A global citizen and avid traveller offers the definitive guide to a trip full of discoveries, adventure, and luxury in Qatar. By Deveekaa Nijhawan
Experience the best of Qatar and travel with us
Being a citizen of the world, having lived in nine countries—India, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, UK, Oman, Spain, Maldives, UAE, and now Qatar—and having travelled to over 50 cities, I am very proud to call Qatar my home.
Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world. In fact, its capital, Doha, has been named the second-safest city in the world for three consecutive years since 2020 by the Numbeo Safety Index. Whether you’re travelling with your girl gang or alone, the country offers numerous options for an unforgettable trip. From indulgent shopping to dining experiences, well-curated art immersion, and a relaxed day at the spa, Qatar has something for every kind of traveller. Here are some of the top activities that women visitors must discover in the country:
EXPLORE THE PEARL-QATAR
The Pearl-Qatar is truly unparalleled. Known as the Arabian Riviera, the man-made island boasts of designer boutiques, luxurious hotels, fine dining restaurants, a posh marina, and charming gardens. Making it even more popular is Qanat Quartier, a picturesque neighbourhood where Venetian charm meets Arabian chic.
VISIT THE MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART
The internationally renowned Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) is the crown jewel of Qatar’s museums. Besides being an architectural marvel in itself, the museum houses an extensive collection of art drawn from across three continents and also includes a heritage library with a collection of 21,000 books. MIA also offers majestic views of Doha’s West Bay, making it the perfect place for a serene walk.
TAKE AN AFTERNOON STROLL AT THE CORNICHE
The Corniche, one of Doha’s most popular sites for a stroll, runs along the Doha Bay and allows incredible vistas of the Arabian Gulf, with dhows lined up on the water and the skyscrapers of West Bay in the background.
SPEND AN EVENING ON THE HELIPAD
Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience with stunning views of the capital’s skyline at the Helipad at JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha (marriott.com). In addition to embarking on the gastronomic adventure, you can spend an extraordinary evening with your girlfriends with a full moon yoga session on the helipad.
RELAX AND REJUVENATE
Qatar’s most well-kept secret lies in its swoon-worthy spas, which offer top-notch facilities and services to those looking to indulge in self-care. You can choose from a wide range of options: calming treatments at Anantara Banana Island Resort Spa, holistic therapies at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Doha, pampering experiences at Sharq Village & Spa, or an escape from the daily grind at Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som, one of the top wellness havens in the country.
GET SOME RETAIL THERAPY
Delight in a luxurious shopping experience at Villaggio Mall. This globally recognised destination has everything: from high-end boutiques to acclaimed brands from around the world, famous retail stores, and various cafes and restaurants. There is also an indoor canal complete with gondola rides, theme parks, as well as an IMAX cinema for an immersive movie experience.
DISCOVER KATARA CULTURAL VILLAGE
Spelled in the old style, Katara is a self-styled cultural village bordered by a vast beach on one side and the twin Katara Hills on the other. It is Doha’s go-to destination for art, culture, and cuisine. Visit the eye-catching Gold Mosque while discovering a Greek-style amphitheatre. Check out art galleries and exhibitions tucked between alleyways, and explore the Katara Hills that serve views of the village and the glistening sea.
WALK BACK IN TIME AT SOUQ WAQIF
Doha’s traditional market calls for a visit when you’re in Qatar. Explore its alleyways, sample local spices, chill like a local at one of the cafes, or learn about falconry at the Falcon Souq. If you want to experience the authentic feeling of a Qatari bazaar, Souq Waqif is the place to be.
FEEL THE THRILL OF ADVENTURE
Qatar is a paradise for adrenaline junkies, offering adventures of land, sea, and air. Traverse the desert on a safari, or camp under the stars at Khor Al Udaid Beach. Meander through the Al Thakira mangroves on a kayak, or take a kitesurfing lesson. Witness Qatar from an aerial perspective with a hot air balloon ride or by paratriking.
GO ON A DHOW CRUISE
Discover Doha’s magnificent waterfront and enjoy the most remarkable view of the city’s skyline at sunset. The traditional wooden boats used for pearling in the past, dhows, are the perfect means of transport to sail on the Arabian Gulf. Whether you love shopping, art, culinary encounters, or relaxation, you will never feel jaded in Qatar.
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