Qatar is full of life and wonder with every corner bustling with new people, food, architecture and tradition. In honour of Qatar National Day, we are going to be highlighting some must see places in Doha and the exciting events that are taking place around the country. One cannot fit all the wonderful things Qatar has to offer in one article but we did our best with a list comprising of parks, museums to markets and various celebratory events.
Souq Waqif
This traditional labyrinth market is known for its alleys and small stores adorned with traditional garments, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Instead of visiting chain stores in any one of Qatar’s enormous malls, take a stroll on the traditional side. You’ll find everything you need from spices, perfumes, scented oils to falcons and art galleries and jewellery at the gold souq. Be sure to take a quick bite or sample the delectable shisha flavours at some of the restaurants which offer a diverse variety of local and regional flavours. The souq is also an ideal location for Qatar National Day as it hosts a number of activities for children and parents. This year the souq is bustling with life, not only due to the amazing weather but because of the festivities it will offer to the public. Energetic with tradition at every corner, the souq is hosting animal rides and various kid’s activities.
Pro – Tip: Make sure to scout out the local women who are known to sell delicious home-made Qatari sweets and savouries.
Katara Cultural Village
This landmark overlooks the radiant blue sea and showcases the tradition, theatre, art and architecture of Qatar. The area hosts a range of activities and heritage centres such as an opera house, libraries, an amphitheatre, museums, art galleries and other academic facilities. They are also adorned with multiple cafes with world-wide cuisines to suit all your palates, not to mention it is a minefield for photo opportunities. This is the ultimate spot to indulge in National Day extreme activities from Parachute Jumps, Fireworks and a Drone Air Show, along with festivities occurring on the ground as well.
Pro – Tip: Visit Katara at national holidays as they host a variety of events for the public on a regular basis.
The Corniche
This is not only the best view for the Doha Skyline but this waterfront promenade is the central location for all of Qatar’s national events. Take a stroll down this crescent shaped pathway overlooking the Arabian Sea with your family and take a ride on the country’s famous Dhow rides. Be sure to drop by and check out the Qatar National Day parade and fireworks and get there early to reserve your spot as tends to get a little crowded. The National Day parade will commence at 3 pm and the fireworks in the evening at 8 pm.
Pro – Tip: The corniche is the perfect place for a family picnic on the weekends.
Museum of Islamic Art
The Museum of Islamic Art is one of the most known landmarks in Qatar. The museum is not only an architectural gem but it also hosts the full scope of Islamic art across three continents over 1400 years. These include but are not limited to sculptures, ceramics, jewellery, textiles and glasswork. The museum is also home to infamous MIA Café, located in the main atrium. This is the perfect venue to learn about Islamic history and provides ample photo opportunities with its unique architectural styling. The museum also provides one of the Doha’s most visited parks, MIA park, where locals and expats have the opportunity walk on their beautiful mini corniche, run, bike, picnic and it also offers multiple playgrounds for children.
Pro-tip: The park offers bike and boat rentals every day before sunset.
Aspire Park
Aspire Zone hosts Qatar’s largest green oasis at 88 hectares. Aspire Park boasts large green fields which are perfect for picnics and walks with the family, along with a beautiful lake adorned with aquatic animals to give an additional touch of mother nature. The park consists of children’s play areas, jogging tracks, football pitches, fountains and large green areas. Be sure to stop by and indulge in the 16 booths that will offer food, live cooking demonstrations, pop up photo studios, henna, and games for children from the 13th to 18th December. They will also host a military parade at the lake on National Day from 4pm to 5pm.
Pro-tip: The park offers multiple restaurants and food vendors nearby if you feel peckish on your stroll.
By Anzish Mirza
Sources :
https://allandabout.com/community/happenings/qatar-national-day-events-around-you/?fbclid=IwAR28t53SuPAS5a52CfX-3Dq0LSvM6lgS_KkjpV2941PHUn-qBXfOnv7fdQs
http://qatarnationalday.qa/
https://www.onlineqatar.com/attractions/Aspire-Park.aspx
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