IN THE HEART OF THE QATAR

Did you know that Doha, the capital of Qatar, has become one of the most visited foreign destinations for citizens of Azerbaijan over the past year? And naturally, you would like to understand the reasons behind this remarkable transformation of a city that was once unremarkable into a top destination for Azerbaijani tourists.

A cheap or expensive destination?

Doha is a city that caters to a wide range of interests. Whether it's culture, gastronomy, shopping, leisure or sports, Qatar's capital will impress you with its diversity. The city's unique character blends Arab traditions and European innovations, creating an atmosphere that is sure to impress any visitor. As a rapidly growing city, Doha has managed to preserve its cultural identity, making it a destination that is sure to attract and retain tourists.

Recent developments have made it increasingly accessible, with multiple direct flights to Doha available weekly, along with affordable tour packages. Baku travel agencies are offering 3-4-day tours to Doha, and the average cost of a direct flight (including luggage and food), accommodation in a three- or four-star hotel with breakfast, transfer and insurance, is between $280 and $350. This makes it an attractive destination for budget-conscious travellers, especially given the relatively affordable travel vouchers available for many countries. Upon arrival at Doha airport, guests will be greeted by experienced local tour operator representatives who speak Azerbaijani, Turkish and Russian languages, and can assist with hotel check-in and address any queries.

A key issue is that the cost of these tours significantly exceeds the standard rates in Dubai. For example, while daily sightseeing tours of the main sights in Dubai are available for around $25, similar tours in Doha cost at least $60. Furthermore, the main tourist locations are only partially covered. A safari in the desert is even more expensive, with jeep tours for four people costing $250. If you wish to go alone or with two people, you will be asked to find your missing travelling companions and pay for the entire jeep. The safari tour does not include dinner or entertainment in the evening, which are included in the $25-30 per person package in Dubai. In Doha, the cost of most tours is similarly high. Sightseeing group tours are available for 4 or 6 people at $350-450 for 4-5 hours. The limited development of the tourist infrastructure is evident in the absence of street travel agencies, in contrast to those found in Dubai and Türkiye. The absence of competition results in high prices. What should an arriving tourist do? The most attractive option is to explore the city's sights by travelling on public transport, with the metro being the most appealing choice. The metro was built for the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and has 3 lines (37 stations), with trains running at 100 km/h every 2-4 minutes. A metro station is also available at the airport, allowing for a swift half-hour journey to the city centre. It is important to note that the metro is fully automated, with no live ticket offices. Ticket machines are the only available point of purchase. Live assistance is available, but their role is limited to answering queries. The metro's sliding doors, which open simultaneously with the doors of arriving trains, ensure the safety of passengers by preventing them from falling onto the tracks. The red metro line is the most useful for tourists as it runs from the airport and through the centre of Doha, with 80% of the capital's attractions located along the red line. Tickets can be purchased at the kiosks, either by card or cash, and it is more convenient and cheaper for tourists to buy a full-day ticket (Day Pass). This costs 6 Qatari riyals (approximately ₼3) and allows the traveller to ride the metro during the day as much as they like. A single ticket costs 2 riyals (₼1).

Major projects and landmarks

The 2022 FIFA World Cup is one of the most ambitious and significant projects in Qatar's history. The country has invested a staggering $220 billion in preparation over 12 years for the tournament. As a result, eight state-of-the-art stadiums were constructed, including the impressive 80,000-seat Lusail Stadium, which also features a shopping centre, school, hospital, cafes and restaurants. The second, Stadium 974, was the world's first fully collapsible indoor football arena. These facilities have become iconic not only for sport, but also for the country's architecture, which is why most tourists enjoy visiting them. There have also been projects to modernise and expand the Doha Metro and highways, as well as new hotels and tourist facilities to accommodate millions of spectators. These facilities continue to play an important role in the development of tourism and sports in the country. The most ambitious ($15bn) tourist attraction in Doha is the artificial island The Pearl-Qatar, a 4 square kilometre area home to small bays, private beaches, villas, shops and restaurants, children's centres, marinas and water sports centres.

The Pearl-Qatar, also known as "Pearl of Qatar", is a modern neighbourhood located on an artificial island and represents the most ambitious construction project initiated by Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa Al-Thani. It is worth noting that the complex is open to both local and international investors, with the most distinctive zone, Qanat Quartier, being inspired by Venice, complete with canals, vibrant architecture and a faithful reproduction of the Rialto Bridge. During the development of the project, great attention was paid to the natural features of the region, and efforts were made to preserve the ecosystem, with minimal impact on the fauna and the creation of some of the cleanest beaches with soft white sand. The complex resembles a series of pearls, with each pearl symbolised by a lagoon, hence the name. The Qatar National Museum is one of the country's most significant cultural projects and opened in 2019. The museum, designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel, resembles a sand rose and has become a symbol of Qatar's cultural significance, playing a key role in the country's tourist infrastructure. It features unique exhibitions dedicated to Qatar's history and contemporary art. Entrance to the museum is priced at 100 Qatari riyals (€27). Another notable attraction in Doha is the Museum of Islamic Art. Designed by the renowned architect Yaw Min Peyim, it is not only an architectural marvel but also a rich repository of art collections dating from the 7th to the 19th centuries, representing diverse cultures and Islamic arts and crafts from India to Spain. Situated on an artificial island, the museum offers breathtaking views of the Persian Gulf and the cityscape. Doha's Corniche promenade, stretching for several kilometres along the Persian Gulf, is another notable attraction. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views of the city and the bay itself, the panorama of traditional Arabian dhow boats passing by (and even ride on them), the West Bay skyscraper, the Qatar National Museum and the Museum of Islamic Art. There are conveniently located cafes and restaurants where it's nice to spend time in the shade while enjoying the sea breeze. The area is popular with the local population for evening strolls and sporting activities such as running and cycling. The ethnographic village of Katara is also located here, with the opportunity to walk around ancient buildings and view paintings by Qatari artists. The village has an amphitheatre, cinema, drama theatre, galleries, gardens, its own bazaar and restaurants serving national dishes. Katara beach is the only public beach in Doha and is 1. 5 kilometres long. Whilst it may not be considered the most aesthetically pleasing beach in the world, it offers all the necessary amenities for a beach holiday. For those interested in Qatar's religious life, a visit to the Grand Mosque of Imam Mohammed ibn Abd al-Wahhab is recommended. The largest in the country, its architecture and spacious interior halls, which can accommodate up to 30,000 people, make a lasting impression. The Grand Mosque is not only a place of worship, but also an opportunity to experience the atmosphere of Qatari Islam. Qatar is actively developing its tourism sector according to the Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy 2030. The country plans to attract more tourists, create new tourist facilities and expand infrastructure. As part of this strategy, the main Hamad airport has become one of the world's largest and most modern transport hubs.

Living in earthly paradise

Qatar is a wealthy and dynamic nation that provides its citizens with many social benefits and privileges aimed at maintaining a high standard of living and improving their well-being. Many people will be interested to know how Qatar's authorities pay special attention to its citizens, a fact that will be highlighted by guides during excursions and emphasised by numerous media sources.

The country's high standard of living, which is among the world's highest, is due to high per capita income, substantial wealth from oil and gas production, and significant government investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Qatar is renowned for its high salaries, especially for the local population, with a minimum of $4-5k being a common figure. The country offers its citizens a robust support system in terms of employment, with specific benefits for Qataris seeking employment, particularly within government structures. Salary expectations for locals frequently exceed those of foreigners, effectively offsetting the cost of living in the country. In addition to the salary, employees enjoy benefits such as annual bonuses, health insurance, housing and transport reimbursements, contributing to a significantly higher total income for Qataris compared to their base salary.

Free education is a significant advantage, with public educational institutions providing free primary and secondary education, as well as university education. Qatar is actively developing its higher education system, with local residents able to study free of charge at prestigious universities in Qatar and abroad, and to receive state scholarships to study at leading universities worldwide. Upon marriage, newly-weds receive a subsidy of $120,000 and a plot of land. In cases where a family lacks the financial means to construct a residence, the state is prepared to provide assistance by building the house free of charge. A notable social benefit for Qatari citizens is the allocation of an average of $60,000 for the birth of their first child. The exact amount is subject to variation depending on the policy in effect at the time of birth and other considerations. However, it generally covers the majority of child support expenses during the initial years of life. Newly-weds can also take an interest-free loan from a bank to improve their living conditions, which can be repaid by the state upon the birth of a third child. Free medical care is one of the most significant social benefits, with public hospitals and polyclinics providing a wide range of medical services, including specialist consultations, surgery and treatment, at no cost. Private medical centres are also experiencing active development in Qatar. For high-end medical services, such as treatment abroad, government programmes may cover or partially offset the costs.

In Qatar, the state provides comprehensive subsidies for essential utilities such as water, electricity and gas, ensuring that residents do not face exorbitant costs. The government has also implemented pension programmes to ensure the elderly population's financial security. The amount of pension is calculated based on an individual's salary and length of service, typically accounting for around 60 per cent of the last salary. The retirement age is 60 for men and 55 for women. In addition, Qatar has a comprehensive social insurance system in place to cover risks related to illness, injury and other unforeseen situations. The state also provides a free carer for single pensioners and fully covers funeral costs. A notable aspect of Qatar's social welfare system is that only companies are subject to taxes, with the population not being required to pay income tax. This feature of the tax system is a key factor in Qatar's appeal to both local and foreign professionals, as it allows individuals to receive a net salary without deductions for taxes. The only tax applied is a corporate tax, which applies to profitable companies and is 10 per cent on profits earned from business.

Expensive and luxurious shopping

Doha, Qatar's cultural and business centre, is a shopper's paradise, although it is more suited to those with a higher budget. While there are many world brands available to the middle class, prices are generally higher than in Türkiye. However, the wealthy population prefers to shop in branded boutiques, which is why more expensive clothing brands are more represented in shopping centres. Doha has more than 10 major shopping centres, offering goods to suit every taste, from global brands to traditional Arabic products. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy the unique atmosphere, relax in cafes and admire the picturesque views. One of the most interesting shopping centres is Villagio Mall. The architecture of the City Centre Doha is reminiscent of the famous canals of Venice, offering guests a unique shopping experience as they stroll through shopping galleries designed like ancient Italian streets. Inside the mall, there are also canals with gondolas where visitors can take a ride on the water. The mall features luxury boutiques of world brands, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Chanel. Perhaps the most popular mid-priced mall in the capital is City Centre Doha. This popular mid-priced mall features a wide range of international brand stores, electronics shops and food supermarkets. It also boasts a cinema, along with dedicated areas for children and teenagers, offering entertainment such as video games and attractions. Strategically located in the heart of the city, the shopping centre is well-connected, being in close proximity to business districts, hotels and the metro. Other major shopping malls in the area include Place Vendôme Mall, Mall of Qatar, Doha Festival City and Lagoona Mall. The Pearl-Qatar, a luxury shopping complex located on an artificial island, boasts a selection of high-end boutiques, upscale restaurants and exclusive shops. The island also features premium outlets and international dining options. For a more authentic local experience, Souq Waqif, located near the metro station of the same name, is a must-visit. This market offers a wide range of products, from spices and fabrics to jewellery and souvenirs, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. It is an ideal destination for those seeking unique and traditional souvenirs. Locals and travellers alike frequent this market for its aromatic coffee, spices, dates, fabrics and incense. Notably, the market offers the "desert rose", a shape inspired by the Qatar National Museum.

Travellers can purchase a wide range of local handicrafts, including bronze figurines, wooden boxes, henna, Arabic lamps, hookahs, carpets, rosary beads, scrolls with Arabic script, Korans, gold jewellery, daggers and traditional coffee pots.

It is possible to purchase Qatari riyals using both dollars and euros, since the exchange rates offered by different exchange offices are very similar. However, given that cards are accepted almost everywhere, it is also possible to make purchases by cashless payment. Many retail outlets also accept dollars.

Symbols of Doha

Qatar's capital is renowned for its numerous modern architectural structures and sculptures, which represent a significant part of the country's cultural heritage and national identity and are the city's calling cards. For example, a 7-metre teddy bear sitting under a lamp has been situated in the duty-free zone of Hamad International Airport for approximately 10 years. The Lamp Bear sculpture by Urs Fischer has been a source of amusement for many air travellers over the years. The main air hub of Qatar is also home to Little Lies by KAWS, a giant wooden figure reminiscent of Pinocchio, which the artist refers to as Companion. Another notable sculpture in Doha is Thumb by César Baldaccini, installed in Doha's Souq Waqif Square. The sculpture's polished bronze surface is illuminated by rays of light, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the traditional oriental bazaar. The Qatar Amphitheatre's promenade features the Force of Nature II composition, a large bronze sculpture by Lorenzo Quinn. Installed in major cities worldwide, this piece represents Mother Nature as a woman spinning the planet.

The Pearl Monument, a fountain that pays tribute to the history of pearl mining, was the main industry before the discovery of oil fields in 1939. Located on Corniche Quay, just before the entrance to Doha Harbour, the sculpture depicts a giant open shell with a massive pearl.

The art installation Miraculous Journey by Damien Hirst is situated in the grounds of the Sidra Maternity and Childhood Medical Centre. The installation features 14 bronze sculptures, ranging from 5 to 14 metres in height, which illustrate the process of embryo development from conception to birth. The installation, which had a cost of $20m, was dismantled after receiving criticism from conservative Qataris, but has since been restored.

Marco Balich's 30-metre aluminium installation Al Nehem, dedicated to the whale shark, aims to raise awareness of another endangered marine species. It appeared in the futuristic town of Lusail near Doha, and the waters off the coast of Qatar are home to one of the world's last colonies of these large sharks. The sculpture is suspended 20 metres above the plaza between the four skyscrapers of Lusail Towers.

Doha is home to a number of notable sculptures, including Richard Serra's East-West/West-East monoliths, Louise Bourgeois' Maman, Subodh Gupta's Three Monkeys of Gandhi, and Richard Serra's 24-metre steel sculpture 7. Visitors are encouraged to take the time to familiarise themselves with these pieces and the wider artistic and cultural scene of Doha.

A visit to Doha is an opportunity to experience a fusion of tradition and modernity, to appreciate the grandeur of architectural masterpieces and art, and to learn more about Qatar's culture and history. The city offers an exciting experience for lovers of art, architecture and nature, as well as for those seeking new discoveries.