Things to do in Doha

Catch some high-brow culture

Home to the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, the Opera House is part of the Katara Cultural Village and hosts regular performances by overseas orchestras and opera singers (tel: +974 454 8185, www.katara.net) as well as occasional ballet productions. Renowned theatre company The Doha Players (various venues, tel: +974 5575 5102) will also guarantee an entertaining night. Book ahead.

Hang out at the golf course

If you catch the cooler times of day, there are plenty of opportunities to play a round of golf in Doha. The internationally recognised Doha Golf Club, run by The Intercontinental Hotel Group, has a nine-hole academy course, three restaurants and clubhouse. At the beginning of the year, the greens are used to host the Qatar Masters (tel: +974 4496 0777; www.dohagolfclub.com).

Learn to horse ride

The famous stables at Al Shaqab (tel: + 974 454 6320; www.alshaqab.com) have an academy that offers lessons and hacks for riders of all levels. Children aged six and above are welcome to ride, and a visit to Al Shaqab means you can also get a glimpse of the beautiful thoroughbred Arab stallions.

Sail away for a day

Head out on a traditional wooden dhow boat and sail to Al Saflia Island, where you can kick back, relax or go snorkelling in the Arabian Gulf. Apart from a full-day trip, there are also dhow operators who can take you out for half a day or sunset excursions. The trip typically includes a BBQ lunch or dinner on board.

Shop your heart out

Doha is an excellent city for shopping. Lagoona Mall (tel: +974 4433 5555; www.lagoonamall.com), The Gate Mall (tel: +974 4407 7220; www.thegatemall.com) and The Landmark Mall (tel: +974 4487 5222; www.landmarkdoha.com) offer a great selection of well-known brands. The Souq Waqif (+974 4499 3039; www.souq-waqif-doha.com) offers a great cultural shopping experience.

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City Highlight: Doha

In Doha, going to the shopping malls is more than a hobby, it's a necessity. Read on to find out why.

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Featured Hotels

W Doha

Those who are familiar with the W brand will know what to expect here – a little bit of Manhattan in the heart of the Middle East. It's well located and could just as feasibly be used by business travellers as well as trend-conscious urban socialites. The décor is sleek and modern and there are some quality dining and nightlife options.

Four Seasons Hotel Doha

The Four Seasons is a solid choice for a fly-and-flop few days, with a gently curving private beach and one of the best spas in Doha – across three storeys, no less. The pool areas are beautifully landscaped and there's a choice of seven restaurants and lounges. It's an upscale hotel with high-class service, opulent marble interiors and a surprisingly relaxed feel. Those with children are well catered for with a kids' club and family activities.

Meliã

Those who want to be in the mix will be more than happy with this Spanish-owned hotel. Guest rooms are contemporary and spacious, and the third-floor swimming pool offers a stylish spot to cool off and relax. The award-winning Signature restaurant by Sanjeev Kapoor is its best highlight. You can also try Aceite for cheery service and sangria on tap. This hotel offers guests special entrance fees for Katara Beach and Banana Island.

Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels

This collection of nine buildings places you in the heart of Souq Waqif, offering a real taste of the Doha's historic side. The hotel has an alluring Arabesque style and boutique vibe and offers access to a range of facilities, including a luxury spa offering Arabic treatments (including a traditional hammam), eight restaurants and a rooftop pool. Other highlights include 11 room categories, valet parking and warm Qatari hospitality.

The Torch Doha

Part of the city's high-tech Aspire Zone, this 300m-high (984ft) tower designed to resemble a vast torch is the currently the tallest hotel in Qatar. Not originally built as a hotel, it offers excellent levels of in-room comfort and some genuinely impressive facilities nonetheless. Expect to rub shoulder with the likes of footballers on warm-weather trips and the Venice-themed Villaggio Mall is close by.

Warwick, Doha

This hotel is well located for accessing the sights of Downtown Doha, and has 164 classic Arabic designed rooms and suites, meeting rooms, a rooftop swimming pool and a 335 square metre spa which includes steam and fitness rooms. Their Wednesday BBQ nights and dining at L'auberge are particularly popular. Moon Deck, their Rooftop Grill, is a pleasant place to sit and enjoy the city views.

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