Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Souq Waqif is the traditional market ideal for tourists in Doha, Qatar. It provides Doha, Qatar, with its authentic Arabian atmosphere through its lively features. The tourist places here show its historic character with narrow pathways, buildings made of mud walls and wooden structural elements. The traditional market at Souq offers various products, such as spices, and visits to the other attractions. There are various restaurants that provide traditional Qatari dining and worldwide food options. This market combines traditional traditions with modern elements.
Location
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Souq Waqif is located in the heart of Doha, Qatar, near the city’s Corniche. It is just a short distance from major landmarks like the Museum of Islamic Art and the National Museum of Qatar. This vibrant marketplace is easily accessible from Hamad International Airport, making it a must-visit for travellers. With its prime location, it serves as a cultural and commercial hub, offering an authentic taste of Qatari heritage.
How To Reach
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: This destination is about 14 km from Hamad International Airport (HIA). Visitors can take a taxi, ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem, or use the Doha Metro (Red Line to Msheireb Station) to reach the market in 15 – 20 minutes.
By Road: Public buses operated by Mowasalat (Karwa) connect various parts of Doha to this place. The nearest bus stops are at Al Ghanim Bus Station, a short walk from the Souq.
By Rail: The nearest station is Souq Waqif metro station on the Gold Line, providing direct and convenient access to the market. Visitors can also transfer from the Red and Green Lines at Msheireb Station, which is just one stop away.
Places To Visit In And Around Souq Waqif
Here are the various tourist attractions where tourists can have extensive and memorable experiences during their trip:
1. The Golden Thumb Statue
Photo: bernswaelz / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Golden Thumb Statue, also known as Le Pouce, reaches 5 meters in height with its bronze material. French artist César Baldaccini built this sculpture as a work that celebrates hand skills and brings fortune to people. Visitors utilise Le Pouce, along with its gold plating, as a primary destination for photography. The Golden Thumb Statue stands out because it resides within the busy marketplace, which enhances its cultural appeal.
Timings: 24*7
Ideal Trip Duration: 10 – 15 minutes
2. Souq Waqif Park
Photo: Nancy Bourque / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Visitors can find the peaceful park, a natural place to visit in this area. It offers a refuge from the active market environment. The gardens, well-paced walking paths and skyline sightlines of Doha make this spot ideal for relaxing, doing picnic activities, and taking pictures. The park is an ideal destination for families, couples, and single explorers who want natural tranquillity with all the cultural attractions of the city centre.
Timings: 24*7
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
3. Museum Of Islamic Art
Photo: لا روسا / Wikimedia Commons
The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) is the architectural masterpiece located between Souq Waqif and the Doha Corniche area. It displays a broad collection of Islamic artefacts moving from all corners of the world. Its exhibits include ceramics, manuscripts, textiles, and jewellery. Visitors to the museum can admire Doha’s skyline, scenic park, and waterfront promenade. The museum features interesting exhibits alongside its calm atmosphere, where people can eat at restaurants and cafés.
Timings: Saturday to Thursday: 9 AM – 7 PM, Friday: 1:30 PM – 7 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
4. Old Well
Photo: ddzphoto / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Old Well is a historic secret, showcasing Qatar’s cultural heritage. Traditional stone buildings in this historical area give people a view of the water sources that once supplied Doha’s inhabitants. People commonly visit the Old Well to see its historical importance and capture images. The well exists as a peaceful attraction that enhances both the Souq’s traditional aesthetic and historic atmosphere.
Timings: 24*7
Ideal Trip Duration: 10 – 15 minutes
5. Emiri Stables
Photo: karsten_madsen / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Emiri Stables is a must-place for local horse and culture enthusiasts to visit. The stables display Qatar’s extensive Arabian horse heritage by showcasing magnificent Arab horses. Visitors can view the professionally cared for horses and explore traditional horse breeding practices while having opportunities to meet and admire them in person. Visitors seeking peace can find the stable complex inside the marketplace for a worthwhile experience.
Timings: 7 AM – 10 AM, 4 PM – 7 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 – 45 minutes
Where To Stay
Photo: StuBaileyPhoto / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Travellers can book rooms at the Boutique Hotels by Tivoli. This combines traditional Qatari guest traditions with modern luxury through their collection of luxurious facilities. The hotels inside the Souq enable visitors to explore all areas of the vibrant market readily. The Park Hyatt Doha, together with Mandarin Oriental Doha, offer luxurious offerings to visitors at their locations within the Msheireb Downtown neighbourhood. Travelling on a budget can discover relaxing lodging opportunities in Al Sadd. These remain conveniently accessible through public transportation or taxi services.
Where To Eat
Photo: Miansari66 / Wikimedia Commons
The dining options could be added to the various places to visit, which combine local and international culinary delights. The traditional Al Jasra Traditional Food and Shay Al Shamoos have gained recognition for their homemade authentic Qatari cuisine. The best fresh grilled seafood is available at Al Bandar Fish Market. Food lovers can experience Persian dining at Parisa and taste the flavourful Syrian dishes at Damasca One. People can choose between the shawarma from Abo Shariha and Moroccan tea from Argan for casual munching.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
The most enjoyable experience of visiting places for a Souq Waqif trip occurs during the late afternoon and evening hours. At this time, the market transforms into a spectacular scene with busy crowds and lively street performers alongside glowingly lit walkways. November through March presents the perfect time frame. This is because Qatar maintains pleasant winter conditions that ease walking through the market. Many shops here open in the late afternoon (around 4 PM) after a midday break, making the morning visit less engaging. Evenings are indeed the best time to visit.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Arwcheek / Wikimedia Commons
- Cash and cards are accepted, but small vendors may prefer cash.
- Bargaining is common in souvenir shops, thus, negotiate politely.
- Respect local customs by dressing modestly.
- Ask permission before taking pictures of locals.
- Use public transport including taxis, and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem, making access easy.
Visitors experience everything that defines Qatari culture while enjoying modern features at Souq Waqif. The Souq delights its guests with a combination of historic alleyways and cultural landmarks with vibrant market sections. Guests can access this location with various dining services, shopping opportunities and lodging facilities. Plan your trip with TripXL for unique and memorable experiences here.
Cover Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
