Three reasons why discerning travellers should make a pit-stop in Qatar
From F1 to Expo, the country's bustling calendar of events means both winter and summer vacations are jam-packed with opportunities.
Wednesday 11 October 2023 12:02, UK
Are you already dreading the prospect of a grey and rainy rest-of-the-year? Want to escape months of umbrellas, woollen layers and hot water bottles?
Then race into a sun-drenched winter in the jewel of the Arabian Peninsula.
Year-round sun, sea and sand
Qatar, nestled just a short seven-hour flight from London, boasts perennial sunshine and warm weather, as well as a dazzling roster of attractions. Whether you're seeking beach, desert, sea or city, this is a destination for every type of traveller.
And, thanks to the country's buzzing line-up of events, there's always something to see, whatever month you visit.
Exhilarating events and entertainment
Petrolheads in particular can look forward to an adrenaline-filled autumn, with two Grand Prix fixtures on the horizon.
The Formula 1 Qatar race kicks off on 6 October near Doha, comprising three scintillating days of speed and circuit-side fun.
Several practice sessions will take place on the 5.38-km Lusail International Circuit, building up to the main event on 8 October where you can witness the world's most elite drivers going head-to-head.
There's plenty to see on and off the track, with fireworks and a fan zone at the state-of-the-art venue.
This year will mark the second ever Qatar F1 Grand Prix, giving visitors the opportunity to watch history unfold on the newly renovated, state-of-the-art track. The country's inaugural race in 2021 saw Lewis Hamilton defeat Max Verstappen in a nail-biting closer.
Fast rides will return to the Lusail circuit the following month, too, with the MotoGP Qatar Grand Prix held between 17-19 November. Taking place under the floodlights, the Qatari season-opening race marks the only night event in the MotoGP World Championship.
Prefer to see cars up close, rather zooming past on the track? Enthusiasts can take in some of the world's most luxurious and advanced models in October, at the Geneva International Motor Show Qatar.
Marking the first time the prestigious event has ever been held outside Switzerland, the Qatari chapter will celebrate the very best of automotive excellence.
More than 30 of the world's most revered automotive brands will congregate at the Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre between 5-14 October, each showcasing the most groundbreaking new marques.
The esteemed event will also celebrate the very best of car culture, exhibiting some of the greatest models in motoring history, sure to delight discerning collectors. A rich programme also boasts exclusive speakers, ready to unpick the future of modern car design, exclusive track days at the Lusail circuit, and the opportunity to kick up some sand with off-road adventures in the Qatari desert.
Add to that live entertainment, performances from international stars such as Bruno Mars and Alesso and a bustling village area, and there's something for the whole family across the 10-day extravaganza.
Must-sees for the culture enthusiast
Or, escape the winter rain for greener pastures - quite literally - between October and March at Doha Expo 2023. The international horticultural expositions will be hosted in the heart of the capital, turning the city into a hub for big ideas and keen minds.
Set under the banner of greening the desert, this landmark expo will explore the future of sustainability across a six-month calendar of exciting events.
From its base in the lush Al Bidda Park, the expo will bring together thought-provoking talks, art, tantalising food and exquisitely landscaped gardens.
So, whether families seeking fun, couples looking for a culture or solo tourists chasing thrills, there's something for everyone to do on their next visit. And, with visa-free entry to citizens of more than 95 countries, it's never been easier to travel to the Middle Eastern destination.
All you need to do is put the pedal to the metal and book.
To find out more about Qatar's exhilarating calendar of events, visit