Souq Waqif (Arabic: سوق واقف) is an important souq in Doha, in the state of Qatar. Literally translated to "the standing market," this shopping destination is renowned for selling traditional garments, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. It is also home to dozens of restaurants serving cuisines from all over the world, as well as Shisha lounges. Although this market dates back at least a hundred years, it has been recently restored back to its original glory. It is now considered one of the top tourist destinations within Doha.
Thousands of people from across the region frequent this market to purchase traditional goods such as wool, traditional thobes, jewelry, and perfumes.
Lately Souq Wakif became a hotspot for art galleries and workshops, hosting several art galleries and events. It also hosts local concerts during the holiday seasons.
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Located in the heart of Doha, between Musherib street and Al Rayyan Road. The Souq is within walking distance from Doha Corniche.
Souq Waqif is within easy reach of major parts of Doha. There are several taxi stands, as well as bus stops located on convenient locations within the souq. There are sufficient parking spaces as well as paid parking. The rate is 4 Qatari Riyals per hour
Most of the restaurants serve Shisha, as well as a variety of other foods. There are also small cafes which are scattered across the souq. Local ice cream parlors, as well as beverage stands can also be found.
There are three small hotels, which are very limited in the number of rooms and services. They are small and overpriced, but are quite modern and comfortable. They are:
Hotel Souq Wakif
Bismillah Hotel (The first hotel in Qatar)
Al-Khariss Hotel
The Souq Waqif Art Centre is located in the restaurant area of the Old Souq, opposite Le Gourmet and close to the Bandar Fish Market. The Centre combines a selection of small & artistic shops with a number of exhibition rooms laid out around a long narrow courtyard. Outside the rooms lie suclptures and chests inlaid with turtle shell.
Exhibitions have included The Islamic Arts exhibition, with displays of ancient calligraphy, some dating back centuries, and displays of carpets and photography.
The Souq Waqif was used as a filming location for a number of films screened at the Doha Tribeca Film Festival 2009, including the action film 'Dohard' directed by Dean Alexandrou and Masato Riesser, and produced by Waheed Khan, and 'The Haggler' directed and produced by the DTFF.