Here are the key highlights of Doha’s history:

Doha, the capital city of Qatar, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Here is a brief overview of its history:

Ancient History: The area that is now Doha has been inhabited since ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that the region was settled as early as the 3rd millennium BCE. The area was known for its fishing and pearling activities, and it served as an important trading port in the Persian Gulf.

Islamic Era: In the 7th century CE, Qatar came under the influence of Islam, which is still the predominant religion today. It was during this time that the region became part of the Islamic Caliphate and the local population converted to Islam. Qatar faced various invasions and conflicts during the Islamic era, including attacks by the Portuguese in the 16th century.

Ottoman Rule: In the 19th century, Qatar came under the control of the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans established their presence in the region and appointed local rulers as governors of Qatar. However, the Ottomans had limited control over the area, and Qatar remained relatively autonomous.

Al Thani Rule: The Al Thani family, the ruling family of Qatar, emerged as a prominent political force in the 19th century. Sheikh Mohammed bin Thani, a member of the Al Thani family, became the ruler of Qatar in 1850 and formed the basis of the modern Qatari state. His descendants continued to rule Qatar, with Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani playing a crucial role in unifying the tribes of Qatar.

British Protectorate: In the early 20th century, Qatar entered into a treaty with the British Empire, establishing it as a British protectorate. This treaty ensured British protection for Qatar in exchange for control over its foreign affairs. The British influence continued until Qatar gained independence in 1971.

Modern Development: After gaining independence, Qatar experienced rapid development and modernization. The discovery of oil and natural gas reserves in the mid–20th century transformed the country‘s economy and brought significant wealth. Doha, as the capital, became the center of economic, political, and cultural activities in Qatar destination.

Today, Doha is known for its modern skyline, luxurious shopping malls, and cultural landmarks like the Museum of Islamic Art and the Souq Waqif. It continues to evolve as Qatar strives to diversify its economy and further develop its infrastructure.

Here are the top tourist attractions in Doha:

1. **Souq Waqif** Description: Souq Waqif is a vibrant traditional market in Doha, offering visitors a unique shopping experience with its narrow alleyways, bustling stalls, and traditional Qatari architecture. It is a great place to buy spices, textiles, handicrafts, and enjoy authentic Qatari cuisine. Hours: Open daily, 24 hours Cost: Free admission Address: Al Souq St, Doha, Qatar Phone: +974 4433 6444 Website: https://www.souq-waqif-doha.com/

2. **The Museum of Islamic Art** Description: A world-class museum showcasing Islamic art from various periods and regions. The museum‘s collection includes calligraphy, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and manuscripts. The stunning architecture and waterfront location make it a must–visit attraction in Doha. Hours: Sunday to Thursday (9:00 AM – 7:00 PM), Friday (1:30 PM – 7:00 PM), Saturday (9:00 AM – 7:00 PM) Cost: Free admission (some special exhibitions may have an entry fee) Address: Corniche Street, Doha, Qatar Phone: +974 4422 4444 Website: https://www.mia.org.qa/

3. **Katara Cultural Village** Description: Katara Cultural Village is a cultural hub that celebrates Qatar‘s heritage and hosts various events, exhibitions, and performances. Visitors can explore art galleries, attend concerts, enjoy international cuisines, and relax on the beach. The village also features an amphitheater and a mosque. Hours: Open daily, timings vary for different establishments Cost: Free admission (some events may have ticket fees) Address: West Bay, Doha, Qatar Phone: +974 4408 0000 Website: https://www.katara.net/

4. **The Pearl-Qatar** Description: The Pearl-Qatar is an artificial island and a luxurious residential and entertainment district. It offers a stunning waterfront promenade with upscale shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can enjoy marina views, take a boat ride, or simply relax by the beach. Hours: Open daily, timings vary for different establishments Cost: Free admission Address: The Pearl-Qatar, Doha, Qatar Phone: +974 4036 0000 Website: https://www.thepearlqatar.com/

5. **Aspire Park** Description: Aspire Park is a beautiful green space in Doha, perfect for picnics, jogging, or leisurely walks. It features lush gardens, playgrounds, a lake, and a 3-kilometer track for jogging or cycling. The park offers a peaceful escape from the city‘s hustle and bustle. Hours: Open daily, 24 hours Cost: Free admission Address: Aspire Zone, Al Waab Street, Doha, Qatar Phone: +974 4413 4999 Website: https://www.aspirezone.qa/

6. **National Museum of Qatar** Description: The National Museum of Qatar is a striking architectural masterpiece that showcases Qatar‘s history and culture. The museum‘s exhibits take visitors on a journey through the country‘s past, present, and future, highlighting its natural heritage, traditions, and achievements. Hours: Sunday to Thursday (9:00 AM – 7:00 PM), Friday (1:30 PM – 7:00 PM), Saturday (9:00 AM – 7:00 PM) Cost: QAR 50 (adults), QAR 25 (students), free for children under 16 Address: Museum Park Street, Doha, Qatar Phone: +974 4452 5555 Website: https://www.qm.org.qa/

7. **Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum** Description: The Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum is a private collection showcasing Islamic art, Qatari heritage, vintage cars, and artifacts from around the world. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the country‘s history and the collector‘s passion for preserving cultural treasures. Hours: Saturday to Thursday (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM), Friday (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM) Cost: QAR 50 (adults), QAR 25 (students), free for children under 16 Address: Al Samriya, Doha, Qatar Phone: +974 4486 1444 Website: https://fbqmuseum.org/

8. **Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art** Description: Mathaf is the first museum in the Arab world dedicated to modern and contemporary art. It features a diverse collection of artworks from the Arab world and beyond, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and installations. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs. Hours: Sunday to Thursday (11:00 AM – 6:00 PM), Friday (3:00 PM – 8:00 PM), Saturday (11:00 AM – 6:00 PM) Cost: QAR 25 (adults), free for students and children under 16 Address: Education City, Doha, Qatar Phone: +974 4402 8855 Website: https://www.mathaf.org.qa/

9. **Doha Corniche** Description: Doha Corniche is a picturesque waterfront promenade stretching along Doha Bay. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, walk or cycle along the promenade, and relax in the numerous parks and cafes. The Corniche is a popular spot for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls. Hours: Open daily, 24 hours Cost: Free admission Address: Corniche Street, Doha, Qatar

10. **Aspire Tower** Description: Aspire Tower, also known as the Torch Doha, is a prominent landmark and the tallest building in Qatar. While it primarily serves as a hotel, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Doha from its observation deck and dine at the revolving restaurant on the top floor. Hours: Observation deck – Sunday to Thursday (2:00 PM – 9:00 PM), Friday and Saturday (12:00 PM – 9:00 PM) Cost: QAR 35 (adults), QAR 25 (children) Address: Aspire Zone, Al Waab Street, Doha, Qatar Phone: +974 4413 4999 Website: https://www.aspirezone.qa/

Top Day Trips from Doha:

1. Al Zubarah Archaeological Site: – Distance from Doha: Approximately 105 km (65 miles) – Transportation: Private car or taxi – Cost of Admission: QAR 25 per person – Hours of Operation: Saturday to Thursday (8:00 AM – 6:00 PM), Friday (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM) – Address: Al Zubarah, Qatar – Telephone Number: +974 4470 4918 – Website: https://www.qm.org.qa/en/project/al-zubarah

2. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum: – Distance from Doha: Approximately 34 km (21 miles) – Transportation: Private car or taxi – Cost of Admission: QAR 50 per person – Hours of Operation: Saturday to Thursday (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM), Friday (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM) – Address: Al Samriya, Qatar – Telephone Number: +974 4486 1444 – Website: https://fbqmuseum.org

3. Sealine Beach Resort: – Distance from Doha: Approximately 50 km (31 miles) – Transportation: Private car or taxi – Cost of Admission: QAR 100 per person (beach access) – Hours of Operation: Open daily (24 hours) – Address: Mesaieed, Qatar – Telephone Number: +974 4476 5299 – Website: https://sealinebeachqatar.com

4. Katara Cultural Village: – Distance from Doha: Approximately 15 km (9 miles) – Transportation: Private car, taxi, or Doha Metro (Katara Cultural Village station) – Cost of Admission: Free (some attractions may have separate fees) – Hours of Operation: Open daily (24 hours, individual attractions may have specific operating hours) – Address: West Bay, Doha, Qatar – Telephone Number: +974 4408 0000 – Website: https://www.katara.net

5. Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid): – Distance from Doha: Approximately 85 km (53 miles) – Transportation: 4x4 vehicle (preferably with a driver experienced in desert driving) – Cost of Admission: N/A – Hours of Operation: Open daily (accessible throughout the day) – Address: Southern Qatar – Telephone Number: N/A – Website: N/A

Here are the main types of transportation in Doha:

1. Bus: Marbella has a well-connected bus network operated by Avanza. The cost for a single journey is around €1.18 – €1.32. Buses generally operate from 6:30 am to 11:30 pm. You can find more information on routes, schedules, and fares on the official website: https://www.avanzabus.com/

2. Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Marbella and can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi ranks. The cost varies based on distance and time, but the initial fare is around €3.25 – €3.90. Taxis operate 24/7. For more information, you can visit the official website:  https://www.marbellataxis.com/

3. Car Rental: Marbella offers various car rental services, allowing visitors to explore the area at their own convenience. Prices vary depending on the rental company, type of car, and duration. Some popular car rental companies in Marbella include Hertz, Avis, and Europcar. You can find more information on their respective websites.

4. Bicycle: Marbella has a bike-sharing system called “Marbella By Bike,” which allows users to rent bicycles for short periods. The cost is around €1.50 per hour. Bicycles can be rented from various stations throughout the city. For more information, you can visit the official website: Marbella Rent a Bike

5. Ferry: Ferries run regularly from Porto Banus to the Old Town port in Marbella. You can just walk to either dock for regular service. https://downtownmarbella.com/listing/fly-blue-ferry-marbella/

Websites prices, and schedules are subject to change, so it is recommended to check first with each respective operator. 

The major airports near Doha are: 

1. Hamad International Airport (DOH). Distance from Doha city center: Approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles). Website: https://dohahamadairport.com 

– Transportation options:

– Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport. The cost of a taxi ride to the city center is around 40–60 QAR ($11–16 USD).

– Doha Metro: The Red Line of the Doha Metro connects the airport to various locations in the city. The cost of a metro ride depends on the distance traveled, but typically ranges from 2–10 QAR ($0.55–2.75 USD).

– Bus:  Mowasalat operates public buses that connect the airport to different parts of Doha. The cost of a bus ticket is around 3–10 QAR ($0.82–2.75 USD). – Hours of operation: The airport operates 24/7.

2. Doha International Airport (closed) – This airport is no longer in operation. Hamad International Airport replaced it as the main airport in Doha.  

**Ride-sharing Services** Uber, Lyft, 24 mins average wait, £10-£15 to city center. Uber: https://www.uber.com/ or Lyft: https://www.lyft.com/

Please note that the costs mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on factors such as time of travel, number of passengers, and luggage. It is always recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

The currency in Doha, Qatar is the Qatari riyal (QAR). The symbol for the Qatari riyal is ﷼. The denominations of Qatari riyal bills are as follows:

– 1 riyal

– 5 riyals

– 10 riyals

– 50 riyals

– 100 riyals

– 500 riyals

– 1000 riyals

The denominations of Qatari riyal coins are as follows:

– 1 dirham

– 5 dirhams

– 10 dirhams

– 25 dirhams

– 50 dirhams

– 1 riyal

Qatar has a desert climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Here are some tips on how to pack for a trip to Qatar:

1. Clothing: Lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing is essential to cope with the heat. Pack light-colored and loose clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Women should carry a scarf or shawl to cover their shoulders when visiting religious sites.

2. Footwear: Comfortable and breathable shoes are a must, especially if you plan on exploring the city or visiting outdoor attractions. Sandals or open-toed shoes are suitable for most occasions, but closed-toe shoes may be preferable for desert excursions.

3. Sun Protection: Qatar experiences intense sunlight, so pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun‘s rays.

4. Layers for Air Conditioning: Qatar is known for its air-conditioned interiors, so it‘s a good idea to carry a light sweater or jacket for indoor spaces that may be cooler than the outdoor temperature.

5. Swimwear: If you plan on visiting Qatar‘s beautiful beaches or staying at a hotel with a pool, don‘t forget to pack your swimwear.

6. Respectful Attire: While Qatar is a modern country, it is still important to dress modestly and respect local customs. Avoid clothing that is too revealing or offensive to local sensibilities.

7. Toiletries: It‘s recommended to pack personal toiletries, including insect repellent, as per your preferences and needs.

Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip to ensure you are adequately prepared.