Qatar and Dubai
November 2024Souqs, Sand Dunes, and a Glimpse of the Future
Some places leave a mark on you, and for me, Qatar is one of them. Every visit reaffirms why it’s one of my favorite countries in the world—safe, spotless, and a fascinating blend of modern ambition and deep-rooted tradition. This time, my trip took me from the bustling souqs of Doha to the golden dunes of the desert with a short stop in Dubai.
The Magic of Souq Waqif
My first stop was Souq Waqif, the heart of old Doha. This place feels real—alive with history, scents of spices, colorful textiles, and locals enjoying their evening tea. I wandered through its narrow alleys, watching craftsmen at work and falcon trainers proudly showing off their birds.
Qatar has an energy I love. It’s modern, but it doesn’t feel like it’s trying too hard. The city is immaculately clean, the atmosphere welcoming, and I always feel completely safe here. Whether it’s day or night, there’s a peacefulness in the way the city moves.
Holding a Falcon and Dune Bashing in the Desert
Leaving the city behind, I headed for an adventure in the Qatari desert. The experience was exhilarating—speeding over towering sand dunes in a 4×4, the thrill of tipping over the edge and sliding down soft golden slopes. But one of the highlights was something much calmer: holding a falcon in the desert.
There’s something special about these birds, a deep connection between them and their trainers. Falconry has been part of Bedouin culture for centuries, and standing there with a trained falcon on my arm, I could feel the weight of that tradition.
After the adrenaline rush of dune bashing, we made our way back to the city where on the way the sky turned deep shades of orange and purple, casting a perfect glow over Doha’s skyline.
A Quick Stop in Dubai—And Why I Won’t Be Back
From Qatar, I flew to Dubai for the first time, a place I’ve heard so much about. My stay was short, but it was enough to form an opinion: while impressive in its own way, Dubai didn’t resonate with me.
Yes, the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, was an interesting sight, and the giant aquarium inside the Dubai Mall was undeniably impressive. But beyond that, the city felt too artificial. The traditional areas, which should have felt authentic, seemed man-made for tourists rather than a genuine reflection of culture. Unlike Qatar, where history and modernity blend seamlessly, Dubai felt like it was trying too hard—like a city built to impress rather than to be lived in.
I don’t regret seeing it, but I don’t need to visit Dubai again. That being said, I’d still love to explore other parts of the UAE—places where I can experience more of the country’s true culture, history, and traditions beyond the flashy skyscrapers.
Onward to Ethiopia
From Dubai, I boarded my flight to Ethiopia, excited for the next part of my journey. As the plane took off, I reflected on the contrast between these two cities—Doha’s quiet confidence versus Dubai’s glitz. While I love experiencing new places, it’s always clear which ones truly leave a mark.
Qatar is one of them. And I know I’ll return.