The Perfect First-Time Visit to Qatar Itinerary
From practically being a desert just a few decades ago to now being the wealthiest Arab country with the highest per capita in the world, the skeleton of Qatar has seen through immense changes. This country is in the Arabian Peninsula with Doha as its capital city. Due to its primary occupation of oil fields and natural gas production, this nation is rightly nestled among other Arab countries like the UAE, Saudi, and Bahrain.
The land has seen through the Portuguese invasion, Ottoman rule, and British colonialism before becoming an amalgamated ancient and modernized independent country. Exploring Qatar is sure to quench your regal thirst for class, culture, luxury, and heritage. The capital aerodrome, Doha is now connected to various international airports and a Qatar Airways Booking can bring you closer to the magnificence of Qatar.
If the awesomeness of Qatar overwhelms you, this should be your partner throughout your tour. Here is your itinerary for the most fruitful and satisfying visit to Qatar.
Table of Contents
Day – 1: Doha
The city’s worth is more for one day but you can begin by enjoying the waterfront promenade in Doha Bay called the Corniche with its floating dhows or boats. Enjoy a ride in them to view the Doha skyline from the waters.
Following this you can opt to explore the Museum of Islamic Arts which is splendorous with all its Islamic heritage displayed in the form of art. An array of museums like the Qatar National Museum and the Msheireb Museum that are in the vicinity can be visited.
But, if you have in mind an afternoon stroll for shopping, the open-air market, Souk Wakif is sure to make your day eventful. Jewelry, rare artifacts, and souvenirs can be bought here. The Katara Village can also be explored at the end of the day.
It is the complex of an amphitheater, opera house, and art gallery and an important venue with amazing architecture for many cultural events like the Doha Film Festival. The multi-cuisine restaurant of Souk Wakif has a multicuisine restaurant that sure is worth relishing your palate with.
Day – 2: The Pearl
Dedicate this day to being mesmerized by the cultural enigma of Qatar. The traditional and modern architectural fusion can be spotted at the Grand Mosque. The Pearl represents the architectural art form displayed throughout the region.
Herein, the Qanat Quarter shouldn’t be missed. You can also opt for the four-hour cultural tour of Qatar that covers major spots or the four-hour food tour at the Pearl to surprise your taste buds.
You can extend the day in hand between visiting the Brazan Towers in Doha, the ancient watchtowers of the northern desert region, and the Al Thakira Mangroves. This will give you relief from the deserts and give you a view of some migrating species like the herons, crabs, and falcons from the kayaks treading among the mangroves.
Day – 3: Desert Bound
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What is a trip to Qatar without a desert expedition among the uncharted deserts and dunes? The famous and most sought-after day trip from Doha is to the Al Khor Udeid desert region.
The region is known for dune bashing, safari, and inland swimming near the Saudi border adventures that are sure to sweep you off your wandering feet! Sunset safaris and night camping in the Beaudin tents under the Arabian night sky are also famous in this region.
From the 4×4 sand bashing rides to traditional camel rides, your day is sure to be filled with thrill. Sandboarding and Falcon Handling for kids is a sure itinerary feature. Also don’t forget to visit the Al Zubarah interactive museum, a UNESCO heritage site that depicts the yesteryears of the tribes and their path to oil discovery.
Day 4: Artistic Dive
Filled with abundant wildlife and geographical phenomenon, the Zekreet Peninsula in Western Qatar is sure to pique your interest. The desert features of unexplored dunes, half-moon shaped Zekreet Bay, undiluted beaches, and limestone environment are the best escape from the bustling city.
Wild deer, the Arabian oryx, and gazelles can be spotted here as well. Another desert pearl is the East-West / West-East architectural wonder curated by Richard Sierra, an American sculptor in the Zekreet Peninsula. The four steel plates stand tall as obelisks in the middle of the desert peering into the sunny sky.