6 Things to See and Do in Souq Waqif

Shopping is a popular way to pass the time in the Qatari capital, Doha, where there is always a luxury mall or high-end store to visit.

However, if you are looking for a more authentic experience and a way to spend a special night out, Souq Waqif may be the place to be, as it is a tourist attraction and the oldest market in the Qatari capital, Doha. The history of Souq Waqif goes back 100 years when Bedouin and local merchants gathered to buy and sell livestock, spices, wool, pearls, and other basic commodities.

Here are 6 of the best things to see and do in Souq Waqif in Qatar:

Go shopping for your wardrobe and house

Whether you are looking for traditional scarves, embroidered abayas, utensils, and various kitchen utensils, you will find everything you need at Souq Waqif.

You will likely get lost wandering the twisting alleys of the souk, but don't let that discourage you, there may be a gem waiting for you.

Taste new flavors

And if you love to cook, you should not miss the part which is located a few steps away from the main entrance to the market off the Doha Corniche. You can buy saffron, sumac, sweets, honey, dried flowers, and other things here.

Buy jewelry from the gold market

Souq Waqif also includes the Gold market, a separate building that houses more than 40 shops specializing in fine jewelry. Whether you are looking for necklaces and earrings, sparkling gemstones, and high-quality second-hand watches, you will find it all in the market.

While the shop's gleaming windows are filled with luxury off-the-shelf pieces, most shopkeepers will cater to customers' need to design their own pieces.

Go to restaurants

A visit to the Gold market will not be complete without a stop at one of its many restaurants.

There is no better place to dine in the heart of Doha than at Souq Waqif. It includes a number of the best restaurants and cafes that range from traditional to international. The place offers a fine dining experience in its prominent location, the Gold Souk. One can enjoy the best international dishes or head to the traditional restaurants in Souq Waqif, Doha to sample the best Qatari food with its very authentic flavor. In fact, Souq Waqif is home to a number of restaurants overlooking the waterfront as well where guests can sample the best cuisine while enjoying the breathtaking views around. So why not try dining in the heart of Doha on your next visit to Souq Waqif, Qatar.

Try visiting a boutique hotel

Although Doha is famous for being home to some of the most famous hotels in the world, the exclusive hotels dotted around the souk are also worth a visit.

Boutique hotels combine elegance and comfort. Hotels such as Arumaila, Al Jasra, and Musheireb are small and intimate while maintaining the standards of luxury at the same time.

Discover the local art

Souq Waqif also hosts a number of art galleries and exhibition spaces. And in the midst of it all, you'll find the Souq Waqif Art Center, which is located near the end of the souk's central road.

Inside, the corridors of the Great Hall are lined with rows of workstations that talented artists frequent.