| Doha is the capital of Qatar. Doha is situated halfway down the east coast of the peninsula. It is an important cultural and commercial centre and enjoys excellent communications with the outside world through its modern seaport, airport and telephone links. The economical base of Doha is petroleum exports, shrimp processing, finances, and administration. There is one university, the University of Qatar, which was founded in 1973. though Qataris traditionally sought their living from the sea, Oil, discovered in 1930 and now gas, has turned Qatar into one of the richest countries in the world on a per head population basis. The famous Al Bida Park is also located on this waterfront promenade. Housing various shops, food joints and sports enclosures, it is known to be the best picnic spot in Doha. Another major attraction in Doha is the Ethnographic Museum, also known as the Wind Tower House. A rare structure in the Gulf region, the huge tower has open arches that provide ventilation. The museum often holds exhibitions depicting the evolution of Doha and Qatari life in general. The former palace of Sheikh Abdullah Bin Qassim Al Thani is now home to the Qatar National Museum. Consisting of a number of national treasures, artifacts, furniture, jewelry and traditional dresses of Qatar, the museum has been a great source of recreation since 1901. The Doha Fort is the place where you can witness traditional paintings and other artworks of Qatar. The Palm Tree Island is the most serene and heavenly tourist attraction in Doha. Full of sandy beaches, the region has rides, shops, restaurants and everything else needed for unlimited fun in Doha. Some other popular tourist attractions in Doha are Entertainment City, Doha Zoo, Al- Rumaila Park and the Dahl El- Hamam Public Park. There are so many world- class malls and shops in the city that shopping in Doha becomes irresistible. And when you can buy high quality goods at reasonably cheap rates, you will be automatically drawn towards Doha shopping. The city has a variety of shops, ranging from local small- time shops to the famed malls and shopping centers. Whilst shopping in Doha, you can buy everything from a pin to an airplane. Amazing local handicrafts, big brands selling accessories, clothes, watches, et al, antique jewelry, and every other imaginable item. There is a large variety of different types of cuisine, including Indian, Thai, Chinese, Italian, Korean and, of course, typical Middle Eastern food. American fast food chains in Doha are McDonald's, KFC, Hardee's, Arby's, Burger King and Dairy Queen. Pizza places include Pizza Hut, Little Caesar's and Pizza Inn are also available there. The intersection of C- Ring and Salwa Road is known as Ramada Junction, or more jokingly as "Cholesterol Corner" due to the high number of fast food and other restaurants within a block or less of it. Alcohol is only available in bars attached to international hotels such as the Ramada, Rydges, the Ritz- Carlton etc. |
