Doha, Qatar
Souq (market) in Doha, in the state of Qatar
Souq Waqif, the old market in the heart of Doha, is the city's best-known and liveliest heritage site. The original buildings date from the late 19th or early 20th century, when the souq stood right on the shore so boats could reach it from Doha Bay, before Corniche reclamation pushed the coastline about 335 metres north. Its name, the standing market, is often explained by traders who sold standing up. In 2006 it was carefully restored to keep its original form, with mud and stone walls and roofs of mangrove poles and bamboo. Its maze of lanes sells everything: traditional clothing and fabrics, spices, incense, perfumes and oud, dates and sweets, handicrafts and silver, and birds and falcons, where some dealers let you hold and photograph a falcon. Nearby are the falcon hospital, the Arabian horse stables and the camel pen by Al Koot Fort. It is a place to eat too, with restaurants serving traditional Qatari dishes such as machboos, harees and thareed, alongside Middle Eastern and international food at tables in the lanes. During the 2022 World Cup it became a meeting point for fans from around the world.
Evening is best, when the lanes are lit and full of local families. Many shops close in the early afternoon and reopen later. Gentle bargaining is normal in craft and gift shops. Allow two to three hours for wandering and dinner. Combine it with Al Koot Fort, Al Najada and a walk on the nearby Corniche.
Hours and prices change — check before you go. Source: en.wikipedia.org
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AttractionDoha, Qatar
