A quick Google search will get you the most instagammable locations in many cities across the world. I thought it would be a fun exercise to think about the most instagrammable places in Qatar, including some hidden gems!
After living in Qatar for more than 15 years and shooting almost 100 outfit posts around the country, I can confidently say that I know a thing or two about the most instagrammable places in Qatar. Anthony and I used to spend every weekend searching for new and interesting locations to shoot for the blog. It may sound like a tedious escapade, but we loved it because it forced us out of the house and played tourist in our home.
Whether you’re new to Doha and looking for places to visit and photograph or simply doing things ‘for the gram’, here are my most instagrammable places in Qatar and some samples of the shots we’ve taken for Instagram.
- Richard Serra Sculptures at MIA Park and Dukhan
East–West / West-East by Richard Serra is quite a sight to take in. The breathtaking sculpture in the middle of the desert has you feeling like you’re on the set of Space Odyssey. Richard Serra studied the topography of the place and positioned the sculptures so that the light perfectly hits the sculture during sunrise and sunset. If you haven’t got time for that kind of trek in the desert, Serra’s 7 sculpture at the Museum of Islamic Art is equally as breathtaking, especially surrounded by the water.
Best time to go: Nov-Feb when the weather is cooler. Try to be there before sunrise, you won’t regret it.
- The Pearl-Qatar
Before you say ‘yaaawn’, the truth is The Pearl Qatar can be an interesting location to people outside of Qatar as it evokes a feeling of wanderlust. There’s no denying that it’s one of the most Instagrammable places in Qatar and almost every photographer has done either a fashion editorial or a family shoot on the island.
I have scouted the island for different locations and you can honestly find the perfect spot to reflect the mood whether a romantic shoot to something more editorial or fun instagram #ootd.
Best time to go: weekday mornings when it’s quite and there are less people. Make sure to stop by for coffee at Flatwhite or have a delicious meal at Evergreen Organics.
- Msheireb Museums
Perched in the heart of Doha in the midst of traditional Souq Waqif and the old downtown area, Msheireb stands out thanks to its modern take on traditional architecture. There are four heritage houses within the Museum space and each one depicts a vital part of Qatar’s history and traditions. In particular I love the way that the light hits the different houses, providing a unique vantage point for architectural photography.
Best time to go: noon onwards to see the shadows play around the different buildings.
- Grand Hyatt Doha lobby and grand stairs
There’s no hotel that represents Qatar’s traditional elegance better than the Grand Hyatt Doha, with its palatial entryway and an impressive lobby that boasts floor-to-ceiling windows. The hotel’s signature staircase makes the perfect spot to take wedding photos or to show off your holiday outfit. We’re fortunate to have our pick of five-star hotels to ‘gram in this city and for me the Grand Hyatt makes the ultimate backdrop for your pictures.
Best time to go: October – February when the weather is cooler and you can take advantage of the hotel’s private beach and pool facilities.
- Mshereib Downtown
Qatar is known for it’s traditional architecture and impressive skyline of West Bay, but for a little more real and humble look at old Doha, go to Mshereib Downtown. From its traditional courtyard houses, rusty doors to old building numbers, this is another side of Doha that a lot of people don’t get to see. Start by visiting the Mshereib Art Centre for a little introduction of downtown Doha then explore the area with a group and get lost in the little alleyways. We’ve knocked on people’s doors and asked permission to enter and photograph their residences.
Best time to go: on a weekend to get a glimpse of the daily life in downtown Mshereib.
- Katara Beach Club by LivNordic Spa & Wellness
Another favorite shoot location of mine is Katara because virtually every corner is Instagrammable. Going for a photo walk around this cultural village is the perfect way to really discover the place. While the roman amphitheater is one of the highlights of Katara, but for a different view of the village, head over to the Katara Beach Club. You’ll be greeted by hundred steps leading up to a Grecian inspired building and once you head down to the beach and pool area, you’ll immediately feel like you’re in a 5-star luxury resort somewhere. I’ve had a lot of people ask me where this photo was taken of Naomi and I.
Best time to go: if you can bare the traffic, the afternoon on a weekend is the best time to go when Katara is bustling. With the restaurant kiosks set up along the promenade you’ll find plenty of people to add colour to your shot. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset with a karak on hand. That said, weekday wanderers will find the deserted alleyways ideal for a solo shoot.
- Souk Waqif Al Wakra
While Souq Waqif is the more popular option, I quite like venturing out to Souq Waif Al Wakra for a different approach to traditional souls. It’s a lot quieter and calmer than Souq Waqif, and walking along the beach makes this long drive worth it. I was first introduced to the place during last year’s Instameet where I got to meet some of my admired instagram photographers like this.is.maria and cherimacleod.
Best time to go: Weekends during the afternoon.
- Sheraton and Hotel park
I’ve only been to the Hotel Park a few times, one during the Qatar International Food Festival, but I’m fascinated with photographing the place because of the different vantage points it provides. You can take an epic shot of Doha’s skyline or even capture greenery and trees, making it look like you’re not in Doha. Another favorite spot of mine is the Sheraton garden and beach area. With its great sea view and wide garden area and modern outdoor lounge chairs, this is a great spot for family photos.
Best time to go: Anytime between 3-5PM as the sun can be really harsh and direct during the morning and noontime.
There you have it, the most intagrammable places in Qatar. What are yours?
3 comments
Brilliant one …. we look for spots to make it Instagram friendly when you may of those right in front of us . But I have to admit it’s your perspective that makes everything even better
[…] Whether you’re a tourist taking advantage of visa-free travel to Qatar, or a resident looking for a staycation during Doha’s marvelous winter, the Grand Hyatt Doha is definitely one of the places to explore. […]
Hey, fell in Love with photos!
Your Insta feed is Lit! Keep up the brilliant work!