So maybe you find yourself with a few hours to kill before the connecting flight, or you’ve gotten bored of the hotel pool and are willing to leave the cool water and air conditioning to explore downtown... either way, Doha has plenty to offer for a day or two of sight-seeing.
This story pieces together some time spent exploring the city streets and architecture old and new, using photography to give a sense of Qatar's capital. I was based in Doha for two months for work and so had plenty of time to explore. If you're an architecture lover then the National Museum of Qatar (Jean Nouvel) and Museum of Islamic Art (I. M. Pei) are definitely sights not to miss... more info on these architectural gems below.
Doha is a relatively new city, certainly in name, and has had a transitory history which I think is reflected in the look and feel of the place. It is not the most hospitable location, with temperatures in the high 40s in the summer months, nor is there much natural beauty (unless you love sand). The reason Doha exists is industry - pearling at the start of the 20th Century, and oil and gas production more recently. And industry opportunity is what shapes the countries demographics and therefore city life, the languages you hear and the cultural activities on offer. On the weekends, while western expats gather to watch the Premier League and indulge in Dubai-style brunches, in the city streets and parks the majority of the working population can be seen, most likely coming from South Asian and South-East Asian countries.
The Qatari population is the minority in Doha, but Arabic culture is still prevalent, and Qatari's are conscious of preserving their heritage despite booming industry and the influx of foreign workers. It is prevalent in the restaurants and shops of the Souks, it is embedded and recreated in the cultural landmarks of the city, and it is being preserved through schemes run by the Museums Authority such as the Katara Cultural Village.
Gem 1: The Desert Rose
The National Museum of Qatar emerges from a desert that has ventured all the way to the sea. On the site, the Royal Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani rises up, a 20th century landmark of major heritage value to Qatar.
The desert rose, a flower-like aggregate of mineral crystals occurring only in arid coastal regions, is the first architectural structure that nature itself creates, through wind, sea spray and sand acting together over millennia. It's surprisingly complex and poetic. Taking the desert rose as a starting point turned out to be a very progressive, not to say utopian, idea.
Jean Nouvel
What is fascinating about the museum is how history and environment have been embraced and translated into architecture. Inside and out, you find spaces and shapes that don't exist in architecture anywhere else in the world, created by the interlocking disks that are inspired by the desert rose structure. There is hardly a vertical line or horizontal line in sight, with many of the interior walkways at an incline. It's a dynamic and sensory experience to walk through the museum, you do not quite know what to expect at every turn, and Jean Nouvel has on purpose sought to create contrast in the textures, clearance and exposure to sunlight. A must stop if you have a few hours in Doha!
Gem 2: The Museum of Islamic Art
The second architectural gem, the Museum of Islamic Art, is located not too far from the National Museum, just off the Corniche. Declining to build the structure on any of the proposed sites on the main strip, I.M. Pei suggested a stand-alone island be created to ensure future buildings would never encroach on the Museum. The building stands in the sea some 200 feet off Doha’s Corniche. A park of approximately 64 acres of dunes and oases on the shoreline behind the Museum offers shelter and a picturesque backdrop.
The Museum of Islamic Art is the result of a journey of discovery conducted by I.M. Pei, whose quest to understand the diversity of Islamic architecture led him on a world tour. During visits to the Grand Mosque in Córdoba, Spain; Fatehpur Sikri, a Mughal capital in India; the Umayyad Great Mosque in Damascus, Syria; and the ribat fortresses at Monastir and Sousse in Tunisia, he found that influences of climate and culture led to many interpretations of Islamic architecture, but none evoked the true essence he sought. Pei’s final design inspiration was the 13th-century sabil (ablutions fountain) of the Mosque of Ahmad Ibn Tulun in Cairo, Egypt (9th century).
In the austerity and simplicity of the sabil I found a severe architecture that comes to life in the sun, with its shadows and shades of colour ... an almost Cubist expression of geometric progression, which evoked an abstract vision of the key design elements of Islamic architecture
I. M. Pei
The main building’s angular volumes step back progressively as they rise around a 164-foot-high domed atrium, which is concealed from outside view by the walls of a central tower. At the top of the atrium, an oculus captures and reflects patterned light within the faceted dome. The desert sun plays a fundamental role, transforming the architecture into a play of light and shadows.
All the key elements of Islamic design are clearly visible in the interiors from the atrium, a perfect complement to the masterpieces in the exhibition halls, another must see for your Doha visit.
Aside from the two architectural gems above, there are a number of further highlights to consider during your stay in Doha. The city also boasts modern skyscrapers, luxury hotels, world-class dining, and sporting events. Whether you're interested in history, culture, shopping, or outdoor adventures, Doha has something for everyone to enjoy. Here are a few ideas:
Souq Waqif: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Souq Waqif, a traditional market where you can experience Qatari culture, shop for spices, traditional garments, handicrafts, and enjoy delicious local cuisine. The souq comes alive in the evenings, with bustling restaurants, cafes, and street performances.
The Pearl-Qatar: This artificial island, known as "The Pearl," is a luxurious residential and entertainment district. With its picturesque marinas, high-end boutiques, restaurants, and promenades, it offers a European-inspired atmosphere. Strolling along the waterfront and admiring the yachts is a popular activity here.
Katara Cultural Village: Katara is a cultural hub that showcases Qatari heritage and promotes arts and culture. It hosts exhibitions, art galleries, theaters, music concerts, and film screenings. The village's architectural design draws inspiration from traditional Qatari architecture, and its beachfront location adds to its charm.
Corniche Promenade: Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Doha Corniche, a waterfront promenade that stretches for several kilometers. It offers stunning views of Doha Bay, the city's skyline, and landmarks such as the iconic Sheraton Hotel. The Corniche is also a popular spot for picnics and enjoying outdoor activities.
Visit the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum: This private museum is a treasure trove of art, artifacts, and historical exhibits. It showcases a diverse collection of Islamic art, vintage cars, historical manuscripts, and traditional Qatari handicrafts. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into Qatari history and culture.
Desert Safari: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Qatar's desert with a desert safari. Explore the sand dunes, ride camels, and try adventurous activities such as dune bashing, sandboarding, and falconry. Many tour operators offer guided excursions into the desert, allowing visitors to enjoy a memorable desert experience.
Please note, these travel guides contain my own original photography, please do not reproduce without crediting and prior consent.
