Flight Destinations
Flights to Qatar
Places in Qatar
Qatar is a Middle Eastern country that lies on a peninsula in the Persian Gulf, north of Saudi Arabia. The main cities are the capital Doha, and Rayyan. Most of the few tourist destinations in Qatar are in Doha, or nearby.
Flights to Qatar
International flights to Qatar land in the capital, Doha, at the Doha International Airport (airport code: DOH). Flights to Qatar are available through numerous major world airlines offering direct and indirect flights. Qatar Airways, BMI, United Airlines, and British Airways provide travellers with direct flights to Qatar from the UK. Other airlines include Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, Etihad, Emirates, and KLM who all offer flights to Qatar from the UK with one connection. Flight routes differ according to the airlines but most will fly via their home country.
Qatar Tourist Attractions
Though Qatar is an Islamic country, the laws are fairly liberal. Women should be modest in their dress, but are not required to cover up. Alcohol is not commonly available, though many major hotels or restaurants will serve alcoholic drinks. There is only one liquor store, and you need a license to buy alcohol (something a tourist cannot get).
Souq Waqif (the Standing Souk)
The Souq Waqif is a traditional open air market that has been extensively renovated from its Bedouin origins. You can buy spices, curios, food, clothing and more. It's a fun mix of old and new, located in the centre of Doha.
Aladdin’s Kingdom
Aladdin’s Kingdom is the only amusement park in the Gulf, though not a very large one! There are some theme park rides, such as a roller coaster, ferris wheel and bumper cars. The midway offers all the typical fair foods and treats. Certain days are designated either men only, or only women and children. Check their schedule before making the trip to make sure you can enter. The park is at the north end of Doha.
Doha Zoo
Though the enclosures are quite small by Western zoo standards, there is a variety of animals on display at the Doha zoo. There are elephants, big cats, primates, exotic birds and snakes. Like Aladdin's Kingdom, some days are reserved for women and families (no men).
National Museum and Aquarium
This spot is an unusual mix of museum and aquarium, and there is a large lagoon in the middle of the building complex. The museum houses many displays on the history of Qatar, as well as the local wildlife and geology. The building is a restored Islamic palace, which has some great architectural features in itself.
Outdoor Sports
There are lots of outdoor activities for you to try while in Qatar, most of which are available near the city of Doha. You can drive a dune buggy over the sand dunes, try kite surfing out on the gulf, or try some scuba diving.
When Should You Visit Qatar?
The winter months in Qatar are reasonable, but the rest of the year is extremely hot. July and August average around 35C (95F), with highs of around 40C (105F). The coolest months are December, January and February which all tend to be below 20C (68F).