The Attractions of Doha that cannot be missed
The oil-rich state of Qatar, and especially its capital Doha, has been under the international tourism lens ever since the country bagged the coveted 2022 FIFA World Cup title. Doha has been spruced up generously, so that within the Middle East, it is a city that is highly desired by tourists to be visited. PIA tickets reservation online has further helped the city by connecting it to all major domestic as well as international routes. It is also one of the seven New Wonder Cities of the Modern World. The city offers a vivid amalgamation of spectacular high rises, coupled with its ethnic-cultural offerings that will be a treat for any traveler.
This city on the coast of the Persian Gulf is also referred to as the ‘Financial Capital of the Middle East’, because trade and business are quite flourishing here and one can get a peek of it by visiting Doha. There are a lot of man-made as well as natural attractions in the city, some of which have been detailed here for complete understanding.
Attractions of Doha that cannot be missed
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The Corniche – One of the most sought-after places in Doha is the Corniche that is a reshaped walkway along its coastline. It has completely changed the geography of the city since the 70s and 80s, and a stroll over here will be quite refreshing for all. Joggers and walkers particularly throng to this place for exercise and ample relaxation. The mesmerizing sunset views from the place will be truly a sight to behold. The city skyline can also be enjoyed from the Corniche, which it makes it one of the most desirable places in the city to visit.
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Katara Cultural Village – The village is situated on the eastern coast of the city between The Pearl and West Bay. The structures of the village have been designed in a very traditional Qatari way so that they resemble the ethnic Qatari Al Fareej. The architecture of its buildings is a sight to behold due to the intricate Islamic designs that have been made on them. It is a chosen destination for hosting massive events like the Ajyal Youth Film Festival and the highly popular TEDx Doha. A visit to this location will be quite satisfying for any tourist.
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Souq Waqif – Located near the airport, it is one place that can offer ample leisure opportunities to a visitor. The architecture of the place is mind-blowing and one can take a stroll through the structure. There are also ample dining and shopping options at Souq Waqif, and you will be spoilt for choice. Different types of perfumes, embroideries, and lovely incense sticks are sold here providing a glimpse of the traditional Qatari way of life. The best part is that since the place is very close to the airport even layover travelers can visit the place and get a glimpse of the wonderful facilities on offer easily.
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Qatar National Museum – It is a must-visit attraction of the city, as it presents Arabian culture in the most presentable manner. That is why the museum received the Agha Khan Award for the rehabilitation of Islamic Architecture in the year 1980. A large number of attractive artifacts and exhibits are on display at the museum that shed enough light on the country’s rich heritage. It also organizes different types of exhibitions throughout the year that are worth a visit by tourists.
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The Pearl – It is an artificial island that has been developed off the West Bay Lagoon Area. The whole place has been developed in such a way that it presents a treat to the eyes. It is among the first places in the country where foreigners can actually get freehold ownership. A stroll on its gorgeous boardwalk will provide you a glimpse of the whole place. It also features many luxurious retail shops in the area so that shopping can always be done here with ample satisfaction
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Museum of Islamic Arts (MIA) – It is undoubtedly one of the topmost attractions of the city, as the structure sits majestically on the Doha waterfront within the MIA Park. It has a collection of rare paintings that were collected over a period of 1,400 years across three different continents. The interiors of the building have been superbly designed with geometric patterns that are synonymous with the Islamic world. A visit to the MIA will be quite an experience as various facets of Islamic art can be understood in detail.
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Islamic Cultural Center – The place is also known as FANAR and is situated very close to the Museum of Islamic Arts and the Souq Waqif. The center runs from the spiral mosque that is a sight to behold at night due to its intricate lighting arrangements. It is a charitable organization that aims to raise awareness regarding Islam among non-Muslims through many types of activities like exhibitions, guided tours, etc. It also conducts Arabic courses and interested travelers can get some knowledge and awareness.
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Aspire Park – If shopping and museum hopping is not a particular interest of a tourist, one can always stay closer to nature by visiting the Aspire Park. It is one of the largest parks in the Middle East and offers sufficient avenues for jogging, running, and doing exercise. The superlative landscaping of the park can blow away one’s mind due to its fantastic planning. It also features a 300-meter tall building that is popularly known as the Aspire Tower or the Torch Tower. During the 15th Asian Games, it was used as a giant torch, but at present, it serves as a lavish hotel. The park can certainly be a nice getaway for any nature lover during the summer months.
Doha is as much an architectural marvel as it is popular for its ethnic Islamic ways of life. The last few years have seen a steady inflow of tourists to the city that points to the fact that its attractions are only getting better so as to attract more people from around the world. Therefore, plan a vacation in Doha and have a great time in this lovely city.