For travelers seeking reliable planning tools, Visit Qatar and Discover Qatar serve as authoritative directories for everything from visa policies and upcoming events to itinerary ideas and essential travel tips. Culture enthusiasts can explore the vibrant scene via sites like Qatar Museums and Qatar Creates, which announce current exhibitions, festivals, and unique art experiences throughout the year.

Frequent global campaigns, year-round festivals, and record visitor numbers reflect Qatar’s commitment to making the country hospitable and exciting for tourists.

Doha Corniche & Al Bidda Park

Spanning along the sparkling turquoise waters of Doha Bay, the Doha Corniche provides a scenic walkway, perfect for sunrise and evening strolls. The iconic horseshoe-shaped boulevard offers dazzling skyline views and memorable dhow cruises, where guests witness the city illuminated at night.

Adjacent to this, Al Bidda Park—one of Qatar’s largest and oldest parks—features vast lawns, cycling and jogging trails, children’s play zones, sports courts, and even a dedicated area for pets. The park’s open-air amphitheater, barbecue stations, and shaded picnic spots make it a popular hub for family gatherings, national celebrations, and year-round outdoor recreation.

Souq Waqif & Msheireb Downtown

Souq Waqif stands as Doha’s cultural heart, bustling with spice shops, antiques, woven textiles, traditional garments, falconry displays, and atmospheric alleyways. Culinary tours lead visitors to authentic Qatari restaurants, aromatic tea houses, and vibrant shisha lounges. Shoppers can explore intricate gold jewelry, hand-crafted souvenirs, and artworks from regional artisans.

Next door, Msheireb Downtown Doha exemplifies sustainable urban renewal: this modern district combines minimalist architecture, eco-friendly transport, shaded public spaces, and cultural attractions—all designed to honor Qatari heritage while embracing smart technology. Pedestrian-friendly streets are lined with creative cafes, international restaurants, and innovative museums documenting the local way of life.

Museum of Islamic Art & National Museum of Qatar

Floating off the Corniche with imposing geometry, the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) houses masterpieces from Spain to India and beyond, showcasing centuries of Islamic artistry—ceramics, textiles, weapons, manuscripts, and intricately designed jewelry.

The surrounding MIA Park is celebrated for its coastal walking tracks, sculpture gardens, and city vistas. Nearby, the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) resembles a desert rose in its architecture, inviting guests to journey through the country’s natural history, Bedouin traditions, social evolution, and technological progress through cutting-edge immersive galleries.

Old Doha Port & Mina District

Revamped to accommodate modern cruise tourism, Old Doha Port boasts a contemporary cruise terminal and lively marina, welcoming maritime travelers year-round.

The charming Mina District is alive with pastel-colored shops, seafront restaurants, local fish markets, mosaic art, and the innovative Box Park—created from recycled shipping containers and continually hosting pop-up cultural events.

Al Wakra Souq & Beaches

A short drive from Doha, Al Wakra Souq recreates a historic village atmosphere through maze-like walkways lined with traditional shops, seafood cafes, and local art galleries.

The nearby Al Wakra Family Beach is known for its pristine sands, gentle waves, and family-friendly amenities. Ezdan Mall – Al Wakra offers retail and dining options for visitors seeking modern conveniences within reach of the coast.

Katara Cultural Village, The Pearl, & Lusail

Katara Cultural Village unites art, music, film, and culinary experiences in a picturesque seaside enclave. Architectural highlights include grand mosques, art galleries, outdoor amphitheaters, and year-round festivals.

The Pearl-Qatar dazzles with its luxury yacht marina, upmarket shopping, international fine dining, and Mediterranean-inspired promenades, providing an immersive luxury lifestyle.

To the north, Lusail City stands as a futuristic smart metropolis, offering sustainable green spaces, landmark towers, and the bustling Lusail Marina Promenade, home to world-class entertainment and sports venues.

Adventure: Desert Excursions & Watersports

Thrill seekers head to the vast sand dunes of Sealine and Khor Al Adaid, with options for off-road dune bashing, sandboarding, or camel trekking deep into the desert.

Nature lovers can kayak through the mangroves of Al Thakhira or Al Khor, encounter migratory birds, or try kite-surfing along calm coastal waters, combining eco-tourism with exhilarating adventure.

Sporting Venues: Golf, Aspire Zone & More

Golf fans enjoy premier courses and clubhouses at Doha Golf Club and Education City Golf Club, both equipped for world-class international tournaments.

The sprawling Aspire Zone—dubbed “Sporty City”—houses Aspire Park, stadiums, training centers, and the Venetian-style Villaggio Mall, offering entertainment ranging from ice skating to luxury shopping beneath painted skies.

Heritage: Fortresses & Archaeological Ruins

History enthusiasts delve into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Al Zubarah Fort, a symbol of ancient trade and defense, preserved with informative exhibits and panoramic desert views.

The Zekreet area features otherworldly limestone formations and prehistoric ruins, ideal for hiking, exploration, and striking photography.

Shopping: Malls & Historic Markets

For high-end retail, entertainment, and dining, head to Doha Festival City, Mall of Qatar, Place Vendome, and Tawar Mall—each combining international brands, theme parks, cinemas, and gourmet food courts.

For an authentic atmosphere, traditional souqs offer spices, perfumes, textiles, and handcrafted goods, promoting local heritage and supporting Qatari artists.

City Transport and Navigation

Movement across the capital is easy thanks to the extensive Doha Metro network, which efficiently links hotspots, shopping centers, airport terminals, and residential zones with climate-controlled stations.

Tourists enjoy flexible sightseeing via the Hop-On Hop-Off bus service, while taxis, ride apps, and heritage trams in Msheireb facilitate exploration of both modern and cultural districts.

This enhanced guide reflects Qatar’s dynamic blend of tradition, innovation, and hospitality in 2025—welcoming visitors to discover a vibrant, evolving country filled with unique experiences, world-class amenities, and enduring memories.

Expert Tips for Visitors

Essential Pre-Travel Preparations

• Check that a passport is valid for at least six months past arrival, and review visa eligibility: as of 2025, over 100 nationalities can enter visa-free or with a quick e-visa.
• Secure comprehensive travel insurance, including health coverage and emergency services.
• Book hotels and internal flights early, especially for major festivals, sports events, or peak winter tourist season (November–March).

Local Etiquette & Safety

• Dress modestly in public; avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing outfits—especially in government areas, markets, and places of worship.
• Refrain from public affection or displaying strong emotions, and respect local privacy when photographing people or sites.
• Alcohol is only permitted at licensed hotels and bars; pork and drugs are strictly banned.
• Accept invitations to social gatherings graciously—refusing a meal or coffee may be considered impolite in Qatari culture

Practical Navigation & Transport

• The Doha Metro is modern, safe, and affordable, connecting most tourist sites. Use ride-share apps (Careem or Uber) and official Karwa taxis for flexible city travel.
• Walking and cycling are pleasant along the Corniche, Msheireb, and The Pearl; traffic can be heavy in central areas, so allow extra time if driving.
• Private transfers and hotel shuttles are recommended for airport trips, especially late at night or for families.

Climate & Health

• Summer temperatures (June–September) often exceed 45°C; seek shade, hydrate frequently, and schedule outdoor activities for mornings or evenings.
• Mild winters (November–March) are ideal for sightseeing, festivals, desert trips, and outdoor dining.

Cultural Tips

• Learn basic Arabic phrases and greetings such as “Salamu alaykum”; standing to greet elders and hosts is a sign of respect.
• Always use the right hand for giving or receiving items.
• If visiting during Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours; many restaurants remain closed until sunset.

Emergency & Safety

• Qatar ranks among the world’s safest countries, but always follow local laws and avoid taking photos of official buildings, police, or any individuals without permission.
• Emergency numbers: Police, ambulance, and fire services: dial 999. English is widely spoken among first responders.

These tips help travelers blend in with local customs, navigate Qatar’s venues efficiently, and enjoy a safe, enriching journey in 2025.

Etihad Airways has achieved a historic milestone in August 2025 by carrying more than 2 million passengers in a single month for the first time ever, marking a 22% year-on-year increase compared to August 2024. The airline reported a passenger load factor of 91%, up from 89% last year, underscoring strong demand and efficient use of capacity.

Etihad’s operating fleet expanded to 112 aircraft, serving 81 passenger destinations, with the introduction of the new Airbus A321LR that brings First Class suites and lie-flat Business seats to narrow-body medium-haul routes for the first time in the region. Year-to-date, the airline has carried 14.2 million passengers, an 18% rise from the same period in 2024, maintaining an 88% average load factor.

On the financial front, Etihad reported its strongest-ever half-year performance for the first six months of 2025. Profit after tax surged by 32% to AED 1.1 billion (USD 306 million) compared to the previous year, driven by robust demand, operational productivity, and improved yields in both passenger and cargo sectors.

Total revenue climbed 16% year-on-year, with passenger and cargo revenues growing 16% and 9%, respectively. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) rose 24% to AED 2.7 billion (USD 739 million), with the EBITDA margin improving to 20%, up one percentage point from 2024.

Etihad carried 10.2 million passengers in the first half of 2025, a 17% increase year-on-year, supported by a 14% rise in available seat kilometres (ASK) and an improved average load factor of 87%. In July, the airline surpassed the milestone of 20 million passengers over the previous 12 months, doubling its 2022 total and confirming its status as the fastest-growing airline in the region.

Fleet expansion continues with the delivery of its sixth Airbus A350, the return of a seventh A380, and a landmark order for 28 wide-body Boeing aircraft, reflecting strong long-term growth ambitions. July saw Etihad add five new jets including its first A321LR, marking the highest number of aircraft deliveries ever received in one month.

As of mid-2025, Etihad serves nearly 90 destinations worldwide, with 27 new routes launched or announced this year alone. This growth enhances Abu Dhabi’s position as a major global hub, increasing connectivity and attracting millions of visitors. Customer satisfaction also improved across airport services, onboard experience, and digital platforms, with the airline’s First Class Net Promoter Score consistently high at 80—among the best in the industry—while maintaining stable unit costs despite service upgrades.

CEO Antonoaldo Neves highlighted that this record-breaking month and half-year reflect the trust travelers place in Etihad’s people and their commitment to delivering extraordinary service. The airline's strategy focuses on sustainable expansion, investing in premium experiences, and connecting more travelers through Abu Dhabi, positioning the emirate as a vibrant destination for global visitors.

Additionally, Etihad hired over 1,700 new employees in the first half of 2025, including more than 100 pilots and 1,000 cabin crew, supporting its rapid growth and operational excellence.

These results mark a new era of growth, investment, and service leadership for Etihad Airways as it continues to set new standards in aviation, fueled by strategic fleet expansion, network growth, and a superb customer experience.

Emirates has once again strengthened its status as a global aviation leader after winning two prestigious accolades at the 2026 Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) Global Passenger Choice Awards. The Dubai-based carrier was honored with the titles of  World Class Airline 2026 and Best Global Entertainment, reflecting its continuous efforts to deliver exceptional customer service, cutting-edge products, and innovative passenger experiences across its network.

The results were announced during the APEX/IFSA Global EXPO held in Long Beach, California, one of the airline industry’s most anticipated annual gatherings.

The World Class Airline recognition is considered one of the highest distinctions in commercial aviation, reserved for airlines that excel in areas such as passenger safety, sustainability, health and well-being measures, service consistency, and global operations. The award is based on a comprehensive evaluation conducted by industry experts in collaboration with Yates and Partners, as well as verified passenger feedback collected through professional auditing of traveler reviews. This recognition places Emirates among the top global carriers that set benchmarks for excellence in airline standards.

In addition, Emirates’ victory in the category of Best Global Entertainment further underscores its long dominance in inflight entertainment. The airline’s award-winning ice system, regarded as one of the most advanced in the world, offers more than 6,500 channels of movies, TV shows, documentaries, music, podcasts, games, and even live sports broadcasts.

Available in multiple languages and updated regularly, the entertainment system has become a defining feature of the Emirates travel experience and a major differentiator for the brand. Passengers also benefit from high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity onboard, allowing them to stay connected throughout their journey, a feature increasingly demanded by today’s travelers.

The APEX Global Passenger Choice Awards are especially noteworthy in the aviation industry as they are based on real passenger experiences and independently audited evaluations rather than solely subjective jury decisions. Millions of travelers worldwide share ratings on nearly 600 airlines each year through TripIt®, feeding into the data that determines winners.

This combination of passenger feedback and independent verification ensures that the accolades reflect genuinely outstanding performance and consistency in airline operations.

For Emirates, these awards come at a time when the airline is actively expanding and modernizing its fleet while also upgrading its services in line with evolving customer expectations. Over the past year, Emirates has introduced retrofitted aircraft with refreshed cabins, including its latest Premium Economy class, offering a new level of comfort.

The airline has also expanded its culinary offerings, elevated beverage services across cabins, redesigned lounges, and strengthened its renowned multicultural crew training programs to deliver more personalized care on board.

Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, welcomed the honors, describing them as a testament to the carrier’s unwavering focus on delivering an unmatched customer journey from ground to sky. He highlighted the airline’s commitment not only to luxury and service innovation but also to sustainable aviation, noting Emirates’ steps toward investing in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, testing alternative fuels, and integrating environmentally conscious features in its products and ground operations.

The recognition also positions Emirates strongly against its global competitors, such as Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific, all of which are known for high service standards and premium offerings. By maintaining excellence in both overall travel experience and in-flight entertainment, Emirates consolidates its place as a benchmark airline for premium international travelers seeking comfort, reliability, and consistency.

Looking ahead, Emirates will continue to enhance its global connectivity as it expands into new destinations throughout 2026, with routes planned in markets across Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The airline is also preparing to welcome next-generation aircraft such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 777-9, both of which will introduce new levels of efficiency and customer experience to its long-haul journeys. These developments are expected to further strengthen Emirates’ position as a leader in passenger satisfaction and an airline that continuously invests in the future of travel.

Turkish Airlines (THY) reported carrying 60.7 million passengers during the first eight months of 2025, achieving an overall load factor of 82.7%, reflecting steady growth and strong demand. Passenger numbers increased by 5.8% year-over-year, driven in part by a 10.3% rise in international-to-international transfer passengers, which reached 23.1 million.

The airline’s load factor improved by 0.6 percentage points compared to the same period in 2024, with international flights operating at an 82.3% load factor and domestic flights at 86.7%. Turkish Airlines’ available seat kilometers (ASK) also grew by 6.4%, climbing to 179.2 billion from 168.5 billion in the previous year. Additionally, cargo and mail volumes increased by 5.4% to 1.4 million tons, highlighting growth in its freight operations. The carrier’s fleet expanded to 501 aircraft by the end of August.

In August 2025 alone, Turkish Airlines carried 9.4 million passengers, an 11.9% year-over-year jump. International transfer passengers surged by 17.3% to 3.49 million, with the passenger load factor rising 0.9 percentage points to 86.7%. That month, international flights achieved an 86% load factor, while domestic flights reached 92.6%. Available seat kilometers rose 8.2% to 25.3 billion, and cargo and mail volumes increased by 10.5% to over 191,100 tons.

These figures illustrate Turkish Airlines’ ongoing expansion and operational efficiency, underlining its status as a leading global carrier connecting numerous international and domestic destinations with a growing fleet and robust passenger and cargo demand.

Emirates, the world's largest international airline, will deploy its Airbus A350 aircraft on the daily Dubai-Hangzhou route starting October 26, 2025. This deployment comes just three months after Emirates inaugurated the Hangzhou service, reflecting the airline’s commitment to offering an elevated travel experience on its newest mainland China destination.

Flight EK310 departs Dubai International Airport at 04:15 local time and arrives in Hangzhou at 16:00. The return flight EK311 leaves Hangzhou at 00:10 and lands in Dubai at 06:10. The A350 represents the first new aircraft model to join the Emirates fleet since 2008, adding to the existing fleet of Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s serving China.

The Emirates A350 features the airline’s latest signature interiors, with spacious cabins boasting high ceilings and wider aisles. The aircraft is designed to enhance passenger comfort with seamless technology touchpoints and state-of-the-art inflight entertainment.

Importantly, the A350 introduction to Hangzhou also brings Emirates’ Premium Economy cabin to this route, expanding premium travel options. Premium Economy provides a Business Class-like experience with spacious leather reclining seats fitted with full leg and footrests, adjustable headrests, in-seat charging, side cocktail tables, 13.3-inch screens, complimentary pillows and blankets, amenity kits on select flights, and exclusive sparkling wine (Chandon Vintage Brut 2017).

The aircraft configuration includes 312 seats across three classes: 32 next-generation Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 layout, 21 Premium Economy seats in a 2-3-2 layout, and 259 Economy Class seats arranged 3-3-3.

Passengers can book tickets via emirates.com, the Emirates App, contact centres, travel agents, and Emirates retail stores. Chinese customers can also use WeChat Pay on emirates.com.

 Turkish Airlines has officially resumed direct flights to Misrata, Libya’s third-largest city, following a suspension of more than 10 years. This return complements the airline’s existing Libyan services to Tripoli and Benghazi, expanding its growing footprint across the African continent.

The route, suspended in January 2015 due to regional instability, now operates three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays using Boeing 737-78D aircraft. Flight TK1145 departs Istanbul at 11:30 a.m., arriving in Misrata at 2:25 p.m. local time, while the return flight TK1146 leaves Misrata at 4:25 p.m., arriving in Istanbul at 7:15 p.m.

Mahmut Yayla, Senior Vice President of Sales for Region II at Turkish Airlines, expressed enthusiasm about reconnecting with Misrata, a city sharing deep historical ties with Türkiye. He noted the airline’s commitment to meeting increasing travel demand driven by Africa’s economic growth and highlighted ongoing efforts to diversify gateways on the continent.

To mark the route’s reopening, Turkish Airlines offers promotional fares for tickets purchased by September 9, 2025, with prices starting at $349 one-way from Istanbul to Misrata and $249 for the return trip. These fares apply to travel until November 30, 2025, and may vary based on the point of purchase.

This reopening aligns with Turkish Airlines’ strategy to reinforce Istanbul’s role as a global aviation hub connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa, while strengthening its presence in emerging markets in Africa.