Souq Waqif, Doha

Overview

Souq Waqif is a maze of narrow lanes, covered passages and open squares in the centre of Doha, close to the Corniche. It began as a trading market more than a century ago and was rebuilt in a traditional style in the 2000s. Today you can buy spices, perfume, textiles, gold, handicrafts and souvenirs, and see falcons, horses and camels.

For most visitors it is the easiest way to get a feel for older Doha. The souq is free to enter and works well on any budget. You can shop and haggle, sit at a pavement café with Arabic coffee, or eat Qatari, Iranian and other regional dishes. Evenings are best, when the heat drops, the lights come on and families fill the squares.

History and background

Souq Waqif grew up beside Wadi Musheireb, a dry riverbed where Bedouin and local traders met to sell goods. Its name means "the standing market", a reference to traders who stood to show their wares. The market has existed on this site for at least a century.

Over the decades the area was altered and partly rebuilt with modern structures. After a fire in 2003 destroyed much of the souq, the government launched a restoration programme that ran from 2006 to 2008. Buildings added after the 1950s were removed, and the lanes were rebuilt using traditional materials and methods to reflect Qatari architecture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The result is a working market rather than a museum. It now includes boutique hotels, an art centre, a theatre and the Souq Waqif Falcon Hospital. The souq drew large crowds during the 2022 FIFA World Cup and remains one of Doha's main gathering places.

What to see at Souq Waqif

1. Falcon Souq

   A dedicated section where you can see trained falcons, browse hoods and equipment, and sometimes hold a bird under supervision. Always ask the handler first. The Souq Waqif Falcon Hospital, on the northern side of the souq, treats falcons.

2. Spice market

   Stalls are piled with saffron, sumac, za'atar, dried flowers, dates, honey and coffee. Traders will usually let you smell before buying, and small packets make light souvenirs to carry home.

3. Gold Souq

   Jewellery shops sell traditional Gulf pieces, such as elaborate headpieces and layered necklaces, alongside everyday gold items. Prices depend on weight and the day's gold rate, so compare a few shops.

4. Horses and camels

   The souq has stables for Arabian horses and pens for camels. Watch the mounted heritage police on patrol, and ask locally if you would like a short ride.

5. Souq Waqif Art Center

   A set of small galleries and studios showing work by Qatari and visiting artists. It is a quiet break from the busy lanes and a good place to find locally made art.

6. Cafés and restaurants

   Pavement cafés serve Arabic coffee, fresh juice and shisha. Restaurants cover Qatari, Iranian and other Middle Eastern cuisines, plus street snacks and sweets. Parisa is known for its mirrored interior.

7. Al Koot Fort and Pigeon Square

   Al Koot Fort, built in 1927, is a historic landmark at the edge of the souq. Nearby Pigeon Square and its garden are popular with families and children.

How to get to Souq Waqif

Tips for your visit

• Many shops close from about 1pm to 4pm. Come in the morning or after 4pm if you want to shop.
• Haggling is normal at many stalls, so feel free to negotiate, but stay polite and friendly.
• Carry some cash in Qatari riyals for small purchases at stalls and cafés.
• Ask before photographing people, falcons or their handlers.
• Pair your visit with a walk along the Corniche or to the Museum of Islamic Art nearby.
• During Ramadan, shops open after iftar and stay open late, and the atmosphere is special.

Facilities

Frequently asked questions