Doha is the capital of the richest nation on the planet – Qatar. With rapid developments in the past few decades, the city has grown to become one of the most developed metropolises in the world. A rich and vibrant city, Doha has over the years, overtaken Dubai in the number of people visiting it each year.

Is Doha A Safe City?

The crime rate in Doha is very low and a crime against tourist is almost unheard of. Petty crime does occur however even those numbers are much lower than in most countries. For solo travellers and women travellers, Doha is extremely safe. People can wear gold or have costly things with them and roam around in the street without worry.

Best Time to Visit

To get the most out of your trip, you will have to visit the city between October and April. The temperature during these months is the lowest and the climate is much more tolerable for those unaccustomed to desert temperature. The humidity is also much lower during these months, making it the best time to visit the place. 3

Do You Need a Visa For Doha

Doha is one of the most liberal countries in the world, opening its door to about 80 countries for visa-free entry. All passengers have to submit is their valid passport with validity for atleast six months and a confirmed return flight after which traveller will be provided entry to the city.

How to Reach Doha

One can travel to Doha via road, rail, and shipways however the most convenient and popular means of travel is via flight. Hamad International Airport is Doha’s main airport and serves about 30 million travellers annually. One can fly in with حجز الخطوط الجوية القطرية. The airlines operate in several major destinations around the world and are owned by the state of Qatar.

Currency in Doha

The city of Doha uses the Qatari Riyal for currency; several kiosks provide exchange inside the airport itself and even in the city. Consider contacting your bank for affiliations with local banks to get the best exchange value when switching currencies. A good tip is to have your حجز فنادق online so you can save on having to spend hard cash immediately as you reach.

Language in Doha

The city of Doha speaks in Arabic, which is the official language of Qatar. Most of the residents of the city also speak in a dialect of Gulf Arabic descent. Modern schools now teach students Arabic and English, as well as such communication, will not be a problem in the city. Other minor languages spoken in the city include Urdu and Persian

Food to Blow Your Senses

The food of Doha is largely influenced by Arabic styles, when visiting the city don’t leave without trying these dishes; Qatari Machbous which is a local variant of the Kabsa a dish akin to the famed Biriyani. Ghuzi is another popular dish which is a whole roasted lamb with nutty rice served. Khobesrgag is thinly cooked bread made with dough mixed in flour, water, and salt. The dish is served widely alongside other main dishes.

Where to stay in Doha

Doha is a large place and finding a place to stay can get tough. The West Bay in Doha is a good choice for accommodation as it is well located in the city’s financial and commercial center. To commute there are several options from there and the main Hammad International Airport is only a 30-minute commute from there. The location makes it the ideal place for visitors who come to tour the city or for work purposes.

Regulations and daily life

When traveling in the country, make sure to carry your identification everywhere you go. Entry to certain parts in Doha is restricted like military areas are off-limits for civilians and tourists. Kuwait is a Muslim-dominated country and as such tourists are advised to dress modestly in public and avoid possessing alcohol, narcotics, pork products, and obscene material. The laws are very strict and violators can find themselves facing imprisonment.

Places to see in Doha

• The museum of Islamic Art is a great place to understand the history and culture of the city. The architecture will also bring much satisfaction to even those without any fascination for architecture
• Barzan towers: These watchtowers located in southern Doha are part of a defensive line and have some of the best views of the region.
• Sealine beach resort is located on the bay of the Arabian Sea. This majestic beach is a great place for people looking to relax and is one of the most visited in the entire country.

Museum in Doha

Doha is home to several interesting museums like the;

• ‘National Museum of Qatar’ houses some of the best exhibits on flora, fauna, and geology of the Qatar region. One learns a lot about the history from the museum with an informative guide tour to fill you in the history behind things related to Doha
• The ‘museum of illusion’ like its name will leave you dazed confusing reality and illusion with several unique and fun exhibits set up to leave you enthralled. The entire museum takes around 1 or 2 hours to complete.
• The ‘Fire station artist in residence’ is one of the more unique art galleries in the country. With several unique and fun contemporary art pieces up on display for visitors to come and observe.

Shopping in Doha

Being the capital of the richest nation in the world, Doha is a heaven for those who seek to shop. The city has several of the world’s top brands sell their wares in several of the top-class malls around the city. If you are looking for more of a traditional market then the ‘Souq Waqif’ is a great place to shop. Filled with sellers selling local wares, this souq is one of the oldest in the city and has several shops selling all kinds of wares in the streets and shops. Amidst them are some very delicious local cafes and traditional restaurants.

So, when are you booking your flights to Doha?