Given that Doha was little more than an oasis in the desert less than a century ago, the city is a little short on major tourist sites. The location on the balmy shores of the Arabian Gulf is perhaps its greatest attraction, which can best be appreciated by taking a stroll along the Corniche, the sweeping boulevard that skirts the waterfront.

There are a sprinkling of more cerebral tourist attractions including Doha Fort, the Ethnographic Museum and Qatar National Museum. For sheer relaxation Palm Tree Island, with its beaches and fun rides, is popular with local families and visiting tourists. More modern attractions include the jungle of impressive skyscrapers that are springing up all over the city as it follows Dubai's blueprint for development.

Outside of the city there are a number of day trips, which those visitors staying more than a couple of days tend to opt for. These include dune-bashing trips around the sweeping desert sands or cruises on traditional wooden dhows that take passengers on a trip back through time.

Qatar Tourist Authority
PO Box 24624
Tel: 441 1555.
Website: www.experienceqatar.com