Qatar’s glamorous capital, Doha, has set its sights on becoming the Gulf’s most impressive city and we can see why. A perfect blend of authenticity and modernity, the city is packed with exhilarating experiences, fascinating cultural attractions, lively bars and clubs, and plenty of luxury. With so much variety on offer, Doha is a great destination for a spectacular holiday with your friends. If you’re tempted by the idea, this itinerary includes some top-rated ideas to help you plan a wicked stay with your favourite people.
Get lost in Souq Waqif
If you want to soak in Qatari culture, there’s no better place to do that than Souq Waqif. Built on an ancient market site, the area looks like it’s straight out of the 19th century and even boasts some exquisitely restored, original Qatari buildings. There’s so much to experience here that we’re sure your squad will have a hell of a time wandering through this atmospheric souk. Haggle for traditional souvenirs, sample tasty local treats, or take a selfie with a giant thumb, you’ll discover something new and exciting every time you visit this historic complex.
Ride the world’s tallest indoor roller coaster
A holiday with friends isn’t complete without a little adrenaline, which is why visiting Qatar’s first-ever theme park is on our list. Quest is a huge indoor theme park with over 30 different rides and attractions for families and friends to entertain themselves. Your friends will probably want to test their limits on the world’s tallest indoor roller coaster, EpiQ Coaster, or experience the tallest indoor drop tower, Magma Blast. With two rides claiming Guinness World Records, your group can’t possibly miss this wild attraction.
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Experience the thrill of dune bashing
Another fantastic group activity for you and your friends, you can choose from a variety of tours and packages that will take you on a desert safari, ending with dinner in the desert. Imagine climbing into a 4 x 4 with your friends and experiencing the utter thrill of speeding down giant dunes as sand whips past you. What a blast! Most tours will take you on a hair-raising excursion before ending up in a stunning spot, often close to the sea, where you can sit and enjoy a tasty meal at sunset. Make sure to do research and choose the option that best fits your group. One of the top-rated choices we’d recommend is Discover Qatar.
Go kitesurfing at Fuwairit Kite Beach
If you’re travelling with a bunch of adventure seekers or water sports enthusiasts, kitesurfing needs to be on your itinerary. It’s one of the top activities to do in Doha, which explains why the shores are always filled with colourful kites dancing in the wind. One of the best spots for kitesurfing around the city is Fuwairit Kite Beach, with its soft sandy beaches and calm open waters ideal for surfers of all levels. Plenty of other beaches in and around Doha offer kitesurfing experiences, as well as different companies providing lessons for beginners and kit hire for pros. We recommend checking out 365 Adventures or Fuwairit Kite Beach for the best experience.
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Sip cocktails on a rooftop
A group trip to Qatar definitely requires a trip to a bar or club, and Doha is filled with rooftop bars and live music venues, and even hosts plenty of ladies’ nights for girl gangs abroad. Popular amongst groups, Sky View is an atmospheric rooftop bar providing live entertainment and breathtaking panoramic views of Doha. The medium-sized venue is located in La Cigale Hotel and has an impressive bar area serving sophisticated cocktails. Sip on cocktails as the sun sets behind Doha’s skyline or dance the night away to lively DJ sets surrounded by your friends. Ladies’ Nights are on Tuesdays and if you fancy the latest Latin tunes, head there on a Monday night. Clubs and bars in Qatar are known to charge membership fees, so remember to factor the cost into your night out.
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*It’s important to remember that public consumption of alcohol is prohibited in Qatar. Alcohol is only available for purchase at venues inside hotels and resorts, so just make sure you stay inside your chosen venue whilst drinking.
Shop till you drop at Doha Festival City
Who doesn’t love a good shopping trip when visiting a destination with friends? Whether it’s a girls’ trip or a lads’ holiday, there’s something to do for everyone here. The impressive Doha Festival City complex is not just a shopping mall, it’s home to some of the most famous fashion brands as well as over 100 dining spots, a large cinema area and three entertainment parks. Pick up the latest fashion items in Harvey Nichols or Dior, catch a movie in Qatar’s first 4D cinema complex, dine at the iconic Bubba Gump Shrimp, or entertain yourselves in Angry Birds World – there’s no room for boredom here.
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If you’re planning your next group holiday or an epic getaway with friends, Doha should be on your list!
Upon arrival at Doha Airport, you and your friends will want to conveniently get to your resort or hotel. For a stress-free arrival, you can pre-book your Doha Airport transfer with Welcome Pickups and choose from a variety of different-sized vehicles for your group. Welcome’s trained English-speaking drivers will provide you with a personalised door-to-door transfer to your destination and even give you a mini tour, so you can get your friendcation off to an exciting start.
