The small peninsula country of Qatar has gained its place on the tourist map, having positioned itself as a dynamic and welcoming layover terminal for those transiting between the east and the west. Holding prime position in the center of the Middle East, there are an increasing number of exciting reasons why you should plan a stopover in Qatar.

Doha's incredible architecture, museums & skyline

As you travel from the airport into Qatar’s capital toward the wide-ranging coastline road that runs along the Corniche, you can’t fail to miss the National Museum of Qatar. This unusual white building, shaped in a series of ramble interlocking disks, was designed by award-winning French architect Jean Nouvel who took inspiration from the native desert rose. The cutting-edge museum opened its doors to the public earlier this year, celebrating Qatar’s rich heritage and showcasing the country’s future endeavours on the global stage. Before roaming around inside, take some time to walk around the exterior of the building, which is positioned to become known as one of the world’s architectural masterpieces.

Another architectural wonder not-to-be-missed on your exploration of Qatar is the iconic Museum of Islamic Art. Holding its own island bulge out into the waters of the Gulf and crafted by famous architect IM Pei which is also known for his glass pyramid outside the Louvre in Paris, the building, its contents and surroundings are a sight to behold. Inside, an impressive treasure trove of historic Islamic artefacts has been sourced from around the world, making for an interesting hour or two. Outside, you can walk around the curved palm-lined park and settle into one of the cozy arm chairs at the Museum of Islamic Art Park Café with a light lunch of traditional karak chai (spiced milky black tea) and chapati (flatbread) in the company of the most awe-inspiring of views across the Gulf to the Doha skyline beyond.

The Pearl & shopping in Souq Waqif

Next, take a ride by Doha and out to the manmade island of The Pearl, which comprises two interlinked horseshoe-shaped pieces of land, spanning almost 4 million sq metres. A popular place for expat residences, the bustling "Porto Arabia" encircles an impressive marina of yachts and is a great place for a quiet stroll along the promenade to take in the sights or for a stop at one of the numerous cafes for a coffee and a bite to eat. Take a water taxi at a very reasonably priced QR25 for a return trip from Tower 1 through to Qanat Quartier, where pretty pastel houses border a Venetian-inspired winding network of canals, or head to Medina Centrale, the central shopping zone of the island, with more than 55,000 sq metres of retail and restaurants.

Author Name: Polly byles