As the name suggests, Doha’s Diplomatic Area is the logical place to find numerous buildings housing the official Qatar residences of other countries. Stroll along the waterfront and look for embassies from Jordan, France, Korea, Sudan, Pakistan, Libya, Tunisia, Thailand and others. Challenge your kids to guess which country occupies each building based on the flag flying overhead. Gaze northward over the water to see the luxurious residential area of Pearl-Qatar. From this man-made development, catch a dhow boat to ride to Al Safliya Island, visible east of the Diplomatic Area, to enjoy watersports.
Besides its embassies, the neighborhood also has excellent hotels, restaurants and shopping. Start exploring where the Doha Corniche ends in West Bay near the pyramid-shaped Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Center and the dancing fountains of Sheraton Hotel Park.
Relax for a while on the grass at I Park and gaze at the unique buildings of Doha’s pretty skyline. Doha Tower or Burj Doha has a bullet shape with an overlay resembling an Arabic screen, while Tornado Tower appears to twist in the wind.
Travel several blocks inland to view the Imam Abdul Wahhab Mosque, Qatar’s state mosque. Its sandstone façade and 93 domes are particularly impressive when illuminated in the evening, a good time to walk here and avoid the day’s heat.
Head north to the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). Step outside to admire the two-tier geometric Smoke public art installation by Tony Smith. Find more art at the Art 29 Gallery on the 29th floor of the W Doha hotel. Eclectic exhibitions from local, regional and international artists change every month or two.
Travel by metro from Hamad International Airport to the DECC station in about 1 hour to reach the southern end of the Diplomatic Area. Finding parking in the neighborhood can be difficult but taxis are convenient. While here, shop at the Gate Mall or City Center Mall for everything from practicalities to luxury items.
