5 Things To Do In Qatar During FIFA World Cup 2022

As Qatar gets ready to host the FIFA World Cup 2022, tourism has seen a total upgrade in terms of restaurants, cultural hotspots, and activities that are worth indulging in when you're between matches. Here's everything you need to know about exploring the destination

- Samreen Tungekar

Like other destinations in the Middle East, Qatar might not jump out of the page as an out-and-out vacation destination. In fact, it is often treated as a 'stopover'. Qatar is hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022, a first for the country, and they've left no stone unturned to make sure there's enough and more to experience beyond football. So if you've booked your tickets for the matches and are now in the 'Google what to do in Qatar mode', look no further. There's an appropriate amount of bustle, city culture, beaches, and yet, a sense of calm as life goes on it's definitely a destination to explore. From where to stay, eat, and what to do and see, we got you covered.

Stay in the most luxurious hotels

I open my balcony at the Ritz-Carlton Doha to the view of the Doha skyline - blue shades of the Arabian Gulf take your breath away during the day, while city lights shine bright at night. This luxury property deems fit as a comfort stay option, and the hotel has rooms and suites with the city, sea, or pool view, so take your pick.

For gourmands, another luxury stay choice is The St. Regis Doha the hotel houses the contemporary Chinese restaurant, Hakkasan. A new hotel that has opened this year is Le Royal Méridien Doha in Lusail and the Katara Towers are also said to soon see Fairmont Doha and Raffles Doha, while Andaz Doha is said to come up in the West Bay.

Get your adrenaline rush with these thrilling adventures

Did you know that Qatar's wind is suitable for kitesurfing? Fuwairit Kite Surfing Beach Resort, a first of its kind resort in Qatar. It is an hour and 20 minutes north of Doha by road, and while kitesurfing is its highlight, you can also try turtle hatching, paddle boarding, and other water sports.