How to Find Hotels in Doha, Qatar

Historically a nation of scattered fishing and pearling villages, Qatar has risen to become the 11th richest country in the world (per capita) since the discovery of oil and natural gas there. A trip to the beautiful city of Doha, with its beaches, dunes, and upscale shopping, is sure to be full of excitement.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• An Arabic phrasebook

Plan Your Activities

1. Try your hand at kitesurfing and other watersports, or just relax on the beach.
2. Sample the flavors of the region. Try some kebabs with traditional breads and hummus.
3. Go to a sporting event. Qatar has no shortage of venues to choose from. For camel racing, visit Al-Shahaniya.
4. Buy a string of locally harvested pearls, but beware of those offered at unusually low prices. They may be imitations.

Find the Right Accommodations

5. Look at your map and your proposed itinerary to decide which area of Doha will be most convenient for your stay.
6. To book accommodations, contact Qatar Tourism Authority at 011 ([phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources below).
7. Consider camping near the Khor Al-Adaid, a salt water inlet surrounded by sand dunes.
8. Consider a hotel downtown, which will put you near Doha's open-air markets (souks). There, you can bargain to your heart's content and collect a sampling of local crafts, jewelry and food.
9. Choose one of Doha's several upscale hotels, or one of the mid-range tourist-friendly hotels. Be sure to ask whether any meals are included in the per-night price.
10. Make your reservations well in advance.
11. Keep your accommodations search limited to Doha--no other city in Qatar has tourist-quality hotels.

Get Around Town

12. See the city with the help of public transportation. Doha has a bus system as well as taxis and limo services to help you get around.

Tips & Warnings

• There are heavy restrictions on alcohol in Qatar. If you wish to enjoy an alcoholic beverage with a meal, your best bet is to dine at a hotel restaurant, where alcohol can usually be served.
• All phone numbers include the United States international prefix "011." When calling internationally outside the United States, substitute that "011" with "00." All country codes are within parentheses and begin with a "+" sign.
• Learn a few essential phrases and questions in Arabic, the official language, to help you communicate with the locals.
• Learn the exchange rate. The currency of Qatar is the riyal, one of which is worth approximately a quarter of an American dollar.
• The climate in Qatar is generally hot and humid; dress appropriately and be sure to stay hydrated.
• Although more liberal in some respects than many countries in the surrounding region, Qatar's laws do follow the strict Wahhabi Islamic Doctrine. Familiarize yourself with the laws and customs before you go.