24 Hours in Doha: A Guide to Making the Most of Your Stopover
Doha, Qatar’s capital, is a fascinating blend of modern meets tradition. Known for its cutting-edge architecture, opulent hotels, and rich cultural heritage, Doha has plenty to offer even on a short layover. If you’re stopping over in Doha for 24 hours, here’s how to make the most of your time.
Can You Leave Doha Airport on a Stopover?
Yes, you can absolutely leave Hamad International Airport (HIA) during a stopover in Doha, and in fact, it’s encouraged! Doha’s airport is close to the city center—around a 15-20 minute drive—which makes it very feasible to explore the city even if you have only a few hours. However, for a 24-hour layover, you’ll have ample time to venture out and get a taste of what Doha has to offer. Also taxi's are super cheap, it will cost you about £7 into the city centre!
Do I Need a Visa If I Have a Stopover in Doha?
Most travellers do not need a visa if they’re only transiting in Doha. However, if you plan to leave the airport, check Qatar's visa requirements as they vary by nationality. For many nationalities, Qatar offers visa-free entry, or you can easily apply for a free transit visa online if your stopover is between 5 and 96 hours. The Qatar Airways stopover program often includes free or discounted hotel accommodations, making a longer layover even more appealing.
Is a Qatar Stopover Worth It?
Absolutely. Doha is a vibrant city that’s both compact and accessible, making it ideal for a stopover experience. With an efficient transit visa system you have every reason to explore the city’s luxurious offerings, world-class museums, and traditional souks.
How to Spend 8 Hours in Doha: A Quick Guide
If you have around 8 hours, you can still have a memorable stopover experience by visiting some of Doha’s top attractions. But if you’re fortunate enough to have 24 hours, you can explore the city more leisurely, discover its layers of culture, and unwind at some of its most famous spots.
Things to do in Doha
Morning: Start at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)
Kick off your morning with a visit to the Museum of Islamic Art(MIA), one of Doha’s most celebrated cultural sites. Located on the Corniche waterfront, this museum was designed by architect I.M. Pei and showcases an impressive collection of Islamic art from three continents, dating back over 1,400 years. From intricate ceramics to breathtaking textiles, MIA is an essential stop for anyone interested in history, art, or architecture.
Top Tip: The MIA café offers incredible views of Doha’s skyline—perfect for that first coffee of the day.
Late Morning: Stroll Along the Doha Corniche
Just outside the Museum of Islamic Art is the Doha Corniche, a 7-kilometer waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the city’s skyline. It’s a beautiful place for a walk, jog, or just to take in the sea breeze. Traditional wooden dhows float by, adding a nostalgic touch against the futuristic skyscrapers. If you have time, consider a short dhow boat ride to experience the city from the water.
Lunch: Katara Cultural Village
A short drive from the Corniche, Katara Cultural Village is an art and cultural hub where you can experience the unique charm of Qatari tradition. This village is home to art galleries, an amphitheater, and traditional architecture with intricately designed facades and walkways. Katara also has a variety of international and local eateries, offering a chance to sample Middle Eastern flavors. Look for Majlis-style cafes and restaurants. Check out the air conditioning that pumps out from the floor keeping you cool as you walk around!
Top Tip: Check Katara’s event schedule as it often hosts exhibitions, performances, and workshops, which are worth catching if you have the time.
Afternoon: Shop and Explore Souq Waqif
A trip to Doha wouldn’t be complete without experiencing Souq Waqif. This bustling market is one of the oldest and most traditional in the country, offering a variety of goods from spices and perfumes to textiles and handicrafts. Souq Waqif is also an ideal place to find unique souvenirs and local arts and crafts. Wandering through its alleys, you’ll discover spices, colorful fabrics, and handcrafted jewelry, all while soaking in the aromas of Middle Eastern incense.
Stop at one of the many cafes in the souq for a cup of karak, a popular Qatari spiced tea, and take a break from the bustling atmosphere. Souq Waqif’s restaurants and shisha lounges provide an authentic atmosphere for people-watching and immersing yourself in local culture.
Top Tip: Try a traditional Qatari dish like machboos, a spiced rice and meat dish, to get a true taste of local flavours.
Evening: Discover the National Museum of Qatar
The National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) is a fascinating modern marvel designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, inspired by the desert rose crystal formations found in Qatar. Opened in 2019, this museum offers an immersive journey through the history of Qatar, from its early Bedouin culture to its rise as a modern state.
Top Tip
It is so cheap to get around Doha with Uber, don't forget to link your AVIOS to your uber account and get those free points which you can also redeem with Qatar Airways.
The exhibitions are rich in multimedia, showcasing the country’s natural history, traditional heritage, and oil-driven transformation. You can also enjoy the museum gardens. The evening lighting at the museum makes it particularly photogenic, and the exterior is a unique attraction in itself.
Night: A Taste of Luxury at The Pearl-Qatar
End your day with a visit to The Pearl-Qatar, an artificial island known for its luxury living, upscale shopping, and waterfront dining options. With its Mediterranean-inspired architecture, The Pearl has a distinctive charm, blending the feel of a European coastal town with Qatari luxury. Walk along the marina, browse designer boutiques, or unwind with a meal at one of the many waterfront restaurants.
Top Tip: For a unique night-time experience, hop onto a rented yacht or take a sunset cruise to admire the Doha skyline from the water.
Top 5 Things to Do in Doha for a Stopover
1. Museum of Islamic Art (MIA): Explore Islamic art spanning 1,400 years and enjoy stunning views of the Doha skyline.
2. Souq Waqif: A bustling traditional market perfect for shopping, dining, and immersing yourself in local culture.
3. National Museum of Qatar: A modern museum telling the story of Qatar’s transformation from desert to world-class city.
4. The Pearl-Qatar: A luxurious artificial island with high-end shops, restaurants, and beautiful marina views.
5. Katara Cultural Village: Discover Qatari arts, culture, and history in this beautiful village with galleries, cafes, and regular cultural events.
Is Doha Stopover Worth It?
A stopover in Doha is definitely worth it, whether you have just 8 hours or a full day to explore. The city’s compact nature and Qatar Airways' stopover options make it easy and accessible for visitors to experience both the traditional and modern sides of Qatar. From iconic museums to bustling souqs and luxurious marinas, Doha is a city that leaves a lasting impression.
With this 24-hour itinerary, you’ll capture the essence of Doha, leaving with memories of its rich culture, mouth-watering cuisine, and awe-inspiring architecture. Whether you’re a fan of art, history, or simply love experiencing new places, Doha’s unique charm will make your stopover a journey worth remembering. Safe travels!
Flying Qatar airways? You might like this article?
or this one,
Wondering where to stay in Doha? I stayed at the W hotel and it was perfect for a stopover in Doha, check out my review here
Places to stay in Doha
More information here at Visit Qatar
Hello I’m Paul a Travel and flight expert, I spent most of my career working in and around planes with 15 years providing top-notch service with a London-based airline. I became an expert in travel after soaring across the Atlantic up to 10 times a month!
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