Places of Interest in Doha Qatar

The Falcon bird enjoys a privileged spot in the Qatari society. Falcon Souq near to Souq Waqif, houses falcons, most of them hooded in black leather, perched on top of open railings. The Falcon Souq is dedicated to falconry, where one can buy these trained birds and related equipment such as hoods and jesses.

The Film City is a contemporary recreation of an antique Arabic village nestled behind a canyon in the desert of the Zekreet peninsula. The Film City is located in one of Qatar’s entirely deserted site. An element of adventure and suspense can be felt when visiting this area in the middle of the Arabian Desert.

Katara symbolizes the culture & tradition of Qatar, in the form a diverse cultural village. It depicts a global culture where people are able to witness the Country’s cultural and architectural heritage. Katara is home to beautiful theatres, an open amphitheatre, concert halls, a beach and a souq among other attractions for the general public. It is a haven for art lovers as many art & photographic exhibitions are regularly held there, apart from the Doha Tribeca Film Festival hosted there every year. Katara also hosts International & regional festivals, art forms, performances by gifted artists & attractive theme based exhibitions thus promoting cultural & traditional values.

The Katara Mosque is situated in the center of the Katara Cultural Village site. The design of the Katara Mosque is distinct and not like the usual mosques in Qatar. The building is an assortment of predominantly blue tiles, mixed with hints of red and yellow. The intricate designs and the equally complex interior is spectacular. Accompanying the mosque are three spiked pillars built tall into the sky.

The Island Sea in the south east of the peninsula is surrounded by spectacular crescent-shaped sand dunes. An area of outstanding beauty, photographers appreciate the changing light and colours at different times of day, you need a four-wheel drive to access the area, and to be in the company of someone who knows the route. Since you will be using unmarked tracks through soft sand, it is also advisable for several vehicles to travel in convoy with experienced drivers. Vehicles need to be checked thoroughly, and to carry additional water and supplies. Tour operators organize both day trips and overnight camps, providing picnics and barbecues, folkloric entertainment and sometimes the opportunity to ride camels or go sand-skiing.

Mathaf Arab Museum of Modern Art co-owned by Qatar Museums and Qatar Foundation is located in Education City in Qatar Foundation. In 2010, a former school building was renovated to house the Mathaf collection which now has a unique world-class collection of modern and contemporary art from the Arab world signifying its rich historical & cultural traditions. Mathaf organises major exhibitions, both historical and experimental, and large-scale education programs apart from hosting solo and group exhibitions by artists from the region and events related to unravelling modern and contemporary art. The unique collection, regular array of temporary exhibitions and associated activities make Mathaf an interesting experience for all ages. Apart from stimulation to one’s artistic self, there is also other avenues to enjoy which include a cafe, gift shop and library. The Museum is open on all days except Mondays.