Have you ever booked a connecting flight with a longer layover on purpose, simply to explore more? That’s exactly what I did recently. I was on route to Chennai, India flying Qatar Airways and purposely booked a 12-hour layover in Doha. With so many things to do in Doha, I figured a full day of exploring would be a great way to get a taste of the culture of Qatar’s capital city.

The verdict? It was totally worth it!

The Logistics of a Layover in Doha

Visa Requirements:

Once I committed to a layover in Doha, the first thing I researched BEFORE BOOKING MY PLANE TICKET – was whether or not I would need a visa to spend a day exploring the city. With a quick google search, I discovered that citizens from up to 80 countries can now take advantage of visa-free entry to Qatar for 5 – 96 hours. The only requirements are proof of continuing travel and a passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months. You can learn more about your visa requirements for Qatar here.

(A quick note if you’re planning international travel: While most countries will tell you they only need to see a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months left before expiration, in reality, they want to see a passport with longer validity. So, if you have less than a year left on your passport, I recommend renewing it before you take your trip.)

Tours in Doha:

Once I knew I wouldn’t have any problems entering the country, I booked my ticket. My next goal was to figure out what I was going to do with my time in Doha.

With a little more research, I found out that Qatar Airways offers city tours for those transiting through Hamad International Airport. You can opt for a small group tour or a private tour. (It turns out most state-sponsored airlines run city tours, so if you’re traveling to other cities that are a big hub for international travel, i.e. Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore etc., it’s worth checking if the airline you’re flying offers a city tour.) There are also other local companies that offer layover tours as well.

Since I was traveling with a backpack plus a small carry on suitcase, I opted for a private Qatar Airways tour of Doha, so I could stash my bags in the trunk. Plus, with a private tour, I could alter the itinerary as I saw fit. The group tour costs approximately $20 and the private tour is $68.

I’m so glad I opted for a private tour because meeting my Kenyan driver/guide, James Wairimu Kimani was one of the best parts of my visit to Doha. (Request him if you book a private driver!) On our tour of the city, I learned all about his family and his time working in the Middle East.

It was so inspiring to hear his story and everything he is doing to ensure his kids have a good education back home. This is what I love about travel. We get the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life, from all over the world.

Things to Do in Doha

Downtown with all the architecture

The first thing I was drawn to when we drove towards the city was the glimmering skyline of downtown Doha. It’s hard to miss! I was captivated by the towering skyscrapers rising up from the desert. The city, like others in the Gulf states, is a marvel of architecture. There’s also a ton of construction going on right now in preparation for the 2022 World Cup, which Qatar is hosting.

Museum of Islamic Art

If you only get a chance to see one thing in Doha, the Museum of Islamic Art should be it. Not only does it house one of the finest collections of Islamic art, but the building itself, designed by I.M. Pei is a masterpiece. I marveled at the precision, symmetry, and attention to detail that went into the creation of this structure. It is a work of art in itself. The museum also houses one of the largest collections of Islamic art, artifacts and antiquities. Admission is free.

Katara Cultural Village

If you’re looking for the cultural heritage of Qatar, you’ll find it at Katara Cultural Village. It’s the hub for Doha’s artistic venues including a large amphitheater, theaters, and galleries. The Arabian inspired architecture and design are an homage to the region’s history, creating a rich and colorful backdrop for all of your Instagram shots!  Be sure to check out the Pigeon Towers, which collect the birds’ droppings to use as fertilizer. While the area really comes alive at night with its seaside food and market stalls, it’s also worth a wander during the day.

Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif, a famous neighborhood of Doha, was the one area of the city I wasn’t very impressed by. Compared to the old-world feeling of other cities in the Middle East and Africa like Fez, Marrakech, and Jerusalem, Souq Waqif didn’t feel as authentic. That said, I enjoyed sitting outside with a coffee and people watching at one of the many cafes that line the tiny alleyways.

Falcon Souk and Hospital

Did you know that hunting with falcons is a sport in Qatar that’s been practiced for centuries? Falconry is still a very popular pastime there, which is why there are a falcon souk and hospital. It’s a great place to see the birds up close but if you enter the hospital, be mindful that this isn’t a tourist spot and the animals are there for medical care.

The Pearl

The Pearl is an artificial island in Doha that is home to luxury apartments, beach villas, restaurants, and high-end stores. It is the first neighborhood in Qatar that allows foreigners to buy property. The island is built on top of an old pearl diving site, hence the name. While the island and adjoining marina with its large yachts and sailboats was impressive to see, the area also had a sanitized feel to it. It’s one thing to visit, but I’m not sure how I’d feel about living there.

Where to eat in Doha

Since my tour only lasted a few hours and it was in the morning, I did not have time to eat in Doha. However, there are ample culinary choices to suit all tastes and budgets. Splurge with a meal at Market by Jean-Georges or opt for a more traditional setting with a meal at Parisa Souq Waqif. If you’re taking in a show at the Katara Cultural Village, le Vesuvio is a must for their pizzas made in an authentic wood-burning oven. And if you want pristine views of the sea while you dine surrounded by art, head to IDAM by Alain Ducasse, at the Museum of Islamic Art.

Keep in mind that like most Gulf states in the region, alcohol is not generally permitted in Qatar. The exception is in Western hotels. If you dine at a restaurant that is within a hotel, you will be able to order alcohol.

Pamper Yourself at the Doha Airport

Last but not least, if you’re too tired to leave the Hamad Airport and just want some pampering instead, you’re in luck. This world-class airport (voted #3 worldwide in 2018) has a state-of-the-art spa and gym located in the transit hotel between gates A10 and B10. For a flat fee, you can access the Vitality Wellbeing and Fitness Center to use the pool, hydrotherapy rooms, showers, and gym. For an extra fee, you can get a massage or other spa treatments.

I hope this Doha travel guide inspires you to book your next international flight through Qatar with an added layover to explore Doha. My only regret is that I didn’t have more time to sightsee. Next time, I’m booking a longer layover, so I have time to leave the city and explore the surrounding desert. Or who knows, maybe I’ll head there for the World Cup instead?!

Happy travels!