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Doha is one the more popular places in the gulf zone for trevellers. Beautiful landmarks of Doha sprinkle the city, the rich heritage of the souq and the Arts scene in the beautifully decorated Islamic museum are definitely some things you cannot miss! Qatar is relatively easier to travel as a solo female, as the culture is slightly more open and western. Qatar is a small country but it is more than just a city of skyscrapers. Below, you will find 5 landmarks of Doha that you cannot miss!

For Gulf Special: Sealine Desert

The Middle East and Gulf Region is known for their endless deserts and sand dunes. When in Qatar, do check out the Sealine Desert. It is in the South Eastern area of Qatar, away from the capital, Doha. There is a beach there and it is a great place to camp too!

It is slightly off the town centre in Doha, but it only takes a short drive there. The main reason we went there was because I told Renwick that I’ve never been to a desert and he promised me sunrise. It was summer so the sun rose early, at around 5am. We watched the sun rise while sitting on top of a sand dune. It is one of the most exotic places I have watched a sunrise!

Sealine Desert is a 30min drive from the Hamad International Airport or 40min drive from the city centre. There are sand dunes and beaches there. It is fun to drive around in the 4×4 car (4 wheel car). You might have to change your tires first, and is it possible there. If you are into sand dune driving, this the the place for you!

Read more about Sealine Desert.

For Architecture: Museum of Islamic Art

One of the best things about new and young cities is their amazing architecture. The Museum of Islamic Art is an iconic skyscraper in the skyline of Doha. Not only does it look amazing on the outside, there are so many art and classic Islamic architecture exhibitions inside. There is a café inside, with a splendid view of Doha’s skyline. Bonus: visit the cafe during sunset and watch the colourful sky light up the city!

Islamic history is fascinating, as they were leaders in many of today’s invention. This includes art, and the Museum of Islamic Art is home to art as old as 1400 years! You can also learn about how the old Qatari lived, with exhibits of old handwritten Islamic books, household items and war weaponry. The architecture itself is also a true stunner, from the entrance hall to the grand water fountains and park outside.

Opening Hours: Sunday –Wednesday: 10:30am to 5:30pm, Tuesday Closed, Thursday –Saturday: 12pm to 7pm
Cost: Free
Website: http://www.mia.org.qa/en/

For Skyscrapers: The Pearl

Another thing that the region is known for is their amazing skyscraper. The city comes alive at night with the beautiful lights and silhouettes. The Pearl in Qatar is the luxurious neighbourhood area on a man-made island. There, you can feast your eyes on the exotic Pagani Zonda, Rolls Royce and Ferraris. You also have fancy designer stores everywhere, and water taxi in the Arabia marina port. The Pearl can help you redefine what luxury means.

The architecture of the buildings in the Pearl is absolutely outstanding and beautiful. They are built in old French styles with a posh finish. You can find lots of good restaurants in the area. One of the famous and luxury hotel is none other than Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl. Bear in mind that the price is equally luxurious, but you should definitely book a night there if you are privileged enough to!

The best time to visit is sunset, as the temperature starts to drop but you have light to appreciate the architecture and design. It is also a great place to have dinner and a slow romantic walk along the Bahriya Beach after.

For Shopping: Souq Waqif

You can shop in tons of malls in Qatar. From Landmark Shopping Mall to their latest Villaggio mall, you can find all your fancy designer brands and cool interior designs everywhere. However, do check out Souq Waqif for the traditional and cultural aspect to your trip. You can find old spices, traditional clothes and local food there. Also check out the architecture there!

Read more about the Souq Waqif, the Old Market

This is where you find the richest culture and tradition in Doha. The sweet dates, the aromatic spices and classic shisha bars. Spend the afternoon strolling the old market and buy some local presents. Then head to one of the beautiful shisha cafes to have some local Arabic coffee and people watch. For a moment, you feel like you are in a movie scene of a Hollywood film!

For UNESCO Site: Al Zubarah Fort

This is an archeological site in Qatar, that is very well-preserved and shows what the traditional Qatar looks like. It is an old fort that becomes a museum now, to share more about Qatar’s history. The fort looks like a fairytale castle with circular towers and rectangular tower at its corners. You can read more about the fort in the UNESCO site here.

Although Qatar is not large, the drive to this Al Zubarah Archaeological UNESCO site is scenic and beautiful. It is also very informational, so you should spend more time reading about the information to fully understand it!

Operating Hour: 9am-4pm daily

There are more to see than just these landmarks. The people are amazing and so is the desert!