Holidays to Qatar sizzle in the summer and stay warm all winter, so they’re a great shout for sunshine whenever you go.

Coastline for days

Spin the globe to Western Asia and you’ll spot Qatar sticking out on the northeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Almost every corner of the country is surround by the Persian Gulf’s waters – apart from its border with Saudi Arabia in the south – so you’ve got loads of options for beach days. The country’s coastal capital, Doha, tends to be the base of holidays to Qatar – it’s one of the world’s fastest-growing cities, with a skyscraper-lined shoreline that gives Singapore a run for its money.

World Cup wonder

Until recently, Qatar probably wasn’t on most people’s lips when they were talking holidays. But, after the country was beamed onto the big screen to millions during the FIFA World Cup 2022, it’s quickly becoming a major player on the Middle East’s holiday scene. As well as roads, a metro system and an airport, around a hundred hotels were built in preparation for the event in Doha, so you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a brand-new city.

Qatar’s capital

Doha started out life as a small fishing village, which you’ll probably find hard to believe when you’re stood in front of the huge skyscrapers that run along its shoreline. Its all-new look might have you thinking it lacks any history, but nose around in the right places and you’ll see it’s held on to some traditional touches, too. The Souq Wakif’s the place to pick up traditional clothing, spices and souvenirs, and the Museum of Islamic Art features work from more than a thousand years ago.

At a Glance

  • Ride the dunes on a desert safari
  • Shop for souvenirs at Souq Waqif
  • Go snorkelling on Katara Beach

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