Discovering Qatar: Spring/Summer 2021

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

80th ISSUE

Discovering

Qatar

NEW

LOOK

contents

Emergency and Important Numbers Qatar at a Glance Getting Around Qatar Sightseeing Traveller Information Features Doha: Second Safest City in the World Archeological Breakthrough

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Founder & Managing Editor Hilary Bainbridge 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 Marhaba Information Guide.

All Rights Reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without written permission of the publishers.

Editorial Sarah Palmer (Editor) , Ola Diab (Deputy Editor) , Terry Sutcliffe Advertising Howard Bainbridge, Charlotte Wright Online /Digital Lalaine Turqueza , Weslee Dizon, Ramla Mohamed Abdirahm Retail Sales Ayen Molina Design and Artwork Dick Tamayo , Mar Principe , Arnel Ramos Dana Public Relations PO Box 3797, Doha, Qatar Tel (+974) 4465 0083, 4465 5533 Fax (+974) 4465 5588 General Information marhaba@qatar.net.qa Retail Sales retailsales@marhaba-qatar.com

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Discovering Qatar

In this issue

D Souq Waqif © Visit Qatar

Emergency and Important Numbers

Qatar’s Government Structure

Map of Qatar

Feature – Doha: Second Safest City in the World

Cultural Awareness

Arabic Phrases

Qatar at a Glance • • • • • • •

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

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Doha has been officially declared the second safest city in the world, according to the Safety/Crime Index

by City 2021 by Numbeo, the world’s largest user-contributed database on cities and countries.

Foreign Embassies

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Traveller Information • Visas • eCash Cards • Entry Visas • Airlines • Travel Agencies

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

Paving the way for a new understanding of Qatar’s cultural history, Qatar Museu ms has discovered a new archeological site, believed to be one of the oldest in the country.

Maps Main Urban Centres

Doha City and other maps

Qatar

11

Northeast Coast

50

Al Khor

51

Greater Doha

44–45

Doha Bay and Corniche

46

Doha Central Area

47

Getting Around Qatar

Msheireb Downtown Doha

48

• Karwa Taxis • Doha Limousine (Karwa) • Karwa Public Bus and Metro Link • Doha Metro • Greater Doha Metro System

Al Wakra

53

Mesaieed

54

Southeast Coast

52

Lusail City

49

Sightseeing Things to see and do in Qatar, from Archaelogical Sites to Organised Tours

The Pearl‑Qatar

96

Katara Cultural Village

100

Souq Waqif

104

Souq Al Wakra

108

Discovering Qatar

Feature – Archaeological Breakthrough

Next issue: August 2021 The information contained in this guide has been checked and verified as correct as at the time of compilation, but is subject to change due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit marhaba.qa for the latest updates.

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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t A New Landmark in Doha: The Marina Promenade Enjoy unique breathtaking views of Doha skyline from the Marina Promenade located in the South of featuring mid-rise luxurious residential and mixed-use towers, renowned retail shops, and world-class restaurants and cafes.

For information: +974 4423 7830 DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

@qetaifanprojects

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de

of us

www.qetaifanprojects.com ©

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Emergency and Important Numbers Government Entities Baladiya 184 Consumer Protection

800 5000

Government Call Centre (Hukoomi)

109

iParks 4406 9955 Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs (MADLSA) 4028 8888

Emergency and Important Numbers

Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE)

155

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

236 7111

999

Ministry of Justice

137

Worldwide emergency (from mobile phones)

112

Emergency Services for the Deaf

992

Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME)

184

Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC)

16016

MOI eServices and Metrash2

234 2000

Emergency Services Police, Fire and Ambulance

Traffic Patrol Police Department (Madinat Khalifa) 2344 4444 Paediatric Emergency Centres (PEC) Airport (Matar Qadeem) 4467 7671 Al Daayen (Al Khor Coastal Road) 4423 3801 Al Rayyan (Al Furousiya Street) 4481 5447 Al Sadd (Suhaim bin Hamad Street) 4439 6020 Al Shamal (Al Ruwais) 4027 3000

National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) 4404 8844 Public Works Authority (Ashghal)

188

Qatar Post (QPost) 4446 4000 Report Environmental Violations

998

Supreme Judiciary Council

16007

Roadside and Break Down Assistance Telecom and Communications Mowasalat Taxi 4458 8888 Directory Assistance Qatar Assist 5545 5252 International Calls Inquiry

Important Numbers

General Information Qatar Meteorology Department 4448 0444 Local Time

140

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. see Pets in this section.

Foreign Embassies See Foreign Embassies in this section.

Health Enquiries COVID-19 Call Center

16000

Nesma'ak (Hamad Medical Corporation)

16060

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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)

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

Animals In the event of a pet emergency,

Hayyak (Primary Health Care Corporation)

150

991

Checked & Updated February 2021

Airport Hamad International Airport (HIA) 4010 6666

180

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141

1 Reservoir PRPS 1

Al Majd (Orbital Road) Ras Laffan Mesaieed 4

Lijmiliya

14

Semaisma

Reservoir PRPS 2

2

6

1

3

Qetaifan Island North The Pearl-Qatar Al Sheehaniya

33

Al Kharsaah (site of Solar Power Plant)

Al Majd Road Reservoir PRPS 3

2

SAA Corrid

or

PRPS 5

56

39

5

lw Sa

a

ad Ro

2 Reservoir PRPS 4

7

Al Majd Road

Hilton Salwa Beach Resort Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park

Non-stop Superhighway Upgraded Highway Highway SAA Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor Qatar Heritage Site WOQOD Kahramaa Mega Reservoir Project

All Rights Reserved. 02.2021 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.

©

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Cultural Awareness

Cultural Awareness

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 closely especially women. This general courtesy is particularly important in a society where modesty in dress and behaviour is mandatory.

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 not meant personally, but simply 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 family-friendly destinations.

Government offices will turn away people for inappropriate clothing.

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 priavte and strongly object to being photographed or videographed.

take the now fully operational Doha Metro for faster and cheaper transportation! Or hail taxis, which are safe, clean and metered. The majority of the drivers speak English. You can order a taxi by using the Karwa, Careem or Uber apps and have a car at your location within minutes.

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.

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 suring the holy month.

Refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during the fasting hours.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

be annoyed if your guest/contact is late – schedules are more flexible in Qatar.

drink too much alcohol so that your behaviour is affected in public. Alcohol in Qatar is a strictly regulated concession and there is zero tolerance for drink-driving, drunkenness or rowdy behaviour. 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. Spitting in public spaces is also prohibited. m

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Arabic Phrases

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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

Days of the Week 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?

Ramadan blessings

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 kareem

Eid blessings

Eid mubarak

Numbers 0 sifr

٠

1 wahad 2 ithnain

١ ٢

3 thalatha 4 arba’a

٤

5 khamsa 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

Essential Foods

Shopping/Eating Out

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

Where is the market? wain al souq?

I want to buy... ureed ashtiri...

Do you have ...? a'ndak…?

Have/Don’t have fi/mafi How much is it? kam qeemtah?

Cheap/Expensive rakhees/ghali Newspaper/Book jareeda/kitaab Map of Doha khareeta al doha Bank bank Money Exchange surrafa Restaurant mata'am What kind of food? ay ta'am ladaikum?

Toilets al hammam

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

Travel I want a taxi areed taxi How much is the taxi? kam al ijar?

I want to rent a car ureed astaajer sayyara Where is the airline office? wain maktab at tayaran?

Take us to the airport khuthna ila al matar

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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Checked & Updated February 2021

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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

Arabic Phrases

Peace be upon you assalam a'laykum And upon you be peace wa’alaykum salam Good morning sabah al khair May your morning be bright sabah al noor Good afternoon/evening massa al khair May your afternoon/evening be bright massa al noor Welcome marhaba or tafaddal/*tafaddali Goodbye (Go in peace) ma’a salaamah May God protect you Allah yehmik/*Allah yehmiki How are you? kaif halak?/*kaif halik And you? wa ant?/*wa anti Thank God al hamdu lillah Thanks shukran Welcome (in response to 'thank you') a'fwan Please min fadlak/*min fadlik Yes/No na’am or aiwa/la I'm sorry ana mutaassef/*ana mutaasefa Congratulations mabrook

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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

C4

& Corniche Stations

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Lagoon

Galerie

Qatar Philarmonic Orchestra

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SHO

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New land summ vario activ shop until AL

explore the city

g

FIFA World Cup 2022TM

a

il

vides e ze, eyball se and ural

ry Station

DECC

QNCC

DECC Station

Qatar National Library Station

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!

Ras Abu Aboud Stadium

Khalifa International Stadium

Ras Bu Abboud Station

Sport City Station

Al Rayyan Stadium

Education City Stadium

SHOPPING & FASHION

AL

Education City Station

Riffa Station

Lagoona Mall

Gate Mall

Villaggio Mall

Legtaifiya Station

DECC Station

AL

Galeries Lafayette

Mall of Qatar

City Center Mall

Lusail Stadium

Al Janoub Stadium

Katara Station

AL Riffa Station

DECC Station

Lusail Station

AL

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

AL

AL

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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 never sold or served during the month of Ramadan, or on the nine days of Eid al Adha. The country applies a zero-tolerance attitude to drugs.

Draft laws have been submitted for a new anti-tobacco law to give public places including shopping centres more power to enforce no smoking on their premises.

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 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 2021, the first day of Ramadan is expected to begin on 13 April, Eid Al Fitr on 13 May, and Eid Al Adha on 20 July. 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.

77

141

1

Al Majd (Orbital Road) Ras Laffan Mesaieed 4

Lijmiliya

14

Semaisma

2

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

1

3

6 Qetaifan Island North The Pearl-Qatar

Al Sheehaniya

33

Al Kharsaah (site of Solar Power Plant)

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.

Al Majd 2 Road

or SAA Corrid

56

39

5

• 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.

lw Sa

a

ad Ro

2 Al Majd Road

7

Salwa Beach Resort

SAA Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor

WOQOD

All Rights Reserved. 10.2020 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.

Demography • Qatar's population in February 2021 was 2,660,788​​​, according to the Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA).

• Males made up 1,936,214; women account for 748,115.

• 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.

• A 35-member Advisory Council debates economic, political and administrative matters referred to it by the Cabinet.

• 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 DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

on 8 June 2005, transforming Qatar into a democracy.

• In 1999, free elections were held to form a 29-member Central Municipal Council (CMC) for the first time in Qatar’s history. Women were allowed to vote and run as candidates.

The constitution was amended in 2003 to allow for the direct election of 30 members of the Advisory Council. Held every four years, the elections for the sixth edition of CMC was held in April 2019. In accordance with the provisions of Decree No 17 of 1998, a candidate is required to be an original Qatari citizen or to acquire citizenship provided that their father is born in Qatar; to be registered in the voters’ lists in the constituency which they wish to represent, and has a permanent residence within its borders; have not previously been convicted of an offence against honour or trust; is at least 30 years of age; is literate and known for their competence and honesty.

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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.

• 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 Banking and Finance section for details.

Qatar is a member of: • The United Nations (UN) and its subsidiary global organisations • The Asian Group of the United Nations Human Rights Council • The Organisation of Arab Oil Exporting Countries (OAPEC) • The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank • The World Trade Organisation (WTO) • The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) • The Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) • The Arab League • The UNESCO World Heritage Committee • European Council (observer member)

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 now 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 will be completed by 2026. See more in Infrastructure in the Banking and Commerce section and Getting Around Qatar in this section.

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• Qatar maintains 100 embassies abroad as well as 11 consulates and two other representations. Doha hosts 103 embassies, and one consulate.

• 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 resignations or relieve them of their appointment,

by Amiri Decree.

Qatar's Government Structure

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 and signs any decisions made. He is also able to advise the Amir on how to form the cabinet. The General Secretary is HE Dr Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi (Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs).

HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (above) named a new cabinet the day after becoming the Amir of the State of Qatar on 25 June 2013. The last full reshuffle was in November 2018, when ministries were restructured under a new portfolio.

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

In the 2018 reshuffle, The Amir combined commerce and industry under one ministry, appointed new ministers to the justice, labour and social affairs, and municipality and environment ministries, and decreed changes to the boards of Qatar Petroleum and Qatar Investment Authority in view of ministerial appointments.

The Amiri Diwan is the sovereign body and administrative office of HH The Amir, overseen by the Chief of the Amiri Diwan, 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

The Advisory Council (Shura Council) was established in 1972. It 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, is responsible for the general budget for public projects, and other matters dealing with economic, administrative and political issues. 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 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.

For more information visit Hukoomi, the Qatar e-Government service, portal.www.gov.qa and the Government Communications Office gco.gov.qa/en

The current list of cabinet 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 has been 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; from 2013 to 2016, HE Al Attiyah was Minister of Foreign Affairs.

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marhaba.qa • Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs 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 Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs HE Yousef bin Mohammed Al Othman Fakhroo – appointed November 2018.

The ministry was formed in 2016.

• Minister of Municipality and Environment HE Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie – appointed November 2018. He has been the Managing Director of Qatar Railways Company from March 2011, additionally becoming CEO in January 2017. He has also held positions with Barwa, Qatari Diar Group, and Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa).

Qatar's Government Structure

• Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari – appointed November 2018 under the renamed ministry (was previously the Ministry of Economy and Commerce).

• Minister of Justice and Minister of State for the Council of Ministers Affairs HE Dr Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi – appointed November 2018. From June 2013 he was Minister of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs.

Pictured from left: HE Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani; HE Yousef bin Mohammed Al Othman Fakhroo; HE Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali; HE Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti

• Minister of Education and Higher Education HE Mohammed Abdul Wahed Ali Al Hammadi – appointed June 2013. He is also the President of Qatar National Committee for Education, Culture and Science.

• Minister of Public Health HE Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari – appointed January 2016.

She was previously the Managing Director of Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) for nine years. Among various positions on advisory boards, she is also a member of the Sidra Board of Governors and the Board of Directors of Qatar Foundation for Social Work.

• Minister of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs HE Dr Ghaith bin Mubarak Al Kuwari – appointed June 2013.

• Minister of State for Energy Affairs HE Saad Sherida Al Kaabi – appointed 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.

• Minister of Finance HE Ali Sherif Al Emadi – appointed in June 2013. He is also Chairman of the QNB Group, President of the Executive Board of Qatar Airways, and Deputy Chairman of Qatar National Tourism Council.

• Minister of Transport and Communications HE Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti – appointed January 2016 after the two ministries were merged.

He was previously the Minister of Transport, a position he held from 2013. m ©

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• Minister of Culture and Sports HE Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali – appointed January 2016 when the Ministry was formed by merging the Ministries of Youth and Sports, and Culture, Arts and Heritage. He was previously Minister of Youth and Sports from June 2013.

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FEATURE

Doha: Second Safest City in the World

By Ola Diab Doha has been officially declared the second safest city in the world, according to the Safety/Crime Index by City 2021 by Numbeo, the world’s largest user-contributed database on cities and countries.

Q

atar continues to retain its global distinction as one of the safest countries in the world.

Qatar ranked 430 out of 431 entries in the Crime Index 2021, making it the second safest country from hundreds worldwide. Doha secured 87.96 in the safety index while its crime index is just 12.04.

The Qatari capital came only second to neighbouring Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. The top 10 safest cities include Abu Dhabi, UAE; Taipei, Taiwan; Quebec City, Canada; Zurich, Switzerland; Sharjah, UAE; Dubai, UAE; Eskisehir, Turkey; Munich, Germany; and Trieste, Italy.

In 2020, Qatar was named the world's safest country by Numbeo's mid-year Crime Index by Country. The country has taken the title as the world’s safest country at least three times on

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Numbeo – first in 2017, then again in 2019 and 2020. In addition, Qatar has been named the safest Arab country since 2015.

According to the classification rules of the report, countries are ranked in reverse order – Qatar ranked 430 in crime rate by registering very low levels of crime with 6.84 points out of 100. In the Safety Index, Qatar ranked second by scoring 87.81 points out of 100. Qatar has been rated low and very low for crimes such as home break-ins and home theft, mugging and robbery, car theft, property crimes such as vandalism and theft, drug use or dealing, violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery, corruption and bribery, and being subject to a physical attack because of skin colour, ethnic origin, gender or religion. In addition, Qatar ranked very high in regards to safety when walking alone during daylight (91.44 points) and at night (86.15 points).

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seeking to implement comprehensive policies and programmes that promote socio-economic development and provide support to other member states in their endeavours to this end.

The Numbeo database has been publishing annual reports since 2009, based on crime rates in the countries of the world. The Crime Index is measured according to the laws of the countries, as there are acts that constitute crimes in some countries while they are not deemed crimes in some others, which gives a real measure of the crime rate in countries in accordance with applicable laws.

The report takes into account the different types of crimes and their classification according to the laws on crimes, offences and violations. The indicators also depend on a set of standards related to the rates of crime and violence such as murder, terrorism, the cost of crime, and other standards.

Doha Declaration In July 2020, Qatar confirmed that the global programme to implement the Doha Declaration issued by the Thirteenth United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in 2015 has proven its effectiveness and achieved the highest possible outcome in support of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The implementation of the UN's sustainable development agenda in 2016 began during the same year of the launch of the Doha Declaration Global Programme, which is funded

by Qatar, the largest funding programme provided by one country in the history of the UN Office.

This synchronisation confirms the foresight of the political leadership of Qatar and its belief in global solidarity when it decided to transform the Doha Declaration and the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development into action programmes for community prosperity and the promotion of world peace.

Al Mansouri reviewed the achievements of the global programme during the past five years, and said that the sustainable development plan pledged to ensure no one will be left behind. The global programme achieved this goal in a practical way when it reached about 2 mn people from 192 countries, and more than 55,000 people benefitted from more than 500 activities of support and capacity building activities, most of them from developing countries in Latin America, Asia and Africa. The programme still has time to achieve more goals.

This came in a speech by Qatar – delivered by the Ambassador of Qatar to the Federal Republic of Austria and the permanent representative of Qatar to the UN and international organisations in Vienna, Sultan bin Salmeen Al Mansouri, via video conference in July 2020 – during the meeting of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Vienna on the activities of the global programme under the slogan 'Transforming Policies into Actions'.

Al Mansouri added that although the global programme to implement the Doha Declaration achieved many goals contained in Goal 16, which falls within the mandate of the UNODC, the 17 goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 169 goals are integrated and indivisible goals with the aim of achieving a balance between the three dimensions of sustainable development: the economic, the social and the environmental dimensions. Therefore, the global programme has comprehensively contributed to the implementation of all the goals of the sustainable development plan.

According to Al Mansouri, the member states of the UN unanimously adopted the Doha Declaration a few months before the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the Doha Declaration had its forward-looking vision in support of this plan and its emphasis on

Al Mansouri affirmed the commitment of Qatar to continue working with the UNODC to build on the achievements of the global programme to implement the Doha Declaration and to continue to contribute to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development at all levels. 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 8729 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 qa.mvep.hr

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 domrepemb-qatar.com

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 ethiopiaembassydoha.org

Burkina Faso B4 4472 8915 See their Facebook page

France B4 4402 1755 ambafrance-qa.org

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Georgia B4 4473 9499 qatar.mfa.gov.ge Germany C3 4408 2300 doha.diplo.de Ghana B4 4436 4486 Greece B4 4412 8150 mfa.gr/doha 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 jordanembassydoha.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 qat.mofa.go.kr Kosovo (Republic of) C4 4037 2238/9 qat.mofa.go.kr Kuwait B4 4483 2111 kuwaitembassy@qatar.net.qa Kyrgyz Republic B4 4413 1519 mfa.gov.kg Lebanon B4 4493 3330 doha.mfa.gov.lb

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marhaba.qa Liberia (Republic of) B4 4412 5672 libemg.doha@yahoo.com Libya B4 4483 1231 leinqatar@gmail.com Malaysia B4 4483 6463 kln.gov.my/web/qat_doha

Mauritania (Islamic Republic of) B4 4483 6003 ambarimdoha@gmail.com Mexico B4 4450 8000 embqatar@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 nigerianembdoha.gov.ng

Philippines B3 4483 1585 dohape.dfa.gov.ph Poland (Republic of) B4 4411 3230 doha.mfa.gov.pl Portugal B4 4486 4691 doha.embaixadaportugal.mne.pt Romania B4 4493 4848 doha.mae.ro Russia B4 4483 6231/6821 qatar.mid.ru Senegal B4 4483 7644/77 embassysenegal@yahoo.com Serbia (Republic of) B4 4417 5181 doha.mfa.gov.rs Singapore B4 4412 8082 mfa.gov.sg/doha Somalia B4 4483 2771 dohaembassy@mfa.gov.so South Africa B3 4485 7111 dirco.gov.za/doha

Oman B4 4493 1514 office.omanembassy@gmail.com

Spain B4 4483 8986 exteriores.gob.es/embajadas/doha

Pakistan B4 4483 2525 mofa.gov.pk/doha-qatar

Sri Lanka D5 4467 7627 slembassy-qatar.com

Palestine B4 4469 2228 palemb-qa.com

Sudan B4 4483 1474 suemdoha2014@gmail.com

Panama B4 4483 7740 embpanamaqatar@mire.gob.pa Paraguay B4 4493 5218 See their Facebook page

Sweden C4 4444 9500 swedenabroad.com/doha Switzerland B3 4020 3400 eda.admin.ch/doha

Tajikistan (Republic of) B3 4412 3906 tajembqatar.tj Tanzania (Republic of) B4 4036 0860 qa.tzembassy.go.tz Thailand B4 4493 4426/4432 thaiembassy.org/doha 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 Ukraine B4 4414 7297/8 qatar.mfa.gov.ua United Kingdom B4 4496 2000 gov.uk/world/qatar 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 vnembassy-doha.mofa.gov.vn –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Consulates Chile (Republic of) C4 4410 1840 chile-qatar.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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North Macedonia (Republic of) B4 4493 1374 mfa.gov.mk6

Syria B4 4020 8222 syrembassy.com

Foreign Embassies in Qatar

Mali B4 4483 6463 ambamali.doha@gmail.com

Peru C3 4491 5944 consulado.pe/es/doha/Paginas/ Inicio.aspx

Representative Offices Northern Cyprus B4 4483 7693 doha.mfa.gov.ct.tr ©

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Digital Qatar out its 5G network in August 2018 and was the first to commercially launch its 5G network.

Digital Qatar

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 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 Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) was established under Amiri Decree No 1 of 2016, superseding the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ictQATAR) and the Supreme Council of Information and Communication Technology. 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 technology-friendly 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 ensure safety to users. In November 2020, Qatar was ranked third in the world for mobile speeds and in the top 40 for fixed broadband speeds (Source: Speedtest Global IndexTM).

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

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 The seventh annual Media Use in the Middle East survey was released by Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q) in December 2019, and is the only one of its kind in the region. The survey was conducted among 7,303 respondents across seven countries.

Studies began in 2013, examining media behaviour in Qatar, Lebanon, Jordan, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Egypt. Chapters include bias and credibility, digital privacy, free speech, internet use, media use, news, social media, and social media influencers.

One section focuses solely on Qatar. In terms of internet behaviour, Qataris are spending less time online (24 hours a week, down from 48 hours in 2017), the least amount of time spent online among the countries. They are also spending less time with family and friends, and fewer are exercising or playing sports.

The use of some social media platforms is low with a few on the decline in Qatar. WhatsApp is still the most popular platform, used by seven out of 10 Qataris, but down on 2017. Only one-third use Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter or Facebook, although the latter has had a resurgence and is now used by 30% of Qataris. Instagram is preferred by both nationals and non-nationals to follow social media influencers.

Qataris are less likely than other nationals to worry about digital privacy (either the government or companies checking their online behaviour). Only 28% favour tighter internet regulation, and roughly the same percentage for regulation of online political or cultural content.

The complete results of the survey are available at mideastmedia.org

Keep up to date with all that is happening in Qatar by connecting with Marhaba: DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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marhaba.qa Personal privacy protection Qatar is the first GCC country to pass a law requiring a minimum level of protection for personal data. ictQATAR first released the draft Personal Information Privacy Protection Law back in 2011.

After consultation, Law No 13 of 2016 Concerning Privacy and Protection of Personal Data (the Data Protection Law) was issued in November 2016.

Under the Data Protection Law, provisions are made for the rights of individuals to protect the privacy of personal data. As explained in Article 2, this is data 'that is electronically processed, or obtained, gathered or extracted in preparation for electronic processing, or when a combination of electronic and traditional processing is used'.

Individuals must consent to the use of their personal information, and have the right to withdraw this consent at any time. The individual can also at any time ask to view the personal data being held and demand that any incorrect information be amended or deleted. All such requests for data access, corrections or deletions must be logged and made available if required.

Processing 'special personal data', such as race, health, religion, and criminal records, require the permission of the relevant department at the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC).

Further rules are to be issued regarding this.

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).

To lodge a complaint contact the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC). Business owners may choose to seek legal advice to ensure they fully comply with these laws. Sources: MOTC, and unofficial translations of the laws. m

Under Article 17, any person who owns or operates a website related to children must put up a policy about how it manages the information of minors (the age of minority has not been specified). The website operator must obtain the consent of the child’s parent or guardian when processing personal data, and delete it if so requested.

And in what may be good news for some, businesses are banned from sending direct marketing messages electronically without obtaining an individual’s prior consent. Direct marketing is defined as 'sending any advertising or marketing materials via any means to individuals'. ©

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Organisations have a duty of care to adhere to basic data protection responsibilities. This includes ensuring data handlers are properly trained and that necessary precautions are made to 'protect personal data from loss, damage, modification, disclosure or being illegally accessed.' Again, individuals have to consent to their personal information being used by an organisation.

Violators will face severe penalties, with a maximum fine of QAR5 mn, and a fine of up to QAR1 mn for those who send unsolicited electronic messages.

Digital Qatar

This law is the first in Qatar to provide specific national data protection. Previously offenders were subject to provisions in existing laws such as the Penal Code and more recently Law No 14 of 2014 Cybercrime Prevention (see further on).

Any message that is sent electronically must contain the sender's contact details so that individuals are able to withdraw their consent.

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Traveller Information

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marhaba.qa

Traveling 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.

Traveller Information

Hamad International Airport (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.

Since its opening in May 2014, HIA has welcomed over 120 mn passengers. Once its expansion is complete in January 2023, HIA will be able to serve over 65 mn passengers annually. From April 2019 to March 2020, HIA served a total of 37,953,257 passengers. It also recorded 2,197,226 tonnes of cargo operations, 1.97% more than the previous year. HIA also recorded 228,896 aircraft movements, including take-offs and landings, which marked an increase of 1.75% from 2019. *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, 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 Living in Qatar in this section or visit gov.qa and dohahamadairport.com

Visas Citizens from at least 80 countries (see below) can get a tourist visa on arrival in 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 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 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 Living in Qatar in this 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 gov.qa to ensure you get the latest information and fees as they do change from time to time.

When flying with Qatar Airways, a transit visa is free of cost when you add a short transit or stopover between five and 96 hours in Doha to your itinerary without any additional fare charges. Use the multi-city booking option to include the stop when booking your flight on qatarairways.com or through a travel agent.

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

Car rental, taxis and limousines See Getting 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 6440

Air India Express

4038 7373

Pegasus

4442 1807

Air France & KLM

4036 0582

Philippine Airlines (ST)

4422 7302

American Airlines

4499 5736

Qantas (DUT)

4036 0602

Badr Airlines

4482 9214

Qatar Airways

4023 0000

Biman Bangladesh

4441 3054

Qatar Airways Holidays

4423 7937

Cathay Pacific (TOT)

4445 8318

Royal Air Maroc (ABA)

4444 1161

Cebu Pacific (RTT)

4435 3774

Royal Jordanian

4442 3888

Ethiopian Airlines

4416 1010

SalamAir

4442 0944

IndiGo

4036 7777

Singapore Airlines

4499 5740

Iran Air

4432 3666

SriLankan Airlines (ABA)

4444 1217

Kuwait Airways

4442 2392

SyrianAir

4441 2912

Middle East Airlines MEA

4434 2978

Tarco Air

Nepal Airlines

4431 7070

Turkish Airlines

Oman Air

4414 2222

3124 2999

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

Regency Travel & Tours (RTT)

4434 4444

Darwish United Travels (DUT)

4445 2276

Space Travel (ST)

4422 7333

Mannai Air Travel

4428 2666

Tawfeeq Travels

4448 4848

Trans Orient Travel (TOT)

4445 8458

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WELCOME ON BOARD: As of May 2nd, Vancouver is the latest addition to our network.

Fly safely with our extensive health measures.

CANADA

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Traveller Information

HIA (airport code: DOH) is classified as a five-star airport by Skytrax. HIA was recently ranked 'Third Best Airport in the World', among 550 airports worldwide, by the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2020.

HIA was also voted the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ for the sixth year in a row and ‘Best Staff Service in the Middle East’ for the fifth year in a row. 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 world-class facility has recently been voted as the 'Best Airport in the Middle East' at the Global Traveler’s GT Tested Reader Survey Awards in Los Angeles. 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 of 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.

At least 2 mn people use the e-gates each year.

The service comes under the 'smart passengers' project inaugurated in early 2017. Twenty new e-gates with 10 each at the departure and arrivals terminals were installed in 2018.

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. HIA revised car parking charges in December 2017. 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.

HIA’s parking fees remain one of the lowest in the world. HIA is currently working on adding premium parking services with a valet service. ©

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marhaba.qa 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

Hamad International Airport

• 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 located to the right of 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 will be able to put their luggage in specially allotted areas in the trains. Doha Metro is operational Saturday – Wednesday 6 am – 11 pm, Thursday 6 am – 11:59 pm, and 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 Card, 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 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 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

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 Departures Exit Permit: Some expatriate residents of Qatar are required to obtain an exit permit from their sponsor when exiting the country. The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani signed Law No 13 of 2018 (Amending Law) in September 2018, amending certain provisions of Law No 21 of 2015 that required all migrant workers getting permission from their employers before leaving Qatar.

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.

Lounges 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

The amended law, which came into effect on 28 October 2018, allows most migrant workers 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.

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

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.

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.

The newly opened 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.

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

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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marhaba.qa in for passengers with reduced mobility. This service desk is the first counter in each check-in row, with the exception of Qatar Airways’ checkin rows where it is the last counter. The seated check-in desks offered to Qatar Airways First Class passengers are all adapted for passengers with reduced mobility.

Hamad International Airport

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

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

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

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 Living in Qatar in this 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, The Boulevard, Coach, Chanel Watches, Chopard, Esquire, Giorgio Armani, Harrods, Hermès, Hugo Boss, Michael Kors, Mont Blanc, Rolex, Swarovski, Tag Heuer, Tiffany, Virgin Megastore, and WH Smith. 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 every passenger, or at any of the airport's other restaurants such as Seafood Bar, Eat Street or Camden Food Co. Try Qatar’s first and only completely plant-based café, Evergreen Organics.

Grab a hot drink or a quick bite from the Coffeshop Company, Jamocha Café, Argo Tea Café, Farggi, L'eto Café, Harrods Tea Room and more.

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Art at HIA

Desert Horse by Ali Hassan

Hamad International Airport

Lamp Bear by Urs Fischer

marhaba.qa

Oryx by Tom Claassen

Untitled by Rudolf Stingel

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. 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, as well as Untitled by Italian artist Rudolf Stingel. Stingel’s work at HIA 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. ©

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Hamad International Airport

marhaba.qa

Other Worlds by Tom Otterness

Other Worlds by Tom Otterness

Arctic Nurseries of El Dorado by Marc Quinn

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.

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

The Flying Man by Dia Al Azzawi

Small Lie by KAWS

The Flying Man, two iconic scultptures designed by the renowned Iraqi artist Dia Al Azzawi and have been installed in HIA's passenger terminal for passengers. Thr 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.

The latest art piece at HIA is COSMOS by contemporary French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel. It 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 latest artwork Small Lie, which was unveiled along with Qatar Museums (QM) in March 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.

Checked & Updated February 2021

COSMOS by Jean-Michel Othoniel

More pieces will be installed over time, from international artists including Adel Abdessemed, Maurizio Cattelan, Don Gummer, Keith Haring, Damien Hirst, Jenny Holzer, Anselm Reyle and Bill Viola. m ©

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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 the Sightseeing 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 the Sightseeing 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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41 POCKET MAP AD M80.indd 1

4/3/21 1:38 PM

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26 27

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Moldova

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Belgium

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Morocco

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Brazil

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Bulgaria

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Burkina Faso

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Oman

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Canada

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Pakistan

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C. African Rep

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Palestine

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Chile

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China

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Russia

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Serbia

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Eritrea

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Singapore

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Ethiopia

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South Africa

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France

C4

Spain

B4

Gambia

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Sri Lanka

E4

Georgia

C4

Sudan

Germany

C3

Sweden

C4

Ghana

B3

Switzerland

B3

Greece

B4

Syria

C4

Hungary

B3

Tajikistan

C3

India

C4

Tanzania

C4

Indonesia

D3

Thailand

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Iran

C4

Tunisia

C4

Iraq

C4

Turkey

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Italy

C4

Uganda

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Ukraine

B3

Japan

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United Kingdom

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United States

Kazakhstan

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of America

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Kenya

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

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Qatar University

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Al Qassar Burj Al Taawon Golden Bay QP District

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 63

Dareen Al Rabban Al Zubara Sahara Al Fardan Towers WOQOD Kahramaa Ashgal Min of Municipality & Environment 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 Comm. Bank Law Courts Barzan Tower Al Khaliji Bank

Qatar National Theater

i Al B dda

St

a aiz On St Al

Al Ray yan Rd

Sapphire Plaza

Banyan Tree

Ras

Abu Bakr Al Siddiq Mosque a

d

A Ring Road

ng Ri

Ro

Al Liwan Suites

Five Guys Brunchery Vapiano

t dS

a

lw

Sa

Rd

BR

B Ring Road

i n g Road

na St

rp

hail St t Al K

St

Al Mansoura

soura

Rd

Al Man

Al Mansour Suites

t

bS

ali

iT

Ab

bi

wa

Ra

or

tS

t

Umm Ghuwailina

St

Najma St

ing

Ali

Bin

Al

VIP Hotel

Ai

Rawda

CR

a

lw

Rd

Strato

by Warwick

Al Doha Al Jadeda

Al Mansour Plaza

Radisson Blu, Doha Sa

National Museum of Qatar

National Museum

K108

B

e Se Ibn

e

sh

Mu

Ramada Encore

d St

ou Bu Abb

d St a ma

l Ja de

e air

Msheireb

Al Meena St

in H

Applebee’s Burger King McDonald’s Caribou TGIF Mirqab A

di

Wa

t bS

Al Najada

by Oaks

Souq Waqif

Grand Hamad St

Bin Mahmoud

Kinana

Alwadi Al Najada Asmakh S Al t

St

Royal Mirage Four Points

by Sheraton

St

im B Suha

n Qatari Bi

St

Park Hyatt

Saray Mshereb

o ud h Al Fujaa

n St Al Diwa

Doha Oasis

l e ej

st ahm Bin M

Al Sadd

zeera

Al Kha

Al Ja

Best Western Corp Gokulam Royal Riviera Horizon Manor

C Ring Rd

Millennium Plaza

French Olive Roger’s Diner Chilis Indigrill Shanghai Garden Fy Cafe

St

Al Bidda

White Palace

Hamad Hospital

Cor nic he

C Ring Rd

Pappa Roti Nando’s Ric’s Kountry Kitchen

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

02.2021 marhaba.qa

MARHABA

44 DOHA CORNICHE MAP M80.indd 1

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Park

rt St re et

rp o Rin gR d

St

Ai

St

Doha Market

Jarir Bookstore Thai Snack Fauchon

Sushi Minto

39 Mirqab Mall

Nissan Infiniti

Youth Creative Art Center

St lib Ta

Doha Clinic Turkey Central

i Ab in iB Al

Almuftah Centre

Language Institute Diet Shop Shiraz Garden

d oa

Shebestan

Sterling

St ad am H Bin

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

d oa gR Rin

aR lw

Royal Plaza Al Sadd Mall

aim Suh

CCQ-Girls Turkish Hospital

Radisson Blu

C

CAA

Labour Dept

Ibis

lw a

Al Jadeed St irqab Al M

Al Sadd

Al Ra Zubarah w ab iS t

Sa

La Cigale

Blue Salon

Law Court

Five Guys Brunchery Vapiano

Al Kinana St

marhaba.qa

h St ujaa Al F

38 02.2021

te e n

t

Hamad General Hospital Car Park

23

22

French Olive Roger’s Diner Chilis Indigrill Shanghai Garden Fy Cafe Lulu Centre

24

Westin Doha Ro ad Hotel & Spa

Al Sadd St

White Palace

Qatar Credit Bureau

American Hospital

Aalishan

The Centre

t

Red Lobster

Holiday Villa

St eena Ibn S

Bin Mahmoud

Retaj Res. Al Sadd Ambulance White Palace

bS

Centro Capital Doha

St

Rawdat Al Khail Garden

Rawdat Al Khail

in ari B Qat

NCCCR

Pappa Roti Nando’s Ric’s Kountry Kitchen Financial Square

Khail

WOQOD

Sa

Al Ja zeer a St

Al Wajba Motors

Chevrolet Jaidah Group

Flyover

Gulf Paradise

leej St Al Kha S oud ahm

ire

Doha Oasis

Al Mansoura

Qurtoubah

Home Centre

he

13

Bin M

Heart

Four Points

by Sheraton

Banyan Tree

t iza S Ona Rumailah

14 Retaj Inn

us

Al Bidda Park

at Al

iM

Exec. Apts

25

Rawd

ad W

an St Le Mirage Al Diw

St

12

Park Hyatt

WOQOD

Al Sulaiman Rent A Car

Ibn Dirham St

WOQOD

Mercure Msheireb Interchange

Chairman

Aljabor Vision

Hyundai

WOQOD

26

Hit

Al Co rni che

Mandarin Oriental, Doha

15

Qatar Int’l

Msheireb Downtown Doha

2

Al Bidda Interchange

Najma St Assaha Lebanese Restaurant

Al Arab St

3

Shioukh Mosque

Al Rayyan Road

d

Bi

4

Alwadi Underground Walkway

Safir

12

Arrayah Gulf Times

B

Al Cornich eS t

Maharaja

1

Diwan Amiri

Royal Qatar

sm Al A akh St

Al Koot Fort

Al Doha Al Jadeda

d Roa ing CR

SOUQ WAQIF

Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza Doha The Business Park

B Ring Road

Al Mirqab Boutique

A Ring Road

Souq Waqif Park & Underground Car Park

Retaj Al Ghanem

Grand Hamad Street

Arumaila Boutique

Al

6 5

Bin Zaid Souq Waqif

Concorde

Al Jazeera Apts La Rose De Sable

Toyota

Al Meera

St

QCB

Ri

16

Kingsgate

7

QNB

Square

Copthorne

ng Grand Capital Ro Regal ad Security Diamond 1 Dept

Mohd St

Jabr Bin Water Pots

B

n Ib

Umm Ghuwailina

ou ald Chevrolet Kh Jaidah

ura anso Al M

Museum of Islamic Art

Liwan Suites St n

42

Almana Ford

DOHA CENTRAL AREA

27

ud St

Al Riwaq

17

Premium Sales

Abu Bakr Al Siddiq

Al Siraj National Museum Doha Inn 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 MME

MIA Park

da

Ras Bu Abbo

19

Safeer

C Ring Road

Tunnel

18

Park

Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha

WOQOD

Rd ng Ri

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 2021

45 DOHA CENTRAL MAP M80.indd 1

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Restaurants & Cafes

n Ali Bi St ulla Abd

Souq Waqif

Al Najada

Gold Souq

A

h ak m s lA

MSHEIREB DOWNTOWN DOHA

t ree t S Msheireb Mosque

Al Koot Fort

et tre S d me Prayer ham o Ground M Bin m i s s a J

Falcon Market

reb hai Mus

reet

Park Hyatt Doha

Exit 5

Mercure Grand Hotel, Doha

Str

Msheireb Central Interchange Station

eet

t tree ani S h T Bin ulla Abd Barahat Msheireb

St haim

Mandarin Oriental, Doha

Al Ka hraba

Al Khail Street

Su Qasr

Al Rayyan Road

Msheireb Museums

l di A Wa

Msheireb Mosque

t ood S

Msheireb Museums

lm Bin Ja

Shioukh Mosque

Alwadi Hotel Doha-MGallery

Street

RED LINE GREEN LINE GOLD LINE

Exit 1

Exit 4

Qatar Academy Exit 2

Al Diwan Str eet

Msheireb Tram Network

to the Corniche and Al Bidda Park DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

Exit 3

Four Points

by Sheraton

02.2021 marhaba.qa

MARHABA

46 MSHEIREB MAP M80.indd 1

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Medical & Educational District North

LUSAIL CITY

6

North Residential Villas Current development of Qetaifan Island North will include this world-class waterpark

Projected Golf District Projected Golf District

Water Front Qatar

Qetaifan Island North

ad or Ro

Al Kh Fox Hills North

Lusail Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM

Lusail QNB Metro Station

Doha Metro Red line Lusail Al Wakra HIA

Crescent Park

Fox Hills South

Katara Towers

Beverly Hills Lusail

Place Vendome Vendome Mall

Lusail University

Prom de

ena i St

harq

Al S

5 St Doha Golf Club

t ar S

ena

Qatar University

Alad

t

n St

CoA CoC

JLR

Lusail Marina

MFA

Al S

8 St

mi S

ajda

e ane

Al M

Belh

oad

St

02.2021

MOCI

MARINA DISTRICT

eet

Shafallah Centre

or R

rfa

Ta

t ree

St 11QNTC

il Str

h Al K

Al

ina

WOQOD

Marina Food Arena Court of Appeal Court of Cessation Qatar National Tourism Council Ministry of Commerce & Industry

Lusa

MFA CoA CoC QNTC MOCI

eet

Str

Mar

rfa

a Al T

Staybridge Katara Hospitality

QIPCO

reet

t St

Metro Station

LuLu Express

marhaba.qa

Firs

Qatar University ©

MARHABA

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

47 LUSAIL MAP M80.indd 1

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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

Ras Laffan Purple Island

Fahes

4

Al Khor Community

Mall

Qatar Academy Al Khor Al Khor Family Park

Joint Staff College

Al Farkiya Beach

Doha

RASHEEDA I/C EXIT 40 8 km

14

5 miles

ad Ro

AL SHEFALLAHIYA

Al Daayen Municipality

al bit

EXIT 29

Ma Al

Petrol Station

AL SAKHAMA I/C

ad Lusail Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM

Lusail City

Rawdat Hamama Al Kheesa

EXIT 10 AL KHEESA I/C

Doha Festival City

EXIT AL KHARAITIYAT 08 INTERCHANGE

IKEA

W) AT IO N RO

Doha Golf Club

FAHES WOQOD

et Stre arfa Al T

Khafji Street

et

e

DUHAIL INTERCHANGE

Doha

The Pearl-Qatar 02.2021

Lusail Street

North Gate Mall

r Universit y St

IZGHAWA EXIT 06 INTERCHANGE

Zekreet St

Al Wajba Dukhan Road Mall Of Qatar Al Rayyan Sports Club

Hotel

Al Majd Road

WOQOD

WOQOD Bu Fesseela

(C EL E BR

Ro

2

EXIT 16 AL MAZROOAH I/C

Route No. Mangroves

Lusail Shooting Assoc.

Barzan Al Mazrooah Olympic Park Yard Y

2

ST RE ET

or

Lusail Sports Arena

Umm Slal Ali

14

Kh

Losail Racing Circuit

UMM SLAL MOHAMMED

A A L RU FA

Watch Tower

Al

EXIT 20

Multi-Lane Super Highway

Mosque

Umm Al Amad

Barzan Youth Center Umm Slal Sports Club Umm Slal Police Station Boys School

Metro Station Red Line

6

EXIT 24 UMM AL AMAD I/C

Mesaieed Salwa Road Dukhan Road Al Wajba

Semaisma

Al Dayeen Naval Base

North View Int’l School

Qatar Leadership Academy

4

Simaisma A Murwab Resort

Park

UMM GARN I/C

Or

0

Olympic Park

EXIT 32

Al Bayt Stadium - Al Khor FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM

Semaisma North Beach (families and ladies)

Umm Garn Farm

jd

0

Al Khor Airfield

AL KHOR INTERCHANGE

EXIT 35

marhaba.qa

Landmark Mall

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

MARHABA

48 NORTHEAST COAST M80.indd 1

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77 u te Ro

77

Ras Laffan Industrial City

AL KHOR, SEMAISMA, AL THAKIRA Old Thak ira

Roa d

Mangroves

Umm Birka Roundabout

Al Shamal Al Zubara

Al Thakhira

Al Khor Yard

Mangroves

Y

Hospital

Al Khor Industrial Area

Baladna Park

Al Khor Community

Ro

ad

Al Khor Purple Island

Al

Ma

jd

Or

bit

al

Al Khor Corniche Beach

Mall

4

Joint Staff College

Qatar Academy Al Khor

Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor City FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM

Al Khor Family Park

Al Farkiya Beach

Mangroves

Fahes

Footbridge

Al Khor Airfield

6

AL KHOR INTERCHANGE

r Ro ad

EXIT 35

Al

Kho

Semaisma North Beach (families and ladies)

Umm Garn Farm

ama Al Sh

Simaisma A Murwab Resort Olympic Park

l Rd

Al Daayen Municipality

1

North View Int’l School

Park

Semaisma

Al Dayeen Naval Base

Lusail, Katara, Al Dafna, Doha

02.2021 marhaba.qa

©

MARHABA

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

49 AL KHOR MAP M80.indd 1

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3

1 h Do

Lusail, Al Khor Al Shamal Rd Dukhan Rd

al

St

Y

al St

New Industrial Area

Milaha

Logistics Village Qatar

A

Al Wakra Al Janoub Hospital d Stadium Roa r i a uk Al Wukair lW

7

SOUTHEAST COAST IWPP

ed

ad

Me

saie

Po

Ro

2

Roa

ad

d

m Ha

Doha Metro Red Line

Al Wakra

Barwa Al Baraha

rt

Major highways

QFZ

Barwa Commercial Ras a Religious Barwa Ro Ave Abu rea Complex Funtas lA Village Barwa ria ust City Al Wakra Ind d Karwa Metro Station oa Mall gR Al Wakra Rin QRC G Yard

tri us nd

tri us Ind

Rawdat Rashed (Al Sheehaniya) Mekaines Bu Samra Salwa, KSA

QFZ

d

I st

est W

5

ad

a Ro Salw

t ud S

Ea

Industrial Area

bbo uA

Sailiya

Masaken Al Sailiya Central Market

d

aR ailiy Al

Al S

Rd E Ring Al Thumama Stadium or S aba orrid h A l A hmad C

rR ee

Sa oad

D Ring Rd

m sai Me

aR lw

Al Majd (Orbital) Road

C Ring Rd

ay sw

d oa

r es

xp

WOQOD

Hamad International Airport

sB Ra

Doha

aE

Aspire St Zone Al Waab

2

Ras Bu Aboud Stadium Hamad Int’l Airport

QFZ Free Zone Um Alhoul

Marsa Port

Al Majd (Orbital) Road

WOQOD

Intrepid explorers tackle the daunting dunes in the south of the country

Hamad Port

Hamad Port

Mesaieed Sand Dunes

Sand Dunes

Sealine Beach Resort

Sand Dunes

Sand dunes meet the sea!

A stupendous, sandy sight and World Heritage site (you must see it at least once while you are in Qatar)

Sand Dunes

Doha

Khor Al Adaid

Mesaieed Sand Dunes

Khor Al Adaid

The Inland Sea 02.2021 marhaba.qa

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

MARHABA

50 SOUTHEAST COAST M80.indd 1

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7

ad Ro

aS tre

ra ak W Al

Na jm

Doha Hamad Int’l Airport G Ring Road

et

Al Wakra Metro Station

WOQOD

Ra

uF sB

RAS ABU FUNTAS Celebration Hall

St tas un

Salwa Road Al Majd Orbital Road Al Wukair

Sao

u

an hm lra du b dA

AL WAKRA

St

Al R kra Wa

t

d

Najma Street

Jama’a Suhaib Al Rumi

A l Ja m i ya h S t

Jama’a Hamza Bin AbdulMutlab

w

A

air uk lW

ad Ro

i

m ala Al S

f utha Al M

St

Dhow Fishing Harbour

St

sim St

a uk W

Al Wakra Hospital

Beach

Toyota/Lexus Service Centre

an Bin Ja

Rd ra ak W Al

Al

d oa rR

Fish Market Tea Time

Labour Dept hm Abdul Ra

Ne

Ezdan Mall

St

Y

SOUQ AL WAKRA

d Al Wukair Roa

Ezdan

2

Souq Al Wakra Hotel offers the height of old-world charm, plus modern luxury, in the heart of Al Wakra.

Souq Al Wakra Hotel

ain

Al Wakra Yard Farmers Market

St

Sand Mound

M kra Wa

t awon S

Almana Fuso Mitsubishi Service

Al

n Majlis Al Taawo

Park

Al Wakra Qatar Motors Academy Al Aurouba St

Al Meera

Al Wakra

Ezdan

Nissan Service Seef Petrol

Doha British

t iyah S Al Jam

Al Ta Majlis

English Modern School Al Wakra

Coffee Time

South Security Al Wakra Vehicle Reg Sports Civil Defence Club

Vision Int’l

Gems American Academy

Public Beach

oa

S zi Ra Al

Salwa Rd (Route 5) Industrial Area Hamad Port Road Al Wukair

Al Meera l aba Al J

Al Janoub Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM

St

Al Sh ati S t

Ooredoo Mast

Do

Mesai ee

Al Shamal Rd

ha pr

d Road

Ex es sw ay Wadi Al Afja St

Wadi Al Afja St Do ha Ex pr es sw ay

Mesaieed Mesaieed Road

Primary Health Centre

Mosque

Hospital

Castle

Petrol Station

Restaurant Coffee Shop

Hotel

School

Ras Al Jabal St

Time Rako

7

Al Wakra Family Beach

Khor Al Adaid Sealine Beach Resort Mesaieed Hamad Port

02.2021 marhaba.qa

WOQOD

©

MARHABA

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

51 AL WAKRA MAP M80.indd 1

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7

a Road Are

Hamad Port

Street

QP HQ

Light Industries Area

Street

Street

C4

MESAIEED INDUSTRIAL CITY

MIC Management Office Mesaieed Health Center

C1 Community C3 C2 Co mm erc ial B

City

2

Qatalum Village

ial str du

Mesaieed

Al Majd Road to Ras Laffan, Al Khor & Lusail City connecting with Industrial Area, Salwa Road, Dukhan Road & Al Wajba

Light Industrial St 701

In

Doha Hamad Int’l Airport Al Wakra

C5 3

Mesaieed Port 1

2

ed Mesaie

Sealine Road

Refinery

City St

Heavy Industries Area

Por tR oa d

QATALUM SILOS

4 QAFAC

Gas Operations

Sealine Beach Resort Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea)

Gas Operations

C1

II

C2 C3 C4

02.2021

I

marhaba.qa

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

C5

QP Central Office Dunes Mall Community Area MIC Int’l School Girls Public School Boys Public School Norwegian School Al Maha Club Al Shaheen Club Al Dana Club Al Banush Club Mesaieed Golf Club

Petrol Station Mosque Community Park B Banks Qatar National Bank Doha Bank Commercial Bank 1 Security Gate 1 2 Security Gate 2 3 Gabbro Security Gate 4 Port Security Gate

MARHABA

52 MESAIEED MAP M80.indd 1

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The updated Marhaba

Wall Map of Doha

The new Marhaba pocket map of Doha features the equally new metro train service now operating in Qatar.

Take the train but don’t forget to take a copy of the new Marhaba map with you!

The map can be customised and is also available in an extra-large format – every office wall needs one!

For more details, call

4465 0083

Follow us

marhaba.qa

©

MARHABA

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

53 WALL MAP AD M80.indd 1

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DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

MARHABA

54 MOWASALAT AD M80.indd 1

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Getting Around Qatar

PRINT and ONLINE

marhaba.qa

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 800 7433.

The Doha Metro has opened a new dimension in Doha’s public transport.

Other Taxi/Limousine Services We can recommend: gulfcar 8000 881 Al Futtaim Vehicle Rentals 8000 225 Oasis Rent A Car 4413 0011 Uber and Careem Download the apps

Karwa Taxis

Doha Metro

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 800 8294, or hail from the side of the road. Taxis can always be found at prominent locations: malls, entertainment areas, 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 will apply.

The Doha Metro Red Line was the first line to open in 2019, extending from Lusail to Al Wakra. 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

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 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.

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.

Getting Around Qatar

The most visible taxis and public buses in Qatar are operated by Mowasalat (Karwa). Karwa Taxis and buses are turquoise in colour, comfortable, clean, air-conditioned and safe.

Standard Travel Card: A reusable plastic card (valid for five years) costing QAR10, with Travel Credit added by ‘Topping Up’ from a TVM. This Travel Card does not permit travel in the Gold Club sections. This card is currently available at licensed retailers like LuLu, Jumbo and Carrefour. goldclub Travel Card: A reusable plastic card (valid for five years) costing QAR100 available from the goldclub offices at Doha Metro stations. This card permits travel in the goldclub sections. Add Travel Credit by ‘Topping Up’ at a TVM at any Doha Metro and Lusail Tram stations.

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. ©

MARHABA

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to the North

Lulu Hypermarket

St

Ha

un

m

ham

tee

Al S

Al

Al

o Oy

Ezdan Palace

al R

(co

Gulf Mall

ruc

oad

nst

tio

no

ng

oin

ga

Landmark Mall

ro u

nd

ma

lls

)

Ezdan Mall

Al M

iya ark h

St

to the Corniche

Sabah

Thani B

02.2021

marhaba.qa

oad

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

al R

to Al Rayyan, Al Waab, Al Maamoura, Mesaimeer, Hamad Int’l Airport HIA

ham

Al Ah

Qmall

Al S

mad

Co

rri

do

r

Getting Around Qatar

St

UMM LEKHBA INTERCHANGE THE MOTHER OF ALL INTERCHANGES

in J a s s im

St

This new ‘four-level’ interchange connects north, south, east and west districts of Doha, and areas of the country.

to the South

MARHABA

56 E-Guide GETTING AROUND QATAR M80.indd 2

4/3/21 11:55 AM

PRINT and ONLINE

marhaba.qa

users coming from the North on Al Shamal Road and heading towards Al Markhiya, Al Dafna and the Corniche will now have direct non-stop access instead of negotiating the very busy Al Gharrafa/ Immigration Interchange.

Reaching a height of about 30 m, the new bridge is the highest in this vital interchange, and the second highest flyover in Qatar after Umm Besher Interchange flyover on the southern part of Doha Express Highway. It carries one lane of traffic and will accommodate about 2,000 vehicles per hour.

Umm Lekhba is the largest interchange in Qatar whose various over- and underpasses stretch over 11 km. It’s the first with four levels and nine bridges providing free traffic flow in all directions.

Five bridges consist of two lanes in one direction, while the other four bridges include one lane in one direction.

The new bridge on Umm Lekhba Interchange will provide direct and free traffic flow from the North onto Al Markhiya Street, which will significantly reduce traffic pressure on Al Shamal Roadand Khalifa Street at Al Gharrafa Interchange (called by some the Immigration Interchange) as road

In addition, Ashghal has opened pedestrian and bicycle paths and beautification elements on about 6 km of the upgraded Al Hatim Street in Al Gharrafa area, extending soon to Ezdan Mall area. Around 800 trees were planted, in addition to shrubs and lawns.

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Getting Around Qatar

The recent opening of the seventh bridge at Umm Lekhba Interchange, the end of Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor where it joins Al Shamal Road and Al Markhiya Street, provides free flow traffic for road users coming from Al Shamal Road to Al Markhiya Street and the Corniche.

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Mowasalat offers special deals for Karwa taxis for metro commuters. Karwa taxis provide services at a flat fare of QAR8; passengers travelling to and from any metro station can book a taxi through the Karwa App using promo code RAIL with a promotional fare for a journey within 3 km. Careem and Uber also offer taxi fare promotions to Doha Metro commuters.

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Qatar Rail provides integrated answers for passengers via the Metroexpress and Metrolink services. Metroexpress is a free ride-sharing service, covering West Bay QIC and DECC stations. Operating from dedicated pick up/drop off points, the Metroexpress uses a fleet of branded Mercedes Vito vans, seating seven people per vehicle. Metrolink is a feeder bus service offering first and last mile connectivity within a 2 – 5 km radius of stations, and currently operates on 17 routes.

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The latest and most beneficial addition to Qatar’s public transport system, Doha Metro is an automated rail network, running mostly underground and across the city of Doha, while going further into the surrounding subusrbs of Lusail City, Al Wajba and Al Wakra. It dramatically increases the popularity and practicality of public transport in the country. The metro network consists of three lines – Red, Green and Gold – with 37 stations.

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Use the app to plan your journey.

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Welcome to fascinating Qatar for meaningful moments ACTIVITIES

ABOUT US

www.stopover.qa

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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 Ten 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.

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 and Richard Serra's vertical steel sculpture, '7'. Take a walk around the newly reopened and lush green Al Bidda Park C4!

3 Across the Corniche is the new 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 a Heritage Garden of native Qatari 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. Don't forget to bargain! The nearby Gold Souq D4 is your jewellery stop. Also visit Souq Al Wakra F5, a 'heritage village' with markets, shops and restaurants along the seafront.

5 Spend a few hours at Katara Cultural Village B4. Admire the architecture, visit the galleries or enjoy watersports at the beach. 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. The lush Doha Golf Club is worth a visit, too!

6 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 the Shopping in Qatar section.

7 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.

8 Explore the dunes at the Sealine in Mesaieed or the waters off Qatar's coast. Go scuba diving, snorkelling, paddle boarding, or kayaking through the mangroves.

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

10 And finally, refuel after a busy day of sightseeing – Qatar has everything from Michelin‑starred restaurants to cheap and cheerful local treats.

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 now 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 Jumail Village 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 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 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 (pictured)

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.

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.

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marhaba.qa 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 fort 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.

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.

Sightseeing

Al Wajbah Fort C1

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 (pictured) 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.

Bir Zekreet and Ras Abrouq The Ras Abrouq area 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.

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marhaba.qa 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'.

Jabal Al Jassasiya Petroglyphs

Sightseeing

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.

Jazirat bin Ghannam Island (Purple Island) (pictured) 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 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 on page 34.

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

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.

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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 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 roundabout, 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 Al Khor and Al Thakhira map on page 34. Opening times: Sunday to Wednesday 7 am – 10 pm; Thursday/Friday/Saturday is for families only, 7 am – midnight. Admission: Free.

Al Ghariya (pictured) 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 Jabal Al Jassasiya Petroglyphs is 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 in 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 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. ©

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Sightseeing

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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: Open 24/7. Admission: QAR125 adults, QAR75 children. Contact: 4472 2555/2666, alsultanbeachresort.com

Al Thakhira 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 Waqif, Al Wakra is a replica of life 200 years ago. The Al Wakra family beach in the Al Jabal area has volleyball and football areas, shading, 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 (pictured) 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 in the city’s downtown area 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

Dukhan Dukhan is one of the most popular destinations for public beaches. Once you arrive in 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 DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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Jazirat bin Ghannam island (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.

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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.

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 seven and 18; children below the age of seven 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 or 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 the Ras Abrouq peninsula. After 2 km, turn left or right at the Qatar Petroleum 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 Ministry of Muncipality and Environment’s 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. ©

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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 more than 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: 8 am – 5 pm.

Admission: QAR300 per adult, children five and below enter for free, children above 5 can visit at half price. 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 ladies 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 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

TaliaMare Beach Club B4 Located in The Pearl-Qatar's Qanat Quartier, TaliaMare Beach Club is a beach club, lounge and restaurant. It offers a seafront dining experience in an exclusive area. The oasis offers privacy as well as a family outing with sunbeds, cabanas, shisha and more on offer. On weekends, the place delivers a vibrant setting with enticing beach games, movie projections and a wide variety of events for all ages.

Opening times: 10 am – 10 pm. Admission: QAR300 for Family Day Pass, QAR150 for Adult Day Pass, QAR50 for Child Day Pass. You can get a daily pass from the website. Reservations are required. Call ahead. Contact: 4488 8370/3030 2063, taliamare.com

Umm Bab (pictured) 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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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 (pictured) 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, as yet unstocked 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 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 ©

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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.

Katara Masjid (Blue Mosque) B4 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, Zainab Fadil Oglu, 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 (pictured) 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 Facebok 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 When open, this museum will demonstrate to the world that sport and Qatar are intrinsically linked.

The 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum will be an amazing experience with interactive and unforgettable exhibits, inspiring objects and unique activity areas. It will be constantly updated and designed to educate and entertain, delivering state-of-the-art sport from around the world.

Ahead of its opening, the museum is reaching out to residents through temporary shows in venues around Doha. Themes centre around the cultural phenomenon of sport, and include the Olympic Games, as well local and international sports events that occur in Qatar.

Qatar Museums (QM) C4 QM, formerly known as Qatar Museums Authority (QMA), is a government entity that oversees museums across Qatar including National Museum of Qatar, MIA, Mathaf, QM Gallery at Katara, Al Riwaq and more. In addition, it oversees archaeological sites throughout Qatar such as the Al Zubarah World Heritage Site Visitor Centre.

For more information, visit qm.org.qa

Contact: 4452 5555, qm.org.qa, 321.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

Fire Station Artist in Residence (Doha Fire Station) C3 (pictured) 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. 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 ©

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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

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. See the Events Calendar for details of exhibitions, and marhaba.qa for up to date information.

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). Fees apply for temporary exhibitions. The library and café are open during museum hours.

Contact: 4402 8855, mathaf.org.qa

Msheireb Museums D4 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 – 9 pm, closed Sunday. Last admission 30 minutes before closing. Contact: 4006 5555; museums@msheireb.com Guided tour: msheirebmuseums.com

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).

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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: Saturday to Thursday 9 am – 7 pm; Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. Last admission 30 minutes before closing. Galleries, gift shop and café shut 15 minutes before closing. Admission: Free admission for Qatar residents (with Qatar ID); QAR50 for non-residents. Fees apply for temporary exhibitions.

Visitors are asked to dress appropriately. Contact: 4422 4444, mia.org.qa

National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) D4 (pictured) 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: Sunday to Wednesday 9 am to 7 pm; Saturday and Thursday 9 am – 9 pm; Friday 1:30 pm – 7 pm. 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). 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 and 4 pm – 8 pm. Admission: Free; call for details of course fees.

Contact: 4408 1812, qpsphoto.qa, katara.net

QM Gallery Katara Building 10, Katara 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: 4452 5555, qm.org.qa ©

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Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani Museum (FBQ Museum) (pictured) At his farm near Al Sheehaniya, 20 km west of Doha, Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani has built his own private museum of more than 15,000 pieces collected from his travels around the world. The museum has a huge and varied collection of artefacts in its different halls including fossils, manuscripts, textiles, weapons, ceramics, woodwork, contemporary art, pre-Islamic coins and foreign currency, as well as a special section devoted to Qatari and Bedouin heritage, including fishing boats and traditional Qatari houses. There are also vintage cars and motorbikes from around the world, with more than 100 models representing every decade of manufacture. The museum also includes the private 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 sizeable farm includes Al Samriya Riding School, a horse riding school at Al Samariyah Equestrian Academy (ASEA), 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. Visitors are advised to contact the museum in advance. Admission: QAR50 for Qatar residents (with Qatar ID); QAR75 for non-residents/tourists; QAR25 for students (ages 6 – 17 with Qatar ID); QAR50 for students (tourists; ages 6 – 17); QAR60 for tourist group (15 and more); QAR15 per person for tour guide. Contact: 4486 1444 (Al Samriya), info@fbqmuseum.org, fbqmuseum.org Getting there: Exit the Dukhan Road at Al Dehailiyat Interchange. If you are coming from Doha, it is the fourth exit on the roundabout; coming from Al Sheehaniya it is the first exit. There is only a small signpost with ‘Museum’ (on brown background, and ‘Al Dehailiyat’ on blue). The next sign has the full name: Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani Museum.

Souq Waqif Art Center Souq Waqif D4 Exhibitions of local and international modern art.

Opening times: Daily 8 am – 10 pm. Admission: Free. Contact: 4417 6204, swacqatar.com

The Media Majlis The Media Majlis is located at Northwestern University’s in Qatar, Education City, 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

VCUarts Qatar Gallery Qatar Foundation C2 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, qatar.vcu.edu DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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Natural World and Nature Reserves

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Al Dosari Zoo & Natural Reserve Mohamed Al Dosari's Park and Natural Reserve is a private park 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 to the park is taken on a guided tour of the animal reserve and offered tea and Arabic coffee.

Open-air barbecues are permitted in the park and many families gather here on weekends. There are umbrellas and Arabian huts that reflect on housing in the past, and many available spaces to sit under trees, which make the park one of a kind in Qatar. Entry to the farm, park and all other activities are free.

Twelve housing units and 11 cottages have been added to the park for overnight visitors.

Bird Watching Migratory birds are becoming increasingly attracted to Qatar since the introduction of parks, gardens and agriculture. 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 (pictured) 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, go for a swim, and recharge with some barbecued food and refreshments. The overnight tour is at a desert camp with traditional Bedouin tents, filled with Persian carpets and plush cushions. Alternatively, set the alarm clock and travel out early to see the sun come out over the desert dunes.

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. ©

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Mangroves (pictured) A large area of vegetation attracting varied bird life, including flamingos and herons, Al Thakhira mangroves can be found just north of the seaside city of Al Khor, 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. 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. For further information, contact one of the local tour companies.

Scuba Diving Scuba diving is a popular pastime, given the clear and warm waters surrounding the country, and 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

Getting there Stories of strange, low‑pitched sounds in the sand have intrigued When coming from Doha on people for generations in Qatar and it's one of the few places in Salwa Road, turn left at the the world it can be heard. The sound is caused by the friction when Mesaieed Interchange. 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 See the map of Qatar at the it is amplified by the crescent shape of the barchan (derived from beginning of the guide.

Kazakh) dunes. You can find the ‘Singing Sand Dunes’ 40 km southwest of Doha. Although the ‘singing’ occurs naturally, you can trigger it by sliding down the dune or running along its crest; you will be able to hear and feel the vibration. Take a large tray with you for an impromptu slide down the sand. Be warned – the sand is very hot during the summer.

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.

Al Wabra Wildlife Preservation Al Wabra Wildlife Preservation (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. awwp.alwabra.com DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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Parks and Recreation Areas The Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) 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 restaurants, cafes, 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 artists 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 sculptor and painter Saloua Raouda Choucair.

Sightseeing

5/6 Park C4 (pictured)

Al Abraj Park C4 Located in Onaiza, 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 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 grill them using 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 new and improved Al Khor Family Park reopened in February 2020. The park, which first opened in 1983, closed in November 2019 for maintenance and redevelopment purposes. 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, and is home to different birds. The park is a wonderful destination for those who want to spend some quality time away from the city rush. Opening times: Daily 4 am – 10 pm. 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 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 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 DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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The Barzan and Simaisma Olympic Parks feature swimming pools, fountains, football fields, walking tracks and many more activities. Both parks have green areas, restaurants, kids zone, football grounds, tennis courts, basketball court, swimming pool, cycling track, fountains, walking lanes and toilets. The Barzan Park is located in Umm Slal Ali; the Simaisma Park is behind the Simaisma Youth Centre at Simaisma, near Al Khor.

Sightseeing

Barzan and Simaisma Olympic Parks

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 Arab League and Al Markhiya Streets, this large 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. Closed in the morning. For families only.

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 (pictured) Situated adjacent to Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, Hotel Park provides 80,000 sq m of park space, with over 34,500 sq m of green space to enjoy picnics, play areas and outdoor family gatherings with 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. To add to an impressive garden and restaurant offering, Hotel Park has four levels of underground parking with access to Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) through an underground tunnel link. Hotel Park’s comprehensive paid parking has over 2,500 spaces spread over four underground levels with entrances to 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 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 ©

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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 and styles with 225 trees from different countries. Opening times: Open 24/7. Admission: Free. Contact: 182, 4408 0000, katara.net

Lusail City, Marina Promenade A3 The promenades along the Marina District and South Qetaifan Islands form the urban waterfront edges.

Seating is planned along the water with views out to the sea, in addition to walkways, restaurants and access to marinas. The promenade also features various musical water and light fountains as well as oversized outdoor chess sets. 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

Oxygen Park D2 (pictured) Located in Education City, Oxygen Park has been inspired by the wind eroded rocks and fluid land formations of the desert. The running tracks are embedded creating an exciting training ground with looping tracks, cooled tunnel sections and steep hills. The park features running tracks, equestrian facilities, underground pitches, recreation areas and soundscape-filled, refreshing folly spheres. 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

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 types of animals like oryx and gazelle. There are also 12 designated pergolas for barbecues, a shaded children's play area, sitting areas, two exercise areas, and restrooms for men and women.

DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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Souqs

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Souq Waqif D4 (pictured)

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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.

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 – see the Souq Waqif section for inspiration.

A map of the souq area and a detailed description of what it has to offer is also in the Souq Waqif section.

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 by Tivoli, 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 the Souq Al Wakra 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 last DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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 the Katara Cultural Village 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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marhaba.qa live all year round, increasing in numbers when there is a big event. Colourful camel trains can be seen, with traditionallydressed riders and camels adorned with bright colours. Local tour companies may be able to arrange trips to coincide with races – see local tour companies for contact details.

Camel Races

Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC) D2

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 is a ‘camel city’, where thousands of men and camels

The Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (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 7704, qrec.gov.qa

Sightseeing

Opening times: Sunday to Thursday 9 am – 3:30 pm.

Al Shaqab also organises tours of its facilities for institutions and the general public to raise awareness on equestrian culture.

Visit the website to register for tours which take place Sunday to Thursday at 7:30 am and 3:30 pm. Contact: 4454 7361, alshaqab.com

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

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 3954/5552 7225

qittour.com

Regency Sealine Camp Qatar

4496 6204

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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FEATURE

Archaeological Breakthrough

By Ola Diab Paving the way for new understanding of Qatar’s cultural history, QM discovers a new archeological site, which is believed to be one of the oldest sites in the country.

I

n January 2021, the Department of Archaeology at Qatar Museums (QM) announced the discovery of new archaeological remains in Asaila, located west of Qatar, approximately 12 km east of Umm Bab. According to QM, the newly discovered site is believed to be one of the oldest archaeological sites in the country.

The initial excavation took place at a burial mound, dating back between 300 BCE and 300 CE. Although the tombs themselves had been robbed already in antiquity, a team from the Department of Archaeology was able to uncover the remains of important individuals, who were buried on top of a plateau in large and carefully constructed burial mounds together with personal items such as a sword, metal tools and a golden earring.

The sacrificial burial of a camel and its calf was found in a stone chamber attached to one of the human graves. The human remains will be subject to advanced paleoanthropological and molecular analyses, including the study of ancient genetic material. The process is aimed at understanding the

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migration and dietary habits of people who lived in this region in ancient times.

CEO of QM, Ahmad Musa Al Namla, said, ‘The recent discovery at Asaila paves the way for a deeper understanding of past civilisations, which will in turn enable Qatar Museums to trace the influences they have had on shaping Qatar’s heritage. We are honoured to be able to carry out this important archaeological work to support the preservation of Qatar’s history and traditions.’

Director of the Department of Archaeology at QM, Faisal Al Naimi, stated, ‘Excavation is one of the Department of Archaeology’s key focus areas.

Qatar’s sites and burial mounds tell the stories of its past inhabitants. Our work at Asaila is part of a wider plan to be implemented over several years to uncover burial mounds in the country, which will provide invaluable insights about how people lived on this land in the past. The findings from the excavation will contribute to preserving and documenting Qatari heritage, and linking it to the present day.’

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Extensive data revealed that Asaila still has numerous undiscovered archaeological remains.

The newly excavated graves also revealed an untouched burial of a camel in its natural resting position with its legs folded under the body. This suggests that the camel was led into the burial pit, made to kneel and then slaughtered alongside its calf. This spectacular finding will provide new information about the domestication and usage of camels and the ritual practices that existed in preIslamic Arabia.

In 1961, a similar grave containing the remains of a dromedary-Bactrian hybrid camel was excavated at Mezruah.

The Asaila tombs are one of several burial sites that QM plans to excavate as part of the National Priority Research Programme 'Human Populations and Demographics in Qatar from the Neolithic to the late Iron Age' led by Sidra Medicine and funded by the Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF).

Atharna As part of an initiative to introduce the wider community to Qatar's archaeological history, in December 2020 QM launched Atharna, a programme through which Culture Pass members will have the opportunity to visit historical sites across the country through curated tours.

The curated tours aim to provide Culture Pass members with a gateway to discover the heritage of Qatar, from early medieval settlements to 19th century forts, villages, towers, and mosques.

All Atharna tours and workshops are open to Culture Pass members only. Culture Pass Plus or Culture Pass Family members can attend unlimited tours and workshops year-round, while Culture Pass Basic members can attend one trial tour and workshop a year.

Qatar Museums QM connects the museums, cultural institutions and heritage sites in Qatar and creates the conditions for them to thrive and flourish.

It centralises resources and provides a comprehensive organisation for the development of museums and cultural projects, with a longterm ambition of creating a strong and sustainable cultural infrastructure for Qatar. Under the patronage of HH The Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and led by its Chairperson, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, QM is consolidating Qatar’s efforts to become a vibrant centre for the arts, culture and education, in the Middle East and beyond.

Since its foundation in 2005, QM has overseen the development of the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, Fire Station: Artists in Residence, The National Museum of Qatar and the Al Zubarah World Heritage Site Visitor Centre, among other projects.

Future projects include the launch of the highly anticipated 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, and the Qatar Children’s Museum.

QM is committed to setting in motion Qatar’s future generation of arts, heritage and museum professionals. At its core is a commitment to nurturing artistic talent, creating opportunities and developing the skills to service Qatar’s emerging art economy. By means of a multi-faceted programme and public art initiatives, QM seeks to push the boundaries of the traditional museum model and create cultural experiences that spill out onto the streets and seek to involve a wide audience. Through a strong emphasis on originating art and culture from within and fostering a spirit of national participation, QM is helping Qatar find its own distinctive voice in today’s global cultural debates. m ©

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ENHANCING YOUR QATARI EXPERIENCE Embrace Doha is a unique Qatari cultural experience that is authentic, immersive and interactive for residents and visitor to learn and connect with the local community

embracedoha.com

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EMBRAC E DOHA ‫اﺣﺘﻀـــــــــﻦ اﻟــــــــــﺪوﺣﺔ‬

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Discovering Qatar

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

The Pearl-Qatar

Katara Cultural Village

Souq Waqif

Souq Al Wakra

The information contained in this guide has been checked and verified as correct as at the time of compilation.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, information is subject to change. Follow marhaba.qa for the latest updates.

©

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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 ‘The Pearl Gateway Towers’, the Abraj Quartier is considered the ideal location of choice for many businesses, with the two highly prestigious 42 storey towers standing at around 201 metres, each housing a panoramic floor of breathtaking views towards the mainland across the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf.

Beach Villas Comprising discreet island residence style homes, with private beaches, Bahri Villas and Fanar Fayrouz Villas offer some of the finest private accommodation available at The Pearl-Qatar.

Costa Malaz The exclusive marine bay area known as Costa Malaz is an oasis of calm and quiet luxury.

Both architecture and landscaping evoke the atmosphere of a tropical island in this area of outstanding beauty. Overlooking an extensive harbour entirely bordered by a 'natural' beach, privacy and spaciousness were design imperatives for the resulting villas. Fusing many styles of island-inspired architecture, these villas exist in a haven set within tropical paradise. Marsa Malaz Kempinski – the exclusive hotel island in the centre of Costa Malaz – is fringed by pristine sand, and provides an elegant retreat with delightful views.

Floresta Gardens Located east of Viva Bahriya is one of the most prized locations on the island. Home to an estimated 1,400 residents, consisting of 285 apartments and 100 townhouses, this precinct’s master concept revolves around a concentric DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

introvert, colosseum style layout. The core living centre and soul of the Floresta Gardens community will be the ‘Club House’ and the promenade that circles it.

Giardino Village Carefully positioned amid lush, landscaped parkland and picturesque lakes, Giardino Villas is a highly prized residential district. Ranging in plot sizes from 558 to 1,168 sq m and ideally situated in one of the most secluded and unassuming neighbourhoods of The Pearl-Qatar, on completion the Giardino Villas precinct promises to be one of the finest and most luxurious residential dwellings.

Isola Dana The jewels in The Pearl-Qatar’s crown, Isola Dana comprises nine independent islands and the most private residential precinct in the development.

Named after the world’s most rare, valuable and perfect pearls, Isola Dana is set apart from the main body of The Pearl-Qatar to afford privacy and discreet independence. Palatial homes will adorn these exquisite 18,000 sq m islands, the likes of which cannot be seen anywhere else in the Middle East, and rarely anywhere in the world.

La Plage South One of the premier locations within The PearlQatar, La Plage South is located at the southern tip of the island, overlooking widespread beaches toward the skyline of Doha in the distance. Taking advantage of the configuration of the shoreline, the La Plage South plot has been developed in a series of semicircular apartment groupings. The five sea facing blocks progressively step down from a maximum height of seven storeys to one storey and encapsulate outdoor recreational facilities, extensive leisure pools and landscaping opening out onto the beaches.

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marhaba.qa lively 2.5 km pedestrianised concourse lined with fine shopping and dining.

of The Pearl-Qatar, offering a unique blend of residential, shopping and leisure experiences with the charming ambience of the Mediterranean.

Within Medina Centrale, one can find a full range of retail and community services, a wide selection of food and beverage outlets, and parking for 3,500 cars. Supporting the broader community at The Pearl-Qatar, Medina Centrale also serves as a prime residential area in its own right. It's home to 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

Perlita Gardens A mixed villa and townhouse development in a secluded environment that is embedded in lush landscaping that spectacularly emulates a feeling of living in the heart of a natural environment.

Immediately to the south of Medina Centrale lies the Perlita Villas precinct, characterised by lush greenery while saltwater lakes provide beautiful aspects and the opportunity to pursue numerous water sports.

As you would expect in a precinct of this scale, there is plenty of space to move around in this gated 'garden' community of villas and townhouses.

Porto Arabia The thriving cosmopolitan heart of The Pearl-Qatar, Porto Arabia captures the sophisticated essence of the French Riviera. Conducive to the highest standards of living, it is reminiscent of a continental harbour, yet positively alive with Arabian warmth and charm. The epitome of Riviera Arabia living, and home to The Pearl-Qatar's main harbour, Porto Arabia combines elegant towers and townhouses in a spectacular location. Inspired by French, Italian and Spanish architecture, the Island's first phase is set around a colourful waterfront – La Croisette – a

With its colourful Venetian character, Qanat Quartier is carefully planned around intricate canals and pedestrian-friendly squares and plazas.

Each waterway is spanned by stylish bridges which further evoke the soul of Italian romantic living.

Edged by sandy bays embracing the Arabian Gulf, Qanat Quartier is an intriguingly complex area in which a true Riviera lifestyle can be enjoyed.

The first public beach club and lounge in Qatar, which is not located inside a hotel or resort, has opened at Taliamare Beach Club at Lido Venezia Beach in Qanat Quartier. The district is extremely popular with its residents as well as visitors as it has evolved into a unique retail village. Don't miss stepping on the Music Steps, linking QQ7 boardwalk with the mezzanine level.

Viva Bahriya

The Pearl-Qatar

Medina Centrale The popular Medina Centrale is the Town Centre

Featuring true beachfront condominium living, Viva Bahriya is perfect for families and all who seek a more relaxed lifestyle. Complete with its own stretch of pristine beach, it is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Architecturally themed to echo the very best of the Maghreb – with Moroccanstyled townhouses and apartments exuding Moorish elegance – complete with its own stretch of pristine white sand gently lapped by a warm, inviting sea, Viva Bahriya is perfect for families and those seeking a more relaxed locale.

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 luxury brands in the world – offering everything from couture fashion, to exquisite jewellery and fabulous home décor. m

Porto Arabia 4409 5255 | Medina Centrale 4409 5155 thepearlqatar.com B4 ©

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Qanat Quartier Fitness, Health, Spa Entertainment, Music Centre Pharmacy, Veterinary Clinic Sports, Fashion, Flowers Nursery

UDC Tower Indego by Vineet Indian Rest. (42nd Floor) Gourmet District Food Court (Ground Floor)

Megapolis Entertainment Centre Flight and Car Simulators 12-lane Bowling Alley Karaoke Rooms Billiards & Snooker Indoor Golf Simulator Xbox and PS4 Game Zone Escape Rooms

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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.

Katara Cultural Village

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.

When in Katara, you cannot miss the Pigeon Towers. Three are located near the Katara Masjid and the others are near Al Jazeera Media Café. Pigeons and other birds can rest within

the holes of the towers, which can house up to 14,000 birds. Katara also provides water and food to the pigeons. Constructed of unfired mud brick, lime plaster and gypsum, the towers range from 10 to 22 m in diameter and stand at least 18 m high.

Situated prominently in the middle of Katara, the amphitheatre is an architectural masterpiece based on the classical Greek theatre and Islamic features with seating for 5,000 spectators, who over the years have been treated to many openair 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,

View of Katara Cultural Village from Bayt El-Talleh Resturant DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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marhaba.qa which blends modern architecture with traditional Islamic design. qatarphilharmonicorchestra.org 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.

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.

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;

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.

A recent addition to Katara is the much-anticipated 21 High Street (Katara Plaza), a 38,000 sq m outdoor luxury shopping complex, 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 Cultural Village

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.

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.

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 m

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Cultural Foundation Katara provides cultural, gastronomic and leisure activities in a village atmosphere of not so long ago.

See the stunning amphitheatre, a luxurious opera house, cinema and theatre.

Savour first-class menus, international cuisine and attentive service at many fine restaurants for unique Arab and international delicacies.

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Albahie Auction House Al Tamimi Vet Clinic Al Thuraya Planetarium Amphitheatre Arab Postal Stamp Museum Bird Houses Doha Film Institute Falcon Centre / Al Gannas Assoc.

Force of Nature Galeries Lafayette The Golden Masjid Katara Art Centre Katara Beach Club by LivNordic Spa Katara Hall Mosque / Katara Masjid Opera House / Drama Theatre Poetry Majlis Qatar Fine Arts Association Qatar Museums Gallery Qatar Music Academy Qatar Photographic Society Regatta Sailing Academy Sout Al Khaleej Radio Station Ghandi's Three Monkeys Visual Art Centre Katara Green Hills

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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 Doha, is situated in the heart of the city and is probably 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, 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. Each morning, the heritage police ride through on horses or camels.

The souq is also home to art galleries and hotels.

Traditional music, art and cultural shows add to the ambience of the souq which also houses a comprehensive visitor centre.

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, DISCOVERING QATAR E-GUIDE ©

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

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 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.

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 home to an excellent source of great value jewellery, precious metals and stones.

Spices Upon entering the souq, visitors are greeted by the aroma of spices like cardamom, rose buds, cinnamon sticks, saffron and more. The spice and coffee traders lend their part of the souq a unique

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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.

Falcon souq

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels

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.

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.

Horse stud 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 Centre Souq Waqif Art Centre 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.

Novo Cinemas New to the souq is Novo Cinemas, which opened in June 2018, offering 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. The 7-star luxury cinema or VIP theatre contains 43 seats (a normal hall has 120 seats) where you can watch a movie in fully-reclining, automated seats. The food is brought to you by a personal butler service. At the private VIP lounge or majlis select from the fine-dining menu.

Souvenirs This is the go-to section for those wanting to collect memories of Qatar from fridge magnets, shisha bottles, intricately designed plates, lanterns, keychains, mugs and more. Other

Souq Waqif

aroma, with displays of whole and ground spices and coffee. Both are purchased by weight, and if you want a jar of mixed spices as a unique gift take an empty glass container and the vendor will fill it with layers of colourful ground spices. You can also purchase sweets, rice, nuts, dried fruits and honey.

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 m 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.

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Places of Interest

Al Corniche Street

Goldorigin Souq In the very and centre of Doha, the souq, or market, has an atmosphere redolent of the East with the smell of spices, coffee and exotic local delicacies.

Wander around and you will see falcons, Arab dress and artefacts, gifts, spices, local sweets, nuts, honey and coffee. Souq Waqif is a great place to enjoy with family and friends in its many restaurants and coffee shops with great international cuisine.

h Abdulla Al Mahmoud ultural Centre

A Abdul Aziz Nasser / Al Rayyan Theatre B Al Koot Fort C Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Centre D Camel Area E Clock Tower F Embrace Doha G Falcon Souq H Gold Souq I Horse Area/Stable J Le Pouce by César Baldaccini K Novo Cinema L Police Post M Souq Waqif Art Center N Tourist Information Centre O Traditional Majlis P Msheireb Museums

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Musheireb Hotel Al Jomrok Hotel Al Bidda Hotel Al Jasra Hotel Bismillah Hotel Al Mirqab Hotel Najd Hotel Al Najada Hotel Arumaila Hotel

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Al Ghaarayah Coffee Shop Al Jasra Traditional Food Al Koot Cafe Al Mandarin Al Matbakh Rooftop Grill Al Mourjan Al Shurfa Al Terrace Argan Asherg Coffee Bandar Aden Bosphorus Cafe Tasse Coffee Beanery Coffeeshop Company Corner Cafe Damasca One E'easair Cafe Shujaa Restaurant Saida Italia Mia Jasmine Thai Restaurant Khariss Cafe La Boca Argentinian La Piazza Layali Al Qahira Le Gourmet Little Sailor Missan Restaurant Parisa Royal Tandoor Second Cup Shawarma Station Tajeen Tea Time The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf The Rice and The Noodle The Village Zaatar W Zeit

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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: • Women's Accessories and Perfumes

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• 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 new local restaurants and coffee shops with modern twists such as Arnag, E'asair Cafe, Al Baranda, Nineties Cafe, 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) 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.

Souvenirs Collect memories of Qatar with Arab male and female salt and pepper shakers or cups, fridge

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

Souq Al Wakra

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 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.

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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Souq Al Wakra Only a few minutes from Hamad International Airport, you can revisit the life that Qataris used to lead. Souq Al Wakra is calm and has great old world charm.

Today’s visitors require modern standards and the restroom facilities are first class and well maintained. The many cafes and restaurants serve delicious fare – choose your favourite cuisine from around the world.

The family-friendly beach and beachfront promenade are especially attractive in the cool evenings when walkers and joggers benefit from clean air and absence of big-city bustle.

Restaurants/Cafes 1 2 3 4 5

Al Nouhkaza Restaurant - Arabic Bennigan’s - American, Burgers Arnag - Cafe, Desserts, Bakery Royal Tandoor - North Indian Al Aker Sweets - Arabic Desserts

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LalQila - Pakistani, Indian Al Koufa - Arabic Al Fanar Mercato Antico - Italian Barahat Al Wakra - Arabic

Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar The ultimate relaxation may be found in the souq’s five-star Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar which combines an undisturbed village ambience with world class catering and spa health facilities.

1 Emshoot - Asian food inspired by the Silk Road 3 Mahaadeg - International 2 Jarnen - Mediterranean 4 Markhan - Arabic

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