Tour in Doha Qatar

We made our first stop of the morning Tour in Doha Qatar at Souq Waqif.

Souq Waqif Doha
Souq Waqif Doha

This, like most Middle East souqs, is labyrinthine and today it stands about 200 meters from the harbour, though the land immediately along the water is reclaimed – so the Souq Waqif must have originally been immediately on the shore.

Tour in Doha Qatar Souq Waqif
Tour in Doha Qatar Souq Waqif

Our local guide in Qatar gave us an interesting overview of the souq and after giving us a time and meeting place we could explore independently.

Doha Suq Waqif Qatar Falcon market
Doha Suq Waqif Qatar Falcon market

The souq dates back about a century, however recently its been more, or less, rebuilt with help from a fire a few years ago.

Doha Suq Waqif Qatar Man Falcon
Doha Suq Waqif Qatar Man Falcon

Wandering in the back areas there is a Falcon Souq, and clearly a happy owner. A couple of triplets of horses were ridden around, adding a touch of interest.

Doha Suq Waqif Qatar Horses
Doha Suq Waqif Qatar Horses

From the souq we drove to Museum of Islamic Art, though its so close we could have walked. Its relatively new and sits on its own peninsula in Doha’s old harbour.

Museum of Islamic Art Doha
Museum of Islamic Art Doha

The museum is not only purpose built, but practically all the exhibits were recently purchased, perhaps specifically for it.

Doha Qatar Museum Islamic Art Interior
Doha Qatar Museum Islamic Art Interior

The result is a relatively large space that’s underused, or gives space to display each item, depending on your viewpoint.

Combined the souq and museum make for a great time in Doha.

Author: Tony Walsh

Book author including the current Bradt guide to Oman