Qatar offers an interesting mix of desert, expansive coast and booming urban sprawl
TEN years ago, Qatar might have been the last choice for a holiday destination, but not anymore. The rapid rise of Doha, its capital city, has given the country a breath of fresh air, especially for tourists.
With the 2022 Fifa World Cup to be staged in Qatar, there are more reasons to visit.
What is there to see? Plenty!
Qatar is timelessly traditional, yet distinctly modern. It has a mix of desert, expansive coast and booming urban sprawl.
Learn about its history and artistic side at the Museum Of Islamic Art, which contain artefacts from the 14th century, while the Msherib Museum showcases the founding of Doha, the town planning and vision for Qatar by 2020.
The Katara Cultural Village is where you can learn about the lifestyle here. The village also has a spectacular amphitheatre, state of the art theatre and Opera house.
Want to see modern structures? There are many, including the stunning Tornedo Tower (200m), Aspire Tower, (300m and the tallest hotel in Doha), Doha Tower (238m) and the newest Al Bidda Tower (234m).
Qatar is also a great place for shopping, especially for local products. Souq Waqif offers souvenirs while malls include Al Asmakh Mall, City Centre Doha, Lagoona Mall, The Pearl Qatar and many more.
There are many activities such as the Khor Al Adaid, also known as the Inland Sea, Qatar’s most impressive natural wonder. It is a Unesco-recognised natural reserve, where you can witness the sea encroach deep into the heart of the desert. Truly spectacular!
Inaccessible by road, this tranquil expanse of water can only be reached by 4x4 vehicle across the high dunes. The adrenaline-pumping four-wheel drive across the desert is designed to end with unique desert-style glamping, stargazing and more.
Qatar is generally hot and sunny throughout the year but is cooler when winter starts, from October until March. It is a clean, green and crime- free country, with a stable political climate and investment opportunities. The Qataris are proud of their heritage and culture. They are also very hospitable, so you will be greatly taken care of during your stay.
Details at www.visitqatar.qa, or follow Qatar Tourism Authority social media platforms — Twitter: VisitQatar, Instagram: #VisitQatar, Facebook: @VisitQatar or YouTube: Visit Qatar.
Matta offers
Visit Qatar Specialists at Matta Fair this weekend, from Sept 2 to 4 at the Putra World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur. Don’t miss affordable and interesting packages during the promotion.
Look out for these booths:
• Andalusia
(Booth 2016 - 2022)
• Apple Signature
(Booth 1185-1232)
• CIT Travel
(Booth 1393 - 1412)
• MHTT (Booth 2125)
• Kowamas (Booth 2063-66)