AL-Monitor Doha: Souq Waqif treasure hunt
With Ramadan in its third week, Doha continues to host a number of events and festivities tailored to the holy month. Leading the lineup this week is the Souq Waqif Treasure Hunt, giving participants the opportunity to experience the historical marketplace in a fun and engaging way. For shopping, head to the MIA Bazaar this weekend for handcrafted goods and delicious treats. Also, as the holy month draws to an end, don’t miss out on the chance to experience a proper Qatari iftar. My top tip? Iftar on the dunes — a serene and unforgettable way to break your fast amidst Qatar’s breathtaking desert landscapes.
Leading the week: Ramadan souq scavenger hunt
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Qatar with the Souq Waqif Treasure Hunt, an immersive and engaging adventure set in the heart of Doha. This experience, which lasts three to four hours, invites participants to explore Souq Waqif, a historic marketplace known for its vibrant atmosphere and deep-rooted traditions.
Designed for families, friends and corporate teams, the treasure hunt is open to participants aged 7 and above, accommodating groups of up to 150 people.
As the journey unfolds, teams navigate the bustling souq, solving cleverly crafted clues hidden within its winding alleyways, traditional stalls and historical landmarks, with each solved clue bringing participants closer to the ultimate prize.
The experience culminates in the discovery of the final treasure — a testament to collaboration, perseverance and shared memories. To celebrate this achievement, participants can opt to enjoy a traditional suhoor at the Souq, savoring authentic Qatari cuisine while reflecting on their journey and embracing the spirit of Ramadan.
Dates: March 20
Location: Souq Waqif
Find more information here.
Word on the street: MIA Bazaar
This picture taken on April 16, 2024 from the Doha corniche shows a view of the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha. (KARIM JAAFAR/AFP via Getty Images)
MIA Bazaar is back this weekend, offering a vibrant shopping and cultural experience set against the backdrop of Doha’s skyline. Featuring handcrafted treasures, diverse culinary delights and a scenic outdoor setting, the bazaar promises something for everyone.
Located in Zone 2 of MIA Park, the bazaar serves as a platform for local artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase their talents. Visitors can explore a carefully curated selection of handmade crafts, artwork, jewelry, fashion and home decor, all within a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
An array of food stalls offer a diverse mix of local and international flavors, from sweet treats to savory delights.
More than just a marketplace, MIA Bazaar is a celebration of creativity, culture and community. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the park, take in stunning views of Doha’s West Bay, and support small businesses that bring a personal touch to every product.
Dates: March 20-23
Location: Museum of Islamic Art Park
Find more information here.
Doha diary
A man passes next to a camel on the dunes at the Sealine Beach Resort in Doha on Dec. 6, 2022. (OZAN KOSE/AFP via Getty Images)
• Iftar on the dunes
Experience a tranquil iftar under the stars, immersed in the breathtaking beauty of Qatar’s sand dunes. This unique outdoor dining experience offers a memorable way to break your fast amidst breathtaking desert landscapes.
Location: Sand dunes
Date: Until March 30
Find more information here.
• Ceramic tile workshop
Try your hand at making and glazing ceramic tiles in a creative and interactive workshop. All finished tiles become part of a collaborative community art piece, where participants can create shapes that tessellate into a larger design.
Location: Al Khater House
Date: March 22
Find more information here.
• Kayaking + iftar
Combine adventure with tradition as you kayak through Doha’s scenic waterways, taking in the serene surroundings. After an invigorating paddle, unwind with a peaceful iftar at various picturesque locations.
Location: Different spots in Doha
Date: Until March 30
Find more information here.
• Live BBQ at Heenat Salma
Enjoy a live BBQ at Heenat Salma, where chefs grill fresh ingredients over an open flame. Set near the Open Deck Bonfire, this rustic setting offers the perfect ambiance for a relaxed evening beneath the night sky.
Location: Heenat Salma
Date: Every Thursday
Find more information here.
• A journey to Mecca through time
Step into a virtual reality experience that takes you on a journey through Mecca’s history. Organized by Katara in collaboration with the Sheikh Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center, this event is part of the Katara Tech Forum.
Location: Ramadan Village, Katara South Area
Date: Until March 21
Find more information here.
Book of the week: “The Lost Rose”
“The Lost Rose,” by Kummam AlMaadeed, follows Clara, a young woman burdened by a devastating secret that threatens her future. After a desperate attempt to end her life, she is saved by Luca, who vows to protect her as danger looms from a neighboring kingdom. Amidst brewing mutiny and an evil sorcerer determined to enslave Clara through dark magic, she and Luca embark on a perilous journey. As Clara’s hidden past is unveiled, they face a battle against sorcery, love and redemption.
View from Doha
A child adorned in a traditional garb attends the Garangao festivities, a traditional Qatari event for children that takes place annually during the halfway mark of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, in Doha on March 14, 2025. (KARIM JAAFAR/AFP via Getty Images)
By the numbers
- Qatar has allocated $741 million for social support in 2025, according to Al Jazeera.
- Doha ranks fourth in the Arab world for highest cost of living, with a cost index of 48.47, according to cost-of-living database Numbeo.
- Qatar ranks as the second-highest spender in the Arab world on player acquisitions over the past five years, with a total expenditure of $395 million, according to the Mercato Al-Sharq 2024.
