What to do in Ad Dawhah

The City Centre Shopping Mall is one of Doha’s oldest shopping centers and remains one of the largest in the region. It is loved by locals, expats and tourists who come to browse the 350 stores or enjoy the range of entertainment options. At peak times the mall can accommodate up to 70,000 visitors. Visit the City Centre Shopping Mall for international brands including items fitting a mid-range budget.

The Souq Waqif stands in an area of Doha where nomadic people of Qatar and maritime traders have long come to trade with local residents. Visit the renovated site of the Souq Waqif to observe traditions that have lasted for centuries.

Visit the Katara Cultural Village to appreciate the way it aims to use art and cultural interchanges to spread messages of hope, understanding and peace across the world’s diverse people. Established with the vision of becoming a world leader in multicultural activities, the modern site blends European and Oriental architectural styles with Qatari, such as the three distinctive Pigeon Towers outside a mosque.

As you walk eastward along the Corniche from Downtown Doha, you’ll reach the Pearl Monument, a very large symbol of Qatar’s past. A large open oyster has a gentle flow of water creating a falling water fountain from the lip of the lower shell. Most notably, a gleaming pearl rests in the center of the oyster. Visit the Pearl Monument during the day to photograph it as you pass by while seeing other major attractions in the area. Return at night when the pearl and its shell are brilliantly lit.

While in Doha, plan to visit the National Museum of Qatar to see state-of-the-art displays explaining the past, present and future of this Arab country. At the core of the futuristic building is the large restored historic Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani, whose father founded modern Qatar. Admire the artistry of the structure from a distance, then step inside to learn about cultural and natural aspects of Qatar.

Visit Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque in Doha’s Al Jebailat neighborhood to admire the grandest mosque in all of Qatar. Appreciate the massive structure’s traditional Arab architectural style complemented by contemporary touches. The sandstone mosque is particularly beautiful at night when the dozens of domes on its fort-like roof are illuminated.