Pearl of the Gulf

QATAR HAS EMERGED AS AN UNLIKELY TOP SUMMER HOLIDAY DESTINATION, THANKS TO AMPLE CULTURAL, RETAIL, DINING AND ACTIVITY OPPORTUNITIES

Situated on the shores of the Arabian Gulf, with an energetic and ever-evolving capital and on the cusp of hosting one of the biggest sporting events in the world, Qatar is establishing itself as one of the region’s most enticing destinations. But, while the fleeting weeks of summer may cause temperatures to soar, they can actually be some of the most rewarding. As the heat begins to rise, so do the amount of culture and activities the island state has to offer. From its world-class museums and retail venues to its creative dining scene – there are few better places for an accessible local summer holiday.

There’s something for everyone when it comes to hotels, the capital Doha and reaches of the country home to everything from luxury brands to affordable self-catering apartments. In the new heart of the city, gleaming cultural hub Msheireb is home to glamorous Mandarin Oriental, while West Bay, the city’s glittering business district with its iconic high rises, is home to trendy W Doha and near the likes of the Four Seasons and The Ritz-Carlton Sharq Village. Futuristic Lusail is also a place to stay, its infrastructure infused with smart technology and home to The St Regis Doha and Mondrian Doha. Alternatively, Banana Island Resort by Anantara offers a beachy refuge within touching distance of Doha, while Qatar’s peaceful coastline hides the newly opened Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva Som and Hilton Salwa Beach Resort – home to

Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park – the country’s largest theme park with 18 attractions and

56 slides.

Qatar’s attractions are world-renowned, its dynamic indoor museums, galleries and shopping venues hidden away from the Arabian sun. Journey through time and celebrate Qatari history and heritage at the National Museum of Qatar, its design inspired by the desert rose, or admire metalworks, ceramics, textiles and other beautiful works at the Museum of Islamic Art. That, or escape to the glossy new Place Vendôme shopping mall in the heart of Lusail City, nestled in classic Parisian architecture, or the grand Galleries Lafayette, its surrounding squares air-conditioned and home to grand European-style cafes. For something more traditional, there’s the bustling and traditional Souq Waqif or Souq Wakra: Known as the ‘Souq by the Sea’. For foodies, there’s everything from Michelin-starred chef restaurants like Nobu by Chef Nobu and Cut by Wolfgang Puck to traditional food trucks and markets like Al Duhail Night Market and Tasty Street at Katara

For some, the best way to see the city, despite the summer season, is by diving into Qatar’s boundless watersports and outdoor activities. Kitesurf at

Fuwairit Kite Beach or Zekreet Beach, where you’ll spot wildlife like Oryxes, ostriches, gazelles and flamingos. With so much to see and do, and more on the horizon,

Qatar is the perfect summer

2022 holiday destination. visitqatar.qa