Souq Waqif

Souqs are the traditional markets in Arab cities. Here in Doha, there are several souqs, Souq Waqif being the largest and most famous. This used to be the old souq until it was demolished as part of the rebuilding/modernizing of the city. People, however, missed the old souq, so they re-built it to look just like the old one.

This souq has sections for clothing, arts & crafts, spices, toys, etc. There is also a section with restaurants and cafes. Weekend evenings are fun at the souq - this is when all the locals go there, hang out at the outdoor seatings of the restaurants, eat, smoke shisha, etc. It's the "happening" place.

I enjoy simply going there to walk around and explore the local/regional products. We found a terrific Yemeni honey place in the souq. The owner lets you try all the various types of honey when you go in. There is also an Indian restaurant there that we like.

To see more pictures of the souq, click here.