First Time in Doha: What I Did, Ate & Loved

One of the best parts of being cabin crew is getting to see familiar places through unfamiliar eyes. When I found out I had a layover in Doha, Qatar, I was excited — but when I remembered I had a friend living there? Game changer.

This sleek, stylish city blends tradition with futuristic vibes, and thanks to my friend’s insider knowledge, I got to see more than just the surface. From dreamy architecture to sizzling shawarma, here’s what I did, ate, and absolutely loved in Doha.

First Impressions of Doha

We landed at Hamad International Airport, and it honestly felt like walking into a luxury hotel. Clean, modern, and quietly grand. After check-in at our hotel, I linked up with my friend who lives in Doha and had already crafted a mini itinerary — local style.

What I Did in Doha (with Local Love)

Msheireb Downtown

Our first stop was Msheireb, the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project. It’s the perfect intro to Doha — modern, airy, and packed with cool cafés, museums, and people in the trendiest abayas and thobes you’ve ever seen.

We grabbed iced qahwa (Arabic coffee) and people-watched like pros.

Souq Waqif

No Doha layover is complete without a visit to this iconic marketplace. We strolled past spice stalls, falcon shops, and textile corners. My friend helped me haggle for souvenirs (as every good local should), and I ended up buying the most stunning handmade earrings and a mini oud perfume bottle.

Museum of Islamic Art

I’m a museum girl at heart, and this one? Chef’s kiss. The architecture alone is worth the visit. Inside, it’s a peaceful journey through centuries of Islamic art and culture — beautiful calligraphy, ceramics, fabrics and more.

Plus, the view of the Doha skyline from the waterfront promenade outside is elite.

Katara Cultural Village

Later that evening, we explored Katara, a dreamy blend of art installations, amphitheatres, cafés, and beachy vibes. It’s perfect for golden hour. I loved how clean and calm everything felt — and again, I felt super safe walking around.

What I Ate in Doha

The food scene here is a whole vibe — global, fresh, and so aesthetic. From traditional Qatari eats to Turkish fusion, here’s what had me drooling:

Shawarma & Karak

We stopped at a local late-night spot for beef shawarma and Karak tea (spiced milky chai) — a combo I didn’t know I needed. You’ll find Karak stands dotted around the city; I could honestly drink it all day.

Majboos

This Qatari rice dish with lamb or chicken is comfort food on another level. Flavourful, rich, and usually served with a tomato sauce or yoghurt on the side.

Turkish Sweets in The Pearl

For dessert, my friend took me to a café in The Pearl-Qatar, a fancy man-made island with canals, yachts, and boujee energy. We had baklava with pistachio cream and Turkish coffee while overlooking the water.

What I Loved Most

Exploring With My Friend

Travelling is amazing, but travelling with a local guide (aka your bestie)? Unmatched. I got the real Doha — beyond the Instagram spots — and I loved seeing how proud and at-home she felt here.

The Architecture & Skyline

Doha is literally where tradition meets Blade Runner. The city is full of elegant mosques, gold-accented towers, and ultra-modern buildings that reflect the desert sun like art.

Feeling Safe & Seen

As a Black woman and cabin crew, safety is always on my mind. I’m happy to report that I felt completely safe walking through the souqs, downtown areas, and even in quiet neighbourhoods at night. People were respectful and chill — no one stared or made me uncomfortable.

Cabin Crew Tips for Doha

• Modest dress is advised – think loose clothing, covered shoulders/knees in public.
• Use Uber or Karwa – affordable and air-conditioned.
• Drinking alcohol is restricted – only available in certain hotel bars.
• Friday mornings = quiet – many places open later after Friday prayers.
• Crew hack: Ask hotel staff where locals go for Karak — skip the tourist traps!

Would I Go Back?

Absolutely — especially with someone showing me the ropes. Doha surprised me with how clean, calm, and culturally rich it is. I’d love to return in winter for a desert safari or dhow boat ride along the Corniche.

See the Sights

If you want to see what Doha really looks like beyond the airport and skyscrapers, check out my story highlights and reels on Instagram @travelwithtillyah — I captured everything from museum moments to Karak runs!

Have You Explored Doha?

Would love to know what you got up to! Drop a comment if you’ve been, or if you’re planning a layover soon. I’ve got recommendations on standby.

Travel With Tillyah Recommends:

• Best time to visit: November–March (cooler & dry)
• Currency: Qatari Riyal (QAR)
• Useful apps: Jetpac, Uber, Talabat (food delivery), Google Translate (Arabic)
• Perfect for: Architecture lovers, luxury vibes, culture with calm
• Safety rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (extremely safe, especially for women)

That is all for now!

Love and hugs,

Tillyah x