A COMPLETE guide to visiting Qatar on a stopover and things to do in Doha on a layover
So, you’re looking at booking yourself a longass flight to the other side of the world ready for an EPIC trip to Australia or Southeast Asia. But if you’re anything like me, you just love a good bonus adventure.
Doha enters the chat…
These days many long-haul flights connect through the Middle East and with Qatar rushing to the surface of visibility via the World Cup, doing a layover in Doha has become a popular option.
Whilst some like to whisk through the airport and be on their way ASAP, I like to take the opportunity to visit somewhere new and somewhere I probably wouldn’t have otherwise visited.
This is what led me to take an unexpected and intriguing stopover in Doha.
So, if you’re wondering whether it’s worth it, the practicalities and the best things to do in Doha: Layover edition, then read on.
I’ve put together the ULTIMATE guide to taking a Doha layover.
Should you do a Doha stopover and is it worth it? For me, I have to say a massive YES. It’s a win on two fronts. But you might be asking, what exactly are the best things to do in Doha on a layover, well, read on my friends!
Doing a short Doha stopover allowed me not only to visit a new place but also to experience a culture that was so vastly different to my own. It also was a perfect way to break up a long and tiring flight from the UK to Bali.
Whether you’re doing a stopover in Doha over a few days or just passing through Hamad International Airport and have a few hours spare, it’s worthwhile for sure.
Verdict: Stopover in Doha – worth it!
Facilities at Doha Airport
Inside Doha Airport there are heaps of different facilities that you just wouldn’t find in other airports. In fact, a Doha airport transit is one of my favourites alongside Singapore.
Hamad International Airport really is a ground-breaking facility in its own right and it makes the whole process of long-haul travel and transiting much more comfortable and smoother.
I mean, there’s a Doha airport gym ffs!
Whilst some of these cost money (a lot if you’re shopping for gold!), there are still heaps of free things to do in Doha airport.
If you’re also wondering whether there are any things to do in Doha airport at night, then you’ll be pleased to know that with flights coming and going at all hours, the airport doesn’t really shut down overnight.
Free Wifi and computer access (Wifi at Doha Airport is fast!)
Priority Pass
Book Your Priority Pass Here
Why not take the pain out of those long connecting flights by indulging in a Priority Pass. Have access to 1500 airport lounges across 600 cities in 125 countries.
Other benefits include a range of complimentary snacks and drinks, incredible restaurants as well as entitlement to enjoy a variety of well-being packages with Be Relax Spas. Some lounges even have a Game Space too. Pretty epic.
Beyond the basic facilities, there are plenty of actual things to do in Doha airport, which are pretty unique to Hamad International.
So if you’re wondering if there are still any good things to do in Doha on a layover if you’re stuck in the airport, well yes, there are!
Explore the artwork of the airport – Including the 23-foot-tall bear lamp!
Wander through the indoor rainforest at The Orchard
Indulge at the OREO Café
Massages and beauty treatments (at Oryx Airport Hotel – No need to be a hotel guest)
Squash courts and a golf simulator (at Oryx Airport Hotel – No need to be a hotel guest)
Pool, gym and hydrotherapy tubs (at Oryx Airport Hotel – No need to be a hotel guest)
As you can see, there’s plenty to keep you entertained and if you’re wondering “what to do in Doha airport for 3 hours?”, honestly, you’ve not even got time to cover half of it!
Accommodation at Doha Airport
Whilst there aren’t that many hotels near Qatar Airport (the city itself is close enough not to warrant it) there are a few options at the airport itself.
Oryx Airport Hotel
Hamad International Airport has a hotel actually inside Doha Airport, which is the Oryx Airport Hotel. This can only be accessed from within the terminal which is beyond passport control. It’s perfect for those wondering what to do in Doha airport overnight.
This Doha airport transit hotel is not only a great place to rest and get some well-needed sleep in between flights but there are some great things to do whilst you’re here too. That includes using the swimming pool, golf simulator, gym, squash court and spa centre.
Oryx Airport Hotel
BOOK Oryx Airport Hotel
Take the stress and strain out of that long connecting flight by booking yourself into the Oryx Airport Hotel. Located inside the airport terminal itself it’s offers the ultimate in comfort and convenience to leave you refreshed and well rested for the next leg of your flight.
Highlights include:
Swimming Pool and jacuzzi
Wellness centre with massage, spa and beauty treatments
The other option if you’re looking to get some good quality sleep inside Doha airport is Sleep ‘n Fly. Unlike normal hotels where you pay per night, here, you pay per hour. Things are a bit simpler here with beds being pod-style bunks, shared toilet facilities and showers available for an extra cost.
If you’re on a mid-long layover in Doha Airport you might want to consider this as a cheaper alternative.
Wondering “what to do in Doha airport for 8 hours”, why not get a few hours sleep here?
Sleep ‘n Fly
BOOK Sleep ‘n Fly
If you’re looking for something a little more budget friendly that allows you to get some sleep in comfort and away from the main departure lounges, then check out Sleep ‘n Fly. Offering dorm style beds at an hourly rate it’s the ideal place to nip into for a few hours of shut eye.
If you’re wondering “Can you sleep at Doha airport?”, then you’re in luck because I’ve been there and done that, with a hmm, relative amount of success!
Once you’re done indulging in the wide range of shopping in Doha airport (window of course) you might want to check out the free Doha airport sleeping facilities.
Personally, I chose to jump in the Doha airport showers after a sleep in various locations and felt pretty decent given I had an 18-hour transit!
The best free sleeping facilities are the reclining chairs in the rest and relaxation zones. I also found some of the comfortable individual chairs in the TV areas to be great for snoozing, especially at night.
Another area where I got some good sleep was in the rainforest at The Orchard. Here there are some cool wooden tipees as well as lots of areas with fake grass where you can grab a few zzz’s.
I made sure to bring a good travel pillow along with me though.
Get some QUALITY sleep!
Pillow & Sleeping Mask
Grab yourself a good quality travel pillow that you can use both in the airport, on your flights and even in your hostel.
Plus make sure to get a good quality sleeping eye mask that is comfortable and keeps light out for your transit, hostel and flight.
Flash City Tour: 10 Things to Do in Doha on a Layover
Right, let’s get to it!
When you’re on a Doha stopover, whether that’s for a few hours or a few days, heading into the city is easy.
So I’ve put together this handy guide to what to do in Doha: layover edition!
When it comes to things to do in Doha on a layover, there are plenty of activities and places to see to keep you entertained and allow you to experience a new culture.
Right then, let’s get into the list of Doha layover things to do.
1. Walk Around the Souq Waqif
Wandering around the Souk was one of my favourite things to do in Doha on a layover. I was expecting it to feel a little sterile, like the ones I have visited in Dubai, but in fact, it was buzzing with life and locals.
The souk is a labyrinth consisting of some of Doha’s oldest streets where you can experience the sensory overload that is this buzzing hub of commerce.
I particularly loved the covered section with its tightly winding alleyways where the shouts of the vendors and the smell of spices filled the air.
This was also the area I chose to stay on my two-day layover in Doha and it was the perfect spot.
Not only are there heaps of fascinating shops from small stalls to Alladin-style carpet dealers, but it’s also one of the best places for food in Doha.
If you’re looking for things to do in Doha for a day, the souk is a must.
A gentle stroll of a few short KM from the Souk is the wonderful MIA park. This area ended up being one of my favourites in the city and I was lucky enough to be pointed in its direction by some family I have living in Qatar.
Starting at the impressive MIA (Museum of Islamic Art, which in itself is well worth a visit if you have the time) the breezy walk around the Dhow harbour under the shade of palm trees is a great way to stretch the legs between flights.
Wandering around to the far end you’ll find one of the most impressive views of the Doha skyline. There are also a few low-key restaurants and cafes plus plenty of benches from which to soak it all in.
If you’ve got the time, be sure to head here not only during the day but at night too when the city across the bay is lit up in a myriad of patterns and colours. It’s also a great sunset spot.
Before heading back into the Souk area, a quick stop off by the “official viewpoint” located on the terrace just inside the MIA is one of the best things to do in Doha on a layover.
3. Stoll Along The Doha Corniche
If you’ve got a little more time on your hands and want to really get those legs moving during your Doha stopover, then a trip to the Corniche is perfect.
In many ways, it’s a bit like the big brother of MIA park, offering incredible views of the built-up West Bay whilst you wander down the shoreline.
Whether you decide to take the entire 7km crescent-shaped path around Doha Bay or just a small section of it, you’ll feel the transition from the old city to the new. Main highways, city parks and finally the gigantic skyscrapers of Al Dafna greet you during your visit.
Whilst this area is by no means busy (I mean, nowhere in Qatar really feels that busy), it does have a buzz with plenty of different people all gathering on different sections of the Corniche.
I was lucky enough to visit on one layover in Qatar during Ramadan and witnessed many families breaking fast at sunset in Al Dafna Park. There was a real fun, light and joyous atmosphere as the kids played football under the shadow of the tall buildings overlooking the park as the cannons rang out for Iftar across the bay.
Also known as the Valley of Cultures, Katara Cultural Village is an area of the city offering a wide range of things to do and see and is one of my favourite Doha things to do.
From stepping inside one of the most stunning mosques in Qatar to relaxing at the beach, this area offers everything from cultural delights to high-end shopping as well as fun in the sun. It’s one of the must do things to do in Doha on a layover.
Katara isn’t just a place for tourists either, it’s one of the most popular places for those living in Qatar to visit, whether they’re a local or an expat. It’s often one of the busier areas of the city, especially on weekends (Fri-Sat in Qatar).
This space was built and designed to celebrate Qatari culture and architecture. It’s here where you can see traditional Arabic pigeon towers alongside an entirely marble amphitheatre whilst wandering down air-conditioned streets!
It’s a wild ride, but it’s the epitome of modern Qatar.
If you’re after something a little more exciting during your stopover in Doha then why not embrace what this country is all about … the desert!
Rather than spending your time on the artificial oases created by the coast, head inland and race across the sea of sand that makes up much of Qatar. It’s one of the most fun things to do in Doha on a layover for sure.
Be warned, this isn’t something you should do by yourself!
The desert is harsh, unforgiving and temperatures can soar. Instead, book a tour where you can be guided by a professional across this alluring landscape of mystery and beauty.
Forget that boring old concrete and glass and instead get back to nature during your time in Qatar. You could even venture as far as the mesmerising inland sea of Khor Al Udaid with its crystal clear blue waters and white sand.
Exploring the desert is one of the best Qatar things to do if you’ve got more than 24 hours in Doha.
Now I’m not normally the sort of person who would advise spending time inside a shopping mall, but those in Doha hit differently.
Whether you’re visiting because you have a genuine interest in the vast array of shopping and dining on offer, or as a kinda ironic way to lament all that is wrong with these pop-up cities, they’re at least a good way to escape the oppressive heat of the summer.
There are a few different malls to visit whilst in Doha on a layover and all jokes aside if you want to shop, and get some good food all whilst surrounded by some surreal, wacky and downright outlandish surroundings, then bloody go for it!
Some of the best malls to visit are:
Villaggio Mall (Designed to look like Venice with an indoor canal!)
City Center Mall (West Bay – Also has a massive Carrefour supermarket)
Doha Festival City (Had a 4D Cinema and outdoor running/ cycling track)
Place Vendôme (Designed to look like an Italian mall, with massive fountains)
7. Discover The Pearl Qatar
Another quintessential Qatar experience is to visit the unique development that is “The Pearl”. This artificial island is made up of many different areas, most of which are the domain of the well-off ex-pats that populate much of this country.
From more modest highrise apartments with communal beaches to private islands with their own harbours, it really is another world.
Areas of interest are the Qanat Quartier, made to look like Venice with its network of canals and brightly coloured buildings. Then there’s Porto Arabia, designed to look like a Mediterranean port town with its marina and restaurants by the water.
If you have time book a boat cruise to Pearl Island for a full experience of this area, it’s one of the coolest things to do in Doha on a layover
That unique almost mushroom-looking building you drove past on the way from the airport to the souk was in fact the ultra-modern National Museum of Qatar.
If you’re looking for a true cultural education whilst on your Doha stopover, then be sure to spend some time here getting to know everything there is to know about this tiny country on the Arabian Peninsula.
The museum is also conveniently located just 15 minutes from the airport, so it’s a great place to stop off if you’ve got some time left while on the way back.
Plus, the architecture itself is hella cool and yeah, it’s actually supposed to look like a desert rose crystal, which itself is pretty wild.
9. Wander The Old Port
This ironically named area of this city (being completely redeveloped for the World Cup) is a wonderfully whimsical place to visit in Doha.
Inspired by traditional mud-packed Qatari architecture, but painted in a rainbow of pastel colours, it offers yet another curious area of the city to wander. Many of the buildings, most of which are restaurants, cafes and shops also house impressive commissioned murals.
Plus, I found this area to be quiet, peaceful and have a decent amount of budget-friendly food on offer. This area has also been designed with plenty of green space, which in a desert city is very much welcome.
Sure, there are not heaps to do around here once you’ve finished buying and eating, but it’s a classic Instagram stop-off spot in Doha.
Plus, it’s a great place to sit and watch boomers spend their children’s inheritance whilst pulling up on one of the many cruise ships that call by this harbour!
10. Take An Organised Doha Layover Tour
If you’re short on time or unsure whether you want to be jumping on and off metro trains over the course of your layover, then you could instead get on a Doha highlights tour.
Picking you up from the airport, this tour pretty much covers everything I have on this list (minus the desert) over the course of roughly 4 hours.
Of course, here you’ll only get a taster menu of Qatar, but it’s perfect for those on a short layover in Doha or who aren’t as confident exploring on their own.
If you’re wondering what to see in Doha in one day and you’re worried about time, this is the IDEAL solution.
BOOK A Layover Tour
The BEST Doha Tours
Short on time or unsure if you want to go it alone?
Book on to an organised tour which picks you up and drops you off right at the airport instead.
Tours include:
Souq Waqif
The Pearl
The Doha Skyline
Katara Cultural Village
Corniche
The Pearl
PLUS, If you have extra time, book at tour which includes exploring the desert too!
Right, I’ve covered your Doha stopover what to do guide, now let’s have a look at the how…
Doha Layover Guide: Essential Information and Resources
Here’s all the extra information, tips and advice to make the most of your Qatar layover.
How to Get from Doha Aiport to the City
Being a super modern city with one of the world’s largest transit hubs, it will come as no surprise that getting into the city is easy and straightforward.
Above all, if you’re on a short layover, you need to keep an eye on the time and check the timetables for each method of transport to ensure you can make it back to the airport in time for your second flight.
Wondering “how to get from Doha airport to city?”, well wonder no more my intrepid amigo!
There are several ways to do this:
Taxi/ Transfer
If you’re short on time then a taxi or transfer might be your best bet.
They can book up fast from outside the Airport so be sure to book a transfer before you travel.
If you’re visiting The Pearl then you will need a taxi/ transfer as public transport here can be a little awkward.
Another way to get into the city is by taking the public bus. This is conveniently located right outside the airport and is clearly signposted.
You can buy tickets from vending machines or from the driver when you board the Doha airport to city centre bus.
Metro
The best way to get into the city from the Airport has to be the Doha Metro. This underground network covers large areas of the city and is very affordable and reliable.
The only downside is that it can be a little bit of a walk from the terminal but it’s much quicker than the bus once you’re on.
Organising Your Visa Before Visiting Doha on a Stopover
Most countries now do not require a visa to enter Qatar for the purpose of tourism. However, be sure to have your hotel booking and boarding pass ready when passing through customs.
One thing to bear in mind is that people aren’t always separated into different queues and those who do require visas, especially if they plan on working in Qatar, are scrutinised to a high level.
Consider this when planning how much time you have outside of the airport.
We all need visas for various destinations and organising these can be a nightmare and ruin the trip of a lifetime! Don’t be caught out and make sure you choose a professional service for your next trip and head off without worry.
Get Insurance Before You Fly to Doha (Even on a Layover!)
Whilst Qatar is statistically one of the safest places in the world to visit (politics aside), it is also one of the most expensive when it comes to medical treatment.
Even on a layover, things can and do happen, plus, you’ll surely be headed here as part of a longer trip.
Either way, one thing you just can’t afford to travel without is good travel insurance, so get yourself covered!
Other Must-Knows About Qatar for a Long Layover
Qatar is generally a pretty relaxed place to visit and is welcoming to tourists despite still being quite conservative.
However, I did get the feeling that it is very much about sticking by the rules below the surface, especially if you want to call this Gulf state home. The only other place I’ve been where they were stricter observers of Islam was when we visited Brunei, but this also in many ways felt so different.
But here are a few practical things you should know for your stopover in Doha:
The currency of Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (QAR) & credit cards are widely accepted
You’ll need to organise an eSim to use your phone and a VPN for WhatsApp.
Modest dress is encouraged, but not policed on the whole. I wore shorts and T-shirts and had no problems. Vests and short shorts/ skirts might be an issue when entering malls and museums.
When visiting the beach be aware that some swimwear, particularly bikinis, are not allowed but are ok in hotels and private beaches.
English is widely spoken and is the defacto Lingua franca for the wide mix of nationalities who live in Qatar.
Things shut down on Friday mornings including the metro, souk and MIA.
During Ramadan most restaurants are closed during fasting and eating or drinking in public is heavily frowned upon. Those in the airport will be open during this time.
LGBTQ+ folks should be careful when visiting Qatar where homosexuality is still illegal, don’t use apps like Grindr and be aware you might have to book separate rooms.
Officially unmarried couples can’t share a room, but this is often not policed, especially at the bigger hotels. But be sure to check their policy and bring a copy of your docs if you are married.
Transfer Your Money Abroad Or Grab An International Card
Use Wise For Cheap and Secure Transfers
When you’re travelling you tend to need money in all different currencies, especially if you live abroad for a while.
Transferring between currencies and bank accounts in different countries can be expensive. So set up a Wise account for cheap and worry-free transfers.
You can also get a Wise card to use with your account where you can keep money in a whole heap of different currencies and use your card internationally without fees.
The Qatar Airways Stopover and Other Doha City Tour Options
If you’re looking for other options, here I will run through the Qatar Airways stopover package plus some great options if you’re looking for a city tour from the airport.
Qatar Airways Stopover Package
If you’re looking for a Doha layover package then Qatar Airlines has this option when buying a ticket. Just be sure to select the “Qatar stopover” option, search for your flights as usual, and then select the number of days you’d like to add as a stopover up to 4.
This is the ideal way to arrange a stopover as Qatar Airlines books you a flight and hotel package together.
Plus with these stopover packages, you can check into your hotel at any time.
Qatar Airways Stopover Package
Book HERE!
A Qatar Airways stopover package is a great way to book your flight and accommodation together as one with the least amount of fuss.
You can get great deals on some otherwise expensive hotels.
Get a stopover in Doha: Qatar airways package here.
If you’ve got a shorter layover (or less than 24 hours in Qatar) which doesn’t allow for you to stay overnight in the city, then another great option is to take an organised tour right from the airport.
These should be booked in advance as they are pretty popular among those doing Qatar Stopovers. Most of them are between 4-8 hours long and include most of the stuff to do in Doha I mentioned above. Some of the longer tours even include a trip to the desert.
These are great if you’re not confident navigating the city on your own or you want to maximise your time and see as much of the city as possible in a short time.
One of the best ways to make the most of this bonus opportunity to see somewhere new is to have a multiday layover rather than just stopping by for a few hours.
This way you get to explore the city and its surroundings at a much more enjoyable pace and get some good quality rest too.
Personally, I have done both. A two-day Doha layover where I stayed at a nice hotel and a 14-hour layover in Doha Airport with a speedy trip to the city.
Can you guess which one I enjoyed the most?
Do yourself a favour and book into one of the many great hotels in the city, get some proper rest and see Doha at a more gentile pace on a Qatar (overnight) layover.
You’ll thank me later!
Best Overall Stopover Hotel In Doha: Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels
This is where I stayed when visiting Doha on a stopover and its location right in the heart of the souk is second to none. Plus, it has a gym, super comfortable beds and a pool.
Best Beachside Hotel For A Doha Stopover: The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort
If you’re after something a little more relaxing then staying at this resort by the beach in Katara is the perfect location. Close to all the goings-on of Katara, but away from the hustle and bustle of the main city, it’s an ideal place to chill.
Best Budget Hotel For A Doha Stopover: Kingsgate Hotel Doha by Millennium Hotels
For those of us on a mega tight backpacker budget it can seem like Doha is out of our reach. But never fear because you can get this great hotel right near the Souk for an amazing price.
We’ve used the Osprey Farpoint/ Fairview for all our backpacking adventures over the past 5 years and highly recommend them!
The main area of the pack opens like a suitcase, which is great for using packing cubes to keep everything organised and they even come with a detachable day pack!
Yes, you can! It’s easy to leave the airport in the same way as if you were staying in Doha. Just make your way to passport control and have your boarding pass and hotel reservation ready (if you’re staying overnight).
How to spend 5 hours in Doha airport?
There are plenty of things to keep you entertained during a 5-hour Doha stopover from free things such as visiting the Orchard and chilling in the relax zone or you can pay for a shower, gym and spa session and eat some amazing food from around the world.
How do you explore Doha on a layover?
That’s easy. You can either leave the airport yourself and take a transfer, bus or metro into the city or, you can book an organised day tour which will show you all the highlights of the city in a few hours, or if you have more time an extended tour which includes the desert.
Is a stopover in Doha worth it?
Yes! I really enjoyed being able to experience a culture that I otherwise wouldn’t have as well as being able to break up my long flights from the UK to Bali with some proper rest as well as a bit of mental and physical stimulation.
Do I need a visa if I have a layover in Doha?
Most visitors from Western countries do not need a visa to visit Qatar on a layover, but you might need to show proof of onward travel and your hotel reservation if you’re staying overnight. Check if you need a visa here.
Can I pay for a lounge at Doha airport?
You sure can! If you’ve got a long transfer then paying for lounge access can be a godsend as you’ll get access to showers, food, drink and a relaxed and quiet area in which to chill before your flight.
Final Thoughts on Things To Do in Doha on a Layover
Alrighty then folks, we got there!
So, hopefully, now you’re all set for your layover in Doha with plenty of great things to do, places to stay and locations to get a good kip in the airport!
I just love these opportunities to get in some bonus culture, sightseeing and experiences while being able to rest and relax in the middle of a long and hectic flight.
Ok, I didn’t address one elephant in the room when it comes to visiting Qatar on a layover which is morals.
As a non-binary person and just generally a person who cares about my fellow human beings who walk this earth, it can sometimes be tricky when travelling to get the balance right.
But I believe that a large part of travel is not just visiting nice beaches and eating great food, but having my views, preconceptions and comfort challenged…
And Doha certainly did that, but at the same time, it also surprised me in a good way.
Do you have a layover planned or are you considering it for your next long haul trip? Let me know what you think about the idea.
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I have a passion for travel, photography, heavy metal music (particularly Rammstein), Arsenal FC, gaming, mountaineering and pugs (Dooku RIP & Billy)
I have a BA in Fine Art and an MA in Design & Art Direction before I started galavanting around the globe! So far, I’ve been to 68 countries in 5 continents.
I’ve spent 2 years travelling around Southeast Asia including travelling the length of Vietnam twice on a motorbike, visiting off the beaten track locations such as Myanmar and Brunei and seeking out adventure opportunities along the way like canyoning, climbing and mountain hiking.
I’ve also spent 6 months exploring Eastern Europe, again visiting more unusual places such as Moldova, Kosovo, Ukraine and the breakaway state of Transnistria. I’ve visited all but 3 countries in Europe whilst both backpacking and using the UK as a base to explore Western Europe.
I have also lived in Australia and New Zealand for a total of over 3 years whilst doing Working Holiday Visas. I called Melbourne and Christchurch home during this period and explored both countries extensively whilst using these as bases.
Get In touch: nic@theroamingrenegades.com
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A COMPLETE guide to visiting Qatar on a stopover and things to do in Doha on a layover