Doha

About Doha

Doha has changed faster than almost any city in the world. Glass towers and reclaimed-island developments now fill a skyline that was mostly empty desert forty years ago. The Museum of Islamic Art, designed by I. M. Pei, sits on its own island in the bay and holds one of the world's finest collections of Islamic ceramics, textiles, and metalwork. The National Museum of Qatar, shaped like a desert rose, covers the country's Bedouin past through to the oil boom. Both are worth the time. Souq Waqif is the social centre, a restored market quarter with narrow lanes selling spices, perfumes, and falconry equipment. The food stalls serve machboos (spiced rice with meat) and regag (thin crispy bread). The Corniche promenade runs along the bay with views of the skyline and moored dhows. Doha is modern and well-organised; taxis are metered and air-conditioned. Alcohol is available in hotel restaurants but not in public. Friday is the weekly day off, and many smaller shops close during afternoon prayer times.

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