Your essential guides to Doha

Just a short walk northeast to Doha’s Corniche (seafront) is the I.M. Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Art. Located on a man-made island, this unique building houses a diverse collection of Islamic art spanning three continents and 1,400 years. Sharing its grounds is the Al Riwaq Gallery, which hosts thought-provoking temporary exhibitions.

Souq Waqif’s proximity to Mandarin Oriental, Doha means you have a treasure trove on your doorstep. Amongst its narrow, twisting alleys and bustling squares you’ll find local craftsmen making bespoke pieces and unusual souvenirs, and art galleries selling pieces created in the region. Just to the south of Souq Waqif is Souq Najada, Doha’s gold souq, home to dozens of jewellers who will produce items to your own design. Further afield but worth a trip is the luxurious outdoor mall,Al Hazm, constructed using 41,000 tonnes of marble and stone imported from Jerusalem and Tuscany. Here you’ll find stores selling Arabic perfume, couture fashion and indulgent beauty salons.

Take a trip toKatara Cultural Village to check out its art exhibitions, opera house, well-kept public beach and huge amphitheatre. Nearby is the man-made island, he Pearl-Qatar, home to thousands of residents, and dozens of luxury stores and restaurants.

As soon as the sun sets, head up to the roof of Mandarin Oriental, Doha for an open-air drink under the stars at Aqua. The venue also offers tempting snacks and sharing dishes such as mezze and tapas. If you feel like exploring, wander east through Msheireb to Souq Waqif and find a table at the ever-popular Damasca One, which serves up fresh fruit juices, milkshakes and mocktails alongside tempting Syrian dishes.

Pay a visit to the Falcon Souq in Souq Waqif, where you can learn about the Qatari love of these revered hunting birds, and even have a close encounter with one – just ask.