Several cultural and heritage attractions in Qatar remained a preferred destination for foreign tourists owing to the tremendous reputation and momentum those attractions gained during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 finals.

Among these attractions that have become most illustrious globally are Souq Waqif, Al Wakrah Old Souq and Old Doha Port which genuinely combine the authenticity of Qatari authentic and traditional architecture and the Qatari heritage touch that can never miss the visitors' eyes, such as the paving of the roads, style of construction, exterior shape of buildings and the meticulous selection of doors and windows which bear witness to this distinction and uniqueness, in addition to the fact that Souq Waqif is the first incubator of traditional professions and crafts and a destination for those searching for souvenirs and popular Qatari food.

Combining authenticity and modernity, visitors of the markets find what they like to enjoy Qatar's ancient past through their alleys and paths which are evidently a reminiscent of history, along with hotels that fulfil the needs of tourists to have showers and rest, as well as cultural edifices such as Souq Waqif Art Center which is vibrant of artworks and innovation of skillful artists from citizens and residents who strikingly talented in the realistic drawing. The market has a theatre that carries the name of the late musician Abdulaziz Nasser who embraces numerous theatrical and creative works.

The operators of the market - which was a unique destination for all visitors of the State of Qatar during the world cup- are keen to exploit the tournament legacy and its sustainability in organizing cultural and artistic events and festivals during the whole year in religious and national seasons and festivals through offering concerts and a variety of stage performances or street shows.

Those who seek the Qatari popular and traditional food will have an opportunity to enjoy Harees, margoog and other dishes, including Arabic coffee and various sweets.

Near to Souq Waqif, there is the Old Doha Port, which in a short period of time became one of the favorite new tourist destinations in the State of Qatar and was a destination for World Cup fans as well. It offered high-quality tourist services for the population in Qatar and the tourists hailing from various countries of the world and is one of the projects that left a precious legacy in the post-world cup era and includes a multi-purpose space with over 50 cafes, restaurants and over 100 shops.

The design of the Old Doha Port was inspired by sea shipping containers, combining a new city inspired by Qatari architecture, especially the houses located on the Qatari coast.

In March 2023, a house for fishermen was inaugurated at the Old Doha Port for the service of sea visitors and owners of marine means to go to the sea from the port and the corniche street in an easy and smooth manner, 24 hours a day.

In the southern city (Al Wakrah), there is Al Wakrah Old Souq standing tall and tells its secrets every evening to the sea overlooking its main street, where the soft waves of the sea that caress its golden sand bear witness to this dialogue that never ceases, where the traditional bearings stand with their wooden boards that have been gleamed by the suns rays, as they rest in safety.

The Al Wakrah Old Souq enriched life in the city, as it became a favorite haven for strolling, owing to the facilities it has, including cafes and restaurants, and a charming view of the sea, as well as its heritage buildings that mimic the ancient Qatari architectural heritage, and its embrace of cultural and heritage events throughout the year. (MORE)

Source: Qatar News Agency