HOW TO SPEND THE PERFECT LAYOVER IN DOHA, QATAR

Planning a layover in Doha? Whether you’re spending your time in the world-class Hamad International Airport or stepping out to explore the city’s rich culture, this guide will help you make the most of your stopover.

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If you find yourself with a layover in Doha, Qatar, you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re staying in the airport or venturing out into the city, there’s plenty to do based on your available time.

In this guide, we’ll cover top experiences for travelers with short or long layovers, including highlights in both the airport and Doha itself.

Top 3 picks for exploring Doha: Mina District, Abo Shariha, National Museum of Qatar.

Top 3 picks for exploring Hamad International Airport in Doha: The Orchard, Oreo Cafe, Lamp Bear.

Exploring Doha

If your layover is long enough to leave the airport (at least ~8 hours), the city of Doha has a lot to offer.

Here’s a complete guide to help you make the most of your time.

Public Transportation

Doha is very walkable, and public transportation is clean, modern, and affordable.

A day pass for the metro costs about 6 Qatari Riyal (QR), or under $2 USD, making it easy to get around.

Our 25-Hour Layover Experience

On our return from Seychelles, we had a 25-hour layover, allowing us to explore Doha.

Here’s a breakdown of how we spent the day with links to the Google Maps locations:

Morning

National Museum of Qatar: Start your day at this stunning museum with architecture that immediately makes you feel like you’re in another world. Even if you don’t have time to go inside, the building’s design is worth seeing and photographing. The museum opens at 9 am, and free shuttles connect it to the metro station. The tickets are ~$14 USD per person.

Souq Waqif: A bustling bazaar filled with local textiles, souvenirs, and spices. Grab breakfast at Ali Al Naama Coffee, where locals enjoy dishes like chapati, and shakshouka with za’atar. Our meal for two cost around 33 QR (~$9 USD). Nearby you can also see the iconic Golden Thumb statue. I found the best falafel with tzatziki I’ve ever had at Abo Shariha and it was only $2 USD.

Afternoon

Dhow Boat Harbour: Walk along the waterfront where you’ll get an amazing view of the Doha skyline and you’ll see traditional wooden dhow boats that cost ~$12 USD per person if you’d like to take a ride on one. This area along Al Corniche is also home to the Museum of Islamic Art (which costs ~$14 USD per person if you plan to visit) and the giant oyster statue known as the Pearl Monument.

Katara Cultural Village: Take the metro to Katara, a cultural hub with a beautiful mosque next to the Pigeon Towers, the Snan food hall with gorgeous stained-glass windows, and the large amphitheater at the Katara Multi-purpose Hall. Make sure to stop by Katara Beach for a breathtaking view of the blue waters and boats.

Qanat Quartier: This neighborhood is like stepping into a little slice of Venice, right in Qatar. With its colorful pastel buildings and winding canals, it’s super walkable and perfect for a laid-back afternoon. It’s a great spot to take in the scenery or grab some photos while exploring Doha.

Evening

Msheireb: This downtown area blends modern architecture with traditional Arabic design. Think sleek, white mosques and beautifully restored mansions turned into museums, all within a clean, walkable district. To us, it had a bit of a San Francisco vibe with its contemporary feel and laid-back atmosphere (minus the hills!).

Mina District Corniche: End your day with a sunset walk through this pastel-colored neighborhood by the water. The atmosphere of the Mina District is magical, and the sunset views are unforgettable. Afterward, grab your bags and Uber back to the airport for only ~$4 USD.

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Staying in the Airport: Hamad International’s Top Attractions

If your layover is shorter (less than 8 hours), staying in Hamad International Airport is a great option.

It’s not only modern but also full of art, dining, and activities to keep you entertained.

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Top 3 Attractions in the Airport

Lamp Bear: This giant yellow bear sculpture is one of the most iconic art pieces in the airport.

The Orchard: A newly renovated indoor tropical garden, it feels like stepping into a rainforest. The area is also lined with luxury shopping and designer cafes, such as Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton cafes. It’s very reminiscent of Singapore’s Changi Airport.

Oreo Café: The world’s first Oreo Café in an airport is located here, offering Oreo-themed desserts and beverages. A must-visit for any chocolate lovers!

Doha Airport Lounges & Amenities

Oryx Lounge: This lounge is located at Main Terminal C, after security. If you have a business class or higher ticket (except Business Lite), you have complimentary access. Otherwise, you can pay ~$75 USD to enter.
Qatar Airways Gold Lounge: This lounge is located on Level 1 of the Main Terminal, next to gate A1, after security. If you’re flying Business class or higher (except Business Lite), and some Privilege Club members have free access to this lounge. Otherwise, you can pay ~$88 USD per person.
Qatar Airways Silver Lounge: This lounge is located on Level 1 South next to Gate B1 after security. If you’re flying business class or higher (except Business Lite) entry is included in your flight ticket. Otherwise, you can pay ~$75 USD per person to enter.
Al Maha Lounge: This lounge is in the south terminal by the Lamp Bear, and another one in the north terminal that they recently opened. This lounge can be accessed for up to 4 hours by Priority Pass members, or up to 3 hours by Lounge Pass Members. If you have Dragon Pass, DreamFolks, Mastercard Airport Pass Mena, or Nice Airport Lounge Access, you have up to 6 hours of access to this lounge. If you don’t have one of these memberships, you have the option of paying ~$65 USD to enter for up to 6 hours.
Al Mourjan Business Lounge: There is one located in the south terminal and another in the north terminal. If you’re flying business class (Elite, Comfort, or Classic) or first class with Qatar Airways, you can enjoy this business class lounge which offers access to white cloth dining, showers, and rest areas (as in, you can reserve an entire room to rest or sleep in – this is exactly what we did!) However, if you’re flying economy on Qatar Airways, you also have the option to pay ~$125 USD to enter.
Al Safwa First Class Lounge: This is the most exclusive lounge in the Doha airport. It’s complimentary for all Qatar Airways first-class passengers and certain OneWorld first-class passengers. However, if you’re flying Business class on Qatar Airways or have an upgraded first-class ticket, then you have the option to pay ~$70 USD to enter this lounge. Otherwise, there is no option to pay your way into this lounge. It’s set up like a museum, featuring incredible design and amenities throughout.

If you don’t have lounge access, don’t worry.

There are plenty of dining options outside of the lounges, from Italian to Asian, as well as entertainment areas like a TV room, reading room, and kids’ play areas.

More Things to Do in Hamad International Airport

Oryx Hotel: This spot is right inside Doha’s airport (airside), one floor above the Oryx Lounge. You can either book a full night or even by the hour, which is super convenient. For the latest prices and availability, check here. Head to the fourth floor for the Vitality Wellbeing & Fitness Center, where you’ll find a gym, golf simulator, pool, jacuzzi, and showers. It’s 175 QR (~$48 USD) for a day pass, but if you’re staying at the hotel, you get free access. You can also check out the golf and spa treatment prices here.
Tax-Free Shopping: Shopping duty free is always such a great perk of airport shopping. If you’ve had your eye on any high-end items, chances are you can probably buy it in this airport. Check out the full list of all the shops located in the Doha airport so you can plan your shopping (or window shopping) accordingly!

Transportation Tips: Getting Around Doha and the Airport

Metro: The metro is incredibly modern and affordable. A day pass is only 6 QR (~$2 USD), and trains are air-conditioned with USB ports.
Uber: Uber rides are cheap, with trips around the city often costing under or about $5 USD.
Airport Tram: If you’re staying in the airport, take the free passenger train to explore different terminals. It’s a futuristic experience with floor-to-ceiling windows.
Digital Maps: They’re all over the airport and they include details about your flight and a full map of the airport.

Qatar Stopover Program

The stopover program is an option for travelers with a transit time between 12 to 96 hours in Qatar.

There are different packages available including standard, premium, premium with beach access, and luxury that each offer various hotel stays starting at around $14 USD per person.

When we had our first layover in Doha, we took advantage of the stopover program and stayed in a premium hotel with beach access called the Ezdan Hotel for $31 USD per night.

For more information, or to book your hotel, check out the Stopover in Qatar page.

If your transit time is between 8 to 24 hours, and there are no immediate connections available, you could be eligible for a complimentary transit accommodation package if you’re flying with Qatar Airways.

Having the option of staying at a free hotel during your limited stay is truly a great option if you want to get comfortable outside of the airport, but don’t quite feel like you have enough time to get out and explore Doha.

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Guided Tours for Your Doha Layover

If you’re the type of traveler who prefers to have everything arranged for you, Doha offers amazing daily tours through Discover Qatar.

These tours take the stress out of exploring, with options tailored to the length of your layover.

For shorter layovers, you can explore the art of Hamad International Airport, while longer transits (8 hours or more) give you the chance to experience the highlights of Doha city or even journey into the desert to visit the stunning Inland Sea.

The best part? These tours include everything you may need, from a Transit Visa to round-trip transport to and from the airport, ensuring you’re back in plenty of time for your next flight.

Prices start as low as QR 36 (which is ~$10 USD), making it an affordable and stress-free way to enhance your layover experience.

For more information or to book, check out the Discover Qatar Transit Tours page.

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What to Wear and Pack for a Layover in Doha

Women: It’s important to dress modestly when outside the airport. Cover your chest, legs, and arms, and go for light, breathable fabrics to stay cool in the heat.
Men: Dress similarly modestly, with long pants and light shirts.
Other Essentials:
- A light scarf or wrap for women to cover their heads when visiting mosques.
- Sunscreen and water, especially if you’ll be walking outside.

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Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens

If you’re a U.S. citizen with a layover in Doha, the entry process is straightforward.

Your passport must be valid for at least three months from your date of arrival in Qatar, and you should have a confirmed hotel booking upon arrival if you plan to leave the airport.

Effective October 1, 2024, U.S. citizens will be granted 90 days of visa-free travel to Qatar, instead of the previous 30-day limit, making it even easier to explore the city during your layover.

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FAQs: Common Layover Questions

Do you have to go through customs on a layover in Doha? Yes, if you plan to leave the airport, you’ll need to go through customs. Luckily, the process is quick and efficient.

Can you leave the Doha airport during a layover? Yes! If your layover is long enough (6+ hours), you can easily leave and explore the city.

What can I do with an 8-hour layover in Doha? With 8 hours, you can still leave the airport and visit a few key spots like Souq Waqif, the National Museum of Qatar, and the waterfront for a quick city tour.

Do US citizens need a visa for a layover in Qatar? No, US citizens can enjoy visa-free entry into Qatar for travel up to 30 days. As of October 1, 2024, US citizens will be granted 90-days visa-free travel to Qatar.