Qatar Stopover - Amazing Things To Do In Qatar For A Short Transit

When traveling long distances, a layover in a fascinating city like Doha, Qatar, can turn a tedious wait into a memorable mini-adventure. While many cities worldwide are difficult to explore in just one day, Doha, in contrast, is an excellent destination for a brief visit. Whether you're pressed for time or simply want a quick taste of the city and country, Doha is perfect for a one-day adventure. This guide will help you make the most of your Qatar layover and list the top things to do on a Doha stopover, from wandering downtown Doha to exploring its must-visit landmarks.

Top Things To Discover In Qatar During A Layover

Explore Hamad International Airport

Hamad International Airport offers a new outlook on life, serving as a transit hub and as the beginning of an adventure. Whether you're departing to another destination or in transit, there's always something to keep you engaged, making your waiting time more enjoyable.

The airport’s indoor tropical garden ORCHARD features 300 trees and over 25,000 shrubs and plants, creating a space for relaxation and well-being. Additionally, Hamad International Airport also boasts art installations, providing a gallery for art enthusiasts and more! 

Hamad International Airport 

Book a Day Tour in Doha

If you prefer a guided experience during your Qatar Doha stopover, booking a day tour is a fantastic option. Most Doha day tours last about 4 hours, making them ideal for a layover and available at various times throughout the day. During these tours, you will have the opportunity to explore impressive tourist attractions in Doha, savor local cuisine in Qatar, or purchase traditional items at souks.

Embark on desert Tours from Doha

For a unique experience, consider a desert tour from Doha. Despite the short duration of your layover, many tour operators offer quick trips into the desert. You can indulge in activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. Evening tours often include a traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars. This adventure provides a stark contrast to the urban environment of Doha and offers a glimpse into Qatar's natural beauty.

Embark on desert tours during a Qatar layover

Explore more: Qatar desert Safari - Discover the middle east's sand dunes

The Best Places To Explore During Your Qatar Doha Stopover

National Museum of Qatar

The National Museum of Qatar, designed by the renowned architect Jean Nouvel, is a must-visit. Its unique design, inspired by the desert rose, houses exhibits that narrate Qatar’s rich history and cultural heritage. 

The museum is easily accessible via its metro station. When visiting this remarkable attraction in Doha, visitors will be amazed by its intricate architecture in Qatar, cleanliness, and advanced technology. You can also delve into Qatar's history, and learn about its ancestors and the development of early cities during your short visit to the National Museum of Qatar. Exhibits blend historical artifacts with modern influences, fostering a dialogue on the effects of rapid change throughout the centuries.

Visit the National Museum of Qatar during your Doha stopover

Souq Waqif

A short trip to Doha isn't complete without exploring Souq Waqif. Located on the site of Doha's ancient trading market along the banks of Wadi Musheireb, Souq Waqif offers a captivating contrast to the city's modern skyline. Its mud-daubed buildings harken back to a bygone era, yet the market remains a bustling hub for local traders.

As you wander through the winding alleys of Souq Waqif, you can immerse yourself in Qatar's vibrant traditional street life. This lively market is a sensory delight with its traditional architecture and myriad of shops. From spices and perfumes to handicrafts and souvenirs, there's something for everyone seeking unique items in Qatar. The souq also boasts many cafes and restaurants, making it an ideal spot to taste local cuisine.

Souq Waqif is an attractive destination in Doha to discover during your layover

Doha Corniche

The Doha Corniche is one of the most iconic attractions in Doha and you can stop over during your layover there. It is a stunning seven-kilometer promenade overlooking the tranquil waterfront. With its crescent-shaped walkway around Doha Bay, the Corniche provides majestic views of the city's modern skyline. This attraction is also a major venue for events like National Day celebrations and National Sports Day. 

In the evenings, you can watch the dhows light up the Corniche as you walk around the bay, or take a boat ride to enjoy the city's vista. Generally, the Doha Corniche is an excellent spot for a stroll, especially during the cooler parts of the day.

Museum of Islamic Art

Across the road from Souq Waqif and near the Corniche is the Museum of Islamic Art. Unless you're a museum enthusiast or seeking indoor activities to escape the midday heat, we'd suggest choosing just one museum for your Doha layover. You can either visit the Museum of Islamic Art or the National Museum of Qatar. 

However, the Museum of Islamic Art is an impressive building that's worth a visit, even if you only admire it from the outside. It is an architectural marvel designed by I.M. Pei, housing one of the world’s most extensive collections of Islamic art that date back over 1,400 years. The museum’s location on an artificial island offers breathtaking views of the Doha skyline, making it a perfect spot for both art lovers and photographers.

The Museum of Islamic Art is another great attraction to visit during your stopover

Traditional Dhow Boat Ride

Dhow boats are traditional sailing vessels in Qatar, and as you stroll along the Corniche, you'll spot them in the harbor. Taking a boat ride is a fantastic way to explore Doha during a layover without wasting too much energy. The sailor will navigate the Dhow and sail you around to admire the spectacular views of the city skyline, especially at dusk.

Traditional Dhow Boat Ride

Katara Cultural Village

You can end your day tour in Doha by visiting Katara Cultural Village, a cultural hub that showcases Qatar’s artistic heritage. This village features an amphitheater, art galleries, and various cultural institutions. Especially, there are various festivals, performances, and exhibitions that are held in Katara Cultural Village. If you’re lucky enough, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere to delve into Qatar’s rich culture. Even a short visit can be incredibly rewarding, offering insights into Qatar’s artistic and cultural scene.

Practical Information To Note During A Qatar Layover

Book a Hotel in Downtown Doha

For a seamless Qatar layover experience, consider booking a hotel in downtown Doha. Many hotels offer short-stay packages perfect for transit passengers. Staying downtown puts you in proximity to many attractions, ensuring you make the most of your time. 

Popular options for Qatar stopover hotels include the luxury of the Mandarin Oriental, the elegance of the St. Regis, or the comfort of the DoubleTree by Hilton. These hotels often provide amenities like airport shuttles, day-use rooms, and quick access to the city's main sights.

Qatar visa requirements

Citizens of over 102 countries can enjoy visa-free entry to Qatar. On the other hand, some nationalities will be required to possess a valid visa to enter Qatar. You can check the latest Qatar visa requirements on the website Qatar Immigration Services to learn more about your eligibility for a Qatar e-visa. 

Qatar Airways passengers transiting through Hamad International Airport for at least 5 hours can apply for the Qatar Transit Visa. This visa is free of charge, offering a validity period of up to 96 hours (four days), and is available to passengers of all nationalities. It's a convenient option for travelers looking to explore during their Qatar layover, allowing them to experience the country's attractions and culture before continuing their journey.

Qatar visa requirements

Qatari Currency

Qatar's official currency is the Qatari Riyal (QAR). The exchange rate is approximately US$1 = 3.65 QAR. 

Although there are numerous ATMs throughout Qatar, it's generally advisable to bring some cash for small transactions.

When carrying the Qatari riyal (QAR) or amounts equal to or more than QAR 50,000 in foreign currencies, travelers must declare upon arrival. Jewelry, precious metals, and stones of QAR 50,000 or greater worth also fall under this category. 

Qatar Weather

Qatar has a desert climate with plenty of sunshine all year round. The country has extremely high temperatures in the summer and milder winters. Average monthly temperatures range from 17°C in January to 36°C in July, sometimes soaring above 40°C in the hottest months of the year. Therefore, you should pack light clothing if you are planning a Doha stopover.

Ready for Your Short Transit Adventure in Qatar?

A Doha Qatar stopover can transform your short time in this city into an exciting travel experience, offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Whether you choose to embark on a guided tour to the most impressive attractions in the city or venture into the desert, Qatar promises to make your layover an unforgettable part of your journey.