What Makes Souq Waqif So Special?

INTRODUCTION

Every tourist would spend some time at the marketplaces of the country they are traveling to, especially when it is a country like Qatar. Everyone loves taking something back as a memento from the place they have visited. But usually, all the marketplaces are somewhat identical to each other, and often fail to satisfy that shopaholic within us, and let's be honest, malls can never fulfill that desire to explore different shops and try some bargaining with a friendly shopkeeper. But Souq waqif is a marketplace that is unlike any other marketplace you would have visited. As soon as you step into the place, you will be surrounded by a different vibe that will not let you return easily. 
Souq Waqif is an Arabic term that simply means ‘marketplace’. Souq waqif, as it stands today is at least a century old. The marketplace was renovated in 2006 and today the site has become one of the major tourist attractions in Qatar.

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ABOUT THE SOUQ WAQIF

The marketplace has been inspired by traditional Qatari Architecture and all the buildings are at least a century old. In 2000, when the place was being renovated the authorities demolished the buildings built after 1950 to ensure that the place does not lose its authenticity. For all the tourists who want to experience the ethnicity and tradition of Oman, the Souq is a must-visit place.

WHAT TO DO AT SOUQ WAQIF

Souq has a lot of things to indulge in, the place has something for every type of tourist. You can spend your time in the place doing these amazing activities. 

Pamper a Falcon

Falcons have a special in the lives of Qatar people and Souq Waqif is the perfect place if you want to experience these majestic birds. Falconry is a traditional sport in Qatar and you can find the Falcon Souq here where you can have a closer look at these magnificent creatures and make one perch on your arm under the guidance of an experienced and skilled shopkeeper. 

Enjoy A Camel Ride

Near the Falcon Souq, there are camel pens and horse stables where you can sight Arabian horses and camels. You can also enjoy a camel ride if you wish to.

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Indulge In An Amazing Shopping Experience

The marketplace has everything that a shopaholic can dream of. From antiques and traditional handicrafts to mesmerizing jewelry and glass ornaments, the place has everything that your ideal shopping list can ever include. 

The Flavours Of Qatar

We do not need to mention the location of the Spice Souq, once you visit the place your nose will make you follow the spot. The spices of Qatar are world famous and if there is one place where you can have a taste of all the spices and flavors of Qatar, it is Souq Waqif. 
You can find all sorts of Qatari spices, herbs, and flavours here, from whole or ground spices to Exotic Arab aromatics like the black lemon seeds, saffron, dried flowers, sumac, and an almost infinite variety of dates, tea, and coffee beans.

Enjoy Amazing Delicacies

It does not matter whether you are looking for street food or dinner at a restaurant, the souq has food to sate any hunger. Some delicacies that you cannot miss are stuffed vine leaves, samosa, meat stews, and sweet dumplings.

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Best Cafe Experience

The souq has some of the best cafes in the country, just visit one and order an Arabic coffee that will energize you for the rest of your trip in Qatar. 

Enjoy the Street Performances

In the cooler months, the streets of the souq vibrate with the sounds of local performances. There are costume parades and street performances during the festivals, especially during Eid. Frequent exhibitions at the open courtyard make sure that the visitors always have something unique to experience.

Doha Spring Festival

As the new year starts approaches, the souq gets ready for the annual Doha Spring Festival. The place radiates energy and enthusiasm during the festival. With amazing musical performances, games, and a lot of entertainment programs, the festival makes sure that the participants can have one of the best times of their life at the event. The two-week-long festival is designed in a way that participants can enjoy it with the whole family. The circus shows make sure that your children can have a great time as well.
For lovers of art and culture, art exhibitions and cultural performance will make sure that there is not a single moment of dispassion.

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CONCLUSION

Souq Waqif is much more than just a marketplace, it can become a medium for tourists to have a look at Qatar’s culture and of course, to get some required retail therapy.

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