Qatar's foreign ministry (left) and Emiri Diwan ruler's administrative palace (centre with flag) seen across Doha Bay, with fishing dhows moored in front of the government buildings.; Shutterstock ID 49093879; Your name (First / Last): Lauren Keith; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial; Full Product or Project name including edition: Destination page image update

Shutterstock / Paul Cowan

Diwan

Doha


The grand white building of Qatar's national parliament marks the official workplace of the Emir of the State of Qatar, and is recognisable by the Qatari flag rising from its centre. It makes a good point of reference for travellers exploring Doha's Corniche, but don't try to approach the building as there's heavy security around its perimeter.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Doha attractions

1. Horse Stables

0.26 MILES

Visitors can see well-groomed Arabian horses up close at these stables not far from the Falcon Souq. You can walk around the indoor stables during the…

2. Camel Pen

0.29 MILES

Pop over here from the Corniche for a photo op with a grazing camel. The animals are in their pen here most of the day and into the early evening.

3. Falcon Souq

0.31 MILES

For a glimpse of Qatari heritage, don't miss the Falcon Souq. You only have to see the scale of the market, afforded its own traditional arcaded building…

4. Doha Fort

0.4 MILES

Previously used as both a prison and as an ethnographic museum, this fort was built during the 19th-century Turkish occupation but lost many of its…

5. Souq Waqif

0.4 MILES

This vibrant complex is without doubt one of the most atmospheric places to explore in Qatar. Built on an ancient market site, the area remains the social…

6. Pearl Monument

0.41 MILES

The famous pearl monument and fountain, a popular spot for photos, marks the entrance to the dhow harbour at the northern end of the Corniche. Before…

7. Gold Souq

0.55 MILES

This modern mall a stone's throw away from Souq Waqif has one of the largest clusters of gold-jewellery vendors around. The glorious designs and…

8. Al Bidda Park

0.8 MILES

One of the best green spaces in the city, with lots of walkways and cycle lanes, plus manicured lawns, a children's play area and views of the Diwan, Doha…