Mark Wiens in Katara Building, Doha: 2 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Doha

Must-try foods in Doha

• Machboos
  MachboosWidely regarded as the national dish of Qatar, Machboos is a fragrant, one-pot rice meal slow-cooked with spiced meat—typically lamb, chicken, or local fish like hammour. The rice is infused with a complex blend of cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and 'loomi' (dried black lime).
• Karak Tea
  Karak TeaMore than just a drink, Karak is a cornerstone of Qatari social life. This strong, creamy tea is made by boiling loose black tea with milk, sugar, and crushed cardamom. In Doha's trending cafes for 2026.
• Luqaimat
  LuqaimatThese addictive sweet dumplings are crunchy on the outside and airy on the inside. Deep-fried until golden, they are traditionally drizzled with date syrup (dibs) and sprinkled with sesame seeds. While they are a Ramadan staple, they are a year-round favorite in Doha, with modern versions featuring toppings like Nutella, pistachio.
• Thareed
  ThareedOften described as 'Arabian Lasagna,' Thareed is a comforting stew made with lamb or chicken and hearty vegetables like potatoes and carrots. What makes it unique is the 'regag' (thin, crispy bread) layered at the bottom of the dish, which soaks up the rich, tomato-based broth until it becomes soft and intensely flavorful.
• Harees
  HareesA traditional dish of cracked wheat and slow-cooked meat (usually lamb or chicken), Harees is beaten into a smooth, porridge-like consistency. It is seasoned simply with salt and topped with a drizzle of clarified butter (ghee). For the best modern interpretation in 2026, locals head to MICHELIN-recommended spots like SMAT.
• Balaleet
  BalaleetA unique sweet-and-savory breakfast dish, Balaleet consists of vermicelli noodles cooked with sugar, cardamom, rose water, and saffron. The fragrant noodles are then topped with a thin savory omelet.

Trip guide

• About Doha
  About DohaDoha, the capital of Qatar, is situated on the eastern coast of the Qatar Peninsula. The city developed from the settlement of Al Bidda, with historical records of the area dating to 1801 and its formal establishment occurring in the 1820s.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Doha is from November to March, when the weather is mild and pleasant for outdoor exploration and desert excursions. During these peak winter months, daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F–77°F), while the summer (June to August) brings extreme humidity and heat exceeding 45°C (113°F). This period also coincides with the Qatar International Food Festival and various night markets along the Corniche and at Katara Cultural Village.
• Getting around
  Getting around Doha

  • Air Travel (Hamad International Airport) Hamad International Airport (HIA) serves as the primary gateway, hosting Qatar Airways and various international carriers with direct connections to major global cities.
  • Doha Metro The state-of-the-art driverless metro system consists of three lines (Red, Green, and Gold) connecting the airport, stadiums, and major tourist hubs like Msheireb and Souq Waqif.
  • Karwa Taxis and Ride-Hailing Government-owned Karwa taxis are widely available alongside Uber and Careem apps, providing reliable, air-conditioned point-to-point transport across the city and surrounding suburbs.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Dress modestly in public spaces like malls and markets by ensuring your shoulders and knees are covered.
  • Always use your right hand for eating, greeting, and exchanging items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
  • Utilize the modern Doha Metro system for efficient travel between major hubs, but always use licensed Karwa taxis or official ride-hailing apps for private trips.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Doha

  • Throwback Food Festival at Old Doha Port featuring 70s and 80s nostalgic street eats.
  • Viral 'gooey cookies' and comfort treats at the newly opened Crème London in Rawdat Al Hamama.
• Katara Cultural Village↗
  Katara Cultural VillageThe official website for Katara Cultural Village, Qatar's premier destination for art, culture, and heritage, featuring theaters, galleries, and event spaces.