Here’s your handy itinerary if you’re visiting Doha for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
The world has its eyes on the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, which kicked off last Sunday and is scheduled to run through December 18. The biggest football championship is held across eight state-of-the-art stadiums in Doha — Lusail Stadium, Al Bayt Stadium, Al Rayyan Stadium, Al Thumama Stadium, Al Wakrah, Khalifa International Stadium, Education City Stadium, and Ras Abu Aboud Stadium.
While the stadium grounds are echoing with roaring cheers of football fanatics coming from all over the world, there’s a lot more happening in Qatar’s gorgeous capital city. Here’s a rundown of best five ways you can spend your leisure time if you are in Doha this season.
Visit The Museum of Islamic Arts
Considered the jewel in the crown of Qatar, The Museum of Islamic Arts (MIA) is not to be missed by any traveller who flies down to Doha. Located on an island bordering the Doha Corniche, the museum is an architectonic marvel sprawling across four floors. It is home to a heritage library with a collection of 21,000 books including 2,000 rare editions in both Arabic and English. The MIA also holds permanent and temporary exhibitions and contains a gift shop as well as a café.
Stroll through the Doha Corniche
When you are done gawking at the stunning artefacts at the MIA, take a long, lazy stroll through the Doha Corniche. It is what is quite similar to the Queen’s necklace in Mumbai. The 7-km waterfront promenade is lined with swaying palms and has a series of buzzing restaurants and clubs. Take a walk along the pathway, enjoy the panoramic views, or rent a boat from the Dhow harbour to sail away!
Head to Katara Cultural Village
A melting pot of diverse cultures worldwide, Katara Cultural Village derives its name from the old spelling of the country. Arrive here to visit the eponymous mosque here, styled with Persian and Turkish tiles and enamel work in blue and gold. There’s also an amphitheater, which can hold 5,000 spectators and covers 3,275 sqm. Make sure to check out the various art galleries spread across the village exhibiting different art forms.
Shop at Souq Waqif
Shop, dine, and explore — Souq Waqif is a one-stop destination to have a first-hand experience of a vibrant souq (market) for Bedouin (nomads who have historically inhabited the Arabian and Syrian Deserts). Besides the main street, don’t forget to explore the labyrinth like alleyways to find more stores for local fabrics, spices, perfumes, pearls, and more.
Unwind at The Pearl
After a long day of cheering your favourite team and going on excursions, arrive at The Pearl to cool off. This spectacular architectural wonder is a great balance of nature, modern infrastructure, and a serene environment in terms of design. Soak in a tranquil Mediterranean vibe, as you spend your time at yacht-lined marinas, gorgeous villas, magnificent towers, luxury hotels, exotic restaurants, and shopping malls, with the calm ocean waters playing the perfect backdrop.
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