5 Top Things to Do While in Qatar for the 2022 World Cup
The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar is four years away, but that doesn't mean you can't start planning.
A list of proposed stadiums has already been released, and you can start making plans based on that.
See: Qatar Football World Cup Packages
That and this tournament will be held at a much later date – November 21 to December 18 – for cooler conditions.
With those two details in mind, you can start planning for possible sightseeing adventures when not attending a football match.
Here are some suggestions to help you out:
See: Sports Tours Packages
PICTURE : Some images from our travellers
5 Top Things to Do While in Qatar for the 2022 World Cup
Visit the Qatar National Library
There's always time to learn, even when traveling to watch the World Cup. Libraries count as one of the best centers for knowledge, and with a couple of matches scheduled to take place in Doha, why not stop by the Qatar National Library?
Other than learning, you will be amazed by the library's design and architecture. As you enter, you can get a sense of just how huge the library's collection is – more than one million books – thanks to the stadium-style arrangement of the shelves.
You can even get a glimpse of the centuries-old texts on Arab-Islamic history stored 20 feet below ground level from the ground floor.
Experience dune bashing
If you can spare the time – and we suggest that you do – head to the desert for a dune bashing experience. You may think of it as riding up and down hills in a closed vehicle, but there's a thrill in doing so.
Head to Souq Waqif
Have you ever wondered what Qatar markets looked like back in the day? A visit to Souq Waqif in Doha will give you an idea. This is where you'll find lots of shops selling all sorts of merchandise, including art, fabric, souvenirs, spices, sweets, and even household goods.
And if you're feeling hungry from all the strolling, there are lots of dining choices available, including some eateries offering Syrian and Lebanese fares. There are shisha lounges as well if you're interested.
Take a walk along the Doha Corniche
At seven kilometers long, you'll find a lot of interesting sights along the Doha Corniche.
And if walking is not enough exercise for you, there are fitness machines along the way. Of course, one of the most interesting features in the area is the iconic pearl shell, which is a symbol of the country's traditional past.
You can also get on a dhow for a better view of the city's skyline.
See some art at the Museum of Islamic Art
If you plan on walking the entire Doha Corniche, you won't miss this one. It's a striking structure that looks like it's floating on water.
Its location on a standalone island was also deliberate: the architect, I.M. Pei, wanted no buildings to obstruct it. Housed inside the museum are collections of calligraphy, jewelry, Islamic patterns, and textiles from three continents.
These are just a taste of the wonders of Qatar. However, if you're looking for more traditional activities like going to the mall, you'll also be spoiled: there's the Villagio Mall with an indoor canal; Doha Festival City; and Al Hazm.
MORE :