosque etiquette

Contact: 4454 6600, qf.org.qa/community/education-city-mosque

Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab Mosque (The State Mosque) C3

Abu Manaratain Mosque

Mosques

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.

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.

Hamad International Airport (HIA) mosque D5

The public mosque is located just outside the passenger terminal, within walking distance of 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.

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 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.

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 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 Facebook page for events and schedules.

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.

Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center (Fanar) D4 (pictured)

Sightseeing

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

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.

Designed by globally-known Turkish mosque designer, Zeynep Fadıllıo lu, 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.

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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3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum B2 (pictured) Designed by Spanish architect Joan Sibina, the museum is approximately 19,000 sq m, making it one the largest of its kind, and is built onto Khalifa International Stadium. 3-2-1 is one the world's most innovative and technologically advanced museums dedicated to sports. It's also one of the world's most comprehensive sports museums, offering an interactive journey through the history and legacy of sports around the globe and the Olympic Games. Inside the museum there are also fresh, healthy gourmet choices including 3-2-1 Cafe and Naua Restaurant by Michelin-star chef Tom Aikens.

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 (Anima Lounge), animagallerylounge.com

Anima Gallery and Lounge 30 La Croisette, Porto Arabia, The Pearl Qatar B4

Sightseeing

Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 7 pm; Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Admission: Free admission for Qatar residents (with Qatar ID); free admission for children at the age of 16 and below; QAR50 for non-residents; QAR25 for students (with student IDs). Contact: 4452 5555, 321qosm.org.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.

Doha Design District D4

Museums and Art Galleries

Opening times: Exhibition space, daily 10 am – 9 pm. Admission: Free. Contact: 6609 9687, 6600 8750, almarkhiyagallery.com

The new Doha Design District is set to enhance Msheireb Downtown Doha’s position as a district of art and creativity, and serve as a state-of-the-art centre for local designers. Doha Design District will be home to galleries, showrooms, creative services, stores, and even eateries and cafes. Some of the most exciting names, classics, and trendsetters, can be found in the district. Centred around innovation and creativity, Doha Design District aims to be a world-class destination that prioritises the needs of creatives. It will be a landmark in Qatar and the region, and attract local and regional designers to interact with their global peers. Contact: 4000 4000, dohadesigndistrict.com Fire Station Artist in Residence (Doha Fire Station) C3

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 qm.org.qa

The gallery focuses on local, regional and international contemporary art; there is also a restaurant.

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 Defence 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

Msheireb Museums is open for guided tours by appointment.

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

Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 10 pm, Friday 2 pm – 9 pm. Contact: 4408 0244, dohakac.com M7 D4 (pictured) M7 is located in the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the 31-hectare (77-acre) multipurpose real-estate development. It is a new epicentre for design, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the heart of Msheireb. It is dedicated to empowering Qatari designers to explore, collaborate, and grow into successful entrepreneurs. M7 provides Qatari designers with all the necessary tools and expertise to enable them to take their ideas from concept to market. It houses an incubator, co-working and learning space with experts offering training and workshops for emerging talents and other offerings catering to the needs of designers. M7 includes a state-of-the-art cinema space and world-class exhibitions. Contact: 4402 8779, m7.org.qa

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.

Guided tour: msheirebmuseums.com

Msheireb Museums D4

artwork and allow for collaborations and interactions with the local, regional and international art scene.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA

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.

Contact: 4402 8855, mathaf.org.qa

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 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.

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, 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.

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). Last admission 30 minutes before closing. Tickets must be booked/purchased online in advance of your visit. Fees apply for temporary exhibitions. The library and café are open during museum hours.

Opening times: MIA is currently closed for renovation until further notice, with the exception of the Education Centre and Library, QM Gallery – Al Riwaq, and MIA Park. Online tours of MIA are also available. Contact: 4422 4444, mia.org.qa

National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) D4

Qatar Photographic Society (QPS) Building 18, Katara Cultural Village B4

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

QM Gallery Katara Building 10, Katara Cultural Village B4

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 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). 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.

Designed by world-renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, the 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: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 7 pm; Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm; closed Sunday. 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). Last entry 30 minutes prior to closing. Book your tickets online in advance. Fees apply for temporary exhibitions. Contact: 4452 5555, nmoq.org.qa

Photographic courses in English and Arabic, call for current schedule. Also ad hoc exhibitions.

Contact: 4408 1812, katara.net

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: 182, katara.net, qm.org.qa

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See the Events Calendar in the Events and Activities section for details of exhibitions.

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.

Souq Waqif Art Center Souq Waqif D4

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. Admission: QAR50 for adult residents and non-residents/tourists; QAR30 for students and young adults (ages 13 – 22), seniors (age 65 and above), teachers and museum professionals; free entry for children age 12 and under, people with disabilities/caretakers, press and tour guides; QAR30 for groups (over 10 or more); QAR25 per person for tour guide. Contact: 4490 2340 (museum), 4490 2359 (Al Samriya), fbqmuseum.org, alsamriyaestate.com

An art gallery in Souq Waqif with exhibitions of local and international artists and art such as paintings, drawings, sculptures, calligraphy, pottery, scrap art and more. The centre also hosts art workshops.

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 Al Samriya Estate with 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 Estate also includes Al Samriya Riding School, a horse riding school at Al Samariyah Equestrian Center, which is an indoor/outdoor riding arena with horse stables for boarding and riding lessons for children and adults.

Opening times: Daily 8 am 2 pm/4 pm – 10 pm. Admission: Free. Contact: 4417 6204, see their Facebook page for more details.

The Media Majlis at Northwestern University in Qatar 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: 4402 0555, gallery.qatar.vcu.edu

For up to date information on museums and art galleries, visit marhaba.qa

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

The Media Majlis Education City C2

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The Gallery at VCUarts Qatar Education City C2

Al Shu'aa Nature Reserve Located in Al Khor, the 13,000 sq m family-friendly park is designed to be eco-friendly with solar energy lighting. The nature reserve boasts different kinds of trees and animals including Arabian oryx, deer, ostriches, goats, ducks, tortoises, geese, rabbits, birds and more. The family park also has lots of benches, shaded sitting areas, children's play areas and green spaces.

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Situated 60 km southwest of Doha along Salwa Rd, the lagoon is among the environmental projects of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change to increase the number of birds and wildlife in the country. One of the most important components of the project are the three artificial lagoons, which were designed to store about 2.4 mn cubic metres of treated sewage effluent coming from Al Karaana treatment plant. The lagoon has emerged as a new, healthy and major habitat for wildlife especially a diverse number of birds and fish species. It also serves as a green rest stop with accessible clean water for migratory birds such as osprey, water pipit, purple heron, kestrel and more.

Al Karaana Lagoon

Irkaya Farm Located about 50 km west of Doha in the south central plain of Qatar, Irkaya is home to many resident species and lies on the flight path of migratory birds and insects passing through Qatar. It can even be seen from space on satellite maps. The fields consist of sandy and loamy topsoil on a flat, sandy plain with water-worn pebbles. The rest of the terrain is low, rocky limestone upland with scattered boulders

Also known as Al Dosari Zoo and Nature Reserve, the private park is 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 is taken on a guided tour of the animal reserve, and offered tea and Arabic coffee. Open-air barbecues are permitted. There are umbrellas and Arabian huts, and many available spaces to sit under trees. Twelve housing units and 11 cottages have been added to the park for overnight visitors. Opening times: Sunday to Wednesday 7 am – 7 pm; Thursday to Saturday 9 am – 5:30 pm. Admission: Free.

Natural World and Nature Reserves

Desert Safaris

Bird Watching 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.

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. The overnight tour is at a desert camp with traditional Bedouin tents, filled with Persian carpets and plush cushions.

Dahl Al Misfir CaveAl Karaana Lagoon

Located off Salwa Rd near Rawdat Rashed, Dahl Al Misfir Cave is regarded as one of Qatar’s best-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).

Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve

Dahl Al Misfir Cave

Sightseeing PRINTmarhaba.qaandONLINE and sparse vegetation. All native species of plant at Irkaya benefit from the absence of grazing animals.

Given the clear and warm waters surrounding the country, scuba diving 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.

Stories of strange, low pitched sounds in the sand have intrigued people for generations in Qatar and it's one of the few places in the world it can be heard. The sound is caused by the friction when 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 it is amplified by the crescent shape of the barchan (derived from Kazakh) dunes.

A large area of vegetation attracting varied bird life, including flamingos and herons, mangroves – the largest and the oldest – can be found just north of the seaside city of Al Khor and Al Thakhira, 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. 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

Umm Tais National Park

Al Wabra Wildlife Preservation (AWWP)

Mangroves (pictured)

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 noncommercial and not open to the public. Admission: Closed to the public. awwp.alwabra.com

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 Admission: Free.

For more information on Qatar's nature reserves and natural world, visit enature.qa

Best undertaken in a four wheel drive to reach the country’s southernmost point. 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.

Khor Al Adaid (The Inland Sea) The Inland Sea is one of Qatar’s finest treasures and a tourist hotspot.

The ‘Singing Sand Dunes’ are 40 km southwest of Doha. Although the ‘singing’ occurs naturally, you can trigger it by sliding down the dune or running along its crest.

Singing Sand Dunes

Al Abraj Park C4 Located on Al Bidda Street, opposite Palm Towers, 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.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change's 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 mecc.gov.qa

Located in Onaiza, 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 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 artist 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 artist Saloua Raouda Choucair.

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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 2 am on weekends. Barbecue stands are available for rental at QAR50 per four hours. Admission: Free.

Adjacent to Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor is Al Bayt Park, which has a total area of around 1,331,900 sq m. It 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 track, 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 a 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 use one of the three equipped outdoor grill stations.

Parks and Recreation Areas

Al Bayt Stadium Park

Contact: 4428 7709, 4428 7777, 5028 0404 (Saikl Bike)

5/6 Park C4 (pictured)

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. This family-only 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 visitor access to the park.

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Al Khor Park (Al Khor Park and Zoo) (pictured)

Al Khor Corniche

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.

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The 240,000 sq m park features a zoo, batteryoperated 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).

Opening times: Daily 4 am – 10 pm. Admission: Free. Contact: 4426 5050 Al Wakra Park (Al Wakra Public Garden) F5

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, and Wi-Fi access point. Opening times: Park: daily 24 hours; restaurants and restrooms: 8 am – 10 pm; lifeguard: 6 am – 10 pm. Admission: Free. Contact: 4413 8188 Box Park C4

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

Al Qamra Beach Park in Al Khor spreads over an area of 10,500 sq m with a green sheet of grass covering an area of 650 sq m alongside a 3-km-long beach. The family-friendly beachfront park is only for ladies and children under 10 years old. Barbecues and playing football are not allowed nor are pets. However, there are various diverse plant and tree species, children's play areas, benches, huts, seating areas covered with wooden umbrellas offering shade, walking paths and solar-powered lighting. Admission: Free.

The multi-coloured Box Park is at the soon-to-be Cruise Ship Terminal near the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA). Comprising dozens of multi-layered recycled shipping containers overlooking scenic views of the sea, Box Park is part of the Doha Port redevelopment project. The park is set to be a shopping, dining and recreation destination. There are toilets, sitting areas, exercise equipment, a prayer room and a shower area. There's also ample parking spaces available. On the other side of the park is a wide green space, currently taking shape.

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.

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 Qamra Beach Park

Al Tawasul Traditional Park

There's also an aviary, which contains a waterfall and a lake, which is home to different birds. Opening times: Daily 8 am – 10 pm (Tuesdays: women and children only). 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, free for persons with special needs. Contact: 4426 5050

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.

Crescent Park A3

Close to Landmark mall, on the corner of Jassim bin Hamad and Al Markhiya Streets, this large familiesonly 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. The park is currently closed for maintenance and renovations.

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

Opening times: Open 24/7. Admission: Free. Contact: 4497 7770, lusail.com

MIA Park C4

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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 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.

Doha Corniche C4

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

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Hotel Park C4 Situated adjacent to Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, Hotel Park provides over 34,500 sq m of green space to enjoy picnics, play areas and 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. There's also paid parking with over 2,500 spaces spread over four levels of underground parking with access to Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), Al Corniche Street, Al Funduq Street and Al Majlis Street.

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

Shura Plaza D3

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The Desert Park

Simaisma Park

A small green park, next to Sharq Village & Spa located right at the intersection of Al Corniche Street and Ras Bu Abboud Expressway. It is home to Al Khulaifi Heritage House, a watchtower, an arch and a pillar monument, a curved bridge, stone walkways and more. There are signs at the park prohibiting barbecues, cycling, playing sports, and pets.

Oxygen Park D2

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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 animals such as oryxes and gazelles. There are also 12 designated pergolas for barbecues, a shaded children's play area, sitting areas, two exercise areas and restrooms.

Lusail City, Marina Promenade

Also known as Al Muntazah Park, Rawdat Al Khail Park is one of the oldest parks in Qatar. It has recently reopened to the public after closing for renovation for a few years. Located along C Ring Road and Rawdat Al Khail Street, the park has ample green spaces and a number of facilities, featuring an 'open plan' – without fences. It is spread over an area of about 140,000 sq m and includes about 105,000 sq m of green spaces with 1,250 new trees including wild ghaf, samar and sidr, and 1,300 m of pedestrian and bicycle paths, in addition to 401 parking spaces. There are children play areas and sports equipments, and is suitable for physically challenged individuals. There are also food kiosks and stalls to serve visitors.

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.

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 Muglina Unit Park D4

Located in Education City, Oxygen Park features running tracks, equestrian facilities, underground pitches, recreation areas and soundscape-filled, refreshing folly spheres. The running tracks are embedded creating an exciting training ground with looping tracks, cooled tunnel sections and steep hills. 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 Rawdat Al Khail Park D4

The Shura Plaza opened on the eve of Qatar's historic Shura Council elections on 1 October 2021. The project includes an electronic game-themed wall art of Qatari people inspired by the concept of 'Shura' among people, which was created by Qatari artist Buthayna Al Zamman in cooperation with Qatar Museums (QM). The plaza sits in an area that connects the B Ring and C Ring Roads from each side.

The Shura Plaza Project covers an area reaching up to 15,000 sq m with green areas covering 80% of the space or about 12,000 sq m. It also has a 500 m pedestrian path.

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 Souq Al Wakra in the Discovering Qatar section.

For more information, see Souq Waqif in the Discovering Qatar section, which includes a map of the souq area and a detailed description of what the souq has to offer. Opening times: 10 am – noon/4 pm – 10 pm; restaurants generally remain open all day until late.

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.

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.

Gold Souq D4

Souq Waqif D4 (pictured) 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.

In Souq Al Najada on Ali bin Abdulla Street, in front of Al Najada Doha Hotel, 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 old Karwa bus station around Ali bin Abdulla Street and Al Ashat Street.

Souq Al Wakra F5

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

Souqs

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

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).

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.

AL SHAQAB C2

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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 Katara Cultural Village in the Discovering Qatar section.

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.

Sports

Tradition and Tours

Katara Cultural Village B4

• Activities, such as diving trips, deep‑sea fishing, sandboarding, and more.

PRINTmarhaba.qaandONLINE is a ‘camel city’, where thousands of men and camels live all year round, increasing in numbers when there is a big event. Colourful camel trains can be seen, with brightcamelsdressedtraditionally-ridersandadornedwithcolours.Local tour companies may be able to arrange trips to coincide with races – see local tour companies for contact details.

Sightseeing

• A

Middle East’s most popular sports.

the Dukhan road will take you to

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

Opening times: Races are usually on Wednesday and Thursday 4 pm – 7:30 pm, October to April. Admission: Free. Contact: 4419 7722, qrec.gov.qa Tours

camel racetrack in Al Shaihaniya,

LOCAL TOUR COMPANIES 365 Adventures 3339 3323 365adventures.me Arabian Adventures Qatar 4436 1461/5553 4233 arabianadventures.com.qa Discovering Qatar 4423 7999 discoverqatar.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 3954/5557 5181 qittour.com Regency Sealine Camp 5005 9055/5535 3463 regencysealinecamp.com Tawfeeq Travel 4448 4848 tawfeeqtravel.com m 2022JuneUpdated&Checked 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. Admission: Free. Contact: 4454 7361, alshaqab.com Camel Races 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

Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC) D2 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.

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

• 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). desert tour, with bedouin‑style camping at places like Khor Al Adaid and Bir Zekreet, including traditional cuisine and music, sand boarding and watersports. on the where of the The racing season is from October Behind the racetrack

to May, with several prestigious events held in March and April.

you can see camels in one

Tour companies offer half and full days, including overnight camping trips to the Inland Sea. Heritage sites are popular destinations. Other ideas include:

Trees of Qatar

The Climate Change Department at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) announced in 2019 that it would be planting one million trees in the country, part of the global initiative on climate change and sustainable environment. The planting project aims to utilise treated sewage water for irrigation, reducing water wastage, enhancing biological diversity, improving air quality, and increasing greenery to reduce Qatar's carbon footprint. Priority will be given to government facilities and roadsides in areas which are close to sources of treated water.

In 2018, the MME distributed 4,000 packets of seeds and 11,000 seedlings of wild plants to winter campers for planting in several areas to fight desertification. The Protection and Wildlife Department at the MME also fenced off 12 areas in December 2019 to protect rare native wild plants and trees that are at threat of extinction and overgrazing by animals, as well as to collect seeds for replanting. The department has planted 800 seedlings of Qatari wild trees, including Bumber, Awsaj, Sidr, and Samur. Rawdat Simaisma has been declared a protected area and 600 wild trees have been planted.

According to Abdulhadi Nasser Al Marri, Director of the Climate Change Department, 'Apart from the one million tree initiative, which is a special project, the MME continues to plant trees and work to increase greeneries in parks, streets and other public places for beautification and to deter climate change and reducing carbon footprint.'

By Sarah Palmer

The initiative will be carried out in two phases: the first phase is for the establishment of a large nursery for trees and plants; under the second, one million trees will be planted across the country with the participation of schools and other sectors.

Q atar is a small desert peninsula, with sporadic rainfall and a hot and humid climate. So you could be forgiven for thinking that plants and trees stand no chance of thriving here – you would be wrong! Despite the somewhat harsh desert climate, the streets and gardens of Qatar are full of trees and shrubs, both indigenous and those brought in from other countries. They thrive thanks to modern agricultural techniques including artificial irrigation and careful planning by entities such as the Public Parks department at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment.

Other organisations in Qatar are also involved.

Selected trees being used in beautification projects across Qatar One of the department's other projects is for the protection of a rare native tree, Ghaf (right). The Protection and Wildlife Department has collaborated with the Agricultural Affairs Department, Al Shamal Municipality, and the Public Parks Department, to protect Ghaf trees since 2015. At that time, there were just 50 trees – a recent survey shows that this has increased to more than 400 over the last three years.

is a vision of The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani to preserve the environment for future generations and increase green areas. It has five objectives: the construction of central public parks; provision of dedicated lanes for pedestrians and bicycles; the As part of the ‘Qatar Beautification and Our Kids Planting Trees’ campaign, 25 young people from the Generation Amazing Festival 2019, organised by the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, planted 50 trees at Al Masrah Park. development of Doha Corniche; the development of Central Doha; and increasing afforestation and greenery areas.

All of these efforts also fall under the fourth pillar of Qatar National Vision 2030, Environmental Development, which outlines several challenges facing Qatar's environment, namely a rapidly growing population, increased air pollution, and damage to natural habitats.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has implemented the ‘Qatar Beautification and Our Kids Planting Trees’ campaign to plant a million trees, to continue until the end of 2021. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of planting trees, and for students at different ages to be environmentally aware.

The campaign is overseen by The Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar. The committee, under the MME, works with other ministries and entities such as Qatar Museums, Qatar Railway Company, and TheNakilat.committee

Canary Palm (Phoenix canariensis) above is, as you might guess from the name, a native invasive tree from the Canary Islands. It has been brought to Qatar due to its tolerance for harsh environmental conditions, being able to withstand temperatures of up to 47°C. The single trunk can grow up to 15 m in height and is a relative of Phoenix dactylifera, the date palm more often seen in Qatar. It can be found in most of the public parks, lining footpaths in clusters or as a single tree among other shrubs.

It is more commonly known as the gum arabic tree or prickly acacia, and although the tree has been used in beautification projects, precaution should be taken due to its thorns.

Ghaf (Prosopis cineraria) above is an evergreen, spiny tree that can grow to 15 m in height, with a round canopy and distinctive loose, pendulous branches. Leaves are compound, and there are clusters of small, cream-yellow flowers.

Ghaf has a deep and extensive root system to reach groundwater, and has a high tolerance to Qatar's environmental conditions.

The tree has been important to the Bedouins in the Arabian Gulf, with the leaves and pods being used as dry fodder for cattle and camels. The tree provides good firewood and is impervious to insects and ground worms. The honey produced by bees feeding on the flowers is of a good, high quality.

Sant (Vachellia nilotica), seen left at Aspire Park, is an evergreen, fast-growing tree that can reach 10 m, dark to black-coloured stems and branches, and a grey, red or brown rough bark. Again leaves are compound, and bright yellow flowers bloom in spring and summer.

The Weeping Bottlebrush (Callistemon viminalis) has been successfully cultivated in Qatar. It prefers moist soil and thrives in direct sunlight. The tree grows to about 4 m with slender leaves on pendant branches. The name comes from the bright red stamens which resemble a bottle brush. The swaying branches are quite beautiful to look at throughout the year, and can be grown as hedges and screens in public spaces. m

You can learn more about parks and public spaces in Qatar in Sightseeing, in the Discovering Qatar section.

More information about the local flora and fauna is readily available from Qatar e-Nature, at enature.qa or via the app. This is an initiative of Sasol and Friends of the Environment Center, and supported by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. The images shown are courtesy of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment, Flora of Qatar, and Alex Sergeev.

Sightseeing Hotspots The Pearl Island All you need to know about these fabulous sightseeing destinations, with an overview and map. PRINTmarhaba.qaandONLINE © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022 Katara Cultural Village Souq Waqif Souq Al Wakra 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. Msheireb Downtown Doha Lusail City

Monoprix Msheireb is the first Monoprix in Qatar with the SMART Retail Solution and the first in the region with one of the most advanced retail software solutions for an enhanced customer service. In addition, the store provides Concierge and the Shop & Go concepts. Monoprix Msheireb offers an extensive organic range of 12,000 items sourced internationally. In addition, Galleria's west wing offers residences and offices above the shops.

The epitome of shopping, dining, leisure and art, customised to meet the needs of the local community, and visitors. Situated in one of the oldest trading areas in Doha, it embodies a place where old meets new. Galleria offers a new shopping experience with 30 pop-up stores spread across the ground floor of the mall with even more to discover in the coming months. It's expected to have more than 100 stores spread across four levels of shopping, dining, leisure and entertainment, including a luxury cinema and a children’s edutainment centre.

Msheireb Downtown Doha

Transforming the centre of the capital city, Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) is the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project that is reviving the old commercial district with a new architectural language that is modern, yet inspired by traditional Qatari heritage and architecture –its proportion, simplicity, space, light, layering, ornament and response to climate.

Comprising more than 100 buildings, MDD is becoming a new social and civic hub in the city centre – a place where it is enjoyable to live, work, shop, visit, and spend time with family and friends.

Utilising the latest in sustainable technologies, MDD adheres to the highest standards in green building. The strategic objective of MDD is to reverse the pattern of development in Doha, which has tended towards isolated land use, reliance on car transportation and energy hungry structures.

Msheireb Properties

An emerging leader in sustainable development, Msheireb Properties is a real estate development company and a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation (QF). MDD is its signature project, employing a new approach to urban planning by combining traditional methods and modern technology aimed at preserving the environment as well as the cultural identity of Qatar. The company was established in 2010 as a commercial venture to support QF's aims, as well as the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.

Msheireb Museums Msheireb Museums celebrate the history of four historic heritage houses in the heart of MDD. 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 MDD.

DohaDowntownMsheireb

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 9 am – 5 pm; Friday 3 pm – 9 pm; Saturday 9 am – 5 pm; closed on Sunday Contact: 4006 5555, msheirebmuseums.com

Msheireb Galleria

Whether you're driving, walking, using private or public transport, getting to Msheireb Galleria is easy. The nearest parking is Galleria West Heritage Quarter/Sahat Wadi Msheireb and the nearest tram stop is Galleria Station. The Msheireb Metro Station (Red/Gold/Green Line) is the largest station in Qatar and is situated at the corner of MDD where Wadi Msheireb and Al Diwan Streets meet. msheirebgalleria.com

A premier art gallery based in Doha. Founded in 2008, AlHosh Gallery has been working on a new approach, which is a pop-up concept. They are very passionate about enriching the Qatari art scene and bringing something new to the market. It hosts art exhibitions by local artists such as Ahmed Al Maadeed, Ali Hassan, Al Johara (AJ) Al Thani, Dimitrije Bugarski, Othman Khunji, Bachir Mohamad, Mohammed Faraj Al Suwaidi, Nasser Al Kubaisi, Rashid Al Kuwari, Shua’a Ali and more. alhoshgallery.com Msheireb Tram With nine stations, the self-powered environmentally friendly Msheireb Tram interconnects all of MDD, making it easier for visitors to move from one spot to the other. Visitors, residents, and tenants can find a tram car on the loop every six minutes with a 400-m hopon/hop-off zone along the single 2 km, closed-loop track system.

Fare: Free Operating hours: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – noon/4 pm – 9 pm; Friday 4 pm – 9 pm And more... MDD is also a hospitality destination, home to some of Qatar's leading five-star hotels, including Alwadi Hotel Doha - MGallery alwadihoteldoha. com, Mandarin Oriental, Doha com/doha/msheireb/luxury-hotelmandarinoriental. , and Park Hyatt Doha parkhyattdoha.com Make sure to walk the almost 7,000 sq m piazzastyle square, Barahat Msheireb, which is the largest open-air covered square in the Middle East, featuring the biggest retractable roof in the region. It is designed to host lively events in collaboration with private and public organisations. MDD is also the new home to the seasonal Torba Farmers Market, which takes place at Sikkat Wadi Msheireb on weekends. For more information on MDD, visit msheireb.com or call 800 DOHA (800 3642) or 4000 4000 m Msheireb TramMsheireb Museums

The new Doha Design District is set to enhance MDD’s position as a district of art and creativity, and serve as a centre for local designers. Doha Design District will be home to galleries, showrooms, creative services, stores, and even eateries and cafes. Some of the most exciting names, classics, and trendsetters can be found in the district. Centred around innovation and creativity, Doha Design District aims to be a world-class creative landmark in Qatar and the region, and attract local and regional designers to interact with their global peers.

4000 4000, dohadesigndistrict.com M7 M7 is a new epicentre for design, innovation, and entrepreneurship. It is dedicated to empowering Qatari designers to grow into successful entrepreneurs. M7 provides Qatari designers with all the necessary tools and expertise to enable them to take their ideas from concept to market. It houses an incubator, co-working and learning space with experts offering training and workshops for emerging talents, and other offerings catering to the needs of designers. It also includes a cinema space and exhibitions. 4402 8779, m7.org.qa

Operating hours: Retail: Saturday to Wednesday 10 am – 10 pm; Thursday 10 am – 11 pm; Friday 10 am –11:30 am/1 pm – 11 pm Cafés: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – midnight; Friday 9 am – 11:30 am/1 pm – midnight Smart Msheireb Monoprix: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – midnight; Friday 9 am – 11:30 am/12:30 pm – midnight Doha Design District

AlHosh Gallery

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Msheireb Downtown Doha Unit #G12, Building #30, Street #950, zone #03 WWW.PRESENTEDBY.COM | @PRESENTEDBY | +97440011383 © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

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

Souq Waqif, the oldest souq in the country, dating back around 250 years, is situated in the heart of the city and is the most iconic spot in Qatar.

WaqifSouq

Souq Waqif is the ideal destination for those wanting to collect memories of Qatar with fridge magnets, shisha bottles, intricately designed plates, lanterns, keychains, mugs, jewellery and more. Other souvenirs include dhow boat miniatures, traditional Arab dallah (coffee pots) and brassstudded 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.

Perfumes, garments and textiles

The souq underwent a complete restoration in 2006 2008 and provides the perfect setting to shop for traditional garments, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs, 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. The souq is also home to art galleries and hotels. Traditional music, art and cultural shows add to the ambience of the souq. At the heart of Souq Waqif, Qatar Museums (QM) has installed a public art piece in shape of a giant gold thumb called Le Pouce as it translates to 'The Thumb' in English, by acclaimed French artist César Baldaccini.

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.

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, Iraqi, Moroccan, Turkish, Thai, Persian, Malaysian, Egyptian and more! For a lighter choice, there are also cafés serving only sweets or snacks or just plain coffee.

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.

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.

© MARHABA AUTUMN 2022 PRINTmarhaba.qaandONLINE 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.

• Inside Souq Waqif near Al Koot Fort.

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. Horses stables 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.

Access to cash is available at the Doha Bank ATM, a branch of QNB, and Doha Exchange.

Novo Cinemas Novo Cinemas opened in Souq Waqif in June 2018 with 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.

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.

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 also 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 aroma, with displays of whole and ground spices and coffee. Spices are either purchased by package or weight. You can also purchase sweets, rice, nuts, dried fruits and honey.

Souq Waqif Boutique more information,

Souq Waqif Art Center

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 are open 24 hours.

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels

Souq Waqif Art Center 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. swacqatar.com 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.

visit tivolihotels.com m WaqifSouq

• 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.

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

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GoldMuseumSouq of Islamic Art MIA Park StationLine In the very origin 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. Souq Waqif 1 Usta Turkish Kebab & Doner 2 The Rice & The Noodle 3 Saida (Lebanese) 4 Little Sailor 5 Al Mourjan 6 Al Adhamiyah (Iraqi) 7 Layali Al Qahira (Egyptian) 8 Le Gourmet 9 Al Bandar Fish Market 10 La Boca (Argentinian) 11 Zaatar W Zeit (Lebanese) 12 Tajeen (Moroccan) 13 The Village 14 Abdel Kader Alhallab Sweets 15 Damasca One (Syrian) 16 Khariss Caffe (Lebanese) 17 Parisa (Persian) 18 Al Koot Cafe (Qatari) 19 Asherg Coffee (Qatari) 20 Desert Rose (Ukrainian) 21 Bandar Aden (Yemeni) 22 Shay Al Shoomos (Qatari) 23 La Piazza (Italian) 24 Argan (Moroccan) 25 Basta (Middle Eastern) 26 Al RooftopMatbakhGrill (Middle Eastern) 27 Jasmine Thai (Thai) 28 Al Terrace (Georgian) 29 Al Jasra Trad. Food (Qatari) 30 Falafel Karim (Mid eastern) 31 Abo Shariha (Mid eastern) 32 Missan (Mid eastern) Restaurants 1 Musheireb Hotel 2 Al Jomrok Hotel 3 Al Bidda Hotel 4 Al Jasra Hotel 5 Bismillah Hotel 6 Al Mirqab Hotel 7 Najd Hotel 8 Al Najada Hotel 9 Arumaila Hotel Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels 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 Toilets (F & M) Q Ladies Waiting & Prayer Room R Oud & Arabic Perfumes Places of Interest © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

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 bowls, and are based on Gandhi’s famous visual metaphor – the three wise monkeys that ‘see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil’.

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.

For music fans, the Opera House at Building 16 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. qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org

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 m in diameter and stand at least 18 m high. Situated prominently in the middle of Katara, the amphitheatre 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.

Katara sits on the waterfront along Lusail Street, just a few kilometres north of Al Dafna. Founded in 2010 under the direction of the Father Amir, HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Katara's aim is to position Qatar on the international, regional and local stage for art, music, theatre, photography and much more.

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.

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

Building 16 also houses Katara's 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.

Katara Cultural Village

Today, the multidimensional project brings together all the cultures of the world, with festivals, exhibitions and art galleries, and other cultural events. Adhering to the goals laid out in Qatar National Vision 2030, Katara preserves the heritage and traditions of the country while also embracing those of other nations.

'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.

VillageCulturalKatara

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.

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. kataraph.com 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: QAR10 for those at the age of 18 and above; separate fees apply for watersports and lessons 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.

VillageCulturalKatara(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. 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.

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Katara has a 38,000 sq m outdoor luxury shopping complex, 21 High Street (Katara Plaza), 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. 21highst.net 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. There's also an outdoor Padel Garden where the public can register to play the unique racket sport.

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.

Opening this year is The Chedi Hotel & Resorts, which will be a luxurious boutique hotel with 59 rooms and suites, and 32 villas and chalets. The property’s rooms and suites feature terraces with views over the Arabian Gulf and the city’s skyline. For a more intimate escape or private family gatherings, the villas offer private pools, landscaped gardens and between one and five bedrooms. Onsite facilities include a swimming pool alongside the beachfront promenade and a stunning infinity pool at the resort’s family-friendly beach club. An expansive spa and state-of-the-art fitness centre will also ensure that guests can pamper themselves, relax and energise away from the hustle and bustle of the city. For more information, visit katara.net, or call 182 or 4408 0000.

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Cultural Foundation A Albahie Auction House B Al Tamimi Vet Clinic C Al Thuraya Planetarium D Amphitheatre E Arab Postal Stamp Museum F Bird Houses G Doha Film Institute H Falcon Centre / Al Gannas Assoc. I Force of Nature J Galeries Lafayette K The Golden Masjid L Katara Art Centre M Katara Beach Club by LivNordic Spa N Katara Hall O Mosque / Katara Masjid P Opera House / Drama Theatre Q Poetry Majlis R Qatar Fine Arts Association S Qatar Museums Gallery T Qatar Music Academy U Qatar Photographic Society V Regatta Sailing Academy W Sout Al Khaleej Radio Station X Ghandi's Three Monkeys Y Visual Art Centre PLACES OF INTEREST 1 Mamig 2 Khan Farouk Tarab Cafe 3 Chapati and Karak 4 Saffron Lounge 5 L’wzaar Seafood 6 Sukar Pasha Ottoman Lounge 7 Albisana 8 Le Vesuvio 9 Usha Frshka 10 Chac’Late 11 La Gelateria Fina 12 Al Jazeera Media Cafe 13 Ard Canaan Restaurant 14 Marsa Katara 15 Novikov 16 Cafe Pouchkine 17 Joe’s Cafe 18 Poffertjes 19 U Burger 20 Hellas 21 Boho Social 22 Bayt El Talleh 23 Bedaya 24 CioccolatItaliani 25 974 Delights 26 OCA Cafe 27 There There 28 Wahaj RESTAURANT/CAFES 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. marhaba.qa07.2022 © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

Fox Hills North and South Fox Hills was envisioned, built and designed as a refined and elegant medium density, inner-city residential area, featuring mixed-use buildings. The district is split by Lusail’s main commercial street, running from north to south, and is surrounded by beautifully landscaped, naturally green parks for walkable streets and architecture.ofinterpretationsmodernexquisiteembodyreflectneighbourhoodbuildingsmobility.pedestrianTheinthisandunique,classic

CityLusail Lusail City

The city will be home to more than 200,000 residents its scenic surroundings, 170,000 professionals in 19 districts, and 80,000 visitors to entertainment, recreation, and retail and hospitality facilities – a population of nearly 450,000 people. Each of Lusail’s districts features an array of residential, commercial, hospitality, and retail destinations, integrating communal living in a self-contained model, complete with schools, mosques, medical facilities, as well as sport, entertainment and shopping centres.

Al Kharayej Al Kharayej district is designed to accommodate 42 residential towers. The area includes spacious open pavements, a landscaped neighbourhood golf course and private spaces blended with contemporary international design. In addition, it will be in close proximity to beaches and crystalclear waters in a picturesque setting.

Al Tarfa and Al Maha Island Al Tarfa is Lusail’s hub for landmark attractions, as well as for leisure and recreation activities and venues, officeresidentialexperiences,andacityenvironment.urbansophisticatedaseamlesslyintegratedintosustainable,Thewillfeaturehostofretailfinediningandspaces, hotels, theme parks, theatres, and fitness centres, as well as a cinema multiplex. Plans are underway to develop a major museum, park and luxury hotels with public and private beaches.

At the very heart of Doha, Lusail is a model for the city of the future; an anchor of thriving economies and societies, a beacon of smart living, and a blueprint for Qatar’s urban transformation.

The jewel of the district, Place Vendôme, stretches over 1,000,000 sq m. The Parisian-inspired development pays ode to the famous high-end shopping street in Paris, Rue de la Paix, where Place Vendôme originated. The destination is home to a new luxurious mall, featuring up to 600 different retail outlets with an exclusively luxurious wing dedicated to top designer labels, two upcoming five-star luxury hotels and a central entertainment hub of landmark attractions and experiences.

Al Wessil At the centre of business and economic transformation, Al Wessil is a hub built exclusively for the commercial, technical and human resource requirements of the region and adjacent industries, as well as a number of other sectors. Professionals and businesses in Al Wessil will be privy to the best and latest technologies in high-quality, worldclass facilities; the epitome of sustainability.

Lusail City is an extension of Doha to the north across an area of 38 sq km and includes four exclusive islands and 19 multipurpose residential, entertainment and commercial districts. Featuring 22 hotels with international star ratings, Lusail’s vibrant, multicultural mixed-use destination promises a boon for hospitality, tourism and investments in Qatar.

Comprising a slew of middle-to-high-rise residential towers and hotels, it stands as one of the most exclusive districts in Lusail City, where residents can enjoy the luxury of privacy, breath-taking beaches and crystal-clear waters in a picturesque setting.

Privacy is an integral part of the Qetaifan Islands lifestyle, and green living and design, a model for others to follow. Green spaces and leisure facilities on the islands stretch alongside a range of luxury boutiques, parks, high-end restaurants and cafés. The islands also feature a multitude of docks, with a capacity to host over 400 boats and yachts. Offering unprecedented access to freehold projects on the islands, non-Qataris will be able to own a range of exclusive residential properties, connected to a wide array of commercial projects via the pedestrian bridge, as well as to facilities and landmark attractions. qetaifanislands.qa

The first phase of Lusail, the Marina District, is the lively hub of the city, overlooking the marinas, and featuring mixed-use residential, commercial and hotel waterfront properties and spaces with large open areas leading to the seaside boardwalk. The Marina District is serviced by the newly-opened Lusail Tram that connects to the rest of Lusail City and to the Doha Metro.

Lusail Tram is a light-rail transit (LRT) network for convenient travel within the new city of Lusail, connecting all 19 districts, including the Marina, Energy City and Qatar Entertainment City. The network will include four lines and 25 stations across 38 km of rail aboveground and underground. Looking to reduce vehicular emission and saving energy, it is designed to be environmentally friendly and energy-efficient, and connects to the Doha Metro network. The newly operated Lusail Tram connects to the Doha Metro through two interchange stations, at Lusail and Legtaifiya. qr.com.qa/metro-tram Lusail Stadium Lusail City is home to the iconic Lusail Stadium, which will host the opening and closing games of the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. The stadium is the biggest in Qatar with a seating capacity of up to 80,000 spectators with fan zones entertainment areas.

Residential, other upcoming residential districts include Naifa, Al Nafel & Al Khuzama, Al Erkyah, Al Yasmeen, and Huzoom Lush greenery and pocket parks flourish across Lusail’s residential and commercial areas, bringing to life Lusail City’s green, sustainable living ambitions. For more information on Lusail City, visit lusail.com m Marina District

Lusail Tram

In addition to Al Kharayej, Al Tarfa and Al Maha Island, Al Wessil, and Fox Hills North and South, Marina District, and Waterfront

energy and vibrant spirit of Doha’s cosmopolitan urbanism in three flagship destinations. The Commercial Street, The Plaza and The Seef come together to create a melting pot of cultures, people and businesses. downtownlusail.com

Waterfront Residential Waterfront Residential district epitomises the pinnacle of seaside living, with state-of-the-art amenities in a safe and secure environment.

CityLusail

Downtown Lusail Downtown Lusail is the magnetic epicentre of Lusail and home to the city’s hustle and bustle. A paragon for uniquely modern, integrated lifestyle experiences, Downtown Lusail captivates the

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Marina Promenade 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.

The crown jewels of Lusail, the Qetaifan Islands enjoy unique panoramic sea views, located just off the coast and a short drive from the city’s bright lights. The four offshore islands form an exclusive district and privacy haven for residents, with only two entry and access points – the first of which crosses through Qetaifan Island North, and the second, through Qetaifan Island South 1

Marina District is also home to the Marina Food Arena, a vibrant, lively place where you can find more than 65 popular local street eateries and coffee shops in the style of a typical food truck park.

Qetaifan Islands

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Lusail City –an instant Insta dream! Lusail City is the newest and smartest place in town, with iconic buildings galore. Take a tour and look out for these hotspots! Le Royal Méridien Doha Metro CrescentstationParkLusail Marina © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

IslandPearlThe The Pearl Island

The Pearl Island 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 Island is the perfect destination for tourists and residents alike.

Floresta Gardens Located east of Viva Bahriya, Floresta Gardens is one of the most prized locations at The Pearl Island. Floresta Gardens offers a variety of community living options, characterised by a Mediterranean-style architecture. Floresta Gardens spans an area of 145,967 sq m and will be home to 5,000 residents, 10 mid-rise residential towers and 115 villas within three-gated villa compounds, and a 3,500 sq m shopping centre.

Giardino Village

The exclusive Giardino Village is located in a tranquil enclave with close proximity to the vibrant retail hubs of Medina Centrale and Porto Arabia, making it perfect for those wanting a discrete residence in a more sheltered locale. Giardino Village offers a variety of investment options for individual investors or property developers as it embraces a mixture of properties, ranging from 470 to 2,427 sq m and including completed villas, villa plots and low-rise building plots with a ground floor and three or five additional storeys.

Isola Dana The jewel in The Pearl Island’s crown, Isola Dana comprises nine independent islands and is the largest, most private residential precinct in the island. Named after the world’s rarest and most valuable pearl, Dana, and the Spanish word for ‘island’ – Isola Dana is accessed via a private causeway. These private islands enable investors to style their own residences. Palatial homes adorn the exquisite 18,000 sq m islands, which are unquie in the Middle East and throughout the world. Each island has its own expansive beach and protected harbour for yachts and motor cruisers. The complex is served by an access channel 4 m deep to facilitate passage to larger private vessels.

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 Island. Also known as the Avenue of Towers, the Abraj Quartier is considered the ideal location of choice for many businesses, with the two highly prestigious 42 storey towers standing at 201 m, each housing a panoramic floor of breathtaking views towards the mainland across the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf. Costa Malaz Costa Malaz is an oasis of calm and quiet luxury. Both architecture and landscaping evoke the atmosphere of a tropical island with 2,000 sq m of luxury beachfront villa plots. The luxurious Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha is situated on an islet in the central bay of this precinct. Fringed by pristine sand, this hotel provides an elegant sanctuary with delightful views, privacy and seclusion.

Qanat Quartier (QQ) is a private and picturesque community where Venetian charm meets Arabian chic. With pastel-coloured low-rise buildings, intricate canals, pedestrian-friendly piazzas, Qanat Quartier is Qatar’s very own little Venice. Each waterway is spanned by stylish bridges further evoking Italian romantic living. A wide choice of boutiques and outlets offer a great shopping experience. Residents and visitors can pick from a variety of F&B outlets. The district boasts a worldclass beach front with outstanding views, and a visitor parking space for over 1,000 cars. Don't miss stepping on the Music Steps, linking QQ7 boardwalk with the mezzanine level.

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Viva Bahriya is architecturally themed to echo the very best of the Arab Maghreb with Moroccan-styled townhouses and apartments exuding Moorish elegance. Viva Bahriya is perfect for families and those seeking a more relaxed locale. A range of residential options is available including one to four-bedroom apartments and penthouses located in elegant tower residences, with unit sizes ranging from 107 to 623 sq m. Townhouses and low-rise towers offer innovative design and features with direct beach views. Among the most significant residential features in Viva Bahriya are Al Mutahidah Towers. Comprising two connected towers of 24 floors each, the high-rise structure features 480 residential units of various dimensions including studios, lofts, luxury apartments, and townhouses as well as high-level penthouses.

Porto ArabiaQanat Quartier

Perlita Gardens is a mixed villa and townhouse development in a secluded environment located immediately to the south of Medina Centrale. Characterised by lush landscaping, seclusion is the defining feature of Perlita Gardens.

Viva Bahriya

Medina Centrale

The popular Medina Centrale is a town square inspired by the charming ambience of the Mediterranean. With a mixture of public plazas, gardens, terraces, canopies and piazza, it is a residential destination that brings together the unique qualities and charm of the island. The precinct regularly comes alive with celebrations and events as it turns into a pedestrian-only area. It provides its residents with a wide variety of lifestyle activities, all within walking distance. A number of play areas are provided for kids to enjoy themselves while parents sit back and enjoy a selection of sidewalk cafés. It's home to more than 500 residential units, 130 retail shops, 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.

IslandPearlThe

Qanat Quartier

The Pearl Island 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 brands in the world – offering everything from couture fashion, to exquisite jewellery and home décor.

In a nutshell...

Perlita Gardens

Porto Arabia Porto Arabia represents a modern Mediterranean district with a mix of indoor and outdoor retail outlets. With a wealth of popular international brands, a broad range of F&B options and a planned five-star hotel and resort, Porto Arabia is a complete upscale living, leisure, and recreational destination. The precinct offers friendly services and amenities ranging from climate-controlled shopping arcades, open-air boardwalk with access to valet parking facilities, water taxi drop-offs and golf cart transportation. A range of residential options is available including one to four-bedroom apartments, penthouses and one to three-bedroom townhouses with unit sizes from 116 to 900 sq m. 800 6222, thepearlqatar.com B4 m

ArabiaPorto GewanIsland LusailStreet ThePearlBoulevard Qanat Quartier Ritz-CarltonTheDoha GrandHyatt Hilton St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island Mondrian DiplomaticClub Legtaiﬁya Metro & StationTram 1 Oyster Beach QuartierAbraj TowerUDC GewanIslandBridge Perlita Gardens Beach MarsaKempinski 6427 10 12 14 16 232218 29 27 31 30 LaCroisette iCLarosette Medina Centrale Medina Centrale MassamenRostado & Atai Rest. Saj Al Samak Fish House Suisse SeventyChaletWest Rest. Origin Cafe Halo VivaArtistVolumeAsproBaskinDomino’sGingerAryaasCafeExpressClubPizzaRobbinsCafeCafeCafeMexicoby Mr Taco The Breakfast Club Joy BellaCafeCiao Cafe Al Qudsi EvergreenRestaurantOrganics Water taxi service Boat trips/hire Qanat Quartier Ronautica Flight and Car Simulators 12-lane Bowling Alley Karaoke Rooms Billiards and Snooker Indoor Golf Simulator Xbox and PS4 Game Zone Escape Rooms EntertainmentMegapolis Centre BeachBeach LordBiellaof the Wings Debs W Reman Res. La Casa Twenty Eight CaffèApplebee'sFatburgerEggspectationVergnano 1882 Moka GermanZaatarNando’sCaféWZeitDoner Kabab Chocolate Coffee Lounge Build It Burger Eden TurqouiseKarakiCafe Café and AlBaladnaGalleryMajles Diyafa Hasan Kolcuoglu Shater IlTriangleAbbasGelatodiBruno TexasMaia Chicken Trafﬁc Department LagoonaMall marhaba.qa7.2022 Fitness, Health, Spa Entertainment, Music Centre Pharmacy, Veterinary Clinic Sports, Fashion, Flowers Nursery Qanat Quartier Furniture,HypermarketFashion, Flowers Banks, Fitness,TelecomsSpaand Accessories CarPharmacyLaundrySportsEntertainmentShopRental Medina Centrale Iksha(UDC360Tower, 42nd Floor) Gourmet District Food Court (Ground Floor) UDC Tower TowerTreve Sedra Arjaan by Rotana (Tower DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE © MARHABA

BahriyaViva The Pearl BoulevardWOQOD The Pearl IslandFayrouzFanarVillas Isola Dana Gardens FlorestaGardens Al MutahidahTowers FlorestaGalleriaMall LaSouthPlage GiardinoGardens SchoolUnitedInt’l Porsche VillasBahri MarsaKempinskiMalaz 20 1 Burj Al Hamam Le Relais de l'Entrecote Chocolate Jar The French Olive IslaAnime Cafe Gold GodivaGourmetHarvestCoffee 2 Soy by ElevationInnovationSatoCafeBurger 4 CAF Cafe 6 The Village Grill PAUL Häagen-DazsCafe 10 The Noodle House Cafe Eleven Eleven 12 Junko Sushi 14 Caribou Coffee 16 Sabah W Masa Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf One of Doha’s premier shopping districts, The Pearl Island’s Mediterranean-style marinas are lined with stylish cafés, restaurants and elegant boutiques featuring many of the world’s top luxury brands La Croisette Beach CentraleMedina 18 SubZeroCarluccio’sArabesqueEmirganSutis 20 Mado OrkadoTurkeyChocolate 22 Casa Paco Java U Cafe Royal Tandoor 23 Karak Mqanes Rose Sweet 25 Fleurs et MopoChocolateriaCafeEcuadorCrabtoniteSeafoodsBrisketStation 27 Flat PokeWhiteDistrict Rest. 29 LevantineKunefeHouseRootsRestaurant 30 Nineteen 90 Rest. Torte Miky’sDeliziaDeli 31 Coffee JoonWhiteYasmineRoomPalacePalacePersianRest. Porto Arabia AccessoriesFlowersFloor) (TowerArjaanCinemasNovoMegapolis26) © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

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:

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.

• Women's Accessories and Perfumes • Men's Accessories • Perfumes • Nuts • 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 local restaurants and coffee shops with modern twists such as E'asair Cafe, Al Baranda, 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), Danat Al Bahar (barbecue fish), Barahat Al Wakra (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 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.

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.

Souq Al Wakra Beach

Souq Al Wakra, also known as Souq Waqif, Al Wakra or Heritage Village, officially opened on Al Wakra seafront in late 2014.

Qatar's second Souq Waqif stands in Al Wakra and is becoming a top destination for residents and tourists alike.

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Souq Al Wakra

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

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rooms grouped around shaded majlis, perfect for celebrations or family 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.

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 Openvillagewalkways 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

For more information, visit tivolihotels.com

WakraAlSouq

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

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 barbecue 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 Tivoligatherings.Spaoffers 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.

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. Other souvenirs include dhow boat miniatures, 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.

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Souq Al Wakra 1 Al Nouhkaza Restaurant - Arabic 2 Bennigan’s - American, Burgers 3 Danat Al Bahar - BBQ Fish, Seafood 4 Royal Tandoor - North Indian 5 Al Aker Sweets - Arabic Desserts 6 LalQila - Pakistani, Indian 7 Al Koufa - Arabic 8 Al Fanar - Arabic 9 Mercato Antico - Italian 10 Barahat Al Wakra - Arabic 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 clean air and absence of big-city bustle. 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 2 Jarnen - Mediterranean 3 Mahaadeg - International 4 Markhan - Arabic Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar Restaurants/Cafes © MARHABA AUTUMN 2022

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With its magnificent waterfronts, Luxurious hotel, unrivalled accommodations, lush greens, and the state-of-the-art waterpark at its heart, the world’s highest tower of its kind. Invest now in Qatar’s future iconic destination. Together, the picture is complete. Offers a whole new way of living.

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