Discovering Qatar: Spring/Summer 2022

83rd ISSUE

S P R I N G/S UMME R 2022 EMERGENCY AND IMPORTANT NUMBERS QATAR AT A GLANCE GETTING AROUND QATAR TRAVELLER INFORMATION SIGHTSEEING and SIGHTSEEING HOTSPOTS FEATURES QATAR: THE ARAB WORLD’S SAFEST COUNTRY HOME OF HERITAGE TREES OF QATAR

Discovering

Qatar

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FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Commemorative Plate Own this exquisite and unique collectible, Only '2022' limited editions are available!

24K-18K gold plated-steel plate, 24K gold plated holder

Traditional Qatari Sadu Pattern encircling the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ official logo

©FIFA, FIFA's Official Licensed Product, Logos, and the Emblems, Mascots, Posters and Trophies of the FIFA World Cup™ tournaments are copyrights and/or trademarks of FIFA.

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Exclusive by traditional artisan techniques

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Commemorative Plate Limited Edition will be available online to purchase for a limited period only or till stocks last.

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©

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Founder & Managing Editor Hilary Bainbridge Editorial Sarah Palmer (Editor) Ola Diab (Deputy Editor) Terry Sutcliffe Advertising Howard Bainbridge Charlotte Wright Retail Sales Ayen Molina Maria Anicas Online/Digital Lalaine Turqueza Weslee Dizon Ramla Mohamed Abdirahman Design and Artwork Dick Tamayo Mar Principe

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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. © 2021/22 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 Fax (+974) 4465 5588 General Information marhaba@qatar.net.qa Retail Sales retailsales@marhaba-qatar.com Follow us

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Emergency and Important Numbers 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 Sadd (Suhaim bin Hamad Street) 4439 6020 Al Shamal (Al Ruwais) 4027 3000

Government Entities Baladiya 184 Consumer Protection 800 5000

Emergency and Important Numbers

Al Rayyan (Al Furousiya Street) 4481 5447

* The asterix indicates that these ministries have changed due to a cabinet reshuffle. At the time of going to press, numbers for the new ministries were unavailable.

Government Call Centre (Hukoomi) 109 Roadside and Break Down Assistance iParks 4406 9955 Mowasalat Taxi 4458 8888 Qatar Assist 5545 5252 *Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs (MADLSA) 4028 8888

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.

Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE)

155

Ministry of Foreign Affairs 4011 1111 Ministry of Interior (MOI)

236 7111

Ministry of Justice

137

*Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME)

184

*Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC)

16016

MOI eServices and Metrash2

234 2000

Qatar in the Living in Qatar section.

National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) 4404 8844

Foreign Embassies

Public Works Authority (Ashghal)

See Foreign Embassies in this section.

Qatar Post (QPost) 4446 4000

Animals For pet emergency, see Pets in Day to Day

16000

Nesma'ak (Hamad Medical Corporation)

16060

Hayyak (Primary Health Care Corporation)

107

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 2344 4444 Utilities Kahramaa (electricity and water)

Checked & Updated February 2022

Health Enquiries Health Unified Contact Center (COVID-19)

188

991

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

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EXTRAORDINARY AWAITS YOU WE BUILD MORE THAN JUST STRUCTURES

www.qetaifanprojects.com DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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Discovering Qatar

D

In this issue

Emergency and Important Numbers

Arabic Phrases

Map of Qatar

Qatar at a Glance

Feature – Qatar: World’s Safest Country

• • • • • • •

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

Qatar’s Government Structure 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 usercontributed database on cities and countries.

Cultural Awareness

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Foreign Embassies Digital Qatar Traveller Information • Visas • eCash Cards • Entry Visas • Airlines • Travel Agencies

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Discovering Qatar Maps Southeast Coast

Greater Doha

Al Wakra

Doha Bay and Corniche

Mesaieed Industrial City

Doha Central Area

The Pearl‑Qatar

Msheireb Downtown Doha

Katara Cultural Village

Lusail City

Souq Waqif

Northeast Coast

Souq Al Wakra

Al Khor

Souq Area

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

Discovering Qatar

Qatar

Features Qatar: The Arab World’s Safest Country Parks, Parks & More Parks Home of Heritage Trees of Qatar

Main Urban Centres Getting Around Qatar • Karwa Taxis • Doha Limousine (Karwa) • Karwa Public Bus and Metro Link • Doha Metro • Greater Doha Metro System

Doha City and other maps Sightseeing Things to see and do in Qatar, from Archaelogical Sites to Organised Tours

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. ©

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Madinat Al Shamal

Zulal Wellness Resort

State of

Al Mafjar

Al Ruwais

Qatar

Al Ghariya

Khidaj Fort

Al Jemail Fort Al Rekayat Fort Fuwairit Maroona

Al Thaghab Fort Ras Eshairiq

Jabal Al Jassasiya

Al Zubara Fort Al Zubara UNESCO World Heritage Site Umrair Fort Lisha

Ras Girtas

Lehwaila RL Support Services Area

Ain Al Numan

Madinat Al Kaaban

Leghwairiya

Ras Laffan Industrial City

77

Rawdat Al Faras

Simsima Umm Birka

141

1 Reservoir Al Sha

Al Suwaihliya

mal R

Al Qaaiya

Al Nafayid

Semaisma

Losail Circuit

Umm Al Amad

Reservoir PRPS 2

Al Dosari Game Reserve

Umm Slal Ali

Al Otouriya

2

6

Umm Slal Mohammed 1

3

Lusail City Qetaifan Island North

Barzan Tower

Al Sabbana Dukhan

DFC IKEA

Golf

The Pearl-Qatar

Al Sheehaniya

Al Salamiya Sheikh Faisal Farm & Museum

Al Majd Road Reservoir PRPS 3

2 Al Sailiya SAA

Industrial Area

Madinat Al Mawater

Ing

Barwa City PRPS 5 ad

5

Qeezan Al Kharaej

lw Sa

a

QLV

d

Earth Satellite Station Makaines

Taas Al Darb

Singing Sand Dunes

2 Reservoir PRPS 4

Al Majd Road

r a Ro ad

Baidaa Al Qaa

Taas Al Karaana Qawz Al Kharaej

Al Karaana Lagoon

Al Wukair

Al

ed

a Ro

Al Wakra

Ro

GR 39

Hamad International or Airport Corrid Barwa Village

saie

Al Kharsaah (site of Solar Power Plant)

Banana Island

Al Rayyan

Me

Rawdat Rashed

56

Doha

Education City

Al Wajba

33

Qaryat Al Muhanna

Mall of Qatar

Rd

Dukhan

Umm Bab

Umm Qarn

Al Daayen Municipality

Zekreet

Al Khor

Airfield

14

Al Majd Road Ras Laffan Mesaieed 4

Lijmiliya

Film City

Al Bayt Stadium

oad

Berak Al Soudan

Ras Abrouq

Al Thakhira

PRPS 1

Um Alhoul

7

Marsa Port

Hamad Port

Mesaieed

a arr Kh

Shalla

Al Kharrara Umm Hawta

Sealine Beach Resort

Hilton Salwa Beach Resort Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park

Dohat Salwa Salwa Bay

Zubarat Al Masszhabiya Bu Samra

Non-stop Superhighway

Qurain Abu Al Bawl Zubarat Al Eraiq

Naqa Zuwayyid

Upgraded Highway

Khor Al Adaid Inland Sea

SAA Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor Qatar Heritage Site

Highway

WOQOD

Qeezan Al Eraiq

SAUDI ARABIA

Sand Dunes

Kahramaa Mega Reservoir Project

Sawda Natheel

All Rights Reserved. 02.2022 No part of this map may be reproduced or copied without the written permission of the publishers marhaba.qa

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

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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FEATURE

Qatar:

World's Safest Country

By Ola Diab 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.

Q

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Oman.

Numbeo is the world’s largest cost of living database. Numbeo is also a crowd-sourced global database of quality of life information including housing indicators, perceived crime rates, and quality of healthcare, among many other statistics.

Numbeo has published its annual reports since 2009, based on measurement of the crime rate worldwide.

The index of crimes in countries is measured DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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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.

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).

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.

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

Doha Declaration 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 Development.

In a statement 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.

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.

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 conferences.

Ambassador 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. m ©

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Cultural Awareness

Cultural Awareness 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.

Please do...

Please don't...

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

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

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

be offended if your handshake is refused by the opposite sex. Handshakes are often refused to members of the opposite sex. It is a religious and cultural prohibition applicable to Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

dress modestly in Qatar, which is a Muslim country with conservative dress codes for both males and females. Avoid shorts and short skirts, strapless and crop tops and other forms of revealing and transparent clothing especially to work, schools, malls, parks and other familyfriendly destinations. Government offices will turn away people for inappropriate clothing. 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. 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. be aware of the holy month of Ramadan as Muslims fast for a whole month. Most restaurants and all night clubs close during the holy month.

Refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during the fasting hours. It is particularly important to dress modestly during Ramadan.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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. m

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Arabic Phrases

PRINT and ONLINE

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

Courtesies/Responses

Goodbye (Go in peace) May God protect you How are you?

And you?

Thank God Thanks Welcome (in response to 'thank you') Please Yes/No I'm sorry Congratulations

assalam a'laykum wa’alaykum salam sabah al khair sabah al noor massa al khair massa al noor marhaba or tafaddal/*tafaddali ma’a salaamah Allah yehmik/*Allah yehmiki kaif halak?/*kaif halik wa ant?/*wa anti al hamdu lillah shukran a'fwan min fadlak/*min fadlik na’am or aiwa/la ana mutaassef/*ana mutaasefa mabrook Eid blessings

Days of the Week Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

yum yum yum yum yum yum yum

al al al al al al al

ahad ithnain thalatha arba’a khamees jum’a sabt

Time What time is it? a-sa’a kam?

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

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

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

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

Numbers 0 sifr

2 ithnain 4 arba’a 6 sitta

٦

7 saba’a

٣

٥

٧

8 thamanya 9 tissa’a

٩

٨ ١٠

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

Shopping/Eating Out Where is the market?

I want to buy...

Do you have ...?

Have/Don’t have How much is it?

Cheap/Expensive Newspaper/Book Map of Doha Bank Money Exchange Restaurant What kind of food?

Toilets

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

٤

5 khamsa

Essential Foods

Travel

١ ٢

3 thalatha

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

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

٠

1 wahad

Arabic Phrases

Peace be upon you And upon you be peace Good morning May your morning be bright Good afternoon/evening May your afternoon/evening be bright Welcome

Look!

Where?

On your right On your left Straight on Stop!

Go! Come!

Let's go!

Tell me When?

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

wain al souq? ureed ashtiri... a'ndak…? fi/mafi kam qeemtah? rakhees/ghali jareeda/kitaab khareeta al doha bank surrafa mata'am ay ta'am ladaikum? al hammam

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

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

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HEALTHY LIVING STARTS NOW

‫اﻟﺤﻴﺎة اﻟﺼﺤﻴﺔ‬ !‫ﺗﺒﺪأ ا ن‬

The best time to start your new fitness journey is always right now. That’s why The Fitness Box is open to all, with free sessions and no need to book ahead.

Just turn up and work out!

!‫ا ن ﻫﻮ أﻓﻀﻞ وﻗﺖ ﻛﻲ ﺗﺒﺪأ ﻣﺸﻮار اﻟﻠﻴﺎﻗﺔ‬ ‫ﻟﻴﻘﺪم ﺣﺼﺼ‬ ‫"ﻓﺘﻨﺲ ﺑﻮﻛﺲ" ﻣﺘﺎح أﻣﺎم اﻟﺠﻤﻴﻊ‬ ّ ‫ ﻛﻞ ﻣﺎ ﻋﻠﻴﻚ‬.‫رﻳﺎﺿﻴﺔ ﻣﺠﺎﻧﻴﺔ وﻣﻦ دون ﺣﺠﺰ ﻣﺴﺒﻖ‬ .‫ﻓﻌﻠﻪ ﻫﻮ أن ﺗﺄﺗﻲ وﺗﺒﺪأ ﺑﺎﻟﺘﻤﺎرﻳﻦ اﻟﺮﻳﺎﺿﻴﺔ‬

Scan the QR code to see when and where you can get started with The Fitness Box!

‫اﻣﺴﺢ اﻟﺮﻣﺰ ﻟﻤﻌﺮﻓﺔ ﺟﺪول اﻟﺘﻤﺎرﻳﻦ وﻣﻜﺎن وﺟﻮد‬ ."‫"ﻓﺘﻨﺲ ﺑﻮﻛﺲ‬

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Qatar at a Glance

Qatar at a Glance

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

Common Courtesies Please dress modestly when out in public.

As a show of respect towards the culture and tradition of Qatar, visitors and expatriates (both men and women) should dress conservatively.

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

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

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

Alcohol is 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.

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.

Time

Currency

Qatar local time is three hours ahead of GMT, also known as Universal Coordinated Time. It is fixed across the country and throughout the year.

There is no summer daylight saving.

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

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

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

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Public Holidays The dates of religious public holidays (Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha) are fixed according to the Hijri (Islamic) calendar. The commencement of the holy month of Ramadan is confirmed the night before by the sighting of the new moon. In 2022, the first day of Ramadan is expected to begin on 2 April, Eid Al Fitr on 2 May, and Eid Al Adha on 10 July – tentative dates.

Qatar's National Day is 18 December each year.

National Sport Day takes place on the second Tuesday of each February. For those in the banking and finance sector, there are additional one day public holidays in January and March, depending upon the institution they work for.

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

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

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

Qatar at a Glance

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

• 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.

Demography • Qatar's population in February 2022 was 2,811,774, according to the Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA).

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

Climate

Language and Religion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Ruling Family

Qatar at a Glance

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

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

• The ruling Al Thani family was among a tribal group who had settled at the 'Gibrin' oasis in southern Najd, before their arrival in Qatar during the early 18th century.

Initially, they settled in Zubara in northern Qatar, moving to Doha in the mid-19th century. The family is a branch of the ancient Arab tribe, the Bani Tameem, whose descent can be traced back to Mudar bin Nizar.

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

The Qatari Flag His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Father Amir

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

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

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

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

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

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

• 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.

• In 1999, free elections were held to form a 29-member Central Municipal Council (CMC) for the first time in Qatar’s history. Women DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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.

• 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

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History

Economy

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

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

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

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

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

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

International Relations • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strives to establish and develop close direct ties with all peace-loving countries and peoples of the world.

It is keen to participate actively in efforts to deal with the concerns and challenges that the Gulf region encounters.

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

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

• The Arab League • Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM)

• 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 Asian Group of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) • The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) • The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank • The Organisation of Arab Oil Exporting Countries (OAPEC) and the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) • The Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) • The United Nations (UN) and its subsidiary global organisations • The UNESCO World Heritage Committee • The US officially designated Qatar as a major non-NATO ally in March 2022 • The World Trade Organisation (WTO) • The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO)

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

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

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

• 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.

Checked & Updated February 2022

Qatar is a member of: • European Council (observer member)

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

Qatar at a Glance

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

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

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

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Qatar's Government Structure

Qatar's Government Structure

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.

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 Amir is the Head of State and the Commanderin-Chief of the armed forces. The Advisory Council represents the legislative power, while judicial authority is in the hands of the law courts with judgments announced in the name of the Amir.

The Amir is assisted by the Council of Ministers (the cabinet), the Prime Minister and Supreme Councils. The Prime Minister and other ministers are directly appointed by the Amir; he will also accept their resignations or relieve them of their appointment, by Amiri Decree.

The 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.

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.

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.

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 DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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'.

Turnout was 63.5%. 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.

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.

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 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.

Pictured from left: HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Dr Hamda bint Hassan Al Sulaiti, Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council

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marhaba.qa The current Council of Ministers: • Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani – appointed January 2020 following the resignation of HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani. He 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).

• Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs HE Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah – appointed Minister of State for Defence in January 2016 and Deputy Prime Minister in November 2017. He has been a member of the Council of Ministers since 2011 when he was Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; HE Al Attiyah was Minister of Foreign Affairs 2013–16.

Qatar's Government Structure

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• 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).

• 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 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 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).

Checked & Updated February 2022

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

• 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).

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 m ©

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Foreign Embassies in Qatar

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

Canada C4 4419 9000 canadainternational.gc.ca/qatar

Albania B4 4002 7413 ambasadat.gov.al/qatar

Central African Republic B3 4481 7695 ambrcadoha@gmail.com

Algeria B4 4483 5880 embalgeria.com.qa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Azerbaijan B4 4493 2450 doha.mfa.gov.az

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

Bangladesh D4 4467 1927 bdembassydoha.org

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

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

Dominican Republic B4 4411 3868 embadomqatar.org

Belgium B4 4493 1499 qatar.diplomatie.belgium.be

Ecuador B4 4016 1800 cancilleria.gob.ec/catar

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

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

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

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

Brunei B4 4483 1956

Eswatini (previously Swaziland) B4 4493 3145

Bulgaria B4 4412 0023 mfa.bg/embassies/qatar

Ethiopia B4 4020 7000 doha.mfa.gov.et

Burkina Faso B4 4472 8915 See their Facebook page

France B4 4402 1755 qa.ambafrance.org

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Georgia B4 4473 9499 qatar.mfa.gov.ge Germany C4 4408 2300 doha.diplo.de Ghana B4 4436 4486 Greece B4 4412 8150 mfa.gr/missionsabroad/en/qatar Hungary B4 4493 2531 doha.mfa.gov.hu India (Republic of) B4 4425 5777 indianembassyqatar.gov.in Indonesia (Republic of) C4 4465 7945 kemlu.go.id/doha Iran (Islamic Republic of) B4 4483 1550 qatar.mfa.gov.ir Iraq (Republic of) C3 4421 6730 mofa.gov.iq/doha Italy B3 4483 1802/28 ambdoha.esteri.it Japan B4 4440 9000 qa.emb-japan.go.jp Jordan B4 4483 2202/3 doha@fm.gov.jo Kazakhstan B3 4412 8015 See their Facebook page Kenya (Republic of) B4 4493 1870 kenyaembassydoha.com Korea (Republic of) B4 4483 2238/9 overseas.mofa.go.kr/qa-en/index.do Kosovo (Republic of) C4 5509 4791 embassy.qatar@rks-gov.net Kuwait B4 4483 2111 kuwaitembassy@qatar.net.qa Kyrgyz Republic B4 4413 1519 mfa.gov.kg Lebanon B4 4493 3330 lebaneseembassyqatar.com

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marhaba.qa Liberia (Republic of) B4 4412 5672 libemg.doha@yahoo.com

Peru C3 4491 5944 consulado.pe/es/Doha

Syria B4 4020 8222 syrembassy.com

Libya B4 4483 1231 leinqatar@gmail.com

Philippines B3 4483 1585 dohape.dfa.gov.ph

Tajikistan (Republic of) B3 4412 3906 tajembqatar.tj

Malaysia B4 4483 6463 kln.gov.my/web/qat_doha

Mauritania (Islamic Republic of) B4 4016 2222 Mexico B4 4450 8000 infoembqatar@sre.gob.mx Moldova B4 4442 1303 qatar.mfa.gov.md Morocco B4 4483 1884/85 m.embassydoha@maec.gov.ma Nepal D3 4467 5681 qa.nepalembassy.gov.np Niger B4 4421 9045 ambanigerqatar@hotmail.com Nigeria B4 4448 5000 nigeriaembassydoha.org North Macedonia (Republic of) B4 4493 1374 mfa.gov.mk6

Pakistan B4 4483 2525 mofa.gov.pk/doha-qatar Palestine B4 4469 2228 palemb-qa.com

Romania B4 4493 4848 doha.mae.ro Russia B4 4483 6231/6821 qatar.mid.ru/en Senegal B4 4483 7644/77 embassysenegal@yahoo.com Serbia (Republic of) B4 4417 5181 doha.mfa.gov.rs

Thailand B4 4493 4426/4432 doha.thaiembassy.org The Gambia (Republic of) D4 4465 2002 See their Facebook page The Netherlands (Kingdom of) B4 4495 4700 netherlandsandyou.nl/your-countryand-the-netherlands/qatar Tunisia (Republic of) B4 4016 2225 embassyoftunisia.com.qa Turkey (Republic of) B4 4495 1300 doha.emb.mfa.gov.tr Uganda B4 4427 7339

Singapore B4 4412 8082 mfa.gov.sg/doha

Ukraine B4 4414 7297/8 qatar.mfa.gov.ua

Somalia B4 4483 2771 dohaembassy@mfa.gov.so

United Kingdom B4 4496 2000 gov.uk/world/qatar

South Africa B3 4485 7111 dirco.gov.za/doha Spain B4 4483 8986 exteriores.gob.es/embajadas/doha Sri Lanka D5 4467 7627 slembassy-qatar.com Sudan B4 4483 1474 suemdoha2014@gmail.com

United States of America C3 4496 6000 qa.usembassy.gov Uruguay B4 4411 3833/4493 5739 uruqatar@uruguayembassy.org.qa Venezuela B4 4493 2730 qatar.embajada.gob.ve Vietnam B4 4412 8480 vietnamembassy-qatar.org –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Consulates

Panama B4 4483 7740 embpanamaqatar@mire.gob.pa

Sweden C4 4444 9500 swedenabroad.com/doha

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

Paraguay B4 4493 5218 See their Facebook page

Switzerland B3 4020 3400 eda.admin.ch/doha

Northern Cyprus B4

Checked & Updated February 2022

Oman B4 4493 1514 office.omanembassy@gmail.com

Portugal B4 4486 4691 doha.embaixadaportugal.mne.pt

Tanzania (Republic of) B4 4036 0860 qa.tzembassy.go.tz

Foreign Embassies in Qatar

Mali B4 4451 5970 ambamali.doha@gmail.com

Poland (Republic of) B4 4411 3230 gov.pl/web/qatar

Representative Offices 4483 7693 doha.mfa.gov.ct.tr ©

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Digital Qatar band. Both companies have 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. The ‎Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) regulates the ICT and postal sectors. The independent authority ensures fair competition while protecting consumer rights. cra.gov.qa

Internet use and social media

Digital Qatar

In December 2021, Qatar's median download speed ranked it 5 for mobile and 44 for fixed broadband (Source: Speedtest Global IndexTM).

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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%.

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.

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.

The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA), regularly 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 twostep verification feature online where applicable and regularly change passwords.

Personal privacy protection 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.

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,

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marhaba.qa 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.

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.

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.

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.'

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

Checked & Updated February 2022

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.

Digital Qatar

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.

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.

Sources: Unofficial translations of the laws. m ©

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Traveller Information

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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.

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. *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

Traveller Information

Qatar Airways is the state-owned flag carrier. The airline operates a hub-and-spoke network, flying to over 150 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.

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

They can also choose to apply for a pre-approved visa using the new online service. Nationals of 243 countries can apply via this online visa service, qatarvisaservice.com, 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 Metrash 2 website at moi.gov.qa or the e-Government Hukoomi website at hukoomi.gov.qa for details.

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

Residents requiring a visa are subject to conditions, one being that the applicant's profession is one of those approved by the MOI. The visa will only be issued if your Residence Permit (RP) is valid for at least six months and if your profession (as mentioned on your RP) appears on the approved list.

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

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

Visas on Arrival • • • • • • • • • •

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

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

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

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

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

Traveller Information

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

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

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

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

Business entry visa: For one month and a maximum of three months – QAR200 plus QAR50 for each c* Family visit visa: One month to a maximum of six months – QAR200 plus QAR50 for each c* per month.

Expatriates with family status can bring parents and siblings on a visit of up to six months (up to three months for other relatives). A Medical Commission check-up is necessary to extend the visa beyond one month (within 72 hours of arrival).

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

Visit 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 multicity booking option to include the stop when booking your flight on qatarairways.com or through a travel agent.

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

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

Airlines (local agency in brackets) Air India

4416 1651

Pakistan Int’l Airlines

4442 6292

Air India Express

4038 7373

Pegasus

4442 1807

Air France & KLM

4036 0582

Philippine Airlines (ST)

4422 7302

Badr Airlines

4444 3321

Qatar Airways

4023 0000

Biman Bangladesh Airlines

4444 3054

Qatar Airways Holidays

4423 7104

Cathay Pacific (TOT)

4445 8318

Royal Air Maroc (ABA)

4444 1161

Ethiopian Airlines

4416 1010

Royal Jordanian

4442 3888

IndiGo

4036 7777

SalamAir

4442 0944

Iran Air

4432 3666

Singapore Airlines

4499 5740

Kuwait Airways

4442 2392

SriLankan Airlines (ABA)

4444 1217

Middle East Airlines MEA

4434 2978

SyrianAir

4441 2912

Nepal Airlines

4431 7070

Tarco Air

3124 2999

Oman Air

4414 2222

Turkish Airlines

4443 3028

*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.

Travel Agencies Ali Bin Ali Travel (ABA)

4444 1161

Space Travel (ST)

4422 7333

Darwish United Travels (DUT)

4445 2276

Tawfeeq Travels

4448 4848

Mannai Air Travel

4428 2666

Trans Orient Travel (TOT)

4445 8458

Regency Travel & Tours (RTT)

4434 4444

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STOPOVER IN ISTANBUL COMPLIMENTARY HOTEL STAY AND EASY VISA 1 night for Economy Class 2 nights for Business Class

You can extend your stay with special prices starting from 49 USD per night

Terms and conditions apply, visit turkishairlines.com

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Hamad International Airport

HIA has been recognised as the ‘Best Airport in the World 2021', ranking number one by Skytrax World Airport Awards 2021. 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.

HIA Call Centre

4010 6666

Passport Department

4465 6490

Security

4010 9555

Lost luggage services

4462 6531

dohahamadairport.com

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

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

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

queuing times. HIA recently installed 62 self-checkin and 12 self-bag-drop kiosks, which include biometric technology capability.

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.

Hamad International Airport

HIA (airport 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 has witnessed a 41.37% increase in the number of passengers served in 2021 compared to 2020, with a total of 17,702,635 passengers served. Airport cargo operations increased by 20.71% in 2021, with 2,589,283 tonnes of cargo handled in 2021 along with the introduction of six new cargo destinations. Aircraft movement also grew by 28.12%, with 169,909 total aircraft take-off and landing at HIA.

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

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

Taxes: As of 1 April 2022, passengers arriving, leaving, or transiting through HIA will now have to pay extra service tax. The fees include the following four additions: • QAR60 per passenger: Airport development fees for all departing passengers, including those transiting for up to 24 hours.

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

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

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 exempted. ©

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Hamad International Airport

• 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.

• QAR10 Card: two inner-city trips within a 24 hour period • QAR20 Card: unlimited trips across Qatar within a 24 hour period • Regular Karwa Smartcard QAR30: QAR10 for the card with QAR20 value, available to be topped up for future journeys All buses depart from the Bus Pavilion at the right side on exiting the passenger terminal.

Exit the Arrivals hall by following the signs to the Bus Pavilion or ask at an information desk for assistance. Each bus offers a cargo area for stowing your baggage during the journey. The Karwa Bus App is available on iOS and Android.

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

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

Limousines: Chauffeur-driven limousines are available to take you from HIA to anywhere in Qatar. To pre-book, call Mowasalat Limousine on 800 5466. Use Exits 2 or 3 to leave the Arrivals

area and you will find your limousine parked there. For on-arrival booking simply approach the Mowasalat Limousine kiosk located in the Arrivals hall. For more information, visit mowasalat.com HIA Metro Station: The Doha Metro’s Red Line 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.

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.

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

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

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marhaba.qa 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

Departures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

Hamad International Airport

Exit Permit: 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.

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.

Lounges

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.

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. ©

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Hamad International Airport

with reduced mobility. This service desk is the first counter in each check-in row, with the exception of Qatar Airways’ check-in 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.

The Airport Hotel Transferring customers are catered for with the very best in convenience, comfort and choice. For convenience, there’s no need to leave the terminal to avail yourself of the hotel's services. The rooms and facilities, including the adjoining wellbeing and fitness centre, provide the ultimate in comfort. And there’s excellent choice, with six room types and a range of packages and rates on offer. hiahotel.com

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

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

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

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

Medical and fire emergencies Fully-equipped and well-staffed medical centres are operational 24/7. There are two medical centres serving the passenger terminal. One is located in Arrivals just before the Passport Control area, while the other is in Departures near the Check-in area. Just follow the signs, ask at an information desk or use an airport map to find your way. In case of an emergency, you can also call 4010 9222 to directly contact the medical team.

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

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

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

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

Traveling with animals 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.

Shopping at duty free Qatar Duty Free (QDF) offers passengers an array of selected designer labels, high street fashions, electronics, gourmet foods and much more.

Passengers at HIA can shop at boutiques and stores such as Bally, Bvlgari, Burberry, 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.

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.

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Hamad International Airport

Art at HIA

Lamp Bear by Urs Fischer

Desert Horse by Ali Hassan

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.

Oryx by Tom Claassen

Falcon by Tom Claassen

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.

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Hamad International Airport

Other Worlds by Tom Otterness

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

Arctic Nurseries of El Dorado by Marc Quinn

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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Hamad International Airport

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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.

COSMOS by Jean-Michel Othoniel

Small Lie by KAWS

COSMOS 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.

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.

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Untitled by Rudolf Stingel

Mappemondes

by Adel Abdessemed

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. ©

MARHABA

Checked & Updated February 2022

A Message of Peace to the World

by Ahmed Al Bahrani

Hamad International Airport

Italian artist Rudolf Stingel’s work 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.

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Main Urban Centres

Main Urban Centres

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

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

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

Al Khor and Al Wakra – Former Pearl and Fishing Centres Al Khor provides a pleasant weekend break from Doha, and is easily reached on Al Shamal Road (Route 1) and on the newly re-opened Al Khor Coastal Road (Route 6). There are play areas and sun shelters along the Al Corniche, as well as photo opportunities at the old fishing harbour and the nearby mangroves, which are full of bird life.

There is a small museum in the old police station, showing early life in this small town, as well as some archaeological discoveries from the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. Large public gardens to the north of Al Khor (signposted from Al Shamal Road) also attract weekend picnickers. Al Farkiya Beach is another development just outside Al Khor: see Sightseeing in this section for more information.

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

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

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

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

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

There are currently 21 Marhaba maps. They include the country map of Qatar, Greater Doha and maps of all provincial towns, including Al Wakra, Al Khor and Mesaieed.

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

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Marhaba

Pocket Map 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

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Follow us

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Getting Around Qatar

The most visible taxis and public buses in Qatar are operated by Mowasalat (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 Karwa Taxi is the exclusive taxi operator in the State of Qatar. On arrival at Hamad International Airport (HIA), just follow the signs for the taxi rank and stressfree transportation. Download the Karwa Taxi App for bookings, call 4458 8888/ 800 8294, or hail from the side of the road. Taxis can always be found at prominent locations: malls, hotels, etc. Travellers with special needs can book a minivan via the app, suitable for two or three wheelchairs and accompanying passengers. The same tariff applies.

Tariff

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

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

At HIA: Meter starts at QAR25.

Waiting charge: QAR8 for every 15 minutes.

Doha Limousine (Karwa) Doha Limousines provides three categories of limousine – Standard, Luxury and Business. All are available at the HIA limousine rank, by booking through the Karwa Taxi App or by calling 4458 8888/800 5466. They can be booked for specific journeys, by the hour, or rented on a short-term or long-term basis. All limousines are metered and tracked by the operation team.

marhaba.qa

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 Hamad International Airport and all major five-star hotels.

Karwa Public Bus and Metro Link Mowasalat (Karwa) services an extensive bus network with a modern fleet. In addition to regular routes, the Metro Link buses transport guests from dedicated Metro Link bus stops to the nearest Metro Station. For information about routes, trip planning and electronic ticket purchase, download the Karwa Bus App, or call 4458 8888/800 7433.

Getting Around Qatar

Qatar’s public transport includes taxis, buses, limousines, Doha Metro and now the Lusail Tram.

PRINT and ONLINE

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 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 in the west. The Gold Line runs from Ras Bu Abboud to Al Aziziya. Travel cards and credit can be purchased at self-service Travel Card Vending Machines (TVMs) in all Doha Metro stations. 105, qr.com.qa 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. ©

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marhaba.qa 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.

Getting Around Qatar

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 fare-paying adult. A child must be nine years old or above to travel alone on the network. Younger children should be accompanied by someone at least 16 years of age.

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

There are two free feeder bus services, metrolink and metroexpress, which connect customers to the Doha Metro stations. The bus’s operating hours align with the metro’s. qr.com.qa/metrolink, qr.com.qa/metroexpress Find out more about the Doha Metro in the Greater Doha Metro System in this section.

Lusail Tram Lusail Tram is a tram service for convenient travel within the new Lusail City. 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.

The Lusail Tram is now operational and is becoming the main transportation hub for the visionary Lusail City, the largest single sustainable development to be undertaken in Qatar.

Of the 25 stations across four lines that comprise the Tram network, six Orange Line stations will be available for travel initially.

The available stations are Legtaifiya, Marina, Marina Promenade, Yacht Club, Esplanade and Energy City South. Legtaifiya station connects Lusail Tram to the Doha Metro. qr.com.qa/metro-tram 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.

Operating hours: The tram’s operating hours align with the metro’s. Saturday to Wednesday DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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

Electric Charging Stations 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.

Electric charging stations: • Alfardan Towers, Al Dafna • Ezdan Mall – Al Wakra • Fire Station: Artist in Residence • Hamad Port • Kahramaa Awareness Park (KAP) • Kahramaa Headquarters • Katara Cultural Village • Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha • Ministry of Transport • Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) • Qatar Foundation Headquarters • Qatar National Library (QNL) • Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) • Qatar Scientific Club • 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 Program.

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.

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marhaba.qa

Getting Around Qatar

D Ring Road Upgrade!

Huge expressway building projects have brought us better roads all around the capital and the country, starting with non-stop travel from Al Shamal and Ras Laffan in the north to Mesaieed in the south. As you cruise effortlessly into Doha from all points north you may want to access the city from the south side, after crossing Salwa Road, by taking the fork onto D Ring Road. Here loomed the major delaying obstacle of crossing the busy Rawdat Al Khail Street which funnels a lot of traffic between the city and the Industrial Area.

No more! A new underpass has come into operation and with improvements at Nuaija Street (The Mall) and LuLu street-level Intersections, D Ring Road is now a much smoother, and faster, experience.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) opened the new underpass at Fereej Al Ali Intersection, also known as Al Tadamon Intersection, on D Ring Road on 12 February 2022 enhancing the flow of traffic between D Ring Road and Doha Expressway. The number of lanes has been increased from three to four in each direction. Recently, Ashghal has been relying on national products, noting that about 66% of locally made materials such as streetlights, cables, rebar and drainage pipes were used.

Lusail Tram starts operations!

Do you live in Al Wakra and want to take the family for a walk on the Lusail Marine Promenade (also known as Corniche, Boulevard or Esplanade), see the startling new Katara Towers and take in all the impressive developments going on?

Well, hop on the Metro Red Line, and at Legtaifiya Interchange Station you can transfer quickly and easily onto the Lusail Tram network. Lusail Tram has now started operations and has four stations serving the Marina District and Promenade area; you’ll be impressed by the level of safety and comfort, plus the ease of transferring between the Metro and Tram. ©

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

DECC

DECC St

HISTORY, HERITAGE & CULTURE

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

Designed by the renowned French architect, Jean Nouvel.

CON & EX

National Museum of Qatar

Souq Waqif

The State Mosque

Qatar National Library

National Museum Station

Souq Waqif Station

Corniche Station

Qatar National Library Station

Doha wellMeet Exhi Conv open Natio iconi in Q hold Thea

SPORTS & LEISURE Education City Mosque

Katara Cultural Village

Qatar National Library Station

Katara Station

Souk Al Wakra

Museum of Islamic Art

AL Wakra

Souq Waqif Station

Station

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

Legtaifiy

Katara S Aspire Park

Education City Golf Club

Oxygen Park

AL Aziziyah

Education City Station

Qatar National Library Station

Station

Msheireb Museums

Museum of Islamic Art Park

Al Bidda Park

Doha Golf Club

Qatar National Library Station

Msheireb Station

Souq Waqif Station

AL Bidda

Legtaifiya Station

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& Corniche Stations

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Galerie

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CONVENTIONS & EXHIBITIONS

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

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

Have a day trip travelling to see them all!

Khalifa International Stadium

Stadium 974 Ras Bu Abboud Station

Sport City Station

Al Rayyan Stadium

Education City Stadium

SHOPPING & FASHION

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Education City Station

Riffa Station

Lagoona Mall

Gate Mall

Villaggio Mall

Legtaifiya Station

DECC Station

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Galeries Lafayette

Mall of Qatar

City Center Mall

Lusail Stadium

Al Janoub Stadium

Katara Station

AL Riffa Station

DECC Station

Lusail Station

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Al Thumama Stadium

Al Bayt Stadium

Aziziyah Station

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

Wakra Station

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ACS

Al Bayt Stadium is in Al Khor City, 30 km to the north on Al Khor Road

The International School of London in Qatar

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See more details of the area in our map of INDUSTRIAL AREA

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al Sadd Club)

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Royal Hall

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Al Rayyan Security Dept

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

Appletree Nursery

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

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

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

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

Al Rayy

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THE ZONES OF DOHA

City

Debakey

Al Rayyan

MoI HQ

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Lulu

Al Messila

Newton

Racing & Equestrian Club

Town Centre

Messila

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Al Wajba St

Metro Stations

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Al Messila Resort & Spa

Compass

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Gold line Al Aziziyah - Ras Bu Abboud

Ansar Gallery

Nissan Civil Defence Al Ahli Hospital

36 37 Medical

Al Rayyan Al Qadeem

Beverly Hills Al Rayyan

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

20 1 a St

Ate

Al Jazeera

Onaiz

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Philippine School of Doha

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Al Rayyan Municipality Food Jarir Centres Bookstore

Doha College Al Wajba

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Al Jazira Al Arabiya St University Foundation College English Modern School

Al

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QBS QTV

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French Nursery

Omar Bin Al

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Al Shaqab

Chef’s Garden

EC Golf Club

Makkah St

SEK

Imam Mohd Ibn Abdul Wahab Honda

Qatar Guest Centre

Omar Bin Al Khattab

Swiss International

Makkah St Oxygen Park Gate 5

Al Shaqab Mathaf

Edison

Traffic Dept HQ

Al Gharrafa

Souq Al Ali

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All trains connect at Msheireb Station

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College of Islamic Studies Education City Mosque

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CCQ Boys

Al Hazm

Khalifa St

Al Luqta St

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West Bay Al Meera

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Doha Metro Network

Car Park

New

Al Kh

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Kanga’s Pouch

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St

Al Wajba

2 Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI)

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Madinat Khalifa

Porsche Quick Service

Compass QNCC Qatar National Library

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Starfish Lane Kids

Park View Compass Pet Centre

Little Academy

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Education City Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

Premier Inn Doha Education City Hotel

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Al Riffa - Mall of Qatar

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Education City Community Housing

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Japan School

AlRayyan Hotel

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Umm Lekhba

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Mall of Qatar

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Ezdan Mall

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ACS Int’l School

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Ezdan Palace Landmark Mall

Gulf Mall

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Sherborne

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Qatar Canadian School

Duhail

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13. Qatar Foundation Headquarters

Al Ghaf St

Jelaiah Complex

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Lycee Wadi Rawd a n St Voltaire

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Starfish Lane Kids 2

St Al Khafji

Al Gharrafa Sports Club

Al Gharrafa Park

Jeliah St

Qatar Veterinary Centre

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

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

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Qatar Finland Int’l School

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Al Bayt Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

Lusail Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

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2

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Al Khor Semaisma Losail Int’l Circuit

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Al Majd Road 4

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Al Shamal Al Ruwais Ras Laffan Al Zubara Al Khor Umm Garn Umm Slal

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3/28/22 9:53 AM

Ansar Gallery

Nissan

4

Water Slide

Lusail Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

6

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Qetaifan Island North

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Fox Hills South

Royal Meridien Vendome Mall

Beverly Hills Lusail Cielo

Qatari Diar

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Str

WOQOD

QNTC MOCI

Shafallah Centre

69

Newton

Marina

Marina District

Doha Sports Park

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QIPCO

Qatar University

Doha Golf Club Ritz-Carlton

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Mexico

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Moldova

B4

C3

Morocco

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Benin

C3

Nepal

E3

Bosnia & H

B3

Netherlands

C4

Brazil

B3

Niger

C3

Brunei

B3

Nigeria

Bulgaria

B3

North Macedonia C4

Burkina Faso

B3

Oman

B4

Canada

C4

Pakistan

C4

C. African Rep

B3

Palestine

C4

Chile

C4

Panama

B4

China

B3

Paraguay

B4

Costa Rica

C3

Peru

C3

Croatia

B3

Philippines

B3

Cuba

B4

am

C–H

ba I/

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Airp

Free Zone Qatar Free Zone

Kahramaa B Square Mall

C4

B3

Poland

Cyprus

C4

Portugal

Djibouti

B4

Romania

C4

Dom. Rep.

B3

Russia

B4

Ecuador

B4

Senegal

C3

El Salvador

B4

Serbia

B3

Eritrea

E4

Singapore

B4

eSwatini

B4

Somalia

C4

Ethiopia

B4

South Africa

B3

France

B4

C4

C4

Spain

Gambia

E4

Sri Lanka

E4

Georgia

C4

Sudan

B4

Germany

C3

Sweden

C4

Ghana

B3

Switzerland

B3

Greece

B4

Syria

Hungary

B3

Tajikistan

C3

India

C4

Tanzania

C4

Indonesia

D3

Thailand

C4

Iran

C4

Tunisia

C4

Iraq

C4

Turkey

B4

Italy

C4

Uganda

B3

Ivory Coast

B4

Ukraine

B3

Japan

B4

United Kingdom

C4

C4

B

C4

Kazakhstan

B3

United States of America

C3

Kenya

B3

Uruguay

C3

Korea (S)

B4

Venezuela

B4

Kosovo

C4

Vietnam

B3

C

D

B

St

ah A

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Belarus

See our detailed map of the area south of Doha MAP of AL WAKRA

Al Meera

Air Force I/C

St

kra

Al Weteyyat

daill

Al Fa

Wa

Co

Bangladesh

A

oud

Kahramaa Awareness Park

Al

wa

C4

Abb

47

King’s College

t

Ba r

B4

Mauritania

Bu

Sub-station

46

DOHA GREATER MAP M83.indd 3

Mali

B4

g Rd

E Rin

Al Thumama Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

Workers Health Centre

Ras

Oqba Ibn Nafie

ri S

Meteorology

C4

Azerbaijan

Airport Traffic Division

nsa

Mesaimeer

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Medical Commission Drainage Dept

C4

Austria

HIA T1

Al A

ea

Ar

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Nissan

American Academy

ME & HE

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al

tri

B3

Malaysia

A

Airport

St Bin Nafie

aS

Ansar Gallery

Oqba

Concourse C

Ayy

Berlitz

Libya

C4

Oryx Airport Hotel

Qadeem

Shoprite

jm

Mind Institute

45

Montezine

Qatar Red Crescent

E Ring Rd

B3

Australia

E

D

Abu

44

The Mall IAID

Na

Safari

LuLu

Al Ahli Sports Club

et Stre ort Airp Old

t

Qatar Ind Tech QDC

Gulf Times Safeer Arrayah Gulf Rd Family Warehousing ing Food Centre Alfardan R Al Emadi D Hospital Le Mirage Gardens

Elder Tree Nursery

Armenia

Hamad International Airport

Doha Heliport

Umm Ghuwailina

41 42

Summit KG

Tank Farm

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Chevrolet

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43

2526

Regency Kahramaa Halls

C4

Ras Bu Abboud Qatar Aeronautical College

Strato by Warwick Al Mansoura Al Meera Al Meera Hyatt Regency Ford Al Mansour Oryx Doha AAB Mashreq Suites Al Jabor Bank Al Mana Al Matar Al Vision Holiday d R Chrysler g Villa C Rin

Al Meera

Liberia

Sharq Village & Spa

Abu Bakr

Holiday Inn

Financial Marhaba Square

B3

d St

St

Newton Int’l

In

Zaks Uniform Store Ideal Indian

Darwish Travel

D Ring Rd

Doha Mall

Park House

Abbou

rt

40

Crowne Safir Plaza

Al Muntazah Plaza

Argentina

C4

Stadium 974 FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™

Premier Inn Doha Airport Hotel Capital Al Liwan Police Concorde Jarir Bookstore

jm

Al Jazeera Academy

National Museum

Ras Bu

Al Doha Al Jadeda

B Ring Rd

24

Immigration

Pak Education Centre

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Saraya

Na

56

Souq Waqif

B4

Banana Island

by Anantara

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Ramada Encore

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Al Muntazah The Centre Radisson Blu aalishan Rawda

Doha Academy Girls Al Ma Creativity ad Centre ee Qatar Egyptian dS Skills t Language Academy TEK Cambridge Indian Alfardan Girls Cultural Gardens 3 MES Centre Doha Modern Mesaimeer Indian Mesaimeer Services

Bangladesh

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ark

National Museum of Qatar

Movenpick

Alwadi Park Hyatt

Four Points by Sheraton

Westin Doha

Sterling

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German School Doha

Alfardan ardens 4 Dar Al Salam Mall

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he St Souq Al Cornic Waqif Bin Zaid

Amiri Diwan

Kyrgyz Rep

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Dreama

Cruise Ship Terminal

Museum of Islamic Art

Kuwait

B4

Algeria

Jordan

Doha Port

Al Mourjan

American C R Hospital b Nissan ali Rawdat i T CCQ ing R Al Khail Ab d Garden Girls in Omar Bin B New Al Khattab Ali CAA Aslata Skills Park Al Arabi Development Club Center

Al Asiri

D

c

C Ring Rd

pre

Ex

Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al Sadd Club)

Sheraton

Grand Hamad St

ha

Do

55

Bin Mahmoud

Gulf Pearls

Al Mirqab Mall

Cafe Batteel

Ooredoo

Hotel Park

16 23 14 15 27

La Cigale

St

39

Family Food Centre

e j St

Al Sadd St

QNA

by Step

Al Sadd

mad

dan

Vet Surgery

Joaan Swiss Belinn DoubleTree Al Sadd Doha Clinic Victoria Hospital

British Council

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Le Park The Avenue Imperial Suites Millennium Al Asmakh Royal Plaza Mall

St

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Hamad Ambulance Al Bidda Hospital

Wyndham

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Tornado

NCCCR Rumailah Heart

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11 12 2 1 7 22 3 13 4 5 6 17 Al Bidda Park

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Hilton

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DECC

St

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White Palace

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Al Rayy

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

Dafna St

id Al B

City

Debakey

63

Qatar National Theatre

Fire Station

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t

ila

lM

Qatar Post

Corniche

Onaiz

St

iS

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MoI HQ

DOHA HOP-OFF BUS SIGHTSEEING ROUTE stops at

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62

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20 10 n Al

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Nissan Civil Defence Al Ahli Hospital

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InterContinental

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Al Jazeera

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Qatar Sports Club

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QBS QTV

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30

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Imam Mohd Ibn Abdul Wahab Honda

Qatar Guest Centre

Viva

Bahriya Novo Cinemas Sedra Arjaan 31 Residences by Rotana Perlita Beach Beach Gardens

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Al S iya rkh Ma

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22 23

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St Regis

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5/6 Int’change

West Bay Al Meera

Starfish Lane Kids

The PearlQatar

Porsche

20

Al Qassar

Al Co

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Omar Al M

Elder Tree KG

33

Chouiefat

Institut Francais du Qatar

Al M

18

Newton

Newton

Al Khafji St

St

66

67 zm

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4

Rawdat Al Khail St

Ha

iv

Lusail St

68

Un

7

6

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Diplomatic Club

The Chedi

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21 High St

Lycee Wadi Rawd a n St Voltaire

Al Ghaf St

12

ette ois

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14 15

10

Katara

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Hilton The Pearl

Legtaifiya

Ministry of Education

Marsa Malaz Kempinski

Qanat Quartier

Grand Mondrian Hyatt

Legtaifiya Lagoon

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Lagoona Mall

Najma St

aS

B3

Albania

Belgium

Katara Towers

Al Maha Island

Century

eet il Str Lusa

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Lusail City

Waterfront

Afghanistan

Ras Bufontas Qatar Free Zone

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Airport (49) I/C

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3/28/22 9:27 AM

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02.2022 marhaba.qa

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t ee Str

Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab Mosque

Olympic Tower

et tre aS

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QP/Qatar Energy District

Al Dana Khalifa Int’l Club Tennis & Squash Complex

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Monoprix

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West Bay

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Expo 2023 Building

BMW

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Hotel Park

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

St Sheraton

t Palm Tornado Al Fardan Tower B Tower Tower

Qatar Post

Corniche

Qatar National Theater

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

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

October 2021 saw the reorganisation of several Ministries; Map will be updated when locations are determined. Also Qatar Petroleum rebranded to QatarEnergy

Doha Corniche and Bay

Al Mourjan

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

Al Qassar Tower Burj Al Taawon Golden Bay QP/QE District

Cruise Ship Terminal

Fire Station

Doha Port

MoI

Al B

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eet Str

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B

R i ng Road

CR

Jarir Radisson Blu, Dusit D2 Bookstore Doha Blue ad Sterling Rose i St Ro b Zubarah a Complex lw wa Sa Starbucks Ra Al American Language Nissan Hospital Institute Infiniti et re St aalishan lib a iT b CCQ A Girls Omar Bin Bin i l Al Khattab A CAA Health Center Youth Creative Art Centre

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Rawdat Al Khail Garden

Skills Development Centre

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Al Mansoura

soura

Al Man

Al Mansour Suites

Holiday Villa

C Ring Road Financial Square Qatar Credit Bureau

d

Grand Green Regal Garden

B

ng Ri

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Capital Police

Sharq village & Spa

treet Abu Bakr Al Siddiq Mosque

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Corp

Premier Inn Doha Aiport Hotel

Al Liwan Suites

Stre

Hyatt Regency Oryx, Doha

Ford

Chairman

Pappa Roti Nando’s Ric’s Kountry Kitchen

National Museum

Strato

by Warwick Concorde VIP Hotel Copthorne Jaidah Square Crowne Jarir Bookstore Plaza Chevrolet Ai Safir rp VSF Global Holiday Inn or Umm tS t Najma Ghuwailina Souq Steigenberger Al Meera et

Al Meera

Rawda

Doha Stadium

La Rose de Sable Al Jazeera Apts

Al Mansour Plaza

treet

The Centre

K108

Jouri Century

Bus Station

Al Doha B Ring Road Al Jadeda

St na ee

Gulf Pearls

Al Najada

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Souq Waqif

Four Points Mercure

by Sheraton Maharaja Royal Mirage St Msheireb eb Ramada r i ha Encore s u iM A Ring Road Jaidah Home Retaj ad Flyover W Centre Inn Asaha Lebanese Restaurant

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Five Guys Brunchery Vapiano

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by Hilton Qatar

Al Meena St

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St

Koot Fort

Grand Hamad St

Stre

Westin Doha Hotel & Spa

Park Hyatt

Souq Waqif

sm Al A akh St

d ama

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Bin Mahmoud

Doha Oasis

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Applebee’s Burger King McDonald’s TGIF

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Al Fuja

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Qatari Bi

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Swiss Belinn St Kinana

Msheireb Museums

Al Diwa

La Cigale

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Al Sadd St

Joaan

Fraser Suites Golden Tulip Best Western Swissbel Bin Zaid Centre Royal Riviera MME

QCB

Horizon Manor

et Stre

Blue Salon

Msheireb Downtown Doha Mandarin Oriental

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Al Sadd

Centro Capital ze era St

Al Riwaq Banana Island Terminal Souq Waqif Park

Shioukh Mosque

Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb

St oud ahm Bin M

Al Ja

Cor nic he Str ee t Amiri Diwan

Al Bidda

Al Kha

French Olive Chilis Indigrill Shanghai Garden

MIA Park

Al

NCCCR Heart Al Rumailah Hospital Hospital White Ambulance Palace Al Rayyan Road Sapphire Plaza Millennium Plaza

Rawda t Al K

Hamad Hospital

Fishing Harbour

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Hamad bin Khalifa Medical City

Box Park

Museum of Islamic Art

AAB Almana

Najma St

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St

Ministry of Public Health

FIFA World Cup 2022 Countdown Clock

C Ring Road

Al Bidda Park

Chrysler

Gulf Times Arrayah

MARHABA

000 DOHA CORNICHE MAP M83.indd 1

4/6/22 2:30 PM

Park

rp o

Ai

Retaj Al Ghanem

Al Cornich eS t

Maharaja

St

St

eera Al J az

Rin gR d

Al Ra Zubarah w ab iS t

C

Language Institute Diet Shop Shiraz Garden Sushi Minto

d oa

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Doha Clinic Turkey Central Doha Market

Jarir Bookstore Thai Snack Fauchon

Al Jadeed St irqab Al M

Almuftah Centre

Al Kinana St

Shebestan

d oa gR Rin

Sterling

St ad am H Bin

Applebee’s Toys ‘R Us Burger King McDonald’s Range Rover TGIF

CCQ-Girls Turkish Hospital

Radisson Blu

Sa

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Labour Dept

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39 Mirqab Mall

CAA

Nissan Infiniti

Youth Creative Art Center

St lib Ta

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Five Guys Brunchery Vapiano

La Cigale

Al Sadd St

Royal Plaza Al Sadd Mall

Qatar Credit Bureau

American Hospital

i Ab in iB Al

22

38

St Al Co rni che

marhaba.qa

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23

Al Sadd

02.2022

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Westin Doha Ro ad Hotel & Spa

Blue Salon

LuLu Centre

Hit

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Law Court

Holiday Villa

Aalishan

The Centre

Sa

French Olive Chilis Indigrill Shanghai Garden

St

St eena Ibn S

WOQOD

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White Palace

Financial Square

Khail

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Centro Capital Doha

Pappa Roti Nando’s Ric’s Kountry Kitchen

Rawdat Al Khail Garden

Rawdat Al Khail

Retaj Res. Al Sadd Ambulance

Hamad General Hospital Car Park

bS

S oud ahm

Flyover

in ari B Qat

Al Wajba Motors

NCCCR

White Palace

Gulf Paradise

leej St Al Kha

Bin M

Heart

Doha Oasis

Banyan Tree

Al Mansoura

Qurtoubah

Home Centre

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Al Bidda Park

by Sheraton Le Mirage Exec. Apts

25

Rawd

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Al Sulaiman Rent A Car

Ibn Dirham St

WOQOD

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Al Bidda Interchange

Park Hyatt

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Aljabor Vision

WOQOD

Mercure Msheireb Interchange

Msheireb Downtown Doha an St Al Diw Four Points

Diwan Amiri

15

26 Chairman

Al Arab St

Mandarin Oriental, Doha

Al Firdows St

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Bi

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Shioukh Mosque

Al Rayyan Road

Al

4

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Underground Walkways

Qatar Int’l

Arrayah Gulf Times

B

Al Koot Fort

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Royal Qatar

sm Al A akh St

12

Najma St B Ring Road

Al Najada Boutique

A Ring Road

Souq Waqif Park & Underground Car Park

Safir

Assaha Lebanese Restaurant

Grand Hamad Street

Al Mirqab Boutique SOUQ WAQIF

Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza Doha The Business Park

Al Doha Al Jadeda

Al Jazeera Apts La Rose De Sable

Toyota

Al Meera

St

16

6 5

Bin Zaid Souq Waqif

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Copthorne Ri ng Grand Capital Concorde R oa Security Regal d Dept Diamond 1

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Water Pots

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Mohd St

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Museum of Islamic Art

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DOHA CENTRAL AREA

Abu Bakr Premier Inn Al Siddiq Doha Airport Hotel

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

rt St re et

Ras Bu Abbo

19

Safeer

C Ring Road

Tunnel

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Park

Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha

WOQOD

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Sharq Village & Spa

D

Al Matar Al Qadeem

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

Indonesia Omar Bin Al Khattab

Hotel Restaurant Apartments

Mosque Hospital Health Centre

Qatar Airways

Petrol Station

Stations on the Red, Green and Gold Lines of Doha Metro network

Family Food Centre

©

MARHABA

SPRING/SUMMER 2022

000 DOHA CENTRAL MAP M83.indd 1

4/6/22 2:31 PM

Al Shamal Al Ruwais

ila

uwa

d

Roa

Ras Laffan Support Services Area

LEHWAILA INTERCHANGE

Ras Laffan Industrial City

EXIT 64

Ras Laffan Emergency And Safety College Main Gate

WOQOD Lekhdaira

Al Zubara

EXIT 59

Ro

u te

77

AL ZUBARA INTERCHANGE

Erhama Bin Jaber Al Jalahma Shipyard

Ra sL aff an Av e

Al H

77

UMM ETHNAITAIN EXIT 54

Umm Birka Roundabout

1

Mangroves

Al Thakhira

ama Al Sh

AL GHESEN

Al Khor Yard Y

r l (No

EXIT 48

EXIT 44

Al Khor Industrial Area

Baladna Park

oad th) R

UMM AL SHUKHOOT

NORTHEAST COAST

Old Thak ira R oad

Simsima

Hospital

Al Khor

Al Bayt Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM

Purple Island

Fahes

4

Al Khor Community

Mall

Qatar Academy Al Khor Al Khor Family Park

Joint Staff College

Al Farkiya Beach

RASHEEDA I/C EXIT 40 8 km

14

5 miles

Al Khor Airfield

AL KHOR INTERCHANGE

EXIT 35

Semaisma North Beach (families and ladies)

Umm Garn Farm AL SHEFALLAHIYA

Olympic Park

ad

EXIT 32

Al Daayen Municipality

EXIT 29

or Ro

ad

Ma Al

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The updated Marhaba

Wall Map of Doha

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.

For more details, call

4465 0083

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!

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Sightseeing

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

Top 10 Things To Do in Qatar

Sightseeing

1 One of the first things to do in Qatar is visit the 7 km Doha Corniche C4 for a walk and spectacular views of the Doha skyline. Make sure to go on a short dhow cruise around the bay. Nearby, take a walk around the lush green Al Bidda Park C4!

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.

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

4 Visit the old and traditional Souq Waqif D4 for garments, spices, handicrafts, souvenirs, restaurants and shisha lounges. 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.

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.

6 Spend a few hours at Katara Cultural Village B4 and admire the architecture. Nearby is The Pearl-Qatar B4, an artificial island, featuring luxury shopping and dining, Mediterranean-style yacht-lined marinas, upmarket residential towers, villas and internationally renowned hotels.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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Sightseeing

Archaeological Sites, Forts and Ruins

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Al Koot Fort D4 Al Koot means both fort and jail. The building is on Jassim bin Mohammed Street. It was built in 1880 as a police station, became a jail in 1906, and is now a museum. It was renovated in the 1970s and many of the original features were lost.

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Sightseeing

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

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 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.

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.

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 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 Wajbah Fort C1 One of Qatar’s oldest forts; it was the site of a famous battle in 1893 when Sheikh Qassim bin Mohammed Al Thani defeated the Ottomans.

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

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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.

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.

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.

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

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

Ras Abrouq (Bir Zekreet) 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.

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'.

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Beaches

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Sightseeing

A day at the beach, sunbathing on the sand and swimming in the sea can be the perfect remedy for the stresses of the city.

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

Many of Qatar's beaches are isolated with no facilities and there may be some pollution and litter.

Visitors to the busier family beaches should be aware that they need to wear appropriate clothing – nothing too revealing. Bring everything you need with you: food and plenty of water, sunscreen, towels and a first aid kit – and please take away all your rubbish.

Al 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.

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

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

Al Jassasiya Near the 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 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.

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; boys over the age of 6 are now allowed with or without guardians. ©

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

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

Al Sultan Beach Resort Located on Al Khor beach, Al Sultan Beach Resort is just a short drive from Doha. With its own private beach, sizable swimming pool and Jacuzzi, the resort is wonderful for water activities and just relaxing the day away. Opening times: Daily 9 am – 6 pm. Admission: QAR125 adults, QAR75 children at the ages of 4 to 10. Contact: 4472 2555/2666, alsultanbeachresort.com

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

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

Al Wakra The old fishing town of Al Wakra is undergoing continuous redevelopment. The 4 km coastline stretches from the hills to the fishing harbour. The beachfront traditional village called Souq 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.

Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara C5 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. 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 DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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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.

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

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 (pictured) Katara Beach is 1.5 km long public beach at Katara Cultural Village. A play area is located by the beach where children can enjoy a variety of activities, games and rides as well as child friendly watersports.

The beach also 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: QAR50 for those at the age of 18 and above; QAR25 for those between the ages of 7 and 18; children below the age of 7 enter for free; separate fees apply for watersports and lessons. Contact: 4408 1017/1985, 7002 9360, katara.net

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

Ras Abrouq (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.

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 ©

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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.

Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort 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. 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

Semaisma North Beach 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.

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.

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. The resort is also home to Six Senses Spa, which is arranged over two floors with dedicated male and female areas. Spa goers can enjoy a selection of signature massages, facials by Subtle Energies, locally-inspired treatments and beauty services. Opening times: 10 am – 7 pm.

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

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

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Mosques

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

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

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

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

Restored in 2004, this unusual mosque in Al Wakra lacks the high walls typical of Qatari mosques.

The mosque can only be visited externally.

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

Education City Mosque C2 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.

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

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

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

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

Designed by globally-known Turkish mosque designer, 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.

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

Contact: 4444 7444, binzaid.gov.qa

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

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

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

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

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Museums And Art Galleries

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3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum B2 Qatar Museums (QM) C4 (pictured) Designed by Spanish architect Joan Sibina, the museum is approximately 19,000 QM, formerly known as sq m, making it one the largest of its kind and Qatar Museums Authority is built onto Khalifa International Stadium. 3-2-1 (QMA), is a government will be one the world's most innovative and entity that oversees technologically advanced museums dedicated museums across Qatar to sports. It's also one of the world's most including National Museum comprehensive sports museums, offering an of Qatar, MIA, Mathaf, QM interactive journey through the history and legacy of Gallery at Katara, Al Riwaq sports around the globe and the Olympic Games. and more. In addition, it oversees archaeological Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – sites throughout Qatar such as the Al Zubarah 7 pm; Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Admission: Free World Heritage Site Visitor Centre. qm.org.qa 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.

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

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

Opening times: Gallery: Sunday to Thursday 10 am – 7 pm, closed Friday and Saturday.

Lounge: Daily 9 am – midnight. Admission: Free. Contact: 4402 7437, 4029 6726 (Anima Lounge), animagallerylounge.com

Doha Design District D4 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 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 artwork and allow for collaborations and interactions with the local, regional and international art scene. ©

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

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

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

Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 10 am – 10 pm, Friday 2 pm – 9 pm. Contact: 4408 0244, dohakac.com

M7 D4 M7 is located in the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the 31-hectare (77-acre) multipurpose realestate 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.

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.

Contact: 4402 8855, mathaf.org.qa

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

Opening times: Monday to Thursday 9 am – 5 pm, Friday 3 pm – 9 pm, Saturday 9 am – 5 pm, closed Sunday. Last admission 30 minutes before closing. Admission: Free. Contact: 4006 5555, museums@msheireb.com Guided tour: msheirebmuseums.com DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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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.

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 Designed by world-renowned French architect Jean Nouvel, the new 40,000 sq m NMoQ building is forged using an interlocking disc design inspired by the desert rose. The museum is one of the most significant cultural projects and most recognisable landmarks in the country. The NMoQ tells the story of Qatar and its people from more than 700 mn years ago to present day. Serving as a monument to a historic way of life in Qatar, the museum officially opened in March 2019. Seemingly growing organically out of the ground, NMoQ’s structure surrounds the Old Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani – his family home and seat of the government for 25 years. The museum is organised in three 'chapters' – Beginnings, Life in Qatar, and Building the Nation – presented in 11 galleries. The visitor’s chronological journey, which extends through more than 2.7 km of experiences, starts in the geological period long before the peninsula was inhabited by humans and continues to the present day. Oral histories, archival images, artworks, music and storytelling contextualise the impressive array of archaeological and heritage objects as well as manuscripts, documents, photographs, jewellery and costumes.

Opening times: 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

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

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

Contact: 4408 1812, katara.net

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

Opening times: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 7 pm, Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm, closed Sunday.

Admission: Free. Contact: 182, katara.net, qm.org.qa ©

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Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani Museum (FBQ Museum) 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, which includes 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: 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

Souq Waqif Art Center Souq Waqif D4 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.

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

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

Opening times: Sunday to Thursday 9 am – 5 pm. Admission: Free. Contact: 4402 0555, gallery.qatar.vcu.edu

The Media Majlis Education City C2 The Media Majlis at Northwestern University in Qatar, which is dedicated to the exploration of journalism, communication, and media in the Arab region. The Media Majlis features a multi-screen façade, as well as space where exhibition content and technology converge. The technology elevates a visitor’s experience by inviting them to participate in a global conversation on a continually changing media landscape.

Opening times: Sunday to Thursday 9 am – 5 pm. Admission: Free. Contact: 4454 5000, mediamajlis.northwestern.edu See the Events Calendar in the Events and Activities section for details of exhibitions.

For up to date information on museums and art galleries, visit marhaba.qa DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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Natural World and Nature Reserves

Al Shu'aa Nature Reserve

Dahl Al Misfir Cave

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.

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Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve

Al Karaana Lagoon Situated 60 km southwest of Doha, 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. Admission: Free.

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 of 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. Admission: Free.

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.

Dahl Al Misfir Cave 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).

Desert Safaris A desert safari is a must. Most local tour companies offer package tours, which vary in price depending on the size of the group, with half and full-day trips, overnight camps and sunrise desert safaris available. Go dune-bashing with a professional guide. The overnight tour is at a desert camp with traditional Bedouin tents, filled with Persian carpets and plush cushions.

Irkaya Farm Located off the Abu Samra Rd 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 ©

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marhaba.qa with scattered boulders and sparse vegetation. All native species of plant at Irkaya benefit from the absence of grazing animals. Admission: Free.

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

Mangroves (pictured) 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 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.

Singing Sand Dunes 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.

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.

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

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

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Parks and Recreation Areas 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. mme.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.

Sightseeing

5/6 Park C4

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.

Al Bayt Stadium Park (pictured) 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.

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.

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

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Al Khor Corniche (pictured) The first and second zones of Al Khor Corniche Development Project opened in March 2018 to the public.

The third zone is still underway. The three zones will cover an area of about 28,000 sq m, featuring 6,000 sq m of green spaces, play areas, 116 parking spaces, 256 seats and 46 umbrellas.

Al Khor Family Park (Al Khor Park and Zoo) The 240,000 sq m park features a zoo, battery-operated train, restaurant, mosque, museum, mini golf area, wall mural, skating area, children’s play area, basketball court, food kiosks, drinking fountains, and an amphitheatre. One of the park's main attractions is the mini zoo, which includes seven new sections with a large number of different birds and animals. There are 290 new animals, bringing the total number of animals to 315 (49 different species). There's also an aviary, which contains a waterfall 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 and free for persons with special needs.

Contact: 4426 5050

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

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

Al Qamra Beach Park 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 3,000-m-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.

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

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

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

Aspire Park D2 One of Qatar’s biggest parks is behind Hyatt Plaza with a vast expanse of green lawn and baobab trees, a large lake with ducks and geese, football fields, a multi‑surface 3 km walking/jogging track and fitness equipment. There is plenty of parking and free Wi‑Fi. Aspire Play Park has two sandy areas, fitness DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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marhaba.qa stations and paved areas for cycling, roller‑skating and skateboarding, which can still be used at nighttime, thanks to solar‑powered lighting. The 'smart park' has introduced the first smart benches, which use renewable energy and advanced technology, providing wireless chargers, USB ports, Wi-Fi access point and an integrated cooling system which keeps seating cool during the hot summer days. 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

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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 colourful recycled shipping containers overlooking scenic views of the sea, Box Park is part of the Doha Port redevelopment project. The new park is set to be a shopping, dining and recreation destination for residents and tourists alike. 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.

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

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

Contact: 4497 7770, lusail.com

Dahl Al Hamam Park C3 Close to Landmark mall, on the corner of Jassim bin Hamad and Al Markhiya Streets, this large families-only 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.

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

Hotel Park C4 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.

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

Katara Hills B4 (pictured) Set over 361,500 sq m of green spaces, Katara Hills is divided into Northern and Southern Hills with at least 3,300 plants and trees from different continents, featuring gardens and green meadows with manmade rolling hills, valleys, peaks, water features, play areas, exercise and jogging tracks, with bespoke urban art installations, lighting, outdoor furniture, and signages. Within Katara Hills is the colourful Katara Gardens, which is 32,700 sq m of flowers, plants and lawns in geometric shapes ©

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marhaba.qa 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

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The promenades along the Marina District and South Qetaifan Islands form the urban waterfront edges.

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

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

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

Muglina Unit Park D4 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 barbecue, cycling, playing sports and pets at the Muglina Unit Park.

Oxygen Park D2 (pictured) 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

Shura Plaza D3 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.

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

The Desert Park The family park opened in April 2019 in Al Sheehaniya. The 13,804 sq m park is distinctive as it is designed in the form of a desert tree. It has 62 different types of wild trees and a 400 m walkway. The park also has a mini zoo with a number of different 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.

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Souqs

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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.

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.

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.

Gold Souq D4 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 Karwa bus station, surrounding Ali bin Abdulla Street and Al Ashat Street.

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

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

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

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

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Tradition and Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information, see Katara Cultural Village in the Discovering Qatar section.

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

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

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

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is a ‘camel city’, Opening times: Sunday to Thursday where thousands 9 am – 3:30 pm. of men and camels Al Shaqab also live all year round, organises tours increasing in of its facilities for numbers when institutions and the there is a big event. general public to Colourful camel raise awareness on trains can be seen, equestrian culture. with traditionallyVisit the website to dressed riders and Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC) register for tours camels adorned with which take place bright colours. Local Sunday to Thursday at 7:30 am and 3:30 pm. tour companies may be able to arrange trips to Admission: Free. Contact: 4454 7361, alshaqab.com coincide with races – see local tour companies for contact details.

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 on the Dukhan road will take you to the camel racetrack in Al Shaihaniya, where you can see camels in one of the Middle East’s most popular sports. The racing season is from October to May, with several prestigious events held in March and April. Behind the racetrack

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.

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

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

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

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

LOCAL TOUR COMPANIES 365 Adventures

3339 3323

365adventures.me

Al Corniche Safari (Qatar Inbound Tours)

7745 1196/5553 1002

inboundtoursqatar.com

Arabian Adventures Qatar

4436 1461/5553 4233

arabianadventures.com.qa

Doha Bus

4442 2444

dohabus.com

Gulf Adventures (Qatar Excursions)

4422 1888/5585 7044

gulf-adventures.com

National Cruise

6600 0926/7799 9666

nationalcruise.com

Q Explorer

4472 5146

q-explorer.com

Qatar International Tours

4455 3954/5557 5181

qittour.com

Regency Sealine Camp

5005 9055/5535 3463

regencysealinecamp.com ©

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

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Take a ride through the mighty dunes in the exclusive off-road monster bus. Join us on this journey and experience Qatar like never before. We will take you into the heart of the desert where you will experience traditional hospitality.

Let us take you on a ride that will make memories to last a life-time. With the freedom to hop off and discover over 20 destinations, you can hop back on to our exclusive, open top bus once you have relished the remarkability that every one of our location stops has to offer.

To discover more about our tours and packages please contact us at +974 4442 2444 hello@dohabus.com www.dohabus.com

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Qatar is Creating a Creative Economy

Qatar Museums (QM) officially opened the new 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum at Khalifa International Stadium on 31 March 2022. It's one of the world's most innovative and technologically advanced museums dedicated to sports.

In addition, Qatar announced the development of three major new museums: The Art Mill, built on the site of the historic Flour Mill in Doha, is being designed by ELEMENTAL, with landscapes by Swiss designer Gunther Vogt. The Art Mill campus will bring together exhibition and performance galleries for modern and contemporary art, dedicated spaces for learning and artist residency programmes, production facilities, a village for Qatari creative industries, the Dhow Centre, and gardens.

Designed by Herzog & de Meuron, Lusail Museum will be home to the world’s most extensive collection of Orientalist paintings, drawings, photography, sculptures, rare texts, and applied arts. Celebrating four millennia of cultural exchange between East and West, Lusail explores the influence of the Middle East and wider Islamic world in the arts and will include over 52,000 sq m of galleries, an auditorium, library, dedicated learning spaces, and more among its four floors.

Qatar Auto Museum, designed by OMA (Office for Metropolitan Architecture), will be built along the Lusail Express Way between the 5/6 Park and Katara Cultural Village. The museum will offer 40,000 sq m of permanent galleries tracking the evolution of the automobile from its invention through today and how it has influenced culture in Qatar. In addition to providing temporary exhibition spaces for the display of high-profile vehicles, the museum will include a classic car restoration centre and areas dedicated to children’s activities, such as driving simulators, mini car mechanics, and more.

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Sightseeing Hotspots

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All you need to know about these fabulous sightseeing destinations, with an overview and map.

The Pearl-Qatar

Katara Cultural Village

Souq Waqif

Msheireb Downtown Doha

Souq Al Wakra

Lusail City

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. ©

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The Pearl-Qatar

The Pearl-Qatar

The Pearl-Qatar is an innovative urban development in Qatar. With Mediterranean-style yacht-lined marinas, state-of-the-art residential towers, luxury villas, 5-star hotels and residences, chic shopping at top brand name boutiques, a host of world-renowned restaurants, and leisure and entertainment facilities, The Pearl-Qatar is the perfect destination for tourists and residents alike.

Abraj Quartier Abraj Quartier consists of seven towers, five of 36 storeys and two of 42 storeys, the latter straddling the access road to the mainland and forming the 'gateway' to The Pearl-Qatar. Also known as the 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.

Floresta Gardens Located east of Viva Bahriya, Floresta Gardens is one of the most prized locations at The Pearl-Qatar. 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.

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-Qatar’s crown, Isola Dana comprises nine independent islands and is the largest, most private residential precinct in The Pearl-Qatar. Named after the world’s rarest and most valuable pearl – and including the Spanish word for ‘island’ – Isola Dana is accessed via their own private causeway. These private islands enable investors to style their own residences.

Palatial homes adorn these exquisite 18,000 sq m islands, the likes of which cannot be seen anywhere in the Middle East and rarely 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.

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, DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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marhaba.qa Qanat Quartier

Porto Arabia

Qanat Quartier

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.

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 world-class 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.

Perlita Gardens 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.

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.

The Pearl-Qatar

Medina Centrale

Viva Bahriya 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.

In a nutshell...

The Pearl-Qatar is a relaxed waterfront project of residential apartments, villas, cafés and restaurants, and luxury retail outlets. There is an unlimited superb selection of restaurants, and some of the top brands in the world – offering everything from couture fashion, to exquisite jewellery and home décor. m

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Katara Cultural Village

Katara Cultural Village

Katara Cultural Village is one of Doha's premier attractions, with something to entertain both residents and visitors alike. Take a stroll with us as we explore the unique experience of Katara.

21 High Street (Katara Plaza)

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.

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.

'Catara' became 'Katara' after it appeared on the geographical and historical maps of the early 18th century, first depicted in a French map of the Arabian peninsula coastline, sea and gulf. It was decided to revive Qatar's old name to maintain the connection to the country's heritage.

Today, the multidimensional project brings together all the cultures of the world, with 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.

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.

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.

Look out for another visual masterpiece: Gandhi’s Three Monkeys by Subodh Gupta. Three sculptures show heads wearing military gear: one wears a gas mask, one with a soldier’s helmet, and the third with a terrorist’s hood. Each piece is made up of cooking appliances, buckets, and glass bowl, and are based on Gandhi’s famous visual metaphor – the three wise monkeys that ‘see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil’.

For music fans, the Opera House is home to the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, a member of Qatar Foundation (QF), as well as hosting other concerts. The orchestra performs and promotes Western and Arabic music with approximately 40 performances a year at the opulent Opera House, which blends modern architecture with traditional Islamic design. qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org Amphitheatre

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.

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Pigeon Towers and the Katara Masjid

Designed by globally-known Turkish mosque designer, Zeynep Fadillioglu, the Katara Masjid, which is also known as the Blue Mosque, is one of the most beautiful in Qatar. The decorations of the Masjid (which means 'mosque') were designed by a team of restoration specialists from Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul. The outer surface is lavishly adorned with turquoise and purple mosaic. The interior and exterior architecture, together with the minaret, the dome, and the prayer niche (mihrab) are inspired by famous mosques in cities of the Muslim world. Meanwhile the Golden Masjid is inlaid with tiny golden chips, representing the Ottoman style.

Visitors are welcome to walk in and see for themselves the architectural wonder of these mosques. Both offer religious programmes and lectures delivered by prominent religious scholars, as well as courses in Quran memorisation for children of all ages.

The Katara Publishing House promotes culture, knowledge and literature in Qatar. Every year a Qatari personality who has made important contributions in culture, literature or thought will be honoured as part of its 'Litterateur Trophy.' To date, Katara Publishing House has published over 100 books, including 60 novels in Arabic, English and French. Katara Publishing House can be found next to Building No 15, near the Amphitheatre Boulevard. 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: QAR50 for those at the age of 18 and above;

QAR25 for those between the ages of seven and 18; children below the age of seven enter for free; separate fees apply for watersports and lessons.

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.

Katara Cultural Village

Katara also has an excellent drama theatre, with traditional Arabic architecture bringing a sense of being out in the open air to the stage. It is used for plays and film screenings, with separate space for receptions and functions before and after performances. There are also a number of halls and galleries available to use for conferences, seminars and exhibitions.

Katara Hills

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

Katara continues to grow in both size and the amenities offered to the public. Phase IV, also known as the Southern Expansion Project and which began in 2016, has been completed. The iconic and unique mixed-use development consists of a wide range of facilities to complement those already offered, with 12 buildings and further parking spaces.

The buildings house a chain of restaurants and cafes, libraries, exhibition hall, cinema and other cultural centres such as the first planetarium and astronomical observatory in Qatar, Al Thuraya Planetarium, and the Marina District with a maritime restaurant and eight marine chalets.

For more information, visit katara.net, or call 182 or 4408 0000. ©

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Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif is Doha's lively traditional market. Take a stroll down the bustling alleys of Souq Waqif to explore the authentic taste of traditional commerce, architecture and culture.

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

It was originally a weekend market used by the Bedouins when they came to town to trade their meat, wool, weaving materials and milk for staple goods. Souq Waqif is named 'the standing souq' because it is believed that water from the sea would rise, swamping the souq. However, shop owners would continue selling their products while standing in the midst of the water. It still is a bustling business area, popular among both locals and tourists.

The souq underwent a complete restoration in 2006–2008 and provides the perfect setting to shop 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.

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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 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 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.

Perfumes, garments and textiles The perfume vendors sell everything, from well known international brands to blends of essential oils as well as oud, the aromatic agarwood burnt as a sign of hospitality.

Traditional clothing includes richly decorated items or the plain and practical. Shayla and abaya are ladies' embroidered headscarves and black cloaks worn in public. The shayla make pretty evening scarves. Sirwal are baggy trousers with highly embroidered, tight ankle cuffs and are great casual wear around the home. Menswear includes bisht, embroidered cloaks worn at ceremonial

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marhaba.qa 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.

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels

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.

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels include: • Al Bidda Boutique Hotel • Al Najada Boutique Hotel • Al Jomrok Boutique Hotel • Al Jasra Boutique Hotel • Al Mirqab Boutique Hotel • Arumaila Boutique Hotel • Bismillah Boutique Hotel • Musheireb Boutique Hotel • Najd Boutique Hotel.

For more information, visit tivolihotels.com

Souq Waqif

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.

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.

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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.

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.

Souq Waqif Art Center 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

Falcon Souq

There is ample parking in Souq Waqif with three separate air-conditioned underground parking spaces: • Underground under the Souq Waqif park.

Entry can be found along the Corniche.

• Inside Souq Waqif near Al Koot Fort.

• Adjacent to Shioukh Mosque and the Amiri Diwan, off Al Rayyan Road, with an underground walkway connecting to Souq Waqif. See the map for precise locations.

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

Opening times: Most shops operate 10 am – noon and reopen 4 pm – 10 pm. On Fridays, stores will close for the afternoon prayers.

Most restaurants open all day from 8 am – midnight. Some are open 24 hours. ©

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Msheireb Downtown Doha

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, DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Bin Jelmood House, Company House, Mohammed Bin Jassim House and Radwani House, into world-class museums forms a vital part of MDD. 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 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.

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, which include Kaltham's Pavilion, Myriad Beauty, Laya Flower Boutique, Spaceship Qatar, Fallini, The Project and more, and cafes such as EL&N, GRAZE, So Souffle, and more.

Whether you're driving, walking, using private or public transport, getting to Msheireb Galleria is

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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 Cafès: 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 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

Msheireb Downtown Doha

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 the MDD where Wadi Msheireb and Al Diwan Streets meet. msheirebgalleria.com

AlHosh Gallery 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 exhbitions by local artists such as Ahmed Al Maadeed, Ali Hassan, Al Johara (A.J) 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 mandarinoriental.com/ doha/msheireb/luxury-hotel, 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 on weekends.

For more information on MDD, visit msheireb.com or call 800 DOHA (800 3642) or 4000 4000 m ©

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Art at Msheireb Downtown Doha

Crystallation incorporates seven gates adorned with crystals, designed by Preciosa Lighting for the launch of Doha Design District.

Purchase a crystal trimming from Almana Maples store at QAR50 – one to keep and one to hang in the installation. All proceeds go to Education Above All.

'Untitled (Trench, Shafts, Pit, Tunnel and Chamber)', by contemporary American sculptor Bruce Nauman, is a new public artwork and part of the Year of Culture Qatar – USA 2021.

Insta-worthy pictures at Msheireb Galleria!

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Souq Al Wakra

Souq Al Wakra

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

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

Following Doha, Al Wakra is the second largest city in Qatar. Located in eastern Qatar, just south of Doha, the city is believed to have a history of its own, independent from that of the capital.

In the charming, ancient city of Al Wakra is an enchanting, thriving souq that is well worth a visit for anyone interested in Qatari heritage and culture, and seeing Qatar outside of the bright lights of its capital city. Al Wakra's own thriving market – Souq Al Wakra – is full of popular restaurants and coffee shops. The souq stretches for approximately 3 km along the town’s coast, with a corniche for people to walk along. The souq is divided into 10 zones of markets, restaurants, shops, stables, and a kids playground, as well as parking and the Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar.

Setting off southward from Doha, stop for a visit at Souq Al Wakra with its maze of courtyards and alleyways, leading to a promenade of traditional shops and authentic restaurants. The souq's beach is its charm. There is much to see and do here.

Inside the souq The souq or Heritage Village is designed to resemble old Qatari homes and villages. The alleyways take you to individual 'homes' that are developing into designated markets:

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• 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 Beach Souq Al Wakra stands out with its promenade, allowing visitors easy access to the beach. When it first opened in mid-2017, the beach was open and free to all for use. Now, the beach charges for certain water activities on the beach. The beach is a 'family beach' so keep in mind the conservative culture of Qatar. Swimsuits are required to access the water, and changing rooms are available for both men and women.

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

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.

Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar has an idyllic setting, woven into the fabric of the souq on the shores of the Arabian Gulf. The hotel comprises two buildings with a total of 101 guest rooms. Both buildings are former heritage houses, which have been preserved with the architecture mirroring a traditional Qatari house.

In keeping with local heritage, each of the guest rooms and suites features classic thatched roofs, reflecting traditional basket weaving elements. The guest rooms have been designed with colourful motifs reflecting the jubilant blues of the sea and the sandy tones of the desert, inspired by Al Wakra’s history as a pearl diving and fishing village.

Open walkways and maze-like paths lead to courtyards where multiple guest rooms can be blocked off to create private areas for groups.

Large groups will be able to stay together in guest

Souq Al Wakra

Souvenirs

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 gatherings.

Tivoli Spa offers separate treatment rooms for men and women as well as a hydro pool, steam room, Vichy Shower and Jacuzzi. A multi-functional gym in each building is also available for guests.

The hotel is only a 15-minute drive to Hamad International Airport (HIA). It also has direct access to the adjacent Al Wakra Family Beach.

For more information, visit tivolihotels.com Parking at Souq Al Wakra is ample, right off Al Wakra Main Street as you access the souq. The extensive parking is still free at the moment. Convenient golf carts are available in the evenings to take you from the parking lot to your destination.

Access to cash is available at the Doha Bank ATM. Opening times: Most shops operate 10 am – noon and reopen 4 pm – 10 pm. On Fridays, stores will close for the afternoon prayers.

However, only a few shops and restaurants are open during the day so it's best to plan your visit to the souq after 4 pm. m

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Lusail City

Lusail City

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.

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.

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, integrated seamlessly into a sustainable, sophisticated urban environment. The city will feature a host of retail and fine dining experiences, residential and office spaces, 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.

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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 two five-star luxury hotels, a mall featuring up to 600 different retail outlets with an exclusively luxurious wing dedicated to top designer labels, 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 resources requirements of the region and adjacent industries, as well as of a number of other sectors. Professionals and businesses in Al Wessil will be privy to the best and latest technologies in high-quality, world-class facilities; the epitome of sustainability.

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 pedestrian mobility. The buildings in this neighbourhood reflect and embody unique, exquisite modern interpretations of classic architecture.

Marina District 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 a light-rail transit

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marhaba.qa (LRT) network that connects to the rest of Lusail City and underground stations; all linked directly to underground car parking facilities.

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.

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

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.

In addition to Al Kharayej, Al Tarfa and Al Maha Island, Al Wessil, and Fox Hills North and South, Marina District, and Waterfront Residential, other upcoming residential districts include Naifa, Al Nafel & Al Khuzama, Al Erkyah, Al Yasmeen, and Huzoom.

Downtown Lusail

Qetaifan Islands 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

Lusail Tram 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 includes 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. m 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

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Downtown Lusail is Doha’s new iconic uptown, 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 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

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. Offered 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

Lusail City

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.

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 the Qetaifan Island North, and the second, through the Qetaifan Island South 1.

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The Insta-worthy Lusail City!

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Trees of Qatar

By Sarah Palmer

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!

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.

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.

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.'

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.

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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.

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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.

Other organisations in Qatar are also involved.

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 Nakilat.

The committee 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

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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FEATURE

The Home of Heritage

By Ola Diab Three more Qatari heritage sites have been inscribed on the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO) Islamic World Heritage List.

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n 18 September 2021, Qatar Museums (QM) announced the inclusion of three additional Qatari heritage sites in the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO) Islamic World Heritage List. This inscription came during the ninth meeting of the Islamic World Heritage Committee (IWHC) in ISESCO, convened virtually in June 2021.

The IWHC inscribed 97 new historical sites and cultural elements on the ISESCO Islamic World Heritage List, including three Qatari archaeological sites, which are Al Rakyat Fort, Barzan Towers and Al Khulaifi Heritage House.

Located on the road between Al Zubara and Madinat Al Shamal, Al Rakyat Fort 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.

Abraj Barzan (Barzan Towers) are 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.

A heritage house called Al Khulaifi Heritage House, which was restored by Qatar Museums (QM), can be found at Muglina Unit Park.

There are more than 100 sites inscribed by ISESCO on the Islamic World Heritage List from countries such as Morocco, Tunisia, Oman, Egypt, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Libya, Senegal, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Cameroon and more.

HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, Chairperson of QM, said, ‘We are pleased to see more Qatari heritage sites on the ISESCO Heritage List. This new achievement contributes to the promotion of Qatar’s rich cultural heritage across the world, and enhances cultural tourism in the country. We thank everyone who contributed to this achievement.’

Al Rakyat Fort

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Qatar Museums (QM) QM oversees the country's museums and galleries, public art, and archaeological and heritage sites.

QM's archaeology and architectural conservation departments manage, conserve, protect and enhance archaeology and archaeological practices in Qatar.

From Bronze Age settlements to medieval palaces, 19th-century forts, villages, towers and mosques, the archaeology and conservation team excavate, restore and protect the parts of Qatar that flourished long ago.

Qatar's ancient settlements, towers and forts offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about Qatar's rich culture and history.

For more information, visit qm.org.qa Al Khulaifi Heritage House

The CEO of QM, Ahmad Musa Al Namla, said, ‘This accomplishment comes as a culmination of Qatar Museums' continuous efforts to revive Qatari heritage and promote the various heritage sites in the country. The three heritage sites that were added to ISESCO Islamic World Heritage List comprise a significant historical and cultural heritage for the Qatari people, and the Islamic world as a whole. We will work to inscribe more Qatari Islamic archaeological sites, shine a spotlight on Qatar’s Islamic culture and reinforce its position on the map of Islamic and cultural tourism.’

The inscription of Islamic heritage sites means they are to be preserved and protected against intentional and unintentional damage, as many are

in danger or subject to disrepair, destruction and looting.

This isn’t the first time that Qatar’s archaeological sites have been inscribed on the ISESCO Islamic World Heritage List. These three archaeological sites were added to the other Qatari sites that have already been inscribed on the ISESCO Islamic World Heritage List in December 2019. They are Al Zubara Fort, Al Jassasiya Site, the Old Amiri Palace (Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Palace at National Museum of Qatar) and Al Ruwais Mosque.

This brings the number of Qatari sites on the ISESCO Islamic World Heritage List to seven.

UNESCO World Heritage List One of Qatar’s most cherished archeological sites, Al Zubarah Archaeological Site, has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2013.

Khor Al Adaid natural reserve has been on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List since 2008.

A World Heritage Site is a landmark or area with legal protection by an international convention administered by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. UNESCO designates World Heritage Sites for having cultural, historical, scientific or other form of significance.

For more on Qatar’s archaeological sites, see Archaeological Sites, Forts and Ruins in Sightseeing in this section.

Barzan Towers

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