Souq Waqif

An old Bedouin maze of a market

Souq Waqif

If you are looking for a wonderful place to shop, to dine, to explore or simply sitting at one of the many attractive outdoor cafe to watch the world pass by, look nowhere but Souq Waqif in Doha.

For centuries, this location has been a souq for Bedouin (nomads who have historically inhabited the Arabian and Syrian Deserts.) to take the wool and animals to trade for daily necessities.  With time pass, the souq started to run down and has almost get to the point of being demolished.  Luckily, in 2004, it was decided to preserve this historical site so the entire market area has been renovated and restored according to the traditional Qatari architectural techniques.  It’s probably the only traditional souq left in the Gulf.

When you visit Souq Waqif don’t forget to explore the labyrinth like alleyways to find more stores. Here, you will find both souvenirs for tourists and shopping for locals – from fabric, spices, and perfume to garden equipment and pets.  Happy exploring!

Most of the shops close at noon till 4 p.m. So it’s best to find a cafe or restaurant and enjoy a good lunch. They do open all day.

A stop at the Souq Waqif is a must when visiting Doha, with its labyrinth of market stalls brimming with textiles, jewellery, spices and local handicrafts. One of Qatar’s oldest markets, Souq Waqif was once a busy trading centre for the Bedouin who came here to trade camels and essential goods for their nomadic way of life.

It’s best to go to  Souq Waqif early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the daytime heat. Make time to stop for a refreshing tea break before going for another round of discovery.

Location: Al Souq Street, Doha, Qatar

Time: Saturday–Thursday from 7:30 am to 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm to 10 pm, Friday from 12.30 pm to 10 pm