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What should I know before visiting Doha?

Weekends in Qatar

Unlike many other countries around the world, the work week in Qatar runs from Sunday to Thursday. Those planning on visiting certain attractions or restaurants should double check that it will be open for the days you’re in the country - this could even be done before boarding return flights to Doha so you avoid any disappointment upon arrival.

Visa for Qatar

One of the best parts about buying return flights to Doha is that Australian's can get a 30-day visa on arrival. All you need to do is book your trip, and have a valid passport for at least six months.

Language

Arabic is the official language of Qatar, however many locals do speak some English. There are also English translations on signage in public spaces. As a sign of respect however, visitors should brush up on a few key Arabic phrases before taking off on their flights to Doha.

Best time to visit Doha

For return flights to Doha, plan your trip between October and April. Temperatures are cooler, and humidity levels are lower. If you're looking for deals on airfare to Doha, look for flights that depart Australia between July and August. The higher temperatures mean Qatar usually sees fewer tourists and Ramadan may also fall between those months. During the holy month, most restaurants, shops and tour companies close down or work on limited hours. If you find cheap flights to Doha over that time, you'll need to plan your trip around what is open and respect the local customs of not eating and drinking in public during the day.

What is the best way to get around Doha?

Buses

Doha has an extensive bus network. It covers the city centre and there are also airport services that meet arriving flights to Doha. Plus there are some other long-distance buses that travel out to further-afield parts of Qatar. The service usually runs from 5am until midnight, with reduced hours on Fridays and Saturdays. If you want to use the bus, you'll need to purchase a Karwa Smartcard. You can pick one up at Doha International Airport (DIA) in the arrivals terminal. Rides within the city limits cost between 3 to 4 QAR (up to $1.50 AUD).

Taxi

To hail a ride after your flights to Doha have landed, download ride-sharing apps Karwa, Uber or Careem. The metered taxis have a standard hailing fee of 20 QAR ($7.85 AUD) from Doha International Airport (DIA) and a 4 QAR ($1.57 AUD) from anywhere else in the city.

What are Doha's most famous landmarks and monuments?

National Museum of Qatar

Use your airfare to Doha to learn about Qatar's fascinating history and culture, and begin your learnings at The National Museum of Qatar. The museum houses a wealth of ancient treasures, including a 400 million-year-old fish fossil (the oldest ever found in Qatar) and multiple immersive experiences across 11 galleries. You'll learn about Bedouin culture, Qatar history and how the discovery of natural gas turned the country into one of the wealthiest nations in the world.

Museum of Islamic Art

Continue learning about Middle Eastern history with a stop at the Museum of Islamic Art. It's one of the top attractions for people who buy tickets to Doha and the five-storey building attracts thousands of visitors each year. Inside the museum, you'll find rare items such as 7th-century Ottoman manuscripts and exhibitions on pre-Islamic Syria. If you don't have a lot of time to spend in the museum, you can book a guided highlights tour. It takes around one hour and is a crash course on Islamic art.

Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif is one of the oldest landmarks in Doha. In a city famous for its designer boutiques and luxury brands, the market is a cultural treasure. If you're looking for souvenirs to remind you of your flights to Doha, it's the perfect place to shop. You can pick up bakhoor (Arabic incense), spices and crafts. In the market for some new jewellery? Head to the more modern side: the Gold Souq. It's home to more than 50 jewellers selling traditional Qatari rings, bracelets, necklaces and earrings. Visit Souq Waqif in the evening for a completely different experience. Once the sun sets, the market lights up and you can enjoy a drink in a shisha bar while listening to traditional music.