Doha After Dark: 6 Ways to Experience the Qatari Capital’s Nightlife

As the sun sinks behind Qatar’s capital, temperatures dip and the skyline’s backdrop blazes in reds and oranges — in these magic evening hours, visitors will discover plenty to do. From corniche strolls and dining to dhow cruises, follow the lead of locals and come out to play after dark in this coastal metropolis.

As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.

Savor an Alfresco Cocktail

Local laws restrict the sale of alcohol to international hotels, and often, these spots boast several bars and restaurants, including alfresco options that make the most of Doha’s warm weather and lack of rainy days.

Gaze out over a luxury marina from a terrace table at The Ritz-Carlton, Doha, as a DJ spins tunes at the hotel’s chic B-lounge Doha. Or head to The Ritz-Carlton Sharq Village, Doha’s seaside Iris Doha bar for a sunset drink, watching as the Persian Gulf glitters in the fading light.

In West Bay, the hip poolside Wahm bar at the W Doha regularly hosts DJs and live music events, keeping the party going until 2 a.m. nightly.

Tip: The legal age for drinking in Qatar is 21; to be admitted into bars you may be asked to show your passport or QID residence permit.

Head to Souq Waqif for Dinner

Qatar’s largest souk is at its buzziest in the evening when locals flock to the refurbished bazaar’s many cafés and restaurants. Take your pick from the tantalizing array of cuisines from around the Middle East and beyond.

At Al Adhamiyah Iraqi Restaurant, get a taste for masgouf, the butterflied grilled fish that doubles as Iraq’s de facto national dish, or sit outdoors and feast on Syrian favorites under twinkling lights at Damasca One.

For a treat, prepare to be dazzled by the opulence of Parisa Souq Waqif — think hand-painted Persian artwork, mosaics, chandeliers and thousands of tiny mirrors — as you dine on fine Persian cuisine.

Rock Out at The Backyard

On Thursday and Friday evenings from October to May, Doha Sports Park transforms into an outdoor live music venue where locals let their hair down as Qatar-based and international bands and DJs take to The Backyard‘s main stage.

The entrance fee includes one drink (with or without alcohol). Yes, that’s correct — this is one of the very few places in Doha where alcohol is served that is not a hotel.

Hop on an Evening Dhow Cruise

For dreamy evening views of Doha’s ever-expanding skyline, take to the water on a relaxing dhow cruise as the city lights begin to sparkle after dark. Head to the harbor at sunset to join an organized cruise with other passengers on one of these traditional wooden boats, or charter your own private dhow for an evening.

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks or purchase a package that includes a barbecue dinner. Cruises typically anchor near Al Safliya island, just off the coast, for dinner on the boat before cruising back to the harbor.

Join Locals for a Stroll on the Corniche

Often deserted during the steamy daytime hours, the crescent-shaped pedestrian walkway fringing Doha Bay fills with local families at sundown as they take the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing stroll by the sea.

Standing sentry toward the southern end of the palm-fringed boulevard is the striking Museum of Islamic Art, which is beautifully illuminated at night. Opposite the Doha Corniche, which stretches for more than four miles between central Doha and West Bay, lies the sprawling Al Bidda Park, another great spot for an evening wander or an outdoor picnic.

Catch a Flick, Doha Style

During Qatar’s warmest months, particularly between May and September, there are few places more comfortable in Doha than an air-conditioned cinema. Novo Cinemas‘ most atmospheric outlet is housed in Souq Waqif, where you can indulge in a “7-star” experience including a VIP entry lounge, reclining seat and gourmet menu.

Over at the Doha Oasis lifestyle development, a movie at Vox Cinemas can be combined with a round of ten-pin bowling. Or fully immerse yourself in your film of choice during a “4DX” experience, which uses motion seats, water and wind effects, and even scents to bring your film of choice to life.