Discover Doha: A First-Timer's Guide to Qatar

My first time visiting Doha, Qatar was an unforgettable experience and here I will share why Doha should be on your travel bucket list.

Getting There

For starters, the flight to Doha is pretty lengthy, no matter which route you take. There are limited options for your flight plans, but you can choose to fly directly into Doha (DOH) on Qatar Airways from several different U.S. cities. American Airlines also has a direct flight to DOH from Philadelphia (PHL), and this flight operates nonstop daily. Here is how I got to Doha roundtrip from Chicago, Illinois:

• Outbound Flight Time/Arrival: Chicago to Newark (2 hours), Newark to Dubai (13 hours), Dubai to Doha: (1 hour) = total flight time: 16 hours

• Inbound Flight Time/Return: Doha to Philly (14.5 hours), Philly to Chicago (2 hours) = total flight time: 16.5 hours

Travel Tips for Long Haul Flights

• Wear compression socks or stockings to reduce inflammation inflight

• Try to get up and move around during the flight to increase circulation and blood flow

• Download plenty of books, movies, or shows to your device(s) - most airlines provide inflight entertainment on the seat back screens, but it's always to be prepared with your own selections.

• Pack a travel pillow and blanket, my personal favorite is the EverSnug brand from Amazon

• Pack snacks/food items of your own, just in case you don't like the onboard meal options.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the flight, stay hydrated!

Arrival in Doha, Qatar

Doha is the capital city of Qatar, a country in the Middle East, located on the Persian Gulf. Qatar is known for being one of the world's largest exporters of natural gas and oil. It is a small, yet affluent Muslim-majority country. It is safe, clean, and affordable compared to U.S. prices for most items.  I had the pleasure of visiting a friend who recently relocated here and I was fortunate to have a personal tour guide to take me to all the good spots around Doha. Rideshare services, including Uber, are available in Doha. The Hamad International Airport (DOH) is both busy and very big, so prepare yourself for a long walk from the terminal to baggage claim upon arrival. The airport is rated as one of the best in the world, with plenty of shopping and food options. When you clear customs and immigration, you will pay a visa fee to enter Qatar (approx. $20 USD).

Fun Facts about Qatar:

• The local citizens of Qatar are Qataris, primarily of Arabic descent, and they can typically be seen wearing traditional clothing such as thobes for men and abayas for women.

• Qatar has one of the highest ratios of expats to locals, where more than half of the population of residents living and working in Qatar are from other countries.

• Due to Qatar's success in the oil and gas industries, the government provides exceptional benefits for residents to enjoy such as housing and there is no sales tax!

• Qatar shares its only land border with Saudi Arabia.

• Visiting in January was great, because it was also winter in Qatar. Summer in Qatar is from May-September, with extreme heat (100 degrees or hotter), so I recommend planning your trip before or after the summer season.

• If you love perfumes and like to smell good, you will find so many rich perfume oils in Doha. Smell them all and choose your favorites to bring back home with you.

Top 7 Things to Do in Doha, Qatar

1. Visit the museums: National Museum of Qatar and Museum of Islamic Art

   

   

   

2. Visit Old Doha Port for the views, food, shops, photo ops, and more

   

   

   

3. Walk around the Souq Waqif, a traditional market, for souvenirs and gifts

   

   

   

4. Visit The Pearl (Pearl Island), a Mediterranean-style, yacht-lined marina & enjoy a nice meal by the water.

   

   

   
   
   

5. Take a gondola ride at Villagio Mall and go shopping

   

   

   

6. Hang out at Claw BBQ Crabshack & Grill - popular spot for American tourists and expats with good music and great vibes

7. Walk along Crystal Walk in Gewan Island for stunning views

   

   
   

A Taste of Doha: Top Places to Eat

Doha is an incredible city, with plenty of fun things to do and amazing food to enjoy.

Here are my restaurant recommendations:

• Fenyal - Michelin-rated, excellent choice for tender lamb and a variety of menu options 10/10

• Khashoka - Some of the best food I had in Qatar; Mediterranean restaurant with plenty of menu items packed with flavor. Try the chicken with white sauce or the chicken pan (or both)...you won't regret it.

  

Crome Doha: A London chain offering "food and drink trends of the future," featuring coffee shop vibes with a full breakfast and lunch menu. The sandwiches look like loaded pieces of french toast and the pasta was filling.

• Joy General Cafe: We enjoyed a nice brunch; this cafe is located in the Pearl and you can enjoy a nice meal outside on the marina to watch the boats/yachts.

  

So what's the buzz about Qatar?

Qatar is quickly emerging as one of the top travel destinations in the Middle East, offering a unique blend of modern luxury and rich cultural heritage. Often compared to Dubai, Qatar provides a more relaxed and culturally-immersive experience. While Dubai is known for its high-energy nightlife and attractions, Qatar focuses on authenticity, art, and local traditions. After visiting both countries, when it comes to price point, Qatar was considerably more affordable compared to Dubai.

Doha stood out to me among the many destinations I’ve visited for its blend of luxury, culture, history, and truly unique experiences. I was especially intrigued by the city’s diverse expat community, which has turned Doha into a vibrant cultural melting pot. Qatar felt incredibly welcoming, and it’s a place I know I’ll return to someday. If you’re planning a trip to the Middle East, Doha absolutely deserves a spot on your itinerary.