Whether you are visiting Qatar solo or with family, this Muslim- friendly country is perfect for anyone. From easy access to halal food to mind-blowing architecture, this country will become your favorite destination in the Middle East.
The best time to visit Qatar would be November to early April as the temperate allows sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The country has a moderate desert climate with mild winters and hot summers. Humidity levels can be very high on the coast during the summer months.
While English is not an official language, it is widely accepted as the second language in Qatar
The official language of the country is Arabic but English is widely spoken. Islam is the official religion of the country.
Must try Halal Food in Qatar
With a large ex-pat community, Qatar is filled with restaurants offering cuisines from all over the world that cater to every taste. However, Qatari food is an important part of the culture and you should definitely try some of the traditional plates.
Machboos – This is a spiced rice dish that is mixed with any kind of marinated meat or seafood you may like.
Harees – Similar in consistency to porridge. Harees is made up of boiled or ground wheat, meat, and butter.
Thareed – This dish is comparable to a pot of stew. It’s a blend of vegetables mixed with chicken or lamb.
Balaleet – It’s a savory dish with the contrasting flavor of sweet and salty.
Saloona – This is a spicy meat and/or vegetable broth.
Margoog – It’s usually prepared with zucchini, carrots, eggplant, tomatoes, potatoes, and tenderized meat.
Madrouba – This dish is a bit similar to harees. It’s rice cooked with milk, butter, and flavored with cardamom. The meat is stewed along with mashed beans.
Luqaimat – This is basically deep-fried dough dipped in syrup or honey.
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Qatar is considered one of the safest tourist destinations in the world
Metered taxis and limousines are easy to find and there is a comprehensive public transport system. Mainly bright turquoise karwa taxis and buses provide public transport. They’re safe, clean, and air-conditioned.
Places to visit in Qatar for Muslim Travellers Corniche
Doha’s corniche has plenty of things to keep you occupied; take a walk, use the outdoor fitness equipment, or go on a short dhow- a lateen-rigged ship with one or two masts- a trip around the bay just for a few riyals. Muslim families will love spending time by corniche.
Souq Waqif
Eat, shop, and visit the art gallery of Souq Waqif. Great place for Muslim couples to hangout.
The Pearl Qatar
A distinctive waterfront development of reclaimed land located off in Doha’s northern shore. There are plenty of cafes to grab a drink or sandwich or spend some time enjoying al fresco dining and the various cuisines available. The development has some unusual landscaping with extensive walking areas and family zones. Make sure to take advantage of the boat trips and watersports.
Katara Cultural Village
Spend a few hours at Katara to visit galleries and admire the architecture. Grab some Karak (sweet milk) tea or enjoying the water sports at the beach.
Khor Al-Udeid (Inland sea)
Qatar is a peninsula; the coastline is over 560km long and there are plenty of beaches to choose from. Some like inland sea can only be reached by four-wheel-drive.
Al Zubara Fort
Al Zubara archaeological site is Qatar ‘s largest heritage site and it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
BONUS: Qatar has outstanding museums that are worth a visit: National Museum of Qatar, Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, Museum of Islamic Art. Things to do in Qatar for Muslim Travellers
Camel Races
Do not forget to visit Al Shaihaniya where you can see camels in one of the Middle East’s most popular sports. Behind the race track is a ‘camel city’ where thousands of men and camels live all year around.
Desert safaris
A desert safari is a must if you are visiting Qatar. Most local tour companies offer packages. Take part in dune bashing with a professional guide, stop for a swim and outdoor sports (e.g. sandboarding-It’s so much fun!).
Go shopping
The country’s number one pastime! There are plenty of shopping malls to visit.
FYI: If you want to explore off-road, it's wiser to go as part of an organized tour. Tour companies offer half and full-day tours including overnight camping trips to the Inland sea. Heritage sites are also popular destinations. Visitors from all around the world can now enter either visa-free or filling out online applications, depending on the passport you carry. It allows more than eighty countries for Visa-free entry. Click here for more info on the Qatar visa.
