What to Do in Qatar - Indoors!

Qatar is a small country located in the Arabian Peninsula. Much of the year finds Qatar hot and humid, but the Winter cools down and is quite comfortable. If you visit Qatar when it's hot outdoors, here is a list of what to do in Qatar - indoors! The country has built an incredible amount of museums, entertainment, and shopping malls to cater to its residents and visitors during the hotter seasons.

And if you're looking for the best places to eat in Qatar, go check out that post on the blog as well!

1. National Museum of Qatar

Our first stop is the National Museum of Qatar. This extraordinary building was designed to look like a desert rose. The inside is filled with interactive exhibits and exquisite collections of artifacts. From impressive jewels and clothing to immersive films featuring life in the desert and on the coast of the Arabian Gulf, you can learn all about the history and culture of Qatar.

outside of the National Museum of Qatar and the Qatari flag

palm trees in front of the National Museum of Qatar

2. Villaggio Mall

Qatar is home to some of the most impressive malls you'll ever see. The Villaggio Mall resembles the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, but on steroids. Take a gondola ride down the canals as you do a little window shopping. Or if you're looking for an adrenaline rush, go go-karting, play a round of mini golf, or catch a movie in the IMAX theater.

inside the Villaggio Mall in Doha which is a fun thing when you're looking for What to Do in Qatar - Indoors!

an indoor canal with gondola boats in a mall

3. Place Vendome Mall

One of Qatar's newest malls is called Place Venome Mall. Again drawing a parallel to Las Vegas, they have a light and music-syncopated fountain show outside just like the Bellagio Hotel! This luxurious mall has stores for everyone - from H&M and Zara to Gucci and Fendi. And if you get a little tired from walking this giant mall, stop in at any of their numerous restaurants and cafes.

Place Vendome Mall with a fountain show in the front

4. Souq Waqif Art Center

In the open air market of Souq Waqif you can stop into the Souq Waqif Art Center to escape the heat and soak in some beautiful artwork. This exquisite art gallery is open to the public. Or get a more intimate experience by taking a workshop in painting, sculpting or Arabic calligraphy.

lanterns on the ceiling of Souq Waqif Art Center

5. Museum of Islamic Art

Qatar's Museum of Islamic Art is home to Islamic art from around the world. From jewelry and coins to woodwork and glass, the art on exhibit here is beautiful. You could spend all day exploring the various collections and galleries within the museum. Or venture over to museum's library with over 21,000 books on Islamic Art. What better way to pass an afternoon than surrounded by inspiring artwork?

outside of the Museum of Islamic Art which is the best art museum when looking for What to Do in Qatar - Indoors!

Do you have more recommendations of what to do in Qatar indoors? Let me know in the comments!
Are you planning a trip to this welcoming nation soon? Let me know! Maybe you're going for the World Cup 2022 or for a family vacation, this destination holds many wonders and beauty, waiting to be explored.

Enjoy!!