If you’re fancying a quick escape from Riyadh and imagining a bit of Gulf glamour, Doha is a surprising gem for a girls’ weekend. Not exactly what you’d expect, is it? Now, if you’re anything like me, you’d assume hopping over to Qatar, the UAE, or Bahrain would be dirt cheap. You know, with it being right on the doorstep and all that. But, no, somehow I can fly triple the distance to Italy for half the price on Whizz, and, honestly, I’ll never quite understand that.
But flights aside, once you land in Doha, the weekend unfolds in effortless style. Here’s how it went down:
Day 1: Arrive, Relax, and Kick Off in Style
With an early flight, we arrived in Doha around lunchtime, which is just perfect. It’s that wonderful time of day when you can waltz into the Doha Golf Club for a late lunch and a cheeky drink while soaking in some green views. And oh, the booze flows here! After Riyadh, it’s like a small but glorious miracle to order a glass of wine in the sunshine.
After lunch, we took a scenic walk around The Pearl. Everything here feels pristine, well-designed, and dare I say, a bit posh. It’s the sort of place where you can meander about, taking in the clean pathways and manicured surroundings. Sundown cocktails at Fabrizio’s on The Pearl? Yes, please. Imagine the soft glow of the sunset, the clink of glasses, and a sea view. Couldn’t think of a better way to set the tone for the weekend.
Day 2: A Lazy Morning and a Luxe Brunch
Friday is a sacred day for brunching in Doha, so we indulged in a slow morning and got ourselves glammed up for a proper brunch session. We did a bit of research, and there are a few fab options:
• Nobu Doha: Known for its seafood and Japanese fusion dishes, it’s one of the world’s biggest Nobus. Pricey but worth the splurge.
• Four Seasons: An indulgent feast in a gorgeous setting—sea views, live stations, and all the flair.
• STK Doha: For a slightly more party vibe, this one brings in a crowd ready for a lively brunch experience.
In the end, we decided on The Ned. It’s in this stunning old ministry building and gives you all those Soho House vibes—think chic furniture, lovely lighting, and a really eclectic, cool crowd. The brunch was excellent, and the building itself is worth a look around, even if you’re not staying.
Post-brunch, we headed back to our hotel. We’d chosen to stay at The W in West Bay. Now, let’s be honest: the W is not exactly brand-spanking-new, but it’s comfortable, well-located, and has that signature W vibe that’s equal parts quirky and convenient. Perfectly fine for a short stay.
Day 3: Culture and a Dash of History
Saturday was our culture day. We started with a visit to the Museum of Islamic Art. If you’ve ever Googled ‘beautiful museums’, you’ve probably seen it—its architecture is stunning, all sharp angles and creamy limestone. Inside, it’s an absolute treasure trove, with artefacts from across the Islamic world, beautifully curated and surprisingly diverse. You can spend hours wandering the exhibits and feeling just a touch more refined.
Then we moved on to the National Museum of Qatar, affectionately known as the ‘Desert Rose’. This incredible building was designed by Jean Nouvel, the Pritzker Prize-winning French architect behind the Louvre Abu Dhabi. He’s known for blending culture and landscape, and the Desert Rose is a perfect example of his genius. Nouvel took inspiration from the natural desert rose formations found in the Qatari desert—those beautiful, almost floral crystals that form when minerals mix with sand and salt.
The museum’s structure mimics these roses with its interlocking disc design, creating a space that’s as intriguing on the inside as it is stunning on the outside. Walking through the museum feels surreal, with rooms twisting and sloping in ways that are both disorienting and thrilling—almost as if the architecture itself is guiding you on a journey through Qatar’s heritage. Inside, the museum showcases the history, art, and culture of Qatar, making it clear that this isn’t just a museum but a true cultural landmark.
Lunch at Souq Waqif and a Taste of Tradition
Our last stop was Souq Waqif, the “old” souq that’s actually rather new but beautifully crafted to look traditional. Here, we wandered the maze of alleyways, taking in the sights and smells—spices, textiles, jewellery. We had lunch at Damascus One, which I’d recommend for solid, tasty Lebanese food served at speed. It was my second time there, and they don’t disappoint—perfect for a final meal before we reluctantly headed back to the airport.
Final Thoughts
What struck me most about Doha this time around is how much it’s changed. A decade ago, it was all construction cranes and desert vistas; now, it’s full of art, sleek public spaces, and more personality than I expected. It doesn’t have the crazy energy of Dubai, which is exactly what makes it so perfect for a girls’ getaway. You can walk around comfortably (when the weather’s cool, mind), and the investment in art and culture gives it a more sophisticated, thoughtful feel. Public sculptures, striking museums, clean spaces—it’s all here, and it’s all surprisingly walkable.
So, if you’re after a Gulf escape with a dash of class, Doha’s worth a look. Just don’t get me started on the flight prices.
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