Private Market Shopping Tour in Doha - Souk Waqif or Al Wakra with Hotel Pickup

Doha , Qatar

Private Market Shopping Tour in Doha - Souk Waqif or Al Wakra with Hotel Pickup

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This 5-hour private shopping tour in Doha is the best way to see locals and watch the real life of old Doha. Pick between two main Souks in Qatar - Souk Waqif or Al Wakra Souk.

Souk Waqif was specially re-ruined to provide tourists and locals with the inimitable oriental atmosphere as well as wide choice of handicraft traditional Qatar goods.

Al Wakra Souk is an authentic marketplace by the Arabian Gulf to combine making purchases with a look of beautiful sea panoramas.

- Private 5-hour tour to get acquainted with Doha’s Souk Waqif or Al Wakra Souk
- Have an unforgettable exotic shopping experience
- Surf local shops offering authentic Qatari goods including production by craftsmen, souvenirs, jewelry and famous natural fabrics
- Meet beautiful and proud falcons in the unique hunting shop at Souk Waqif
- Bottled water and sodas offered during the tour
- Private vehicle and personal experienced guide for your convenience and safety
- The tour starts and ends at your hotel.

Available options

Private Market Shopping Tour in Doha - Souk Waqif or Al Wakra with Hotel Pickup

Pickup included

What's included

Best places for local souvenir shopping and bargains

Private driving+walking tour to the Market

All taxes and fees

English-speaking local guide

Iconic places for photoshoot

Friendly local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Select a trip to Souk Waqif in Doha or Al Wakra Souk beforehand, and get to your point of interest by air-conditioned car. Bottled water and sodas are available in the vehicle.

Stop 2

Souk Waqif is one of the most attractive locations in Doha nowadays. Its history goes back many centuries and it’s hard to believe that the capital existed without the market. However, Souk Waqif disappeared some years ago and was re-built in 2004 only. Its construction copies ancient maze-style of authentic oriental trading place.

Visiting the Souk is a brilliant way to feel the unique spirit of Qatar. Watch, bargain and buy souvenirs, traditional clothes, spices and handmade items. Taste unusual food in local restaurants and if you are lucky - catch some musical and dancing performance.

Relax during your free time and take photos with donkeys in traditional eastern saddles and falcons from the unique Bedouin hunting shop. Attend famous shop-museum of antiquities that are not for sale but are free to watch. In addition, walk to the Souk Waqif metro station which is situates 100 meters from the marketplace only.

Al Wakra Souk is located to the south from Doha on the beach. Al Wakra has always been the center of Qatar’s pearl diving. This small village turned into a cultural attraction due to the Wakra’s Development Plan of 2008.

Although its population counts 30000 people only, Al Wakra is considered as one of the largest cities in Qatar. The Soak as a part of the historical territory became available to the public in 2014. Its building combines old-eastern and modern elements and demonstrates the cultural heritage of the ancestors.

Every treasure of Qatar can be found in there but the real pleasure is the opportunity to obtain true peals from the Arabian Gulf. Spend your free time having local dinner in a restaurant on the beach and observing huge old-style ships and boats docked on the seashore.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note: during FIFA World Cup 2022 the itinerary of the tour may be modified and altered for the reasons beyond our control - some streets may be blocked, some places may be closed, there might be traffic in some directions, so we will have to adjust the itinerary based on objective factors and change the itinerary accordingly. We hope for your understanding and patience

Important notes

You're all set. You don't need to call to confirm the tour. The local supplier will contact you via email. Have a great tour!

About Doha

Doha, the capital of Qatar, is a vibrant city where modern skyscrapers and traditional souqs coexist. Known for its futuristic architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning desert landscapes, Doha offers a unique blend of old and new.

Top Attractions

The Museum of Islamic Art

This stunning museum houses a vast collection of Islamic art from various periods and regions, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Islamic world.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Souq Waqif

A traditional Qatari market with a labyrinth of alleys filled with shops selling everything from spices and textiles to handicrafts and souvenirs.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

The Pearl-Qatar

A man-made island known for its luxury residences, high-end shopping, and fine dining, offering a glimpse into modern Qatari lifestyle.

Architecture/Entertainment Half a day Free to explore, prices vary for shopping and dining

Aspire Park

A large, beautiful park with lush greenery, walking paths, and a lake, perfect for picnics, jogging, and relaxation.

Nature/Recreation 1-2 hours Free

Katara Cultural Village

A cultural hub featuring art galleries, theaters, and open-air amphitheaters, hosting various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free to enter, prices vary for events and activities

Must-Try Local Dishes

Machbous

A fragrant spiced rice dish cooked with meat (usually chicken, lamb, or fish) and served with vegetables and raisins.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made halal or haram depending on the type of meat used.

Harees

A porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a smooth consistency.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made halal or haram depending on the type of meat used.

Luqaimat

Sweet dumplings made from a batter of flour, yeast, and cardamom, deep-fried and drizzled with date syrup or honey.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains gluten.

Kahwa

A traditional Qatari coffee made with cardamom and saffron, often served with dates.

Drink Caffeinated, contains cardamom and saffron.

Popular Activities

Dune bashing in the desert Camel riding Sandboarding Kayaking in the Inland Sea Relaxing on the beach Spa and wellness treatments Picnicking in the park Yoga and meditation

Best Time to Visit

November to March

This is the best time to visit Doha, with comfortable temperatures and various cultural events and festivals taking place.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Qatari Riyal (QAR)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Doha is generally considered very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night
• Avoid isolated areas and unlit streets

Getting there

By air

Hamad International Airport • 15 km from city center

By bus

Al Ghanim Bus Station, Al Riffa Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned, the metro is a convenient way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Karwa, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

West Bay Old Doha The Pearl-Qatar Aspire Zone Al Waab

Day trips

Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid)

80 km from Doha • Full day

A unique natural phenomenon where the sea encroaches into the desert, creating a stunning landscape of sand dunes and turquoise waters.

Zubarah

100 km from Doha • Half day to full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the ruins of an 18th-century coastal town, offering a glimpse into Qatar's rich history.

Al Khor

50 km from Doha • Half day to full day

A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and the Al Khor Island, which is a popular spot for birdwatching.

Festivals

Qatar National Day • December 18 Doha Tribeca Film Festival • November (dates vary) Qatar International Food Festival • March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Use the metro and public transportation to get around the city, as traffic can be heavy and parking can be challenging.
Try traditional Qatari dishes like machbous and luqaimat for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, from the modern and upscale West Bay to the historic and cultural Old Doha.
Take advantage of the city's rich coffee culture by visiting local cafes and trying traditional Qatari coffee (kahwa).