Qatar - Stopover in the cultural capital of the Gulf region

Attractive in every respect!

Hayyakum! - Welcome to Qatar! As a popular stopover destination, the state on the Arabian Peninsula is attracting a steadily growing number of international visitors. The high-quality hotel industry, numerous leisure and recreational opportunities, the year-round sunny climate and the Arabian culture ensure a varied vacation experience. Qatar's tourism focus is primarily on art and culture, which is evident in the country's recent development.


Places of interest

Qatar offers numerous picturesque photo opportunities: the seven-kilometre-long Corniche promenade, mosques, museums and expressively shaped traditional buildings alternate with modern shopping malls, green parks, the lively alleyways of the souks and the dhows (wooden sailing ships) in the bay off the capital. A guided city tour or the Doha Bus service makes it easy to combine all these stops. A trip on a dhow is particularly recommended at sunset to admire the panorama of the illuminated skyline from the water.


Culture

Doha's museum landscape is very diverse. The National Museum of Qatar, designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, opened in the spring of this year. Shaped like a sand rose, the building houses a collection of unique works, each of which tells a part of the history of Qatar and its people. The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) is housed in a distinctive building designed by star architect I.M. Pei on an artificial island on the Corniche. The exhibition inside showcases some of the finest Islamic artworks and objects from around the world. In the heart of one of Doha's oldest districts, the Msheireb Museums bear witness to the country's special features. Spread over four buildings, the history, culture and development of Qatar is made visible in the museum complex. Modern art is also on display at the Mathaf Arab Museum of Modern Art, which regularly surprises visitors with temporary exhibitions by local artists. The Katara Cultural Village offers venues for events such as theater and opera performances, concerts and film festivals. But Katara is also worth a visit for its entertainment, beautiful beach and diverse culinary offerings.


Living heritage

Traditional values such as hospitality and politeness are very important in Qatar. A lively atmosphere awaits visitors in Souq Waqif: the hustle and bustle of traders with a variety of colors, sounds and aromas, countless small stores, restaurants and the many locals make this place a favorite of many visitors. In front of the Corniche, the wooden dhows are a reminder of Qatar's history as a seafaring and trading nation. Traditional pastimes such as camel racing and falconry are extremely popular. Arts and crafts, music and dance are also omnipresent.


Nature

With the Chaur al-Udaid inland sea, the Arabian Gulf penetrates deep into the desert. This water landscape in the south-east of the country can only be reached by off-road vehicle across the dunes and is ideal for swimming. Several qualified local tour operators offer half-day or full-day excursions into the desert as well as longer tours with overnight stays under the stars. Qatar's other natural beauties include the imposing, 40-metre-deep fibrous gypsum cave at Dahl Al Misfir and the mangrove forests of Al Thakira, which are great for kayaking.


Entry made easy

Travelers from over 85 countries can enter Qatar without a visa. The national airline www.qatarairways.com/?utm=ccqatarairwaysweb">Qatar Airways flies to Doha daily from Frankfurt, Munich and Berlin as well as Vienna, Zurich and Geneva.
Further information about the country and its people at www.visitqatar.qa


Oriental beauty In the heart of the city and yet on the beach

Connoisseur Circle tip: Spend your stay at the 5-star resort Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Doha. If you book here, you will be whisked away into the world of an oriental fairytale and benefit from an exclusive special offer from DERTOUR: 7 nights in a deluxe resort room including breakfast from 751 euros per person based on two people, valid from 1.12.-8.12.2019
All DERTOUR DELUXE offers can be found at your expert travel agency.

Image credit: Copyright Qatar National Tourism Council