Discovering Doha with Qatar Airways
With Richard Styles from Visit Qatar at our Bedouin dinner in the desert
Dune driving on the desert
In May, Global Travel Network’s Sonia Francis and Rebecca McHolm joined a group of New Zealand travel professionals on an unforgettable famil hosted by Qatar Airways and Discover Qatar.
From the moment they arrived in Doha, this famil was more than just a work trip—it was an immersive journey through a destination where modern elegance meets rich cultural heritage. And on the flight home, the comfort of Qatar Airways’ Q Suite was the perfect way to reflect on it all.
The famil group at the National Museum of Qatar
Enjoying our Q Suites
Warm Hospitality & Luxury Stays
Their base for the week was the beautifully appointed Park Hyatt Doha, located in the heart of Msheireb Downtown. The itinerary also included hotel inspections at The NED and The Ritz-Carlton, offering a firsthand look at some of the city’s most stylish and sophisticated places to stay.
Exploring the City
The group toured some of Doha’s most iconic sights with expert local guides:
Mina Port, Museum of Islamic Art, and the city’s famed Corniche waterfront
A stop at The Pearl, the luxurious island development
A visit to Katara Cultural Village, where art, performance, and culture come together
Dinner at Boho Social, a vibrant venue with views to match the menu
A walking tour through Souq Waqif brought the city to life after dark. "During the day, it’s quiet due to the heat," said Sonia, "but at night it becomes electric—alive with colour, scent, and sound."
A Night in the Desert
One of the standout experiences was the Discover Dinner in the Desert. Travelling by 4WD through the dunes to the Inland Sea, the group was welcomed to a traditional Bedouin-style setup for an unforgettable sunset feast.
“A must-do in Doha,” said Rebecca. “It’s a completely different side of the country—raw, peaceful, and authentic.”
Museums, Markets & Michelin Dining
From the National Museum of Qatar to an elegant lunch at Jiwan Restaurant, the famil offered a perfect balance of insight and indulgence. “The museum was a highlight,” said Sonia. “It beautifully tells the story of Qatar’s past and future. And Jiwan—set on the rooftop—was the perfect place to take it all in.”
And then there were surprises—like seeing Air Force One land in Doha, escorted by fighter jets.
Sonia had to take a photo of a camel!
Sonia & Rebecca at the Museum of Islamic Art
A taste of local Qatari hospitality in a traditional Majlis at Souq Waqif
Dinner by the Inland Sea
Family Fun at Meryal Waterpark
The final day was all about fun, with a visit to Meryal Waterpark, home to the world’s tallest waterslide. With dedicated kids’ zones, wave pools, and plenty of shade, it's an ideal addition to any family itinerary.
Journey in Style
The return flight with Qatar Airways was an experience in itself. Both Rebecca and Sonia flew in the Q Suite, highlighting its privacy, on-demand dining, and exceptional comfort.
“It’s one of the most comfortable long-haul experiences I’ve had,” said Sonia. “I slept for most of the 17-hour flight.”
They also experienced Al Maha Services at Hamad International Airport—seamless, premium airport assistance that made arriving and departing Doha effortless.
In Their Words - Trip Highlights
Sonia’s Picks
Dune drive and desert dinner at the Inland Sea
Night-time visit to Souq Waqif
National Museum and lunch at Jiwan
Q Suite comfort and service
Rebecca’s Picks
Dinner at Parisa, a stunning Persian restaurant in the Souq
The full desert experience, from dune driving to sunset dining
Fun at Meryal Waterpark
Exceptional service on board and on the ground, especially through Al Maha
If you're longing for your own Doha adventure, our Global Travel Network boasts numerous agents ready to make it happen! Contact us today to kick-start your unforgettable journey.