Having lived in the Gulf for over eight years, Qatar was the only GCC country left to tick off my list. I had only ever experienced it through airport stopovers in Doha, so this was my first proper visit—and what better time to explore than during Qatar’s National Day celebrations? Over four days, I saw more of Qatar than many who live there, and it was nothing short of impressive.
From the moment I landed at Hamad International Airport, I was struck by Qatar’s hospitality—warm, genuine, and effortlessly welcoming. The country is immaculately clean, incredibly safe, and seamlessly organised, reminiscent of a post-World Cup transformation. Doha itself is a stunning city, with a skyline that commands attention from every angle, blending modern architecture with a distinct Middle Eastern charm.
I spent my four nights at The Ned Doha, a brand I’ve always admired from its London counterpart. This particular property is steeped in history, occupying a building that once housed the Ministry of Interior—now reimagined into a luxurious hotel, with a range of exceptional restaurants. The blend of heritage and contemporary design made it a fitting home for the trip.
I’m not usually one for tightly packed press trips, but the Qatar Tourism Board put together an itinerary that was both engaging and well-paced, ensuring every experience was worthwhile.
On Day 1, I immersed myself in Qatar’s cultural heart at Katara Cultural Village, exploring its amphitheatre, museums, and bustling National Day celebrations along Katara Corniche. Dinner at Feeh Al’Afia provided my first proper taste of authentic Qatari cuisine, followed by a magical evening at the Qatar Balloon Festival.
Day 2 was dedicated to tradition and heritage. The day began at Souq Waqif, a vibrant marketplace where breakfast at Shay Al Shamous set the tone for a morning of exploration. A visit to Darb Al Saai, the centre of National Day celebrations, provided deeper insights into Qatar’s history and culture, followed by an evening of fireworks and dinner.
Day 3 combined modernity with history, beginning with a tour of Msheireb Downtown Doha and its museums. The National Museum of Qatar was a highlight—its desert rose-inspired architecture is as captivating as the exhibits inside. Lunch at Jiwan, perched within the museum, offered spectacular city views. Later, a drive through Lusail showcased Qatar’s vision for the future, from Lusail Boulevard to the stunning Lusail Stadium. A visit to Place Vendôme Mall and Maha Island provided a glimpse into Qatar’s ever-expanding luxury and leisure scene.
The final full day, Day 4, was all about exploring lesser-seen parts of Qatar. The morning was spent in Mina District, a picturesque waterfront lined with pastel-coloured buildings, where a coffee break at Arabesq was the perfect start. The journey then led to Ras Abrouq, an otherworldly landscape of dramatic rock formations that revealed an entirely different side of Qatar, far removed from the urban grandeur of Doha.
Beyond the dazzling skyline, world-class hotels, and impeccably curated experiences, what truly stood out was Qatar’s hospitality. From our incredible guide Buthaina, who effortlessly answered my endless questions, to the warmth of the locals, it was clear that Qataris take immense pride in their country—and they have every reason to. This trip was a genuine experience of a country in motion. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or, like me, a Gulf resident who hasn’t yet taken the time to explore Qatar properly, there’s no better moment to visit than during National Day celebrations. I left with a newfound appreciation for this fast-evolving nation—and I have every intention of returning.
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