Shutterbugs can’t get enough of Qatar in their cameras
From Souq Waqif to Katara, professional photographers and amateurs can be seen clicking away the many picturesque sights
THE FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 has transformed popular tourist spots in Qatar into a photographers’ delight.
One can spot professional photographers, as well as amateurs, from all over the world on the rock-paved streets and narrow alleys of Souq Waqif, as well as on the beautiful premises of the Cultural Village Foundation (Katara). Al Wakra is another favourite location for photographers.
An amateur Indian photographer told Qatar Tribune: “The beautifully lit-up Katara, combined with pleasant weather conditions, makes photography easier. The World Cup is also a rare opportunity to meet people from different parts of the world. Donning diverse costumes, they also highlight the culture of their countries.”
The football fans are also not reluctant to pose for photographs. “They are not at all shy and are ready to spend time with photographers for better frames. FIFA World Cup is an opportunity to connect peoples. By posting and sharing photos on social media pages, I’m connecting more and more people across the world,” an amateur photographer said.
A large number of visitors find Souq Waqif in Doha and Al Wakra comfortable locations for gathering, dining, shopping and chatting. Souq Waqif is also a favourite destination for shopping for spices and perfumes.
Restaurants and shops are decorated with the flags of the countries participating in the World Cup, as the event provides good business to shops that sell nuts, Arabic sweets, antiques, etc.
A salesman at an antique shop said, “Now, Souq Waqif is a ‘global street’; the entire world has gathered at a single spot. The visitors from Europe are particularly interested in leather products, spices and sweets. The celebratory vibes and the fragrance of spices and perfumes attract visitors to the Souq.”
An expatriate and a senior employee at Qatar Energy said, “Souq Waqif is the most happening place in Doha. Roaming around the rock-paved streets and narrow corridors of the spice and cloth market is a unique experience. Now, it’s an opportunity to meet people from different walks of life and different parts of the world.”