Beyond malls, Qatar offers world of indoor adventures

Beyond its air-conditioned malls, Qatar offers residents and visitors a diverse range of indoor destinations to explore, rediscover and learn not just during the Eid al-Adha holiday but throughout the summer months.

For bookworms and those seeking a tranquil escape, the Qatar National Library (QNL) is a must-visit place. Designed by renowned architect Rem Koolhaas, Visit Qatar noted that this 45,000sqm masterpiece houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and archives, including rare and valuable materials from around the world.

Beyond its impressive collection, QNL fosters learning and innovation as it features state-of-the-art facilities, including the Innovation Stations, equipped with tools for videography, photography, design, sound editing, and 3D printing.

Visitors can also explore the 686sqm Children's Library, eight group study rooms, 26 large interactive screens, and a 120-seat auditorium. The QNL is easily accessible via the Doha Metro (QNL station) and offers an inclusive environment, with an assistive technology room catering to people with disabilities.

For those captivated by the marine world, the Hamad Port Visitors Centre and Aquarium provides an immersive experience. This educational facility, which is open from Saturday to Thursday between 8am and 7pm, and on Fridays from 1pm to 7pm, houses 17 basins filled with more than 3,000 aquatic creatures, including zebra sharks, eels, stingrays, and colourful reef fish. Visitors can even touch starfish in the Touch Tank and learn about the mangrove ecosystem, according to Visit Qatar.

The interactive 4D cinema takes visitors behind the scenes of port life, while the Maritime Museum offers a fun and engaging exploration of Hamad Port’s history. Visitors can steer a cargo ship, operate a crane, and learn about the evolution of cargo containers, making learning a truly interactive experience.

Qatar, with its rich cultural heritage, modern infrastructure, and commitment to education and entertainment, provides a unique and memorable experience for all visitors even during the summer.