Old Doha Port and Mina District

Overview

Old Doha Port sits at the eastern end of the Corniche, just past the Museum of Islamic Art. For decades it was Qatar's main commercial port. Since its redevelopment it has become a place to stroll, eat and shop by the sea. Its best-known part, the Mina District, is a grid of cobbled lanes and brightly painted buildings with murals, a wooden seafront promenade and dozens of cafés and restaurants.

Come for photographs, a relaxed coffee or a seafood dinner. The district has around 50 restaurants and cafés and about 100 shops. You can also see cruise ships at the Grand Cruise Terminal, visit its small free aquarium, browse the container shops at Box Park or take a short boat ride. Outdoor areas are free and open all day, and shops keep their own hours.

History and background

Doha grew up as a fishing and pearling town, and its port was the country's link to the outside world. Pearls, and later general cargo, passed through its docks. The port remained Qatar's main commercial harbour until December 2016, when the much larger Hamad Port south of the city took over.

Redevelopment began in 2018 and was completed in November 2022, just before the FIFA World Cup. The aim was to turn the old docks into a marine tourism and lifestyle hub. The project added the Grand Cruise Terminal, with two berths and capacity for up to 12,000 passengers a day, a large marina, the colourful Mina District and the Containers Yard, known as Box Park.

The Mina District's pastel buildings, cobbled streets and murals were designed to echo Gulf coastal architecture while giving the area a playful, open feel. It quickly became one of Doha's most photographed places.

What to see at Old Doha Port (Mina District)

1. Mina District streets

   Wander the lanes of pink, orange, teal, blue and yellow buildings. Look for murals by local and international artists. The colours are brightest in the soft light of late afternoon.

2. Seafront promenade

   A wooden deck runs along the water with benches and views towards the Museum of Islamic Art and the West Bay skyline. It is a pleasant place to walk at sunset.

3. Chabrat Al Mina fish market

   A seafood market with a restaurant attached. Choose fresh fish at the counter and have it cooked, or simply look around. It is one of the district's main draws for food lovers.

4. City Gallery and Aquarium

   Inside the Grand Cruise Terminal, a free gallery has an aquarium with stingrays, reef sharks and other fish, plus displays about Qatar. Check opening times before you go.

5. Box Park (Containers Yard)

   Brightly painted shipping containers have been turned into shops, cafés, tour desks and marine services. It sits beside the marina, a short walk or boat hop from the Mina District.

6. Boat rides and water sports

   Operators at the port offer boat tours and jet ski rental, and a Mina-Link boat has linked Box Park with the Mina District since 2025. Prices and times vary; book with the operator.

7. Cruise ships

   From roughly October to April, cruise ships dock at the Grand Cruise Terminal. Seeing a large ship berthed next to the colourful district makes a memorable photo.

How to get to Old Doha Port (Mina District)

Tips for your visit

• Go in the late afternoon for the best light on the coloured buildings.
• Weekend evenings in winter are busy; come on a weekday for quieter streets and easier parking.
• Shops and restaurants keep their own hours; many open later in the day.
• Check boat ride prices and times with the operator before you commit.
• Visit between October and April to see cruise ships in port.
• Combine with the Museum of Islamic Art and MIA Park, which are within walking distance.

Facilities

Frequently asked questions