Why Doha is a great idea for a short break
Doha is not just the capital of Qatar; it is a city of contrasts, where ultra-modern skyscrapers coexist with alleys where spices have been traded for centuries. It is certainly not overrun by tourist crowds, especially in the low season, when no major events are taking place.
For Ukrainians now living in Europe, Doha can be an unexpected find: visa-free entry, direct flights from many cities and the chance to see a completely different world in a single weekend. It is a city that does not require weeks to explore: you can get a feel for it in two or three days, but it will stay in your memory for a long time.
Visa information: simpler than it seems
Good news for Ukrainian travellers: in 2017 Qatar waived visa requirements for Ukrainian citizens. This means you can enjoy your trip without extra costs or bureaucracy.
What you need to know about the visa-free regime:
Length of stay: Ukrainian citizens may stay in Qatar for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, more than enough for a short trip.
Entry requirements are standard, as for most countries:
- A passport valid for at least six months after the date of entry
- Proof of a return or onward flight
- Proof of accommodation booking
Important: Although medical insurance is not mandatory, it is recommended to cover possible emergencies during your trip.
On arrival at Hamad International Airport you simply go through passport control: the visa is stamped into your passport free of charge. The process usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes if there are no queues.
Getting there: routes from Europe
Qatar Airways, the country’s national carrier, operates passenger flights to 49 European airports, which makes Doha extremely accessible from most European cities. Doha is also a hub for many other airlines.
Direct flights from the main hubs:
From major cities: London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Munich, Rome and Zurich all have regular direct flights to Doha. Flight time is 6 to 7 hours.
A weekend in Doha: must-see and must-do
Saturday: cultural immersion
Morning: Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)
Start the day at the Museum of Islamic Art, one of the finest museums of Islamic art in the world. The museum building, designed by I.M. Pei, is itself an architectural masterpiece. The collection spans 1,400 years of history from three continents, from metalwork to ceramics, jewellery and textiles.
Admission is free, and the museum is open Saturday to Thursday from 9:00 to 19:00 and on Friday from 13:30 to 19:00.
Afternoon: Souq Waqif, the heart of old Doha
Souq Waqif is a traditional market with eateries and a bird market offering a variety of birds, turtles and rabbits. It is a place where you can lose track of time wandering the narrow alleys, admiring carpets, spices, perfumes and souvenirs.
Evening: The Corniche and sunset
Take a walk along the 7-kilometre waterfront, the so-called “Corniche”, where Doha shows itself in its best light. On one side is the Gulf, on the other the city’s futuristic skyline. At sunset the place takes on a special magic.
Sunday: modernity and adventure
Morning: Katara Cultural Village
Katara is a cultural village with occasional small exhibitions and shows. It is home to the Golden Mosque, an amphitheatre and numerous galleries. Katara is also known for its air-conditioned street, especially pleasant in the hot months.
Afternoon: The Pearl Qatar
The Pearl is an artificial island with a Mediterranean atmosphere. The Qanat Quartier district resembles Venice, with canals and pastel-coloured houses. It is home to boutiques, restaurants and a marina with luxury yachts.
Later in the day: desert safari
Another unique experience the city can offer is a trip into the desert. A desert safari includes quad biking, camel rides and dune bashing. Most tours last 4-5 hours and cost from $50 to $100 per person. If you have time, choose an evening tour with sunset: the views are incredible.
More ideas for the active:
Education City and Torba Market: At weekends the Torba farmers’ market operates here, offering coffee, food and fresh produce from local businesses. It is a popular spot among Qataris and a good way to dip into local life.
Gewan Island: One of Doha’s newest districts, opened in late 2024, known for its beautiful shading, air conditioning and flooring with crystal installations.
Lusail: A futuristic city north of Doha that hosted the final of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. It has a modern waterfront, a boulevard with shops and numerous art installations.
Where to eat: from street food to Michelin
Doha is a gastronomic paradise where Arab, Persian, Indian and world cuisines meet.
Budget options (under $10):
Souq Waqif: Here you will find stuffed pitas for 3 to 6 Qatari riyals ($1.25-$2.50), filled with falafel, eggs, ful (fava beans), hummus and grilled vegetables.
Turkey Central: A mixed grill or kebab will cost around 25 riyals, and a chicken shawarma just 5 riyals.
Karak Chai: Qatar’s national drink, a sweet milky tea with cardamom, available everywhere for 2 riyals (less than $1).
Mid-range ($15-30):
Layali: One of Doha’s best Lebanese restaurants, with excellent value for money.
Market by Jean-Georges: A stylish high-end restaurant inside the W Doha hotel, known for simple yet refined international dishes.
Premium ($50+):
IDAM by Alain Ducasse: Located on the roof of the Museum of Islamic Art, IDAM excels in everything: food, creativity, service and atmosphere. French-Arabic cuisine from a world-class chef.
Nobu Doha: Legendary Japanese cuisine with views of the Arabian Gulf at the Four Seasons hotel.
Morimoto Doha: Here food becomes an experience of luxury and flavour, from sushi and lobster risotto to wagyu fillet.
Getting around: transport in Doha
The Doha Metro is your best friend
The Doha Metro is a blessing, with incredibly low fares: a single journey costs just 2 riyals (even to and from the airport), capped at 6 riyals per day.
How to use it:
- Buy a standard Qatar Railcard for 10 riyals
- Top it up in increments of 5 riyals
- Enjoy clean, air-conditioned and fast transport
The metro has three lines (Red, Green and Gold) connecting the airport, West Bay, Education City and other key areas.
Weekend budget: how much money do you need?
Let’s look at three scenarios for two days in Doha (excluding airfare):
Economy mode: $120-150 per day
- Accommodation: budget hotel or hostel ($50-70/night)
- Food: street eateries and local cafes ($20-30/day)
- Transport: metro and walking ($5/day)
- Entertainment: free museums, walks ($0-20/day)
Mid-range comfort: $200-300 per day
- Accommodation: 4-star hotel ($80-120/night)
- Food: a mix of local eateries and good restaurants ($50-70/day)
- Transport: metro + occasional Uber ($15-20/day)
- Entertainment: desert safari, paid museums ($50-100/day)
Luxury: $500+ per day
- Accommodation: 5-star hotel ($250-400/night)
- Food: premium restaurants ($150-200/day)
- Transport: private driver or premium car rental ($80-100/day)
- Entertainment: private tours, spa, beach clubs ($150-200/day)
Practical tips
Climate and clothing
- Winter (November-March): Temperatures of 15-24°C, ideal for walking. Bring a light sweater for the evenings.
- Summer (June-August): Extreme heat of 35-45°C. Although hotels are cheaper, daytime walks are almost impossible.
Dress code
Qatar is a Muslim country, but Doha is cosmopolitan. In public places it is recommended to cover shoulders and knees. There is more freedom on beaches and in hotels.
Currency
The official currency is the Qatari riyal (QAR), pegged to the dollar (1 USD ≈ 3.64 QAR). Credit cards are accepted everywhere, but keep some cash for street markets.
Alcohol
Alcohol is sold only in licensed hotels and restaurants, and it is expensive ($15-20 per cocktail). Most tourists focus on local non-alcoholic drinks such as karak tea and fresh juices.
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes and shopping malls. The metro also has free internet.
Why go right now?
Doha is going through a cultural renaissance. After successfully hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the city continues to develop, opening new districts, museums and cultural spaces. New districts have been built even in the last few years, and the infrastructure keeps improving.
For Ukrainians this is especially interesting: a chance to see the Arab world in its most modern form, enjoy a warm welcome (Qataris are very hospitable to tourists) and come away with incredible impressions for relatively affordable money.
Photo source for this article: Envato Photos
