Qatar, a compact peninsular nation at the crossroads of the Middle East and Asia, is a vibrant blend of awe-inspiring architecture, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural landscapes. This unique locale offers an array of experiences that cater to every type of traveler.

Katara Cultural Village

At the heart of Doha, Katara Cultural Village stands as a testament to Qatar's cultural diversity. Nestled between the modern financial district of West Bay and the elegant towers of The Pearl, Katara is bordered by a pristine beach on one side and the scenic Katara Hills on the other. 

This self-proclaimed cultural hub is filled with art galleries, museums, and public installations that showcase both tradition and contemporary creativity. Visitors can indulge in an array of activities, from exploring art exhibitions to savoring exquisite culinary delights.

Location: Katara Cultural Village is located in Doha, nestled between the financial district of West Bay and The Pearl.Activities: Visitors can explore numerous art galleries and museums, attend cultural festivals, enjoy theatrical performances, and indulge in a variety of cuisines at the numerous restaurants. The beach and Katara Hills provide opportunities for leisurely walks and outdoor activities.

Al Thakira Mangroves

Just a short drive from Doha lies Al Thakira Mangroves, one of Qatar's treasured natural sites. This lush wetland, a rare green oasis amidst the desert, is perfect for kayaking and discovering its unique ecosystem. As one of the oldest and largest mangrove forests in the country, Al Thakira supports a diverse range of wildlife, including numerous bird species, fish, and crustaceans.

The resilient mangroves thrive in saline waters and endure extreme temperatures, making this a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts.

Location: Al Thakira is situated along Qatar’s northeastern coast, approximately 30 kilometers from Doha.Activities: This lush wetland is perfect for kayaking through the mangroves, birdwatching, and exploring the unique ecosystem. Guided eco-tours are also available for those interested in learning more about the flora and fauna.

Mina District

The Mina District is a charming new development in Doha, featuring picturesque cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings. Visitors can enjoy watching cruise ships dock while exploring a vibrant fish market. Conveniently located along the Doha Corniche, the Mina District is easily accessible by car, taxi, or even a 20-minute walk from the National Museum Metro station.

With free entry and ample parking, this area invites travelers to immerse themselves in its lively atmosphere.

Location: The Mina District lies along the Doha Corniche, easily accessible from central Doha.
Activities: Visitors can stroll through charming cobbled streets, browse the vibrant fish market, and enjoy waterfront dining. The area also features art installations and is ideal for photography enthusiasts.

Qatar National Library

A marvel of modern architecture, the Qatar National Library designed by Rem Koolhaas is a beacon of light and knowledge. Its diamond-shaped exterior gives way to an expansive interior where transparency and accessibility reign. Bookshelves rise from the floor, seamlessly integrating with the building's design. 

The library employs innovative technologies to enhance user experience, making it a must-visit for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Location: The Qatar National Library is located in the Education City area of Doha.
Activities: Besides exploring the vast collection of books, visitors can attend lectures, workshops, and cultural events. The library also serves as a community space, hosting exhibitions and educational programs.

Place Vendôme

For those seeking a blend of luxury and entertainment, Place Vendôme is an architectural gem inspired by classic French design. This sprawling 1,150,000 square meter mall features four levels filled with 580 high-end and mid-range stores, showcasing global fashion brands. 

Visitors can also indulge in a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to gourmet restaurants, all within the mall's elegantly designed spaces.

Location: Place Vendôme is situated in Lusail, just north of Doha.
Activities: Shoppers can explore over 580 stores, ranging from luxury brands to mid-range shops. The mall features a variety of dining options, entertainment areas, and art galleries, making it a great spot for family outings.

Lusail International Circuit

Located approximately 30 kilometers from central Doha, Lusail International Circuit is a premier venue for motorsport enthusiasts. Hosting prestigious events such as Formula 1® and MotoGP races, this state-of-the-art circuit offers thrilling experiences for fans and participants alike. 

Its status as one of the largest and best race tracks in the Middle East makes it a must-visit for anyone passionate about racing.

Location: The Lusail International Circuit is located approximately 30 kilometers north of central Doha.
Activities: The circuit hosts thrilling motorsport events, including Formula 1® and MotoGP races. Visitors can also participate in track days, driving experiences, and guided tours of the facility.

Souq Waqif

Steeped in history, Souq Waqif is a vibrant marketplace that evokes a sense of nostalgia with its mud-brick architecture. Occupying the site of Doha’s traditional trading market, this bustling hub offers a lively atmosphere where visitors can engage in the art of negotiation and enjoy local delicacies. 

The winding alleys are filled with vendors selling spices, textiles, and handicrafts, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural tapestry.

Location: Souq Waqif is located in the heart of Doha, near the Doha Corniche.
Activities: Visitors can shop for spices, textiles, and handicrafts, enjoy local cuisine in various restaurants, and experience traditional performances. The maze-like alleys provide a lively atmosphere for exploration and socializing.

National Museum of Qatar

Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, the National Museum of Qatar offers a captivating journey through the nation’s history. Inspired by the natural formations of desert roses, the museum features interconnected galleries that narrate the story of Qatar from its prehistoric roots to its modern achievements. 

Built around the former palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al-Thani, this expansive 430,500 square foot facility honors Qatar’s heritage while celebrating its bright future.

Location: The National Museum of Qatar is located near the Doha Corniche, adjacent to the old palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al-Thani.
Activities: Visitors can explore interconnected galleries showcasing Qatar’s history, engage in educational programs, and participate in special exhibitions. The museum also hosts cultural events and community outreach programs.

Zulal Wellness Resort

Situated in the far north of Qatar, the Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som is the largest wellness destination in the Middle East. This luxurious retreat offers two distinct experiences: Zulal Serenity for couples and individuals, featuring 60 serene rooms and suites, and Zulal Discovery for families, with 120 accommodations. 

The resort boasts state-of-the-art hydrothermal facilities, a fitness studio, and multiple dining options, making it a perfect escape for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Location: Zulal Wellness Resort is situated in Al Ruwais, in the northern part of Qatar.
Activities: Guests can enjoy wellness treatments, spa services, and fitness classes. The resort features hydrothermal facilities, yoga sessions, and healthy dining options, making it a serene escape for relaxation and rejuvenation.

B Lounge Doha

In the glamorous Lusail enclave, the B-Lounge by Buddha Bar stands out as one of Doha's premier dining and nightlife venues. Located within the Ritz-Carlton, this stylish lounge offers a fusion of Asian cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails, all set against the backdrop of stunning views of the Lusail waterfront and the Arabian Sea.

The vibrant atmosphere and bohemian beats make it a favorite destination for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable night out.

Location: B Lounge is located in the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Lusail.
Activities: Visitors can savor exquisite Asian cuisine, enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, and experience live music and DJ performances. The lounge's stunning views make it a perfect spot for special occasions and nightlife.

In conclusion, Qatar's iconic destinations are a testament to its rich cultural heritage and modern ambitions, ensuring that every traveler finds something to cherish.

Etihad Airways and TAP Air Portugal have officially launched a comprehensive frequent flyer partnership as of May 14, 2025, marking a significant expansion in loyalty benefits and global connectivity for travelers. Under this new agreement, members of Etihad Guest and TAP Miles&Go can now earn and redeem miles seamlessly across both airlines’ networks, greatly enhancing travel flexibility and reward options.

For Etihad Guest members, the partnership opens up the ability to redeem miles not only on flights but also on worldwide hotel stays, holiday packages, and a wide range of products from the Etihad Guest Reward Shop. TAP Miles&Go members enjoy similar flexibility, with the option to use their miles for flights and a variety of exclusive offers, including items from the TAP Store.

This integration means that both frequent and occasional travelers can accelerate their rewards and enjoy a more comprehensive travel experience, covering everything from airfare to accommodation and curated holiday packages.

The partnership builds on a strategic codeshare agreement established between the two airlines in 2023, which had already enhanced connectivity and destination choices for passengers. The combined route networks now span North and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, allowing members to access a truly global array of destinations.

For example, Etihad Guest members can earn miles on TAP-operated flights to cities such as Los Angeles, Rio de Janeiro, and Cancun, while TAP Miles&Go members can now earn and redeem miles on Etihad’s growing network, including new destinations like Chiang Mai, Hong Kong, and Medan.

The partnership also emphasizes improved customer experience through streamlined booking, mileage tracking, and the potential for joint promotions, tier benefits, and personalized offers. According to Mark Potter, Managing Director of Etihad Guest, this collaboration offers members even more ways to earn and redeem miles across the Americas, Europe, and Africa, reinforcing Etihad’s commitment to rewarding loyalty wherever members travel.

Pedro Flores Ribeiro, Director of TAP Miles&Go, highlighted the excitement of offering TAP members the opportunity to redeem miles on Etihad flights and welcoming Etihad Guest members to experience TAP’s renowned Portuguese hospitality.

Both airlines bring strong reputations and extensive networks to the partnership. Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, is recognized for its award-winning service and global reach, while TAP Air Portugal, a Star Alliance member since 2005, operates one of the youngest and most efficient fleets in Europe and has been ranked the safest airline in Europe for 2025.

This alliance is expected to drive cross-brand loyalty, attract new customers, and set a new standard for frequent flyer benefits in the competitive airline industry

India’s budget airline powerhouse, IndiGo, is making bold moves to expand its international presence, with the launch of daily direct flights from Mumbai and Kannur to Fujairah starting May 15. This milestone makes Fujairah IndiGo’s fifth UAE destination and its 41st international route, strengthening the airline’s strategic footprint across the Middle East.

To enhance connectivity beyond Fujairah, IndiGo will also offer dedicated bus services linking Fujairah with Dubai and Sharjah—adding to its existing UAE network that includes Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Sharjah.

“As our 41st international destination and fifth in the UAE, these new flights will further enhance regional connectivity,” said Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo.

Wider Horizons: Dreamliners and Europe-Bound Ambitions
The Fujairah announcement comes as part of a broader international expansion push by the airline. On Friday, IndiGo revealed it is increasing its wide-body fleet by acquiring two additional Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners from Norse Atlantic Airways, adding to an existing damp-lease agreement that already includes four aircraft.

Currently, one Dreamliner (registration LN-FNC) has been flying under IndiGo’s banner since March 1, 2025, with three more set to be deployed later this year. The two newly announced aircraft are expected to join the fleet by early 2026, with the lease potentially extending to 18 months, pending regulatory approval.

These long-haul aircraft will play a pivotal role in IndiGo’s upcoming routes to Europe, including new services to Manchester and Amsterdam Schiphol set to launch in July 2025. The airline will initially operate these routes using Norse aircraft before transitioning to its own fleet of 30 Airbus A350-900s, the first of which is expected in 2027.

With growing momentum in both regional and long-haul markets, IndiGo’s latest moves signal a clear intention: to elevate itself from a domestic leader to a formidable global player.

Riyadh Air, the Saudi Arabian startup airline backed by the Public Investment Fund, has expressed its willingness to purchase Boeing aircraft originally intended for Chinese airlines, should those deliveries be blocked due to the intensifying trade war between the United States and China.

CEO Tony Douglas stated at the Arabian Travel Market conference in Dubai that the airline had made it clear to Boeing that it would be ready to take all available jets if China’s suspension of Boeing deliveries persists, a move prompted by reciprocal tariffs between the two economic giants.

China recently ordered its airlines to halt the acceptance of new Boeing jets in response to the U.S. imposing tariffs as high as 145% on Chinese imports. In retaliation, Beijing levied 125% duties on American goods, including aircraft, making Boeing jets financially unviable for Chinese carriers. This standoff has left dozens of Boeing planes undelivered, with some already repatriated to the United States, and has prompted Boeing to seek alternative buyers in a tight global jet market.

Riyadh Air, which plans to launch operations later this year, has been rapidly expanding its fleet and workforce. The airline has already placed orders for up to 72 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 60 Airbus A321neo jets, and intends to announce an additional wide-body aircraft order this summer.

With nearly 500 employees hired and plans to double its staff within a year, Riyadh Air aims to capitalize on regional demand, particularly within the Gulf Cooperation Council, and is positioning itself as a key player ready to absorb aircraft sidelined by global trade tensions.

Riyadh Air is making headlines with its ambitious expansion plans, having recently secured 11 strategic agreements during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai. These partnerships will allow the airline to extend its operations to 125 countries, marking a significant milestone in its growth trajectory.

Collaborations with established entities such as DNATA, Discover the World Momentum, Aviareps, and Satguru Representation Services aim to enhance the airline's global footprint and streamline travel experiences for customers.

Osamah Alnuaiser, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Communications at Riyadh Air, stated that these agreements reflect the airline's commitment to becoming a true global player. “These partnerships will push the boundaries of travel for our guests and reinforce our determination to offer exceptional service,” he noted.

The focus will be on improving customer experiences across key regions including Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Australasia, and Africa, showcasing the rich hospitality that Saudi Arabia is known for.

In addition to enhancing connectivity, Riyadh Air is also focused on technological innovation. The airline has partnered with Loyalty Juggernaut to develop a next-generation loyalty program, which will utilize advanced analytics to deliver personalized rewards and engagement opportunities for travelers. This initiative is aimed at fostering customer loyalty and enhancing overall satisfaction.

Furthermore, Riyadh Air is working with major travel technology distributors like Amadeus and Sabre to implement cutting-edge retail solutions that will streamline the booking process. These technological advancements are intended to modernize the airline's digital strategy and improve the overall customer journey.

As the airline gears up for its inaugural flight later this year, it plans to connect Riyadh with over 100 international destinations by 2030. This ambitious goal aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, which seeks to diversify the economy and significantly boost the tourism sector.

The establishment of Riyadh as a major global aviation hub is expected to attract millions of visitors, contributing to economic growth and positioning the country as a vital player in the international travel market.

In summary, Riyadh Air is poised to transform the landscape of air travel with its extensive partnerships and innovative strategies, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's commitment to becoming a global tourism destination.

Qatar Airways is reportedly preparing to place a substantial order for about 100 widebody aircraft from Boeing, with the possibility of securing options for an additional 100 jets, according to a detailed Bloomberg report. This significant purchase is expected to be officially announced during U.S. President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to the Middle East, underscoring the deal’s importance both commercially and politically.

The order will primarily feature Boeing’s newest widebody models, including the 777X and 787 Dreamliner, which are designed to enhance long-haul operational efficiency, passenger comfort, and overall fleet modernization.

The Boeing 777X, available in the 777-8 and 777-9 variants, offers seating capacities ranging from approximately 395 to 426 passengers in a typical two-class layout, with impressive ranges of up to 8,745 nautical miles for the 777-8 and 7,285 nautical miles for the 777-9. This aircraft incorporates cutting-edge technology such as advanced aerodynamics, composite wings with folding wingtips, and the latest GE9X engines, resulting in fuel savings and emissions reductions of around 10% compared to previous models.

Additionally, the 777X boasts a wider cabin with larger windows, higher ceilings, and improved cabin pressurization and humidity, all contributing to a more comfortable passenger experience.

Currently, Qatar Airways operates a fleet that includes 64 Boeing 777s and several 787 Dreamliners, both recognized for their spacious interiors, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and premium business class offerings like the Qsuite. The 787 variants provide business class seats that convert into fully flat beds up to 80 inches long, personal entertainment screens, onboard Wi-Fi, and innovative features such as electronically dimmable windows.

The 777 series accommodates up to 42 business class seats and nearly 400 economy seats, delivering a high level of comfort and amenities for travelers.

This forthcoming order will allow Qatar Airways to phase out older 777s and Airbus A380s, supporting the airline’s ambitious plan to boost its annual passenger capacity from 50 million to 80 million within the next five to six years. By investing in the latest aircraft technology, Qatar Airways aims to maintain its status as a leader in long-haul travel with one of the most modern and efficient fleets worldwide.

If finalized, this deal would represent one of the largest widebody aircraft purchases in recent history and reinforce Boeing’s position in the competitive global aviation market.