About 40 years ago, the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort was almost alone in Qatar’s capital. Since then, Doha has become one of the most modern cities in the Persian Gulf, filled with futuristic skyscrapers and incredible buildings. Famous architects like IM Pei, Jean Nouvel, and Zaha Hadid have helped turn Qatar into an architectural wonder.
With everything from museums and tall towers to restaurants, stadiums, and even special desert projects, Qatar is a paradise for those who love architecture and those seeking unique spots that mix old and new. We’ve picked out 17 places that show off amazing architecture in Qatar. From places that mix old styles with new ones to those showcasing cutting-edge design, these landmarks will amaze you!
Table of Contents
1. The National Museum of Qatar
As soon as you arrive at the Qatar National Museum, there is a good chance that you will be captivated by this architectural feat by Jean Nouvel. Inspired by the shape of sand roses, this building extends over 40,000 square meters and is made up of intertwined steel discs, forming curves 350 meters long, an architectural and technological challenge.
The building’s clever design uses shadows and overhangs to protect it from the sun and heat, evoking the eternal dimension and fluidity of the desert. In addition, this modern architectural gem majestically embraces the traditional palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani , a recently restored historic monument.
The museum’s galleries are formed around a central courtyard reminiscent of the place where travelers once stopped to exchange their goods. Inside these galleries, you will discover extensive collections of Islamic art, traditional jewelry, clothing, ancient weapons, photographs, and videos.
The museum also devotes several rooms to the geology, fauna, and flora of the country. Finally, the modern epic of Qatar is also discussed in the sections dedicated to oil, gas, and the sea.
2. The Ceremonial Court
The Ceremonial Court is one of the emblematic monuments of Education City, a 12 square kilometer space that houses, among others, the campuses of several major educational institutes. This ceremonial courtyard was designed by famous Japanese architect Arata Isozaki , winner of the 2019 Pritzker Prize. It is a space created to host various events, such as graduations, concerts, and even anniversary celebrations. National Day of Qatar.
As you enter the doors of this building, you will be captivated by the immensity of the central courtyard, bathed in natural light and surrounded by white stone walls and imposing columns. Stroll through its corridors and admire the subtle details of modern and traditional architecture that come together in perfect harmony. You will notice the trellis patterns that adorn the pergolas surrounding the square. Once night falls, this majestic place is adorned with breathtaking night lighting.
3. The National Library of Qatar
Still within Education City, you can admire the Qatar National Library designed by the famous Dutch firm OMA and architect Rem Koolhaas. Its angular exterior evokes folded pieces of paper, to resemble an open book with turning pages.
The open-plan interior is sure to impress with its shelves rising from the ground on several levels, its large, bright spaces, and its large floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the city.
Besides its unique geometric architecture, the Qatar National Library houses over a million books and a large collection of rare documents and manuscripts. At the heart of the library, 6 meters underground, is the heritage library which preserves documents dating from the 7th century.
The National Library of Qatar, in addition to preserving the country’s heritage, is also a place of learning and play, where you can participate in several innovation workshops.
In this library, you will also observe the use of innovative technologies, such as automatic sorting of books and the “people mover” system which, in the form of an inclined elevator suitable for wheelchairs, transports visitors to the desired level.
4. The Museum of Islamic Art
Designed by the illustrious architect IM Pei, the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha harmoniously combines traditional Islamic inspirations and modern design, to create one of the most beautiful museums in Qatar. Located on an artificial island off the Corniche, this 35,000 square-meter building impresses with its angular shapes and the limestone used for its construction.
The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha presents an interesting comparison with the Suzhou Museum, also designed by IM Pei. Although the two buildings share a similar architectural language, they use different exterior materials, creating a mix of elements that blend into the landscape and present sharp contrasts.
As you enter the museum, you’ll notice the walls and ceilings adorned with intricate geometric patterns and elegant Arabic calligraphy, while the polished white marble floors reflect the natural light that bathes the building.
The museum houses an extensive collection of Islamic artifacts, spanning the period from the 7th to the 19th centuries, including manuscripts, textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. Temporary exhibitions often feature rare and valuable pieces from other museums around the world, providing an enriching cultural experience. Don’t forget to go to the top floor to enjoy spectacular views of Doha city and the surrounding sea.
5. The Nobu restaurant
The only culinary destination on this list, this 2,415 square meter Japanese and Peruvian fusion restaurant is the largest Nobu restaurant in the world. Located in the heart of the Four Seasons Hotel in Doha, on its private marina, it is the work of American architect David Rockwell.
As soon as you arrive, you will be enchanted by the exterior structure, shaped like ribbons of river pebbles and bronze accents, evoking the spiral of a shell. The entrance, reminiscent of a Japanese garden, will lead you to a bronze atrium decorated with a waterfall of stones. Elaborate lighting illuminates the exterior at night, while a reflecting pool surrounds the perimeter of the building.
Take advantage of the restaurant’s terrace to admire its breathtaking view of the port, as well as the outdoor lounge, located on the top floor, to have a breathtaking view of the Doha skyline, the Corniche, and the port.
6. Al Thumama stadium
Al Thumama Stadium is one of the most impressive buildings in Qatar. Designed by Qatari architect Ibrahim Mohammed Jaidah, this 40,000-seat stadium south of Doha was specially built for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The design of the stadium is inspired by the gahfiya, a typical Arab headgear, worn by most men in Gulf countries. A design that also offers effective sun protection and a solar-powered cooling system.
This building is not only aesthetic but also functional, and was created with a long-term vision: following the World Cup, the stadium saw its capacity reduced to 20,000 seats, to become a leisure complex with different uses and host sporting and non-sporting events. The upper stands should even be converted into a luxury hotel.
7. East-West/West-East: the monoliths of Richard Serra
Among Qatar’s most spectacular works of art, don’t miss the majestic steel monoliths created by renowned American artist Richard Serra. This work, commissioned by Sheika Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, was designed in 2014. Entitled East-West/West-East, it stands proudly in the heart of the Brouq desert, 80 kilometers from Doha.
Imagine yourself facing these four impressive monoliths, 15 meters high, planted in the middle of the dunes, in the immensity of the desert. With this installation, the artist wanted to evoke the fragility of Man in the face of nature.
To get there, you will need a 4×4, which adds a touch of adventure to your journey! The easiest way is to go through a tour operator.
8. Doha Tower
231.50 meters high and measuring 45 meters in diameter, this architectural feat by Jean Nouvel dominates the urban landscape of West Bay, the financial and diplomatic district. An emblem of local culture, the Doha Tower, also called Burj Doha (“burj” means “tower” in Arabic), fuses contemporary design and traditional Islamic motifs. It demonstrates the ambition to make Doha the cultural center of the Gulf countries.
The double-skin facade of the tower, made of aluminum elements reminiscent of Arabic Shanasheel windows, will impress you with its design while ensuring optimal solar protection, thanks to the sunshade that surrounds it.
Enter the building through the landscaped garden which will lead you to a large glass-roofed hall. The atrium, located on the 27th floor, offers a height of 112 meters, which will give you the feeling of being privileged while admiring this unique architectural work.
9. Tornado Tower
Located near the Doha Tower, the Tornado Tower has a remarkable truncated cylinder shape, and rises 195 meters high, over 52 floors. Its bold design evokes a whirlwind, hence its name (“tornado tower”, in English). At night, dynamic bright lighting enhances its dramatic silhouette, adding a touch of modernity and elegance to Doha’s cityscape.
The tower accommodates luxurious office spaces with state-of-the-art facilities, and most importantly, 360-degree panoramic views on every floor. You will also find a gym, a spa, a bank, several restaurants, and cafes to spend a relaxing time. And of course, let’s not forget the rooftop helipad!
Designed in 2008 and recognized for its sustainable architecture, Tornado Tower was recognized by the Chicago Skyscraper and Urban Habitat Council and received the title of “Green Commercial Building” at the Qatar Sustainability Awards.
10. The Katara Mosque
The Katara Mosque , classical in appearance, is nevertheless a unique architectural work. It is one of the most beautiful mosques in the country. It is the work of Turkish designer Zainab Fadil Oglu, and the decorations were carried out by a team of restoration experts from Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul.
This magnificent structure features turquoise and purple mosaics which give it an elegant and refined look. The sumptuous interior and exterior adorned with mosaics demonstrate unparalleled craftsmanship. All the key elements of its architecture, such as the mihrab, the minaret, the dome, and the architectural designs, were influenced by various famous mosques in the Muslim world, coming from Egypt, Syria, and even Iran. Every detail has been carefully worked, from the mosaics to the decorations to the inscriptions.
The Katara mosque is a truly “Instagrammable” place for photography enthusiasts. You can immortalize its minaret, the picturesque nature of which attracts many non-Muslim tourists.
11. The Katara Cultural Village Amphitheater
Located just a few meters from the Katara Mosque, you’ll find another architectural marvel of Doha: the Katara Cultural Village Amphitheater. This construction harmoniously combines Islamic architectural features and the architecture of classical Greek theaters. Spanning 3,275 square meters, the amphitheater offers both a view of the sea and the cultural village.
Able to accommodate up to 5,000 people, the amphitheater has been the venue for open-air film screenings, dance performances, and concerts, with renowned artists such as the Greek composer Vangelis, who was the special guest during the opening ceremony in 2011.
12. Qatar National Convention Center
Featuring a structure reminiscent of intertwined tree branches, this place is worth the detour for its originality and unique charm. The Qatar National Convention Center is the work of Japanese architect Arata Isozaki and was inaugurated in 2011. It is not only one of the largest exhibition centers in the Middle East, being able to accommodate up to 7,000 people in its three huge rooms, but it is also considered one of the most sophisticated.
The exterior of the building has a captivating design, with a cantilevered roof supported by two tree-shaped columns. These gigantic branches pay homage to the Sidra, a tree of great importance in the Islamic faith.
Inside, a giant spider awaits you. But don’t worry, this one is made of bronze! 9 meters high and 10 meters wide, it sits proudly in the hall. Don’t hesitate to walk under this gigantic insect and immortalize the moment by taking photos from all angles.
Also note that the center was designed with sustainability in mind, following the standards of the US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED). The building has several innovations to save water and energy.
13. Education City Mosque
The Education City Mosque is undoubtedly a particularly photogenic landmark, making it a favorite among Instagram enthusiasts. With its spectacular 90-meter-high minarets, adorned with Arabic calligraphy, this fascinating mosque seamlessly blends modern architecture and traditional Islamic elements. It is the work of the Iraqi architect Taha al-Hiti .
The Education City mosque is supported by five pillars, each evoking the five pillars of the Muslim faith. As you venture inside, you will be amazed by its ceilings covered with Koranic verses and illuminated by small lights, evoking twinkling stars.
But what makes this mosque so unique in Qatar is the way water flows under the building, from four streams coming from the garden surrounding it. Like the pillars, these watercourses symbolize the four rivers of paradise according to the Koran.
14. The Pearl
Who could imagine that this artificial island surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf was once a place for pearl diving?
With its luxury residential and commercial towers, Pearl Island is home to renowned international brands, fine restaurants, and luxury hotels. Its design is reminiscent of a pearl necklace, in homage to the region’s pearling industry.
Take the time to stroll along the marina, nicknamed “the Arabian Riviera”, lined with luxury yachts and offering a Mediterranean atmosphere. Please take advantage of the many restaurants and cafes overlooking it to enjoy a delicious meal in this sumptuous setting.
Continue your exploration by visiting the Qanat Quartier, another elegant part of the Pearl. You will feel transported to Europe with its colorful buildings and central canal. Highly photogenic, this place is also full of restaurants and cafes with irresistible charm.
15. Sidra Medicine
Sidra Medicine, made of steel, glass, and white ceramic tile, is a hospital and biomedical research center. It was designed by Cesar Pelli, known for the World Financial Center in New York, the Petronas Towers in Malaysia, and the International Finance Centre in Hong Kong. The hospital features three large sails, reminiscent of Qatar’s maritime history. Inside, there are peaceful healing gardens full of plants and water, set in quiet, sunlit atriums.
16. Al Janoub Stadium
Al Janoub Stadium, one of the eight stadiums hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022, opened in May 2019. Designed by Zaha Hadid, this 40,000-seat stadium is inspired by the dhow boats common in Qatar’s waters and the pearls crucial to its economy. Al Janoub Stadium will serve as the home ground for Al Wakra Sports Club.
17. Al Bayt Stadium
Close to the coastal city of Al Khor, Al Bayt Stadium combines tradition with eco-friendliness. This unique stadium features a canopy that mimics bayt al sha’ar, tents traditionally used by Bedouins in the Arabian Gulf, and seats 60,000 people. Following the Supreme Committee’s commitment to lasting benefits, the top part of the stadium’s temporary seating can be removed and donated to developing countries that need sports facilities.
