Qatar - Heritage, Innovation, Luxury
by: BTM - Sat, 01 Mar 2025
When Bahrain This Month’s Chairman and Publisher, George Middleton, visited Qatar as a guest of Visit Qatar, he discovered that while its glittering skyline and global influence are well known, the true essence of the country lies in the seamless coexistence of heritage, innovation and luxury.
Where Past Meets Future
Few destinations capture the balance between history and progress as effortlessly as Doha. The Souq Waqif, a centuries-old marketplace, transports visitors to a bygone era. Here, the scent of spices fills the air as traders sell gold, perfumes and textiles much as they have for generations. Wandering its narrow alleys, one gets a sense of Qatar’s deep-rooted heritage, unspoiled by time.Yet just minutes away, Msheireb Downtown presents a strikingly different vision. As one of the world’s most sustainable smart cities, it combines heritage-inspired architecture with cutting-edge technology, featuring solar-powered trams, energy-efficient buildings and a pedestrian-friendly design that reflects Qatar’s vision for the future.
The contrast continues at the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ), an architectural masterpiece designed by Jean Nouvel to resemble a desert rose. Inside, the immersive exhibitions trace Qatar’s evolution from its Bedouin roots to its emergence as a leader in energy, finance and culture. Through multimedia storytelling and interactive displays, the museum offers an in-depth look at the country’s past, present and aspirations for the future.
The Desert’s Untamed Beauty
Beyond the city, Qatar’s vast desert landscape offers an entirely different kind of spectacle. The Sealine Beach area, south of Doha, is a gateway to one of the most breath-taking desert experiences in the world. For thrill-seekers, dune bashing in oversized Monster Buses delivers an adrenaline rush as drivers navigate towering sand dunes with gravity-defying skill. For a slower, more immersive experience, camel rides provide a glimpse into Qatar’s nomadic past, allowing visitors to experience the desert as travellers did centuries ago.At the Visit Qatar Camp, the desert transforms into a cultural festival. Guests can witness traditional calligraphy, participate in a vibrant kite festival or enjoy a horse-riding demonstration. The evening culminates with a culinary competition, where chefs showcase the best of Qatari cuisine under the open sky. As night falls, a fireworks display illuminates the dunes, creating a scene as magical as it is unforgettable.
A Culinary Destination Like No Other
In a country that embraces luxury, it is no surprise that Qatar’s gastronomic scene is world-class. Whether indulging in authentic Middle Eastern fare or dining at Michelin-starred establishments, visitors are spoilt for choice.A standout experience was Carbone, a restaurant that brings old-school Italian-American charm to Doha. Famed for its spicy rigatoni, veal parmesan and decadent tiramisu, Carbone offers an upscale yet nostalgic dining experience reminiscent of 1950s New York.Meanwhile, Qinwan Café, nestled in Msheireb Downtown, offers a refined take on Qatari tradition. The café celebrates the country’s rich history of date cultivation, serving artisanal date-infused pastries paired with perfectly brewed Arabic coffee. It is the ideal place to pause and savour the moment amid the city’s energy.For those seeking a true taste of Qatari hospitality, a majlis dining experience is a must. The majlis, a traditional gathering space, is where locals share stories over generous servings of machboos (spiced rice with meat), madrouba (creamy rice porridge) and an endless supply of fragrant karak tea.
A Global Sporting Powerhouse
Qatar’s passion for sports is undeniable. With its state-of-the-art infrastructure and bold vision, the country has rapidly positioned itself as a global leader in athletics. The FIFA World Cup 2022 was just the beginning of Qatar’s ambitious sporting future.At the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, visitors embark on an interactive journey through the history of global sports, Qatar’s sporting milestones and the science behind elite performance. Located within the Aspire Zone, the museum reflects Qatar’s commitment to athletic excellence.Nearby, the Khalifa International Stadium stands as a symbol of Qatar’s sporting prowess. With cutting-edge cooling technology and world-class facilities, it is a venue designed to host the world’s biggest sporting events. As Qatar continues to invest in international tournaments, it cements its status as a sporting powerhouse.
A Destination Redefining Luxury Travel
Qatar is a country of contrasts – whether that’s ancient traditions coexisting with futuristic innovations, vast desert landscapes meeting towering cityscapes or golden sand dunes giving way to opulent shopping malls.More than just a stopover, Qatar is a destination in its own right. Whether visiting for culture, adventure, gastronomy or sport, one thing is certain: Qatar is a country that never fails to impress.
Digital Edition
Bahrain This Month
April 2025
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