Sightseeing in Qatar

Near the southern end of The Corniche, a former ruler's palace built in 1912 has been restored and converted into a museum. Here you can study Qatari and regional society and culture through its diverse exhibits from costumes to furnishings, coffee-making to pottery. The main section of the old palace houses a vast collection of relics such as coins, jewellery, manuscripts and Bedu artefacts, but it is worth a visit for its architecture alone, particularly its intricate carved wood and plaster work.

100km from Doha on the north-western coast, Al Zubara has extensive archaeological remains and a restored fort, which was built in 1938 during the reign of Sheikh Abdullah Bin Qassim Al Thani. It was used by the Military until the mid 1980's. The fort, which now has been converted into a museum displays findings from excavations in the area.

Once threatened by virtual extinction, the Oryx are a protected species in Qatar now. The landscaped Oryx Park is situated on a private estate near Al Shahaniya. It is imperative to obtain permits to visit the farm from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture.

Owned by HH The Emir, this extensive stud farm has earned fame internationally for pure-bred Arab Show and Champion racing horses. Visits can be arranged through our tour company.

Situated off the Salwa Road, behind the Central Markets, the Animal Market trades in camels, sheep, chickens, ducks, geese, rabbits, caged birds and domestic pets. Fodder and grain are also sold here. Hunting falcons are sold prior to and during the season (October to March).

Near the Old Souk is a handsome fort, sometimes called the Doha Fort, built in Moorish style towards the end of the Ottoman period in 1880. It has been recently restored and dedicated for use as a museum for traditional handicrafts.

Doha Ethnographic Museum preserves the last example, of a traditional early 20th century Qatari house and lifestyle before oil wealth brought air-conditioning and other modern conveniences to the city. In the pattern of domestic Gulf architecture, the house is designed to create airflow through the inner rooms to keep them cool during the long hot summers. The design of The Qatar University incorporates a modern interpretation of the wind tower principle, which makes a fascinating comparison.

Enormous fun for children of all ages, this amusement park on the northern outskirts of Doha is packed with stomach-churning rides and heart-stopping thrills including bumper cars, a roller coaster and a big wheel. It is closed during Ramadan, and certain times during the week are allocated to women and children only. There is one entrance fee, which entitles visitors to unlimited rides.

For a different perspective on Doha take a leisurely cruise around the Bay in one of the oldest types of sailing ship afloat, the dhow. Besides the smaller craft, the Al Bateel, a 125-foot long vessel built to an ancient design, is sometimes sailed for special charters and cruises.