Qatar: Doha – National Museum of Qatar

July 21, 2025
Qatar
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We only had two days to explore Qatar so we planned to get up and going as soon as we could. So, once we were done with breakfast, we set off to the metro station to our first stop of the day, the National Museum of Qatar.

The museum opened in March 2019, the museum is designed to be a modern showcase of Qatar’s past, present, and future.

As soon as we reached the museum, we were struck by its architectural design. It is a beautiful building!

The museum was designed by the renowned French architect Jean Nouvel. The building’s structure is inspired by the natural beauty of the desert rose; a crystal formation found in the region. The design includes a series of interlocking disks that mimic the intricate patterns found in nature, especially the desert environment.

The museum spans over 40,000 square metres and incorporates both indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces.

The Museum is organised around a series of permanent galleries that focus on the key themes of Qatar’s history, culture, and heritage. The exhibition is designed to take visitors on a journey through time, illustrating the transformation of Qatar from its early beginnings to its modern status as a global hub.

The first gallery we visited was called ‘Beginnings ‘ and covers the formation of the Qatari Peninsula, exploring its natural environment, prehistoric settlements, and early human history. The interactive displays were fabulous, but the most eye-catching feature was the amazing projections that engulfed the gallery’s walls. These displays were fully immersive and were used throughout the museum. There were exhibits of the flora and fauna of Qatar, both from the land and the sea.

From the Beginnings gallery we seamlessly moved into the second gallery: Qatar’s Heritage and Traditions: This section showcases the country’s rich Bedouin heritage, including traditional crafts, costumes, and customs that have shaped Qatari society for centuries.

Before there was oil and gas, Oman had pearls. The third gallery, Pearling and Trade, tells this story. Pearling played a significant role in Qatar’s economy and development, and this gallery highlights its importance, showcasing artifacts, tools, and documents related to the pearling industry that once drove Qatar’s economy. As well as telling the tales of those who worked in the industry, the exhibits showed the tools of the trade. At the end there were examples of jewellery and pearls woven into clothing and rugs.

The fourth gallery was titled Modern Qatar and documents Qatar’s rapid transformation in the 20th and 21st centuries, this section explores the discovery of oil and gas, the country’s development into a modern state, and its growing international influence. A wonderful 3D model was showing the evolution of Doha from a fishing village in the 1940s to today’s metropolis.

The final gallery was called ‘The Future of Qatar. This gallery discusses Qatar’s initiatives in science, technology, culture, and innovation, with particular focus on sustainability and education. There was a section on the time the GCC countries blockaded Qatar. It was a bad time for the country, but the people of Qatar showed resilience and were determined to maintain their independence.

We both agree that the museum was one of the best we have ever visited, not for its contents but down to how everything was presented.

Just before we left Karen dragged me into the museum store. I normally try to avoid these places like the plague, but I soon became fascinated with the store’s ceiling, which is made up of stepped wood carved in swirling waves upwards. It reminded me of slot canyons we have visited in the United States, such as Antelope Canyon, which has been carved over the millennia by rushing water.

Planning your visit to the National Museum of Qatar

The National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) is located in Doha, Qatar, near the Corniche. Here’s how you can get there depending on your mode of transportation:

🚇 By Metro:

Take the Gold Line of the Doha Metro.
Get off at the National Museum station.
The museum is a short walk from the station (around 5 minutes).

🚖 By Taxi/Ride-hailing Apps:

You can use Karwa, Uber, or Careem to book a taxi directly to the museum.
Just input “National Museum of Qatar” as your destination.

🚌 By Bus:

Take the Mowasalat (Karwa) bus.
The nearest bus stop is at the National Museum stop.
Buses that serve the area include routes 76 and 77.

🚗 By Car:

If you’re driving, the museum offers free parking.
Enter the museum parking from Al Muthaf Street.

The best time to visit Doha

The best time to visit Doha, Qatar is during the cooler months from November to early April. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during different seasons:

✅ Best Time: November to Early April

Weather: Pleasant and mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
Activities: Ideal for outdoor activities like sightseeing, desert safaris, visiting souqs, and walking along the Corniche.
Events: This is also festival season, with events like the Doha International Book Fair, Qatar International Food Festival, and various sports events.

🌞 Shoulder Season: Late April to Early June

Weather: Warmer, with temperatures between 30°C and 38°C (86°F to 100°F).
Activities: You can still enjoy some outdoor activities in the evenings, but mid-day heat can be intense.
Crowds: Fewer tourists, so hotel rates and flights may be cheaper.

🔥 Avoid: Late June to Early September

Weather: Extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) and sometimes reaching 50°C (122°F).
Activities: Outdoor activities are very limited due to the intense heat.
Best Bet: If you visit during this time, stick to air-conditioned attractions like museums, shopping malls, and indoor markets.

🍁 Transition Period: October

Weather: Starts cooling down from the summer peak, with temperatures around 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F).
Activities: Early evenings are pleasant for walks and outdoor dining.

🎯 Recommendation:

For the best experience, visit between December and March when the weather is comfortable, and major events and cultural activities are in full swing.

Where to stay in Doha

1. Mid Range: Hampton By Hilton Doha Old Town

Hampton by Hilton Doha Old Town is a modern and stylish hotel located in the heart of Doha, Qatar, offering convenient access to the city’s vibrant cultural and historical landmarks. Situated near the iconic Doha Corniche and the Museum of Islamic Art, the hotel provides an ideal base for exploring the rich heritage and contemporary attractions of the city. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and comfortable bedding. The hotel also features a fitness center, an on-site restaurant serving a variety of international and local dishes, and a business center for those traveling for work. With its friendly service, convenient location, and comfortable accommodations, Hampton by Hilton Doha Old Town is an excellent choice for both business and leisure travelers looking to experience the best of Doha.

2. Luxury – Dusit Doha Hotel

The Dusit Doha Hotel is a luxurious five-star hotel located in the vibrant West Bay district of Doha, Qatar. Known for its elegant Thai-inspired hospitality, the hotel offers a sophisticated blend of contemporary design and traditional Thai touches. It features spacious and well-appointed rooms and suites, along with a range of world-class amenities including a rooftop swimming pool with panoramic city views, a fully equipped fitness center, and the renowned Devarana Spa, which offers rejuvenating Thai treatments. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining options, including international cuisine and authentic Thai dishes. Its prime location near major attractions like the Corniche and City Center Mall makes it a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers seeking comfort, luxury, and a touch of Thai elegance in the heart of Doha.

3. La Villa Suites Hotel

La Villa Suites Hotel Doha is a comfortable and conveniently located hotel in the heart of Doha, Qatar. Known for its warm hospitality and modern amenities, the hotel caters to both business and leisure travelers. It offers well-appointed suites equipped with contemporary furnishings, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and kitchenettes, ensuring a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a variety of services, including 24-hour front desk assistance, room service, and laundry facilities. Its central location provides easy access to popular attractions such as Souq Waqif, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the Corniche, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore Doha’s vibrant culture and history.