72 Hours in Doha: Why Qatar is the Perfect Destination for a Long Weekend with the Ladies

As September Equinox swiftly approaches, dropping temperatures across the region will see discerning jetsetters turn their minds to taking a holiday. And what better respite from the long summer than a fun-filled mini break with girlfriends? With its varied, exciting and ever-expanding array of female-only activities on offer in the capital and across the country, Qatar is the perfect choice for a long weekend away with the ladies.  

With more than one million visitors set to visit Qatar for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, the country is expanding its hospitality industry at a startling pace.

From marvelling at the sights of the Doha Corniche on an authentically Middle Eastern private dhow boat, to trampolining the night away with friends across the city’s attractive landmarks, Qatar Tourism reveals its insider tips for soaking up the perfect 72 hours in the country with girlfriends.

Haya Al-Noami, Marketing and Promotion sector at Qatar Tourism said: “Qatar has it all: adrenaline—fueled fun, stunning scenery and truly unique cultural experiences. Travelers looking for the perfect ladies-only mini break will find themselves genuinely spoilt for choice, all in one of the world’s safest destinations.”

Day One

Get Around in Style

From the moment they touch down at the iconic Hamad International Airport, ladies visiting Qatar have plenty of ways to get around in style and safety. Alijarah Limousines offers a Pink Limousine service, which ensures women riders receive a female taxi or limousine driver on request.

Unwind After a Tiring Flight

Ladies-only pool and spa options are in abundance across the country’s numerous hotels – perfect for female travellers to relax in sumptuous elegance after a tiring flight. The exquisite Al Messila Hotel offers a specialised Ladies Wellness Retreat, which boasts 26 ornately decorated treatment rooms, therapy pools and female-only fitness centres.

See The Sights Under the Stars

Doha is a truly marvellous sight at sunset, and there is no better way to savour its unique delights than with an evening trip along the Corniche on an Arabian dhow boat. Ladies’ groups can hire a private cruise from the operator, Asfary, to enjoy the city’s shimmering skyline in privacy and comfort.

The capital is renowned for its yoga culture, and ladies-only sessions under the stars are a wonderful treat for the fitness-conscious traveller. With cooler temperatures anticipated, travellers can look out for locally popular Yoga classes in serene locations such as the beach at the Four Seasons Hotel Doha or the grassy plains of the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel.

Day Two

A Walk in the Park

Doha prides itself on its many beautiful parks and green spaces, some of which cater for women and families. Al Khor Family Park, with its bubbling fountains, picnic area and mini zoo, is perfect for a brisk morning stroll and is open to women and children only on Tuesdays. The truly serene Oxygen Park also offers ladies-only sessions every Monday, and Tuesday afternoon.

Savour Traditional Qatari Culture

Set amidst the backdrop of the iconic Souk Waqif, the Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Centre regularly hosts events for women. Girl groups can delve into Qatari culture by sampling courses in the local dialect (Swalif), embarking on mosque tours and catching up over coffee mornings.

Thrilling Evenings

Balmy Qatari evenings are a treat for female fun and thrill seekers. Those willing to travel can make their way to the inimitable Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park, which hosts Ladies-only nights every Wednesday to end of September.

BOUNCE Doha is one of the largest indoor trampoline parks in the city, and offers regular events exclusively for women. Led by a team of female-only staff, guests can sharpen up their jumping skills whilst catching up with girlfriends.

Day Three

Breakfast with the Girls

The stylishly Sridan restaurant in Doha’s JW Marriott Marquis City Center hotel is ideal for enjoying a delicious breakfast with the ladies. At QAR79 for women only, guests can tuck in to an opulent five-star breakfast and reminisce about last night’s escapades, while enjoying views of the city’s sparkling West Bay.  

Relax on the Beach

Female travellers can enjoy  the afternoon amongst the waves in total seclusion on one of Qatar’s women-only beaches. Al Mamlha Women’s Beach boasts 15,000 square metres of exotic sands, crystal clear waters and is attentively protected daily by a team of female guards.

Explore Nature

Kayaking amongst the Qatari mangroves is the perfect way to round off a long girly weekend in the country. AquaSports Qatar offer ladies-only Sunset Tours in the aqua blue waters of Purple Island, where attendees can snorkel on secluded beaches, learn about the Island’s ecosystem and enjoy a stunning Arabian sunset over the lush mangrove forest.

From wellness retreats to desert adventures, water sports to family-friendly amusement parks, holistic experiences can be found on Qatar Tourism’s VisitQatar website for further inspiration on where to go and what to do. The latest September issue by Qatarcalendar.com also highlights events and what’s on around Doha. To look out for, Qatar Tourism is set to launch exciting deals and attractive promo packages for travellers from the region, later this month.