Doha Holidays

Sun-soaked luxury meets Arabian charm in Doha – the Middle East’s rising star of style, sand and skyline. Whether you're into designer shopping, cultural gems, or beach clubs with skyline views, this Qatari capital delivers big energy (and even bigger brunches). It’s where ultra-modern cityscape meets centuries-old souqs, all under a blazing desert sun.

Good to Know

• 🏎️ Fun fact: Doha will host the Qatar Grand Prix until at least 2032 – turbo-charged holidays, anyone?

• 🏖️ Best beach: B12 Beach Club – urban, upscale, and just the right amount of extra.

• 🍺 Pint price: Alcohol is pricey here – around £10 a pint in hotels or licensed venues.

Highlights

• The Corniche: A dreamy waterfront promenade with skyline views and dhow boat rides.

• Museum of Islamic Art: Designed by I.M. Pei – it’s a masterpiece, inside and out.

• Souq Waqif: Spices, silks and shisha in a maze of market charm.

• Desert safaris: Dune bashing, camel rides and Bedouin-style BBQs.

Local Lingo

Arabic is the local language, but English is widely spoken. Still, a few phrases can go a long way:

• As-salamu alaykum – Peace be upon you (hello)

• Shukran – Thank you

• Afwan – You’re welcome

• Kam thaman hatha? – How much is this?

• La shukran – No thank you

Getting around – Doha

Doha’s metro is fast, spotless and air-conditioned – the holy grail of city transport. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are widely available, and walking is doable in cooler months (October to April). FYI – distances can be deceptive, and the sun will fry you.

Where is the best area to stay in Doha?

Whether you're planning family adventures, coupley sunset strolls or a glam getaway with your besties, Doha’s got a district for you.

• Families – West Bay: Skyscrapers meet sandy beaches and luxury hotels with fab pools and kids' clubs.

• Groups – The Pearl-Qatar: Artificial island with yacht-lined marinas, beach clubs, and mega brunch scenes.

• Couples – Msheireb Downtown: Sleek hotels, rooftop bars and walking distance to museums and the souq.

What are the best beaches to visit on your Doha holidays

You’ve got private beaches, resort clubs and golden shores galore – just remember, beachwear is for the beach only.

• B12 Beach Club – Trendy, central, and packed with DJs, volleyball and cocktails.

• Katara Beach – Family-friendly with water sports, camel rides and jet skis.

• The Pearl-Qatar beaches – Private access and luxury vibes for hotel and residence guests.

• West Bay Beach – Public access with loungers and skyline views – great for Insta-snaps.

• Zekreet Beach – Remote and rugged – ideal for adventurers with a 4x4 and a picnic basket.

What are the best hotels in – Doha

In Doha, hotels are fancy with a capital F. Think gold taps, infinity pools and pillow menus.

• The St. Regis Doha – Private beach, massive pool and a spa fit for royalty.

• Mandarin Oriental, Doha – Sleek Msheireb gem with Michelin-level dining and rooftop vibes.

• Hilton Doha The Pearl – Swanky suites, beach access and group-friendly glam.

• Marsa Malaz Kempinski – Island-style luxury on The Pearl, with palatial rooms and lagoon pools.

• InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa – A West Bay winner with a long private beach and sea-view bars.

Things to do for families in Doha

• Stroll along the Corniche with an ice cream and skyline backdrop.

• Visit the National Museum of Qatar – shaped like a desert rose and super interactive.

• Head to Katara Cultural Village for beach days, art, and falcon shows.

Things to do for couples in Doha

• Sunset drinks at Nobu Doha – floating over the sea, no big deal.

• Spa day at the Mandarin Oriental followed by a hammam session.

• Book a desert glamping trip under the stars with a private BBQ.

Things to do for groups in Doha

• Go all out with a Friday brunch – a Doha tradition involving unlimited food and fizz.

• Zip through the dunes on a desert safari with your whole crew.

• Explore The Pearl’s beach clubs by day, rooftop bars by night.

Things to do for foodies in Doha

• Feast on machboos, Qatar’s national dish – spiced rice with slow-cooked meat or fish.

• Try LuLu’s Friday buffets – legendary among locals for global flavours.

• Snack your way through Souq Waqif with shawarma, karak tea, and sweet dates.