There’s nothing like strolling through the busy alleys of Doha’s main market. Souq Waqif is an ideal place to enjoy an authentic shopping experience in the city and enjoy the atmosphere of traditional Arab trade and local architecture. The convenience stores offer an amazing range of Middle Eastern goods such as spices, seasonal delicacies, perfumes, jewelery and clothing, as well as traditional crafts and a wide range of souvenirs.
Traditional music and cultural and artistic performances also give the place an exceptional atmosphere. Relax and enjoy the atmosphere around you in the options of distinctive restaurants and cafes available.
Souq Waqif is a traditional market that is considered one of the most important tourist attractions in the city of Doha. The market combines tradition and authenticity with modern civilization, and it is the most famous tourist and heritage landmark visited by tourists and citizens.
The market is famous for selling heritage crafts and eating Arabic, popular and international food. Most places in Souq Waqif are open daily from 10 am to 12 noon and from 4 pm to 10 pm. The market is considered one of the most lively places in Doha and includes a growing number of restaurants serving traditional Qatari food and various Middle Eastern cuisine.
There are many traditional cafes and restaurants that are open until late (some are open 24 hours). The restaurants serve delicious local cuisine in addition to the traditional shisha or hookah, and also offer periodic performances of folk dances and music, especially during large celebrations.
There is the possibility of taking photographs of donkeys carrying the traditional decorated burda on their backs.
Souq Waqif is considered one of the ancient places in Qatar, but it underwent a design renovation while preserving the originality by order of His Highness the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.
Souq Waqif was given this name, as Qatari heritage specialists say, because vendors used to stand on the side of the road that leads to the large market in Doha to sell things such as (beans and fish).
