Qatar Itinerary

Qatar, a rapidly growing destination on the Arabian Peninsula, is known for its rich cultural heritage and modern attractions. From the vast desert to the glittering city skyline, this 5 day itinerary for Qatar highlights some of the best experiences for first-time visitors to Qatar. Explore historic sites and the beautiful waters of the Arabian Gulf for a memorable journey.

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Plans for an individual of 30 years age travelling to USA for 15 days

Qatar at a Glance!

Qatar has cemented itself as a prominent travel destination due to its strategic location and robust tourism infrastructure. The country has seen a significant boost in tourism, with over 2.56 million visitors arriving by August 2023. Indian travellers rank among the top visitors. Over a 5-day stay, you can experience world-class museums, historic landmarks, luxury shopping, and much more.

Categories	Specifications
Distance from India	2,891 km
How to Reach Qatar	By taking direct flights from major Indian cities like Delhi or Bangalore to Hamad International Airport in Doha
New Delhi to Doha Flight Duration	4 to 12 hours with non-stop and one-stop flights
Bangalore to Doha Flight Duration	4 to 9 hours with non-stop and one-stop flights
Best Time to Visit Qatar	November to March
International Airport	Hamad International Airport (DOH)

It is recommended that you have proper travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies or flight delays. This will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout your Qatar travel itinerary.

5 Days Qatar Itinerary for First-time Visitors

Qatar Itinerary

Start your Qatar trip itinerary by taking advantage of their visa-on-arrival service available for Indian travellers. You can obtain a Qatar visa at the port of entry for trips up to 30 days. To qualify, you must meet the necessary criteria, including a valid Indian passport, confirmed return ticket, and hotel reservation. This visa can be extended for an additional 30 days if needed.

Once your travel plans are confirmed, pack essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes to enjoy Qatar's sunny days and pleasant evenings.

Let's begin the Qatar tour itinerary by arrival in Doha!

Day 1: Arrival in Doha - Exploring Beyond the City

Your introduction to Qatar begins at Hamad International Airport (DOH). After settling into your hotel, venture outside the city limits to explore more diverse areas.

Morning

After arriving and settling in, head down to Al Wakrah, a coastal town south of Doha known for its serene beaches and Al Wakrah Souq, offering a relaxed market experience.

Afternoon

Take some time to visit Al Zubarah Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the northwest that reflects Qatar’s rich history. Also, visit Al Khor, a coastal town known for its mangroves and fishing harbours.

Evening

Finish the day with a relaxing walk along the Doha Corniche for a stroll by the waterfront, taking in the skyline before dining at a traditional Qatari restaurant.
Day 2: Cultural Insights - Discovering Al Rayyan and Dukhan

Dive deeper into Qatar’s cultural landscape by visiting towns beyond Doha.

Morning

A visit to Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum in Al Rayyan showcases a vast collection of Islamic art and Qatari heritage items. It’s a hidden gem worth exploring outside the city.

Afternoon

Head west to Dukhan for a relaxing time at Zekreet Beach, known for its rock formations and natural beauty. You can also visit the Ras Abrouq rock desert to experience the iconic art installation East-West/West-East by Richard Serra.

Evening

Wrap up the day in Doha with a relaxing evening at Katara Cultural Village, where you can catch a local performance.
Day 3: Desert Adventures and Coastal Experiences

Immerse yourself in Qatar’s stunning natural landscapes, including desert dunes and the sea.

Morning

Start your day with a desert safari to the stunning Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid) near the Saudi border. You can enjoy a camel ride, sandboarding, or an exciting 4x4 adventure over the dunes.

Afternoon

Continue the journey along the coast with a visit to Fuwairit Beach, known for its white sands and clear waters. It is a peaceful place to relax and appreciate Qatar’s coastal beauty.

Evening

Return to Al Thakhira Mangroves near Al Khor to witness the breathtaking scenery. You can kayak through the dense mangroves or simply enjoy the sunset.
Day 4: Islands and Coastal Towns

Today, explore Qatar's islands and coastal villages for a blend of modern and traditional experiences.

Morning

A morning boat trip to Banana Island is the perfect way to start the day. It’s a luxury resort, and you can enjoy water activities or relax on the beach.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, revisit Al Khor, but this time to see Purple Island. Thanks to its unique ecosystem, it is an incredible spot to visit Al Khoror hiking and wildlife spotting.

Evening

Finish the day with a dinner cruise on a dhow boat from Doha’s Corniche. Watching the sunset while enjoying Qatari cuisine is a great way to soak in the local atmosphere.
Day 5: Wellness and Relaxation in Northern Qatar

End your trip with relaxation and rejuvenation in the quieter northern part of the country.

Morning

Start your day at Zulal Wellness Resort, located near Al Ruwais. It is a perfect spot for holistic treatments and wellness programs.

Afternoon

Spend a peaceful afternoon exploring the Al Ruwais area. It is home to quiet fishing villages and peaceful coastlines, ideal for a relaxing end to your journey.

Evening

Return to Doha and enjoy a final dinner at one of the many fine-dining establishments along the Pearl Qatar, reflecting on your experiences.

Location	Opening Hours
Souq Waqif	7:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 3:00 PM - 10 PM
Museum of Islamic Art	9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Katara Cultural Village	Open 24 hours
Zulal Wellness Resort	Bookings required

Budget Estimate for 5 Days in Qatar

Let's have a quick overview of what you might spend during a 5 days itinerary for Qatar based on mid-range accommodation, transport, meals, and activities.

Expense	Approx. Cost
Visa Expenses	INR 1,900
New Delhi to Doha Flight Expenses	INR 12,298 - 56,427 with non-stop and one-stop flights
Bangalore to Muscat Flight Expenses	INR 13,388 - 17,920 with non-stop and one-stop flights
Hotel/Accommodation Expenses	INR 9,934 - 19,868
Domestic Flights Expenses	NA
Local Transportation Expenses (Trains, Ferries, Taxi, Buses, etc.)	INR 1,920
Travel Insurance	INR 311 - 943
Food	INR 5,092
Souvenirs	INR 269 - 4,799, depending on the product
Any Additional expenses (certification, travel pass, mobile sim, wifi, etc.)	INR 1,168 - 1,502

Qatar Itinerary: Top Recommendations

Here are some essential places to visit in Qatar. Each spot offers something unique and show cases Qatar's rich heritage and modern outlook.

The Pearl-Qatar: A stunning artificial island known for its premium shopping and waterfront cafes, it is an excellent spot to experience luxury in Qatar.
Museum of Islamic Art (MIA): A must-see for its extensive collection of Islamic artefacts. The building is an architectural marvel, set on the waterfront with incredible views.
Souq Waqif: A traditional market with lively vendors selling spices, handicrafts, and local goods. It is also a great place to enjoy authentic Qatari food.
Khor Al Adaid (The Inland Sea): A natural wonder where the desert meets the sea. Enjoy activities such as dune bashing or relax and absorb the breathtaking views.
Katara Cultural Village: A cultural hub that hosts art exhibitions, music performances, and diverse dining options, providing a deeper understanding of Qatar's rich traditions.
Zekreet Rock Formations and Ras Abrouq: Located on the western coast, these geological formations are a striking landscape, perfect for photography and exploration.

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Tips for Planning Your Qatar Itinerary

A successful trip to Qatar requires exploring the attractions and being mindful of practical considerations. Here are some essential tips to keep your experience smooth and enjoyable:

Hydration is critical: The warm climate of Qatar requires you to stay hydrated. Always carry a reusable water bottle and use refill stations at significant tourist spots.
Book attractions in advance: Museums, desert safaris, and other popular activities often require pre-booking, especially during peak seasons. This ensures availability and saves time.
Plan for Fridays: Many businesses in Qatar close or adjust their hours during Friday prayers (10 AM - 12 PM), significantly smaller shops and local markets. Plan your activities around this to avoid disruptions.
Take advantage of the cooler months: The best time to visit Qatar is between November and April, when temperatures are milder, making outdoor activities more comfortable.
Respect Ramadan traditions: If you visit Qatar during Ramadan, be mindful that eating, drinking, and smoking in public are restricted during daylight hours. Many restaurants and cafes will open after sunset.

FAQs

Q1: What are the public transportation options in Doha, Qatar?

Ans: Doha offers efficient public transport, including the Metro, Karwa taxis, buses, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem.
Q2: What is the local currency in Qatar?

Ans: The Qatari Riyal (QAR) is the local currency. ATMs are readily available, and credit cards are widely accepted in most places..
Q3: What is the emergency number in Qatar?

Ans: In case of an emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance, including medical, police, or fire services.
Q4: Are PCR tests still required for Indian travellers to Qatar?

Ans: PCR tests are no longer required for Indian visitors arriving in Qatar.
Q5: Is tipping expected in Qatar?

Ans: Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated. A 10-15% tip is standard in restaurants if the bill does not include service.

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Disclaimer: The list of insurers mentioned are arranged according to the alphabetical order of the names of insurers respectively. Policybazaar does not endorse, rate or recommend any particular insurer or insurance product offered by any insurer. The list of plans listed here comprise of insurance products offered by all the insurance partners of Policybazaar. For complete list of insurers in India refer to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India website www.irdai.gov.in