Doha

Stepping out of the airport, you're immediately struck by the shimmering skyline that seems to rise directly from the desert. It feels like stepping into the future. But just beneath that ultra-modern veneer is a city with deep cultural roots, a place where tradition isn't just remembered but lived daily. The vibe is a unique blend of ambition and heritage, where you can spend the morning in a centuries-old market and the afternoon in a mall with its own indoor canal.

Doha is a truly captivating destination for a few key reasons. First, the architecture is simply breathtaking, from the I. M. Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Art that seems to float on water, to the desert rose-inspired National Museum of Qatar. Second, it offers a real, accessible taste of modern Arab culture, especially in the lively, labyrinthine alleys of Souq Waqif. Finally, as a major global hub, it's an incredible stopover destination where you can get a powerful dose of culture, luxury, and adventure, like dune bashing in the desert, all within a few days. It's a city that's constantly evolving, and it's exciting to witness.

Doha is incredibly diverse. Qatari nationals, with their distinct traditional dress—the thobe for men and abaya for women—are a minority in their own country, which is dominated by a huge expatriate population from all over the world. Because of this, English is spoken absolutely everywhere. Qataris tend to be polite and generally reserved, but proud of their heritage and welcoming to visitors who show respect for their culture. Hospitality is a big deal here, rooted in Bedouin tradition.

The food in Doha is a delicious reflection of its cosmopolitan population. You'll find everything from high-end dining by celebrity chefs to cheap and cheerful street food. The local Qatari cuisine is rich and hearty. You absolutely must try Machboos, a fragrant spiced rice dish with chicken or lamb—it's the national dish. Another excellent choice is Karak, a strong, sweet tea brewed with milk and spices like cardamom. For a quick snack, you can't beat the little restaurants in Souq Waqif for delicious flatbreads and grilled meats. Dining can be expensive, but you can also eat very well for cheap.

Doha's infrastructure is, for the most part, seriously impressive and modern. The internet is fast, air conditioning is everywhere (a true lifesaver), and the city is spotlessly clean. Hamad International Airport is a destination in itself, and the Doha Metro stands out as one of the most efficient, clean, and beautiful public transport systems. The main drawback is that the city is built for cars. While some areas like the Corniche or Msheireb are walkable, the intense heat for much of the year means you'll be relying on the metro and ride-sharing apps to get between districts.

You'll almost certainly fly into Hamad International Airport (HIA), a major global hub that's sleek and incredibly efficient. From the airport, getting into the city is a breeze. The most cost-effective way is the Doha Metro's Red Line, which connects directly to the terminal. Alternatively, the official turquoise Karwa taxis are readily available and metered, with a starting fare from the airport of 25 QAR. Or you can use ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem, which are very popular and reliable here. Uber and Karwa Taxis have also partnered to offer Karwa options within the Uber app, and licensed ride-hailing services include Uber, Karwa Technologies, QDrive, Badr, Aber, Zoom Ride, and Ryde.

The Doha Metro is the best way to navigate the city. It's affordable, fast, and the stations themselves are architecturally stunning. You'll need to buy a reusable standard travel card (just 10 QAR, about $2.75 USD). Each standard journey costs only 2 QAR, with a maximum daily cost of 6 QAR, no matter how many times you use it in a single day. A 30-day unlimited pass is also available for 120 QAR. The metro covers most of the key tourist areas. For everywhere else, Uber or the local equivalent, Careem, are reliable choices. These are plentiful and reasonably priced, and official licensed services include Uber, Karwa Technologies, QDrive, Badr, Aber, Zoom Ride, and Ryde. While buses exist, the metro and ride-sharing combo proves far more convenient for a visitor.

Doha generally has an extremely low crime rate, and petty crime against tourists is rare. However, the region's geopolitical landscape means the safety situation can be unpredictable and warrants a high degree of caution. On September 9, 2025, an air strike was reported in the West Bay area of Doha, with local authorities confirming the situation as safe but advising people to stay away from the affected area. Travelers should stay alert, monitor local and international media for updates, and strictly follow the instructions of local authorities. Beyond these external factors, the biggest "safety" concerns are about respecting cultural norms and being mindful of the environment. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and avoid public displays of affection. The most real danger is the extreme summer heat, which can cause serious health issues. Stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Terrorism threats exist throughout the Arabian Peninsula, and attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreign nationals.