ReConstruction
Since Doha is a city “under construction”, I suggest that you spend one day in the reconstruction of the centre: Souq Waqif. The reconstruction of Souq Waqif started in 2004 under the guidance and supervision of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar. Rather than the more common ‘Out with the old, in with the new!’, the reconstruction process began after a study of the traditional Qatari use of materials and architectural techniques with the aid of aerial photographs taken in the 1940’s and 50’s. In addition, official records and stories told by the people who lived in, worked at and frequented the old site were used as guides for the restoration programme. Today the Souq is characterised by diverse areas ranging from spice markets, textile markets and souvenir markets to a “new” restaurant area as well as art galleries.
Meet Wassan Al Khudairi for an exclusive chat about the art scene in town. She is the collection curator of Arab Museum of Modern art. The Arab Museum of Modern Art is not open yet to the public, but is currently curating exhibitions and working on their collection. Wassan can give you great insights into the cultural scene and artistic developments in Doha.
Hubbing
I suggest you to go to the Waqif Art Center. The Art Center is the hub of all cultural activities happening in town today. Book launchings, open discussions, art exhibition, designers previews and many more interesting activities are all taking place at the Center. Next to that, the Dar Al Founoun art school is part of the same project and located in an annex building in the Souq. With a bit of luck, you can actually meet some young artists and see some of their work as it is being produced!
If available you will also get to meet the owner of the Waqif Art Center, Tariq Al Jaidah. He is not only a great Qatari entrepreneur, but also an art collector and connoisseur in Middle Eastern/ Gulf Region arts and gives a wonderful overview of his space, the countries cultural scene and potential development of the area.
Draw a Line
Also visit the Third Line Gallery. The Third Line is an art gallery that represents contemporary Middle Eastern artists locally, regionally and internationally, with gallery spaces in Dubai and Doha. Along with traditional gallery exhibitions, The Third Line creates paths that ultimately lead to a dialogue between the artists and the public. It’s a young and fresh art nucleus ran by a group of young and motivated people that are activating the art scene in Doha just like they did in Dubai.
Meet Joanne: a lovely young Australian lady that is a great entertainment and that will give you a lively overview of the gallery and city. Together you will enjoy the beautiful top view of Doha and enjoying the nice weather (when its nice!) at the Sky View bar located on the 11th floor of La Cigale Hotel. Sky View is known for hosting different kinds of crowds in a very summery atmosphere.
Meet Mohanna. She is the editor of Qatar Narratives and one of the founders of Finding Your Voice (the creative writing fund in Doha). She works for the Qatar University and promotes and trains amateur and professional writers to share their stories of Qatar. The stories are compiled in publications, heavily awaited by the public. She relishes sharing these stories with others.
Tourist traps
Shopping malls
Al Zubara Fort
The pearl 'sculpture' on the corniche
The Zoo
What you should know
- Don’t even think of visiting in the summer! Unbearable heat will forbid you from enjoying any of the outdoor spaces, including the beaches.
- Book your cabs quite some time in advance, as they are not very punctual.
- If you tend to get dizzy in rides, bring your pills with you. Doha is the HUB of roundabouts; you will encounter at least 1 each kilometer.
- Busses are just rough, if organised at all. Take a cab! Always take a cab.
- In Doha alcohol is only being served in hotel bars and lounges.
Prices
- An average taxi ride will cost you 30 QAR (6€).
- A day in Doha without the hotel will cost you 200 QAR (40€).
Ticket € 600,00
Hotel € 320,00
Total € 920,00
Guide 200 QAR
