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Doha tours and excursions

Doha tours

Desert safari

Travel Designer offer everything from dhow cruises and beach activities to visits to the Inland Sea. Escape the city and journey into the empty desert, careering up and down the sand dunes in specially modified 4-wheel drives. Some of the dunes are up to 150m (492ft) high, and after the white-knuckle dune bashing, the pace slows with a visit to Khor Al-Adaid (the Inland sea).

Tel: +974 7701 4840
Website: http://www.traveldesigner.qa

City Tours

Qatar International Tours run various tours of the city, taking in sights such as the Islamic Art Museum, Gold Souq and Souq Waqif. Their trips offer the chance to explore craft shops on foot and includes a drive to the Katara Centre and exclusive man-made island of Pearl Qatar.

Qatar International Tours

Tel: +974 4455 1141
Website: http://www.qittour.com

Doha excursions

Al Shahaniya Camel Racetrack

One of the most popular forms of Qatari entertainment lies 30 minutes from Doha: camel racing, known as the 'sport of the sheiks'. Racing begins in October, with the main dates in April and May, but camels are trained each morning and visitors can watch them practice. It offers a casual, fun day out and opportunity to take some great photos.

Tel: +974 4487 2028.

Overnight Desert Excursion

Those looking to see a completely different side of Doha can take an overnight desert excursion and escape the city. This daily tour starts with a drive over the dunes with experienced drivers and ends with a night under the stars in the desert. The tour includes water and soft drinks, BBQ dinner and an Arabic breakfast, and requires a minimum of six people.

Tel: +974 4422 1888.
Website: http://www.gulf-adventures.com

A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

City Highlight: Doha

In Doha, going to the shopping malls is more than a hobby, it's a necessity. Read on to find out why.

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Featured Hotels

Sheraton Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

The self-styled 'Pyramid of the Gulf' boasts 353 rooms a large pool and a waterfront setting in the West Bay area of Doha. It opened way back in 1979 so has long been a Corniche landmark but in recent years has had a large-scale refurbishment and offer spacious rooms. The conference and incentive facilities are amongst the most impressive in Qatar.

Marsa Malaz Kempinski

A blend of Arabic and European architecture makes for an inviting stay at this chic hotel on The Pearl. It's so vast, guests could spend their whole holiday navigating its numerous restaurants and bars, luxury Clarins spa and beach. Guests will find all the frills in the way of butler and limousine services, if that's what they're looking for. It's also home to some eye-wateringly expensive suites.

W Doha

Those who are familiar with the W brand will know what to expect here – a little bit of Manhattan in the heart of the Middle East. It's well located and could just as feasibly be used by business travellers as well as trend-conscious urban socialites. The décor is sleek and modern and there are some quality dining and nightlife options.

Four Seasons Hotel Doha

The Four Seasons is a solid choice for a fly-and-flop few days, with a gently curving private beach and one of the best spas in Doha – across three storeys, no less. The pool areas are beautifully landscaped and there's a choice of seven restaurants and lounges. It's an upscale hotel with high-class service, opulent marble interiors and a surprisingly relaxed feel. Those with children are well catered for with a kids' club and family activities.

Meliã

Those who want to be in the mix will be more than happy with this Spanish-owned hotel. Guest rooms are contemporary and spacious, and the third-floor swimming pool offers a stylish spot to cool off and relax. The award-winning Signature restaurant by Sanjeev Kapoor is its best highlight. You can also try Aceite for cheery service and sangria on tap. This hotel offers guests special entrance fees for Katara Beach and Banana Island.

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels

This collection of nine buildings places you in the heart of Souq Waqif, offering a real taste of the Doha's historic side. The hotel has an alluring Arabesque style and boutique vibe and offers access to a range of facilities, including a luxury spa offering Arabic treatments (including a traditional hammam), eight restaurants and a rooftop pool. Other highlights include 11 room categories, valet parking and warm Qatari hospitality.

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