Today grants you the opportunity to explore the city at your own pace, affording you the freedom to embark on a personal voyage of discovery. For those seeking a deeper cultural immersion, consider the optional Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) Tour, an insightful two-hour experience. The MIA, with its striking cubistic pyramid structure, majestically emerges from the creamy turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf. Here, visitors can marvel at the harmonious coexistence of a puritanical Islamic absolute monarchy, deeply rooted in tradition, while simultaneously embracing the tenets of modernity, evolving into a prominent Middle Eastern entity.
Should you yearn for a leisurely maritime encounter, the optional Dhow Cruise with a corniche stroll awaits, also spanning a delightful two-hour duration. The dhow, once a venerable wooden sailing vessel used by merchants, has now been upgraded with contemporary amenities to ensure the utmost comfort for its passengers. As the sun approaches the horizon in Doha, the hour beckons for a traditional Qatari sailing boat, the "dhow," to grace the teal waters of the Arabian Gulf. These vessels, once the vessels of choice for merchants and fishermen, provide an enchanting sunset cruise, an ode to Qatar's maritime history.
For those with an inclination towards exploring the rich tapestry of Qatar's heritage, the optional Heritage Market Tour – Souq Waqif Tour is a captivating choice, requiring two hours of your time. Souq Waqif, meaning the "standing market," is a vibrant testament to history. Within its labyrinthine streets, one can discover the Falcon Souq, Spice Souq, Pet Souq, Gold Souq, Handicraft Souq, and Art Gallery, each highlighting a unique facet of traditional commerce. Bedouins and locals, across generations, would gather on either side of the river to barter an array of goods, from fragrant spices to sturdy timber.
Alternatively, the optional National Museum of Qatar, also a two-hour excursion, provides a window into the nation's compelling narrative, spanning from its earliest origins to the contemporary era, and projecting towards a promising future. The museum's narrative unfolds across three distinctive "chapters" — Beginnings, Life in Qatar, and The Modern History of Qatar, each conveyed through eleven distinct galleries. This singular edifice harmoniously integrates with the painstakingly restored Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al-Thani, yielding a truly unique cultural experience. Following a day filled with exploration, your evening shall be spent in repose at your hotel in Doha. Tour Schedule – Afternoon Sun, Mon, Wed, Thu & Sat.
