Discover Qatar

Discover Qatar is the destination management company of Qatar Airways, which makes it a natural first choice for travellers flying with the airline. Its programme covers the main things most visitors want to do in a short stay: a guided tour of Doha, a sunset cruise on a traditional dhow, and trips into the desert, with private options for those who prefer not to join a group.

The core city product is the Discover Doha City Tour, which covers the city's main sights, and private city tours can be arranged too. The Discover Dhow Sunset Cruise City Tour combines sightseeing with a trip on the water around Doha Bay as the skyline lights up. For the desert, there are three styles: Sunrise in the Desert for an early start, Dinner in the Desert for an evening experience, and Desert and Inland Sea tours that cross the dunes to Khor Al Adaid in the south-east.

A particular strength is its transit tours. Under the Transit Exclusive name, Discover Qatar offers city, desert and airport relaxation tours designed for passengers with a long layover at Hamad International Airport, which makes it possible to see something of Doha even on a connection. For last-minute transit bookings, there is a desk in Duty Free Plaza South at the airport, behind the escalators.

Discover Qatar suits first-time visitors, stopover travellers and anyone who wants the reassurance of booking with the national airline's own tour company. Families and older travellers who prefer a structured day will find the organised tours easy to fit around a short stay. More adventurous travellers wanting a long overnight camp or highly customised trip may also want to compare local specialists.

Book online through the company's website or by phone, and check the duration, pick-up arrangements and what is included before you pay. For transit tours, make sure your connection is long enough and that you meet the entry requirements for your nationality, and leave plenty of time to return to the airport. Desert tours are most comfortable in the cooler months, and early-morning trips are best for wildlife. The company also publishes a travel journal with up-to-date features, such as its guide to Doha's Michelin-listed restaurants.