Qatar is one of the most up and coming countries of the Middle East, and is currently gearing up to host the FIFA World Cup in 2022. Its capital city, Doha has one of the most fascinating markets called Souq Waqif with all sorts of sub-markets contained within the expansive area. During this tour, we take you for an evening stroll with an expert local host, through the many lanes of this mesmerising Souq to take in the exquisite sights and sounds of this Arabian market.
Souq Waqif, built where Doha's century-old trade bazaar once stood, feels anachronistic, especially against Doha's striking modernist cityscape. It harkens back to a bygone era with its mud-daubed buildings. The Souq still remains a hive of activity where commerce openly intermingles with gossip. The twisting alleys of Souq Waqif provide a scene of what traditional street life was like, in the city of Doha.
The tour begins right outside the Souq Waqif, with a marvelous view of the beautifully-lit Al Fanar Islamic Cultural Centre - a wedding cake-inspired structure standing tall in golden lights. As we enter the market, amidst the drab beige of the mud brown buildings of the market, the colourful night lights are bound to catch your eye. Sit back and prepare to be amazed by the sprawling size of the market and the sheer variety of shops selling a whole range of items from flavoursome spices and traditional attire to aromatic perfumes, local antiques & handicrafts, gold and silver jewellery and other souvenirs.
One of the highlights at this market has got to be the Falcon Souq and the Falcon Hospital. At the Falcon Souq you will learn about how falcons made their way into the Arabian culture, see a few of these magnificent birds seated calmly on little pedestals and explore some of the accessories used to train them including masks and falcon sleeves. We make a brief visit inside the Falcon Hospital too, where you’ll be surprised at the multiple medical departments (such as surgery, radiology, pharmacy etc.), complete little waiting areas with falcon stands, that you’ll wonder if this is indeed a hospital for birds or humans!
Souq Waqif has so many other things to see like the Emiri stables that houses some stunning Arabian horses, a camel pen, workshops where you can see fabrics and rugs being woven, wooden furniture being carved or glass ornaments being shaped; and plenty to experience with plenty of local cafes and restaurants open until late at night as well as live street performers during the cooler months.
This market will certainly enthral children and adults alike, and since we have a native host, it makes for a great session if you want to express yourself in the Arabic language.
Darya R
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