Hostels in Doha, Qatar

Doha, Qatar, is a fast-developing city in the Middle East and one of the latest hubs that connect flights between the West and other continents. Most travelers only use Doha’s airport while changing planes. If you are flying Qatar Airways and your stopover is five to ninety-six hours, you can get a free transit visa to explore Doha. All you need to do is to fill out an online application form at least seven days in advance. You can explore Doha by yourself, but you might as well join the free guided tour organised by Qatar Airways. The guided tour departs and brings you back to the airport and happens a few times per day. The free transit visa is a great way to break up your long journey and explore a new city on your travels.

Doha is the only big city here, and this is where you will want to book your hostel when in Qatar. However, Doha, Qatar hostels are scarce; your options for a Doha, Qatar hostel will be very recently built, and in preparation for the FIFA World Cup in a few years, there are currently many construction projects going on in Doha. The government of Qatar had announced that they will offer accommodation for all budgets. Considering that statement and the growing tourism industry, it is to be expected that more Doha, Qatar hostels will open in the next few years. It is important to note that Qatar is an Islamic country, and dorm rooms are therefore gender specific. You may book a private room, but sharing a room as unmarried couple is officially illegal, although this law is normally not enforced for tourists.

Highlight of a visit is The Pearl Qatar. This is a high-end quarter and is even for Middle East standards very wealthy. Here you can also find the replica of Venice’s canals, including a replica of the Rialto Bridge. The Corniche area is a pleasant promenade to stroll around, go shopping at the colourful Souq Waqif, or visit one of the many museums and forts. Qatar may be small, but is worth visiting for a few days.