There is no doubt that Qatar is made for every adventurous traveler. While it’s not yet safe to travel for everyone (it depends on your location and destination), you can always look for amazing places that you can add to your bucket list.
Qatar has its fair share of natural, captivating beauty, from pristine sandy beaches to huge sand dunes. It is also set to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, from November 21, 2022, to December 18, 2022. This is a remarkable occasion since this is the first-ever World Cup to take place in an Arab country. Excited to explore this beautiful country soon? Here are the top things you need to know first before booking that trip.
- Qatar is the world’s richest nation.
Qatar has been an independent emirate since the year 1971. It has substantial gas and oil reserves! At present, it is considered the world’s richest country. It is home to the entire globe’s 13% oil supply, and only has a population of 2.6 million people. See? Their wealth goes a long way!
- Traveling to Qatar may seem expensive, but it can also be affordable.
Michelin-star restaurants and luxurious hotels are a huge hit in Doha. Tons of tourists spend thousands of dollars just to stay at awesome hotels and dine like royals. Fortunately, Qatar offers brilliant options for budget adventurers, too. In December, at the beginning of the peak season, you can book a small hotel room or service apartment for as little as 60 USD. As for meals, you can allot $5 a day, if you’re willing to dine at food courts and budget restaurants.
- Several airlines fly to Qatar.
Qatar Airways is their national carrier. It links Doha to more than 160 international destinations. Lots of international carriers fly there, including Turkish Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Japan Airlines, British Airways, and Cathay Pacific.
- In Qatar, moving around is easy.
Karwa taxis are reasonably priced and widely available. Tourists can even order it through the Karwa app. Apart from that, you can hire a private car with the help of ride-sharing platforms like Uber and Careem. The capital also has a metro network composed of three lines – Gold, Green, and Red. It connects the city center to Hamad International Airport.
- Qatar is home to a thriving art scene.
Qatar is well-known for its art. This is something that wouldn’t change even after the pandemic. In fact, the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha is a must-visit. It is a beautifully-designed museum with a wide collection of ancient manuscripts, glassworks, textiles, ceramics, and of course, paintings. The Arab Museum of Modern Art is another gem that is located in Doha’s Education City. Both of these museums are connected through a shuttle service.
- Food options are varied.
Qatari cuisine takes huge inspiration from Iran and North Africa. One of the most popular ones you must try once you get there is Machboos. This is seafood, or stew of mutton served with yogurt. Most hotels also offer lots of international dishes. You can get more articles like this on Quikmaps website.