Doha is the capital, largest city, and the economic centre of Qatar. The name "Doha" came from the Arabic ad-dawha, or the big tree, a reference to a prominent tree that is believed to have stood at the site where the original fishing village arose.

Doha is located on the central east coast of the peninsula on a sweeping, if shallow, bay, about three miles (five km) from east to west. It is the major administrative, commercial, and population centre of the country.

More than 80% of Qatar's population resides in its urban region, which is known for its award-winning modern architecture that frequently combines the contemporary and the traditional. Many structures feature towers and fort-like architectural elements that are reminiscent of desert forts, or they have distinctively Islamic decorative designs that are implemented in contemporary materials. Its parks, promenade, and award-winning waterfront architecture are considered as the centrepiece of Doha. The large-scale land reclamation project undertaken by the government to create those waterfront properties is recognized as a major engineering feat and a symbol of the country's economic and technological advancements.

The ethnic mix in Doha is very striking, especially due to the large influx of migrant workers. As the largest national demographic, at 650,000, Indians make up 25% of the population, with Nepalese (13.5%), Bangladeshis (10.8%) and Filipinos (10%) also accounting for large numbers of the country’s expatriate population. Qataris then are a small minority in their own country. Some communities are more integrated than others, with many labour migrants discriminated, receiving little sympathy or assistance to integrate and forced to live in very closed communities.

Places to go

While Qatar may be a desert, it is certainly not lacking in culture. The Museum of Islamic Art is arguably Doha’s piece de resistance. Designed by Chinese architect I. M. Pei, the Museum – which is slap bang on the city’s waterfront – is stunning. Meanwhile, Katara Cultural Village, located just north of Doha, hosts art exhibitions, films, operas, orchestras, and festivals throughout the year. And the Al Zubarah fort and archaeological site, situated on the peninsula’s northwest, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you’re looking to stay in the heart of the city, among its towering skyscrapers then head to West Bay. A cluster of imposing residential towers, office blocks and hotels soar above the streets below, and by night, many of the buildings come alive with their glittering light shows. The area is ideally located at the heart of the bay, alongside the Doha Corniche where you can take a walk alongside. West Bay is within easy reach of all the city’s top attractions, making it makes an extremely popular choice for those looking for the best area to base themselves in the city.

Known as Doha’s historic centre, Al Jasra is a neighbourhood that is steeped in tradition. Here, you’ll find several historic landmarks, such as the Old Well and Souq Waqif – among the largest marketplaces in Qatar. As you walk through the narrow passageways of market stalls, you’ll find vendors selling everything from spices and traditional garments to souvenirs. After your round of shopping, visit the Pearl Monument – a famous fountain sculpture – situated at the entrance to the Dhow Harbour. Depicting a large open oyster, it was erected to celebrate Doha’s past as a pearl exporter. In this area you will also find other interesting attractions such as the National Museum of Qatar, the Museum of Islamic Art, the MIA Park or the Qatar National Library.

And don’t forget to visit The Pearl, located north of West Bay, This elite artificial island is set on 4sq km (2sq mi) of reclaimed land just outside Doha. It’s home to an urban development that can house up to 50,000 residents, offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of many Qatari families. Take a stroll along the sun-drenched waterfront in Porto Arabia, or relax on one of the island’s beautiful private beaches before stopping by the area’s high-end restaurants and world-class shops.

There are countless things to do and places to visit in Doha.

You will find beaches such as:

• Katara Beach. Katara Beach is located in the heart of Doha and is part of Katara Village, a public art and culture development with access to a range of cultural events
• Umm Bab Beach. Known to the locals as Palm Tree Beach, Umm Bab Beach is a popular spot for families. With its clusters of palm trees dotted along the coastline, the beach has a charming Caribbean feel to it
• Al Maroona. is located in the North eastern part of the state of Qatar. It is about 80 kilometers from Doha. Small cozy place, with a touch of wildness and serenity

Places to go shopping:

• Souq Waqif. An old Bedouin maze of a market
• Gold Souq. Gold market
• Wholesale Market for super-fresh fish, fruits and veggies
• Lafayette Galleries Doha. Covers around 15,000 square metres of retail space in Doha’s Katara Cultural Village
• Alhazm Mall. Shopping centre with around 125 shops, most of which carry high-end designer brands

Or places to do some extreme sports such as:

• Dune bashing
• Foiling
• Jet skiing
• Kayaking
• Kitesurfing
• Scuba diving

Food & Drink

Doha has a thriving restaurant scene, thanks to the influence of the diverse cultures that coexist in this country, that provides every cuisine imaginable when it comes to dining out. In Qatar's bustling capital, you won't have any trouble satisfying your cravings for hot, spicy mezzeh, tangy Asian street cuisine, or a big, juicy steak.

Some useful Links:

• Restaurants
• Qatari traditional dishes

Apart from the tourist places you will find in any guide, some welcoming and interesting places recommended by our contacts to eat and drink include:

• W Café great option for food and drinks
• % Arabica Msheireb Downtown for amazing coffee
• Flat White Café coffee and design
• Bayt El-Talleh Lebanese restaurant
• Abo Shariha Restaurant – Souq Waqif. Fast, delicious, and cheap local food
• La Vista 55. Cuban food and cocktails
• MAMIG. Armenian, Lebanese cuisine