Doha is the vibrant capital of Qatar, which is situated on the Persian Gulf. It is known for its luxurious skylines, ultramodern architecture, beautiful traditions, and impressive culture. With its booming economy, thriving tourism industry, and world-class attractions, Doha has become one of the most sought-after destinations in the Middle East. In this text, we will explore the history and culture of Doha and discover why it has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region.
Getting to Know Doha
Doha is the capital of Qatar, located on its east coast. Its population at the end of 2019 was estimated to be 2.7 million, making it the second most populous city in the country after the greater metropolitan area of Al Rayyan.
Doha's time zone is UTC/GMT+3, Qatar Standard Time.
The official language of Doha is Arabic, although English is widely spoken and is the second language, followed by Hindi and Urdu.
The currency used in Doha is the Qatari Riyal or QAR.
Climate and Weather
The climate of Doha, Qatar can be typically classified as hot desert climate. During the summer months, temperatures are usually over 38° C (100° F) and humidity levels can be quite high due to the lack of rainfall. There is very little rain throughout the year, resulting in dry and arid conditions. The highest temperature ever recorded in Doha reached 48° C (118° F) in summer of 2017. The mildest time of the year usually occurs in winter months, when temperatures usually remain around 20° C (68° F). The annual rainfall in Doha is very low, averaging only 31 mm (1.2 inches). This makes it possibly the driest capital city in the world.
Touring Doha: Airport and Transportation
There are two airports in Doha, Qatar: the Hamad International Airport (HIA) and the Doha International Airport (DIA). The Hamad International Airport is the main hub and the largest airport in Qatar.
You can get from the main airport (HIA) to downtown in Doha via taxi or car. The cost of a taxi from the airport to downtown Doha is approximately 75 QR ($20.60), not including tips.
You can exchange money at Doha airport at the money exchange booths inside the terminals.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Doha
- Doha is known for its rich heritage and culture, with famous landmarks such as the iconic Towers of Doha and the extensive Souq Waqif.
- Traditional activities such as fishing, pearl diving and falconry still remain popular and make Doha a great place to discover traditional culture
- Doha is home to a number of world-renowned cultural venues including a number of museums, educational institutions, and sanctuaries as well as several popular markets