Qatar has long been one of the most popular tourist destinations not only in the Middle East but in the world and we can safely say that the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 has renewed its position at the top of the list to visit. Despite being such a small country, Qatar has plenty of tourist attractions, from a long-rooted history with colonial footprints to a hyper modern city – Doha – with jaw-dropping skyscrapers and architectural wonders. If you have plans to visit Qatar before or during the FIFA Games, you can consider our 10 best places to visit in Qatar to make the most of your trip.
Host of the FIFA World Cup 2022, Doha is a popular tourist destination, not only in the Middle East and the world. Despite being a tiny blimp on the world map, due to its small size, Doha attracts tons of visitors every year, thanks to its unique scenery, vibrant souks and charming architecture. So, if you are planning to visit the country for the FIFA World Cup 2022, take some time to at least visit some of the tourist spots in Qatar.
Best Places to Visit In Qatar During FIFA World Cup 2022
Traveling to Doha for FIFA WC Qatar? Instead of just hanging out in your hotel room while you wait for the match, make the most of your trip and explore the city at your leisure! Join a convenient tour that will take you through the city’s scenic sights, incredible cultural experiences and unique shops you won’t find anywhere else. Since they only take four to five hours, this will give you plenty of time to enjoy the game before or after the tour.
One of the tourist destinations in the Middle East, Qatar is the host of FIFA World Cup 2022. The event has drastically boosted the country’s tourism, as millions of football enthusiasts are expected to visit the country. This guide will present some ideas on activities and places you can explore in Qatar while in Qatar to watch your favorite team play. We’ll also discuss things you need to consider before participating in these activities.
Top 10 Best Places to Visit In Qatar During FIFA World Cup 2022
1. The Pearl Qatar
Filled with luxury hotels, residential buildings, world-class restaurants and cafes, The Pearl is one of Qatar’s largest man-made structures built on land reclaimed from the sea. The area welcomes anyone who enjoys feasting their eyes on the extravagant lifestyle, spoiling themselves or a loved one with luxury items, or simply wanting to grab a bite and sip a coffee in a tourist-friendly neighborhood. What’s more, the port is home to a number of luxury yachts something that superyacht fans may find attractive during their stay in Doha.
2. Souq Waqif
Souq means market in Arabic, and Souq Waqif is one of the oldest markets in Qatar. Before doing anything else, devote enough time and energy to this area. A walk around Souq Waqif will bring you in contact with the city’s authentic old architecture, its local population and tons of foreign merchandise on sale. Very few tourist spots in Qatar, especially the souks, boast as stunning a collection of gold, clothing, spices, herbs and more as the Souq Waqif.
Here are a few things you should do while visiting this place. Dine in one of the country’s most authentic restaurants that Souq Waqif has to offer. After shopping, you can quickly grab some delicious kebabs, walnut and pomegranate stew at Parisa Restaurant. If you are a budget traveller, try delicious Yemeni food at the cheap Souk Waqif restaurant in Bandar Aden.
3. Lusail Winter Wonderland, Al Maha Island
It is a winter wonderland festival taking place on Al Maha Island in Qatar. From nearly 50 adventure rides, gaming arcades and restaurants to live entertainment and shopping, there’s something for everyone to look forward to. The festival, perfect for visiting with kids, family or friends, opens in the evening and closes at midnight on weekdays and 1:00 a.m. on weekends.
4. Crescent Park
Located in Lusail, Crescent Park is another place you can visit for free as it boasts one of the most amazing views of the city. A 275,000 square meter lush green space, inspired by desert environments and sand dune gardens – all based on sustainability by using recycled water to irrigate green areas. The park has food outlets, forest and children’s play area. The park has a large parking space as well as modern sports facilities including a large football field, basketball, sand volleyball and tennis courts.
5. National Museum of Qatar
If we were allowed to describe only one place with the word “unique” among all the other tourist attractions in Qatar, then the National Museum of Qatar would definitely be the winner. Designed by the French architect Jean Nouvel, its structure symbolizes the combination of desert and modernity that is exquisitely embodied. Both the exterior and interior of the building evoke a sense of otherworldly design beyond any visitor’s expectations. In addition to its extraordinary structure, the museum exhibits exhibits of everything considered historic, rare and artistic, including archaeological artifacts and limited edition car models.
6. The State Grand Mosque
A culturally significant place to visit in Qatar is the State Grand Mosque. In its stunning structure, Revel is a fusion of traditional and modern architecture. However, in a country like Qatar, it is impossible to look away from the stunning mosques. Entry to all mosques is free, but try to avoid visiting during prayer times, as you may have to follow certain protocols. For example, men and women have to enter separately. So, people traveling with family should ideally go when no prayers are offered.
7. The Doha Corniche
8. Qur’anic Botanic Garden
Quranic Botanic Garden (QBG) is a beautiful garden located in Education City, Doha with a special theme. QBG is a project of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development. This garden is one of a kind as it exhibits and preserves the plants mentioned in the Holy Quran and indigenous plants found in Qatar. At the moment, it is home to more than 60 species of plants from desert, Mediterranean and tropical habitats.
