QH DIVES INTO THE INSTAGRAMMABLE WORLD OF MINA DISTRICT
Welcome to the Mina District, the newest hot spot for tourists visiting Qatar! Once the Old Doha Port, this area has undergone a four-year transformation to become a vibrant, mixed-use destination with a cruise terminal that’s attracting visitors from all over the world.
Visitors coming to Qatar can expect a whole new experience given the scope of fun and entertainment.
If you’re a football fan, you might have already visited the Mina District during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 in November. It’s no surprise that this place caught the attention of football fans and has since become a top destination. With 37 colorful mixed-use buildings, the district is home to retail outlets, restaurants, internal roads, apartments, car parks, food and beverage spots, coffee shops, a cinema, and other facilities.
The main terminal at the Mina District receives over 300,000 tourists every year and hosted floating hotels during the World Cup. The buildings’ colourful facades in shades of pink, orange, teal, blue, and yellow create a stunning visual experience as you stroll through the winding lanes and check out the docks.
Photography enthusiasts will love this destination, especially during the golden hour, when the light is just right for capturing stunning images for social media. Think Instagram!
But it’s not just about the aesthetics – the Mina District offers a range of dining options, including local, Arabian, and Middle Eastern cuisine, as well as contemporary dishes created by culinary maestros. There are about 50 cafes and restaurants.
What makes the entire experience stand out – and it will be reinforced each time as you soak in the sights and sounds – is the beautiful ambiance.
Similarly, you can try delicious coffee with snacks in some famous cafes. From Cappuccinos and Latte to Arabica and Robusta, you will be spoilt for choice. Once again the sea view in the distance will make it all worth your while.
There are numerous shops and boutiques, in addition to pharmacies and pet shops, in the Mina district that provide a decent experience to both the locals and tourists. These outlets feature a wide range of products, including apparel, flowers, perfume, carpets, jewellery, antique collections and gift items, beauty products, paintings, fishing equipment and more. You will also find a variety of souvenirs.
In addition to restaurants, cafes, and shops, the Mina District features a fish market that sells fresh catches of the day, a must-visit for seafood lovers. And if you’re interested in Qatar’s rich heritage, check out the pottery and ceramic products on display at Talal Al Qasemei’s shop.
The Mina District is also easily accessible from other popular destinations in Doha, such as the Museum of Islamic Art and its park, Box Park and Flag Plaza, the Doha Corniche, and Souq Waqif. Plus, with ample parking and great views of the Doha skyline, you’ll want to add the Mina District to your itinerary when visiting Qatar.
