As one of the Middle East's most dynamic and vibrant holiday hubs, Doha is a treat for the senses both during the day and after sundown. While the nighttime activities in this Islamic city may differ from what most travellers expect from a cosmopolitan vacation hotspot, the after-dark distractions are no less inviting. From enjoying a shopping spree in a traditional bazaar to hitting the best Shisha lounges in town, here's a rundown of the top things to do in Doha at night.
1. Enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise
Those who are spending their first night in the city at the Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli or any of the best hotels in Doha must sign up for a dinner cruise. Considered the perfect way to get acquainted with the city's skyline and its key landmarks, this sailing tour around the Corniche is likely to be the highlight of your stay. Sunset cruises are usually conducted on a wooden dhow near the Corniche and on luxury yachts if you venture down to Pearl Qatar. The more high-end cruise options also include onboard entertainment and a dinner buffet so couples and holidaymakers can really make a night of it by setting sail during this magical time of the day.
2. Hit the Shisha Lounges
One of the true pleasures of exploring Doha by night is discovering the many Shisha lounges dotting the city. The Shisha Terrace is among the most popular venues for indulging in this very Middle Eastern of pastimes although it is by no means the only one. There are a number of old and truly historic Shisha lounges in Souq Waqif while venues such as The Corner Cafe and Le Gourmet are equally well-known among local patrons.
3. Souq Waqif
Shopping sprees in Doha often take place under the veil of night and it should come as no surprise that the city's oldest traditional marketplace truly comes alive in these late hours. Walking the charming alleyways that make up the extensive Souq Waqif by moonlight can be a magical experience even if one does not intend to purchase anything. Traditional stalls selling everything from carpets, household items, clothing, perfumes, and local handicrafts line this marketplace where a number of art galleries are also situated. This is the one place that you should visit in Doha if you’re visiting the country for a limited period of time.
4. Go Rooftop Bar Hopping
When it comes to the best drinking holes in Doha, the rooftop bars are among the most impressive. Doha's finest rooftop bars include the PURE Lounge and the Sky View rooftop terrace bar both of which offer spectacular views of Doha by night and serve up delicious cocktails. Live music or DJ music is also part and parcel of the experience in Doha where public drinking is prohibited and so alcohol consumption is relegated to the interior spaces of high-end hotels. Open from 6 pm to 2 am daily, most rooftop bars are likely to be crowded even on a weeknight so travellers should make reservations beforehand.
5. Desert Safari at Night
Engaging in a desert safari is considered a rite of passage for all first-time visitors to Doha but those who don't want to brave the heat can try this exciting tour option once the sun goes down. Nighttime desert safaris are among the most sought-after nightlife experiences in the city as the 4x4 drive is a veritable rollercoaster when one combines it with after-dark dune bashing activities. Night desert safaris can last up to 5 hours and can include camping out in the desert as well as swimming in Khor Al Adaid.