This was my first time in Qatar. I suspect that even if I had, I wouldn’t have recognized it. Everything is new and newer.
The souk (market), which looks old, was built in 2006 after a fire destroyed the original 200 year old structure. The guide told us that 40, 30, even 25 year old buildings are torn down to make room for new buildings.
In the souk are camels that twice a day are in a public ceremony. There’s also a falconry center, where birds are trained and sold. A bird market of parakeets and other pet birds occupies a ling block. There’s a tourist section, but also household goods, spice market, clothing, fabric and just about anything else you might need. But because it is Ramadan no restaurants were open.
If you’re an architect, this is the place for you. Many of the new buildings are futuristic and fanciful. I.M.Pei came out of retirement to design the Islamic Art Museum. It faces the water and is striking.
The Doha Cultural Village has galleries, art museums, and an enormous amphitheater for performances. There’s also a gorgeous mosaic covered mosque that was designed by a woman. Near it are two replica pigeon mounds. These were originally used as “homes” for pigeons. The guano was collected and used for fertilizer.
In some ways Doha resembles Dubai and Abus Dhabi, but it’s calmer and more laid back. Worth a second, longer visit.
Tomorrow we’re off to Bahrain.