Davud Akhundzada in Doha: 4 Spots From the Video

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Doha

Must-try foods in Doha

• Machboos
  MachboosWidely recognized as Qatar's national dish, this fragrant one-pot meal consists of long-grain basmati rice cooked with slow-braised meat (usually lamb, chicken, or local hammour fish). It is heavily spiced with bizar (a local spice blend), dried black lime (loomi), cardamom, and cloves, and typically served with a spicy tomato sauce known as daqoos.
• Harees
  HareesA comforting, porridge-like dish made from cracked wheat and slow-cooked meat—often lamb or chicken—beaten together until they reach a smooth, thick consistency. Historically a staple during Ramadan and special celebrations, it is typically topped with a drizzle of clarified butter (ghee) or cinnamon.
• Madrouba
  MadroubaThis is a creamy rice porridge where the rice is overcooked with milk, butter, and chicken until it becomes soft and 'beaten' (the literal meaning of Madrouba). It stands out for its unique tangy flavor profile, often achieved through the use of dried lime and a complex blend of local spices.
• Thareed
  ThareedOften referred to as 'Arabian Lasagna,' this dish features layers of crispy, wafer-thin regag bread soaked in a rich, tomato-based stew of lamb and vegetables. The bread absorbs the savory broth, turning it into a soft, flavor-packed base that is a favorite for breaking the fast during Ramadan.
• Balaleet
  BalaleetAn iconic Qatari breakfast dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory. It consists of vermicelli noodles sautéed with sugar, saffron, rosewater, and cardamom, then topped with a thin, savory omelet. It is frequently served during Eid and other festive morning gatherings.
• Luqaimat
  LuqaimatThese small, deep-fried dough balls are crunchy on the outside and airy on the inside. They are traditionally drenched in date syrup (dibs) and sprinkled with sesame seeds. While ubiquitous year-round, they are the must-have dessert at local family gatherings and during the holy month.

Trip guide

• About Doha
  About DohaDoha, the capital city of Qatar, is situated on the east coast of the Qatar Peninsula along the Persian Gulf. Founded in the 1820s as an offshoot of the older settlement of Al Bidda, the city was established as the country's capital in 1971 following independence.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Doha is during the winter months from November to March, when the weather is pleasantly mild and ideal for outdoor activities. Avoid the summer (June to August), as extreme temperatures often exceed 45°C (113°F) with high humidity, making outdoor sightseeing nearly impossible. While winter marks the peak tourist season with higher prices, the shoulder months of April and October offer a practical compromise of warmer weather and lower hotel rates.
• Getting around
  Getting around Doha

  • Hamad International Airport (HIA) As the primary international gateway, HIA serves as the global hub for Qatar Airways, offering direct connections to over 150 destinations worldwide and located just 15 minutes from the city center.
  • Doha Metro This state-of-the-art automated rail network features three lines (Red, Green, and Gold) connecting major tourist sites, stadiums, and the airport with affordable fares and frequent high-speed service.
  • Karwa Taxis and Ridesharing The government-owned Karwa taxi fleet and private apps like Uber and Careem provide ubiquitous, air-conditioned, point-to-point transport across the city and surrounding desert areas 24/7.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Dress modestly in public spaces by ensuring your shoulders and knees are covered to respect local cultural values.
  • Always use your right hand when eating, greeting others, or offering and receiving items, as the left hand is considered unclean.
  • Utilize the efficient Doha Metro or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Karwa for safe and reliable transportation across the city.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Doha

  • Finalissima 2026: A historic football showdown between Spain and Argentina at Lusail Stadium.
  • GCC Tourism Capital 2026: Doha's year-long celebration as the region's official premier travel destination.
• Visit Qatar↗
  Visit QatarThe official tourism website for Qatar and its capital, Doha, providing travel guides, event information, and essential visitor resources.