2020 Travel Travel Guide Doha The shining jewel of , Doha is a multicultural , home to most of the country’s population as well as expatriate communities from a range of origins. Shopping abounds in the city’s plentiful malls, while the Corniche impresses visitors with picturesque architecture and dazzling views of the . Doha boasts myriad cultural facilities, including the futuristic and the National Museum. Having hosted the , the city is home to many sports complexes as well.

2 3 01. National Museum of Qatar

SIGHTS

Museum Park St, Doha, Qatar

The new National Museum of Qatar gives voice Modern History of Qatar, each theme is presented to the unique story of Qatar and its people from across eleven highly distinct galleries. Spread over earliest times to the present day and onwards 1.5km, visitors journey through an exciting mix of towards its future. Designed to be both immersive all-encompassing environments and compelling and experiential, visitors can expect to encounter storytelling that will engage all the senses. a rich environment to explore. Organized in three Sights “chapters” — Beginnings, Life in Qatar, and The 4 SIGHTS 5 02. Museum of Islamic Arts 04. Al Thani Museum

The Museum of Islamic Art represents The Museum tells the story not only Islamic art from three continents of the history of the Qatari people, over 1,400 years. MIA is the flagship but also of Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim of Qatar Museums which, under the Al Thani himself. His extensive leadership of its Chairperson H.E. international travel is represented with Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin eclectic pieces from over 4 continents. Khalifa Al Thani, is transforming the This intensely personal collection is a State of Qatar into a cultural capital journey through place and time, which of the Middle East. MIA sheds light Sheikh Faisal welcomes local and on our origins to illuminate our future. international visitors to share. Through safeguarding masterpiece collections of Islamic art and showcasing extraordinary exhibitions, MIA shares knowledge, spreading curiosity, understanding, and joy. Corniche, Al Samariyah | Ash-Shahaniyah, Doha, Qatar Doha, Qatar +974 4486 1444

03. Msheireb Museums 05. Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art

Msheireb Museums are an integral Mathaf is a new institution dedicated aspect of the inner city's regeneration to and creativity opened of the old commercial centre in Doha in Doha December 2010. Located near with its traditional community-based Education City, the museum is home lifestyle. The restoration of the four to a permanent collection offering a heritage houses, Bin Jelmood House, unique and comprehensive overview Company House, Mohammed Bin of modern Arab art and is poised to Jassim House and Radwani House, become a vital center for dialogue and into world-class museums forms a vital scholarship in the region. part of the development.

Msheireb Downtown Doha, Doha, Qatar Education city off Al-Luqta street, +974 800 3642 Doha, Qatar + 974 4402 8855

6 SIGHTS SIGHTS 7 06. Grand Mosque 08. Al Wakra

The state Mosque Qatar is one of the is a city and municipality of largest mosques in Qatar and has been Qatar located halfway between Ad Dawhah renamed after the great Muslim theologian, and municipalities. Al Wakrah’s reformer, and pioneer of the 18th century eastern edge is the shores of the Persian “Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab.” Gulf. Ruled by the Al Khater family and Ibn Abdul Wahab (1703-1792) propagated the Al Buainain tribe, it was originally a for removing negatives and undesirable small fishing and pearling village. Over the innovations in . He admonished years, it evolved into a small town with a Muslims to follow only the original values of population of more than 30,000, and it is Islam as typified by the Salaf and to discard considered to be one of the major exploitations introduced by bidah (heretic in Qatar. innovations) in his teachings. The state mosque is located in the Jubailat district of Doha just south of the Corniche, High on a hill overlooking the Qatar Sports Club in Al Qasr St, Doha, Qatar Doha’s . Doha, Qatar

07. Al-Zubara Fort 09. The Pearl-Qatar

On the shores of Northwest Qatar, the The Pearl-Qatar (TPQ) in Doha, Qatar, is an historic fort of Al-Zubara overlooks the ruins artificial spanning nearly four million of a once bustling pearling and trading town. square meters. It is the first land in Qatar Founded in the 18th century, Al-Zubara to be available for freehold ownership by was one of several independent settlements foreign nationals. Once fully completed, that operated outside of the control of large The Pearl will create over 32 kilometers empires that were jostling for influence in of new coastline, for use as a residential the region. Al-Zubara Archaeological Site estate with an expected 18,831 dwellings includes the ruins of a major 18th-century and 45,000 residents. Developed by United trading and pearling settlement, the ruins of a Development Company and planned by 19th-century settlement, and the iconic 20th- architecture and design firm Callison, the century fort that still stands proud against the island is located 350 meters offshore of desert skyline. In July of 2013, the site was Doha’s area. In 2004, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage when the project was first revealed, the List in recognition for its preservation and initial cost of constructing the island stood Madinat Ash Shamal, Qatar as a unique example of a formative period. Costa Malaz Bay, Marsa Malaz island at $2.5 billion. It is now believed the project You can learn more about the site, its history, The Pearl, Doha, Qatar will cost $15 billion upon completion. environment and the work being carried out 011.974.4035.5555 there at the new exhibit in Al-Zubara Fort.

8 SIGHTS SIGHTS 9 10. Souk Waqif 12. Corniche

Reincarnated in the last decade as the The is a waterfront social heart of Doha, is a promenade extending for several wonderful place to explore, shop, have kilometers along the . dinner or simply idle time away in one Running parallel to the Corniche is of the many attractive cafes. There has Corniche Street, the main thoroughfare been a souq on this site for centuries, as which connects Doha’s emerging West this was the spot where the Bedu would Bay business district with the south bring their sheep, goats, and wool to of the city and Doha International trade for essentials. It grew into a scruffy Airport. Formed following extensive warren of concrete alleyways by the dredging work carried out during end of the last century and at one point the late 1970s and early 1980s was almost condemned for demolition. which reshaped Doha’s coastline, the Thankfully, someone spotted its tourist Corniche is today a popular location potential, and the entire market area has among walkers, bikers, and joggers. been cleverly redeveloped to look like a Many of Doha’s landmarks are found St, 19th-century souq, with mud-rendered Doha, Qatar along the Corniche which begins near Doha, Qatar shops and exposed timber beams and the Museum of Islamic Art and ends at +974 4433 6444 some beautifully restored original Qatari the Sheraton Park near the distinctive buildings. pyramid-shape Sheraton .

11. Qatar Islamic Cultural Center 13. Katara

FANAR was chosen as their name because Katara is a cultural village in Doha, of their high-profile mission; to act as a Qatar. It is located on the eastern guiding light to the whole of mankind, coast between West Bay and the Pearl. and to help all non-Arabs to have a better It was soft-opened in October 2010 understanding of Islam and . during the Doha Tribeca Film Festival FANAR is a governmental organization (DTFF), an event that it has hosted that presents culture to all world through ever since. a variety of activities such as Exhibitions, tours of the center, visits to the mosque and language Courses. FANAR is a Qatari milestone, known for its Islamic inspired architectural designs and amazing ornaments with a beautiful outlook of the city Doha. From the rich Qatari heritage of sailing at large, the lighthouse was a tangible Abdullah Bin Jassim St, way of returning to land safely. FANAR now Katara, Doha, Qatar Doha, Qatar uses this exact metaphor to act as a beacon +974 4444 7444 of light to humanity, hoping to present culture to feed and nurture the soul.

10 SIGHTS SIGHTS 11 14. Falcon Souq 16. City Center Mall

For a glimpse of Qatari heritage, don't A veritable pantheon of the miss the Falcon Souq. You only have to shopping world. With its 350 shops, see the scale of the market, afforded from Debenhams to the Family its own traditional arcaded building off Development Centre (top floor, selling Souq Waqif, to understand the place of local crafts); its tented architecture, falconry in Qatari society. Evenings are marble flooring, and glass-fronted the best time to come, when you can lifts; its ice-skating rink, bowling alleys watch customers examining the birds and and climbing walls; its congregations discussing the finer points of falconry with of juice-sip- ping Qataris and huddles the shopkeepers. of homesick expatriates; and trolleys laden with eggs, packets of khobz (Arabian flat bread) and Egyptian olives, it’s more an event than an errand..

Souq Al Waqif, Doha, Qatar West Bay Area, Doha, Qater +974.4483.9990

15. Barzan Towers 17. Villaggio Mall

Located in the village of Outstanding among Doha shopping Mohammed, the recently restored towers malls, the Villagio Mall is one of the were built between 1910 and 1916. Barzan most sought after destinations in means ‘the high place’ and the towers may Qatar with its exquisite architecture, have served as a lookout to protect local top-of-the-line luxury brands, and an water sources and as an observatory to exciting range of shopping, dining as determine the dates of the lunar calendar. well as entertainment options. The While their exact role has never been fully Villagio mall is located between the determined, it is thought the towers were Hyatt Plaza and Sport City on Al Waab built near the seas both to keep a look Street of Doha. The Villagio showcases out for approaching ships and to monitor Doha’s finesse for architectural local pearl divers. Since reopening to the brilliance as it stands as an epitome public, the towers are equipped with air of a typical Italian Village, destined to conditioning. transport visitors to its charismatic ambiance by the sea. This is one of the Muhammed, Doha, Qatar Al Waab St, Doha, Qatar latest shopping malls in Doha and is also expected to be one of the largest malls as it is home to an average of 42 000 visitors daily.

12 SIGHTS SIGHTS 13 01.

HOTELS

970 Al Amir St, Doha, Qatar +974.4474.9600

Discover Qatar with Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, where traditional Arabic hospitality meets modern ambition. Located within the urban oasis of Al Messila, the resort boasts 152 luxurious guest rooms and villas, providing comfort and privacy. With 8 unique restaurants and lounges and a grand outdoor pool. 14 HOTELS 15 02. W Doha 04. The Torch

W Doha, the first lifestyle hotel in Soaring 300 meters, with 360° Qatar, brings all the buzz of New panoramic views across the city, The York City to vibrant Doha. Located Torch Doha is heaven for discerning in the heart of Doha, each room is visitors, from sports enthusiasts and filled with iconic design, tech-savvy business leaders to health and wellness amenities, and a stylish ambiance. seekers. The luxury five-star hotel has Savor award-winning cuisine at Market been the tallest building in Doha since by Jean-Georges or Spice Market, both 2007, with an exterior of 2,624 LED by 3-star Michelin Chef Jean-Georges lights that bring the building to life Vongerichten. Or indulge in Italian after sunset. cuisine at La Spiga by Paper Moon.

West Bay, Zone 61 St 831, Building 262, Al Waab St, Doha, Qatar Doha, Qatar +974 4453 5000 +974.4446.5600

03. The St. Regis 05. J W Marriott

Steeped in Middle Eastern mystique, Luxury furnished rooms and suites The St. Regis Doha is located on provide a restful sanctuary, with Doha's West Bay, near the Diplomatic stunning views of the Arabian Gulf District. The hotel borders the Arabian and Doha City. Elsewhere at the hotel, Gulf, where dunes, ancient enjoy a swim in hotels urban oasis architecture and the scenic Pearl located on level 7 offering an outdoor Island paint a magnificent landscape. leisure pool and garden, The timeless facilities comprise a or a refreshing workout in the fitness cornucopia of destination restaurants center before easing tired muscles and event spaces, including a with a massage at the Spa. Sample 1,850-square meter Grand Ballroom. the flavors of at one of 7 The St. Regis Doha displays with a different restaurants and lounges world-class Remède Spa and has direct offering a range of international access to the beach, where private cuisine. cabanas and water sports await. In Doha West Bay, addition, whatever the request, St. Conference Centre Street, West Bay, PO Box 9282, Doha, 14435, Qatar Regis Butler Service is available any Doha, Qatar +974.4446.0000 time, day or night. +974 4429 5000

16 HOTELS HOTELS 17 06. Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel 07. Sharq Village & Spa, Ritz-Carlton Hotel

Omar Al Mukhtar Street, Area 61, , Street #850, Doha, Qatar Ras Abu Abboud St, Doha, Qatar +974 4419 5000 +974 4425 6666

Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel is centrally Traditional, romantic and secluded. Feel like royalty at the exceptional spa. Located a few steps away located in Doha, Qatar and offers luxury downtown at Sharq Village & Spa, a beach resort carefully from the National Museum of Qatar and Souq in the West Bay business district, only 30 minutes designed to emulate an elegantly marbled Sheikha’s Waqif, this Ritz-Carlton resort in Doha will be the from the Hamad International Airport. They provide palace. Admire Doha’s natural beauty from the perfect starting point of your memorable experience exceptional service and intuitive amenities near balcony of your luxury room or suite and unwind at in Qatar. Qatar National Convention Center and Souq Waqif. the infinity pool and private beach before letting go

18 HOTELS HOTELS 19 01. Nobu

RESTAURANTS

Diplomatic St, Doha, Qatar +974.4494.8600

Located at the Four Seasons, you can Experience Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa’s signature, new-style Japanese cuisine at the world’s largest Nobu restaurant, dramatically perched above the Arabian Restaurants Gulf.

20 RESTAURANTS 21 02. Opal by Gordon Ramsay 04. Hakkasan Doha

Overlooking the turquoise waters Hakkasan Doha opened its doors in of the Arabian Gulf, Opal by Gordon January 2013, the third restaurant Ramsay Doha is a new direction for in the region following the success the master chef. Acknowledged as one of Hakkasan Abu Dhabi and . of the very best restaurants in Doha, Set in the gardens of St. Regis hotel, Opal offers everything that defines the Hakkasan Doha features an elegant Gordon Ramsay experience, yet in a main dining room, Ling Ling lounge relaxed and social dining environment. terrace, and terrace lounge. Exclusive At the heart of this bistro-style space services such as private valet parking is the gourmet pizza station. The menu complement the award-winning food is simple, fresh and tasty with classics which includes Hakkasan’s signature such as the Opal Wagyu burger dishes as well as those created becoming a favorite. specifically for the restaurant.

The St. Regis Doha West Bay, St. Regis Doha, Al Gassar Resort, Doha, Qatar Doha, Qatar +974.4446.0000 +974.4446.0170

03. Market by Jean-Georges 05. IDAM by Alain Ducasse

Market Doha is inspired by Jean- Embark on a refined, generous and Georges’ concept of the "Hotel as a enchanted culinary journey at IDAM, Home" and extends to the restaurant Alain Ducasse’s first restaurant in as a casual family kitchen. The menu the Middle East. In the heart of the features dishes inspired by The museum, with spectacular views of "Greatest Hits" of classic Jean-Georges the Doha skyline, IDAM offers an Cuisine emphasizing comfort And innovative and flavorsome selection of Creativity Allowing Guests to try new contemporary French Mediterranean flavor combinations and explore spices cuisine designed with an Arabic twist. from other regions, all while remaining Timeless classics of local and regional close to home. cuisine, with most ingredients sourced locally in Qatar, Philippe Starck’s unique and exquisite decor creates a sophisticated atmosphere.

W Doha Hotel & Residences West Bay, Museum of Islamic Art, 5th Floor, Doha, Qatar Corniche Promenade, Doha, Qatar +974.4453.5000 +974.4422.4488

22 RESTAURANTS RESTAURANTS 23 06. Isaan 08. Em Sherif

With the road less traveled, many Tucked away in the heart of Ashrafieh, stories are untold. Isaan is a magical Monot, Em Sherif is a distinguished corner of the world, unexplored fine-dining Oriental restaurant that and serene. Undoubtedly there are offers unique, authentic Oriental many options if you search for “Thai cuisine which brings back forgotten restaurants near me in Qatar or Doha,” traditional flavors, providing its guests but this is the place that will steal with an unsurpassed first-class dining your heart. Issan is one of the best experience. Thai restaurants in Doha and West Bay Lagoon. Nothing prepares you for astonishing sights such as watching the sun rise over the lake, illuminating the petals of the thousands of Nong Han lotus flowers. The food is fresh and authentic, prepared with passion West Bay Lagoon St, and packed with flavors that made our Sheraton Grand Doha Resort, PB No. 75, Doha, Qatar taste buds feel inferior. Make your way Doha, Qatar +974.4448.1250 to one of the most popular authentic +974 4488 8236 Thai restaurants in Doha.

07. La Spiga 09. Burj Al Hamam

Experience authentic Italian cuisine Having served guests for over 50 where vibrant design & a sophisticated years, this Lebanese restaurant leaves scene set the tone for an extraordinary nothing to be desired. Located in the dining experience at Paper Moon’s luxurious Pearl neighborhood, Burj Al La Spiga. Hamam is an insider tip for an elegant dinner in a classy oriental environment. Try some savory Shish Taouk and choose from a variety of pastries as well as Halawat el Jibn or Knafeh, just right for every sweet tooth

W Doha Hotel & Residences, Diplomatic St, No.1 La Croisette, The Pearl, Doha, Qatar Doha, Qatar +974 4453 5135 +974 4495 3876

24 RESTAURANTS RESTAURANTS 25 10. Nus-ret Steakhouse 11. L’wzaar

Al Corniche Street, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, P.O 6000, Doha, Catar Katara Cultural Village Bldg. 27, Doha, Qatar +974 4442 9339 +974 4408 0710

The restaurant quickly became the sector’s to the steakhouse culture and still serves as an Upon entering L'wzaar, the interactive open kitchen it is cooked and brought to the table. leader with its top-quality steaks, unprecedented indispensable location for its guests. and a four-meter-long seafood display gives the service quality, boutique concept and still remains diner a candid look at what feasts of the sea await as number by offering many unique options to them. L'wzaar is a venue where freshness is king, meat lovers, Nusr-Et quickly brought extra flair both in terms of produce, and the speed with which

26 RESTAURANTS RESTAURANTS 27 01. Noir Lounge and Club

Noir Lounge & Club finds inspiration in Hollywood’s ‘Film Noir’ genre of the 1930s to 1950s. Transport yourself to a bygone era of femmes fatales and chivalrous knights in sharp suits. Noir is a mood, evoked in every detail, from the dramatic monochromatic styling to the beautifully carved back bar and the intimate retro booths. Noir Lounge and Club provides an experience that redefines expectations.

Crowne Plaza Doha West Bay, District Zone 61, Diplomatic Area West Bay, Doha Qatar +974.5596.1414

NIGHTLIFE 02. Orion

At first glance, Orion might seem to be populated by a mostly male contingent, but it’s far from a threatening vibe. In fact, this ninth- floor bar is probably one of the most polished, professional and classy establishments in town, starting with a ‘can I help you?’ once-over at the door to weed out any undesirables. (Don’t visit this bar toting a large bag though, as anything above average size must be kept in the cloakroom). The staff is friendly, attentive and happy to chat if you pull up a stool alongside the wide, Manhattan-style bar. Salwa Road, Intersection of C Ring Rd, Doha Qatar +974.4428.1555

Nightlife28 NIGHTLIFE 29 03. Illusion 05. Crystal at W Doha

Step into the world of ILLUSION. Probably THE club in Doha, Crystal Three venues in one: immersive club, is chic, dressy and hip. Clean, sumptuous bar privé, and panoramic elegant design mixes with a Baccarat rooftop garden. A fun, fashionable chandelier over the dance floor, lit-up escape, where it’s all about overloading ice buckets, signature cocktails and a your senses with pleasures. Illusion champagne bar. Visiting, international is a breath-taking club experience DJs play the hottest music, and they that plays to the senses. From the have themed nights ranging from Latin rich furnishings to sounds from top to Slavic to Hip-Hop and R&B. international guests, and next-level cuisine and mixology.

Marsa Malaz Kempinski, W Doha Hotel & Residences, Diplomatic St, The Pearl, Qatar Doha, Qatar +974.4035.5757 +974 4453 5135

04. Glo Cocktail Bar 06. Iris

With its chic decor and striking bar, This large outside lounge bar by the Glo is a must for an unforgettable night sea is located in Sharq Village & Spa out. Glo Cocktail bar has a unique is a relaxed, unconventional place ambiance, vibrant design, and a suave to enjoy cocktails, aperitifs and an sense of style, serving mouth-watering international dining and snack menu. cocktails and delicious tapas-style. All set to chill lounge music and live DJs, is not just popular in the early evenings, sunset, and through the night, but also for its Friday brunches.

West Bay City Center, Al Wahda St, West Bay Sharq Village & Spa Hotel, Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel Doha, Qatar +974.4419.6100 +974 7479 4444

30 NIGHTLIFE NIGHTLIFE 31 07. Manko 08. Parisa Souq Waqif

223 St, Doha, Qatar West Bay Lagoon, Doha, Qatar Al Souq Street, Doha +974 4484 4099 +974 4441 1494

Being the first one in the Middle East, Manko Doha and its own cigar lounge. This elegant beachfront At Parisa Souq Waqif restaurant, you will be dazzled handpicked from Iran and assembled in Doha over is the unique ultra-lounge with chic Parisian flair. setting offers stunning and panoramic views of the by authentic Persian delights and mesmerizing 3.5 years that provide for an authentic Persian Offering a fun, social and energetic atmosphere. Doha skyline. interiors that combine hand-painted Persian artwork dining experience. All night long DJs, late night dining, spread over of myths and legends, intricate mosaics, ornate 3 different bars with unique cocktail experiences chandeliers and thousands of tiny mirrors that were

32 NIGHTLIFE NIGHTLIFE 33 Stay Inspired