Doha is known for its beautiful landscape, amazing food, Islamic art, and high-end shopping. Although it’s not necessarily a “party city” in the way that somewhere like Las Vegas or Ibiza is, there is still a lot that visitors and tourists can do to blow off some steam and relax at night! So, that being said, where is the best place to party and experience Doha nightlife?
Monkey Tale Doha is one of the top-rated beachside clubs in the city. It’s a rooftop disco club with tropical vibes, great cocktails, delicious snacks, and good music. Some of the world’s top DJs regularly grace the turntables here, and it’s located right on the beach and allows guests to access a private, adults-only portion of the beach!
In today’s post, I’m going to share a little bit more about Monkey Tale and some of my other favorite clubs and nightlife activities in Doha. Then, I’ll spend a few minutes going over what tourists can expect as far as Doha’s strict alcohol laws, and religious customs go to ensure that you have the best and safest experience.
Doha Nightlife: Where To Go And What To Expect
Qatar is famous for providing tourists with a one-of-a-kind coastal/desert city experience that you can’t experience anywhere else (except maybe Dubai).
As an Islamic city, there are fairly strong laws governing alcohol consumption. Muslim visitors are not permitted to consume alcohol, but non-muslim visitors over 21 can obtain a special permit that they must present to bars before being sold alcoholic beverages.
So, that being said, most of the nightlife is centered around the international hotels where tourists frequent. However, if you’re looking for a party or a unique nightlife experience, it’s not hard to find some tame fun. Here are the best places to experience Doha nightlife!
1) Monkey Tale
The first time that I visited Monkey Tale, it reminded me of the time that I went to Cancun in Mexico. It’s an open rooftop bar with a really cool tiki-style cocktail lounge, a large dancefloor, and a big DJ set that boasts some of the Middle East’s top DJs and EDM artists.
The party goes all day long, and continues on into the night, making it a great club for any time of the day. Guests will also be able to access a special adults-only area of the beach if they want some respite from the loud speakers and activity.
2) Shisha Terrace at the Four Seasons Hotel
If you enjoy hookah, then you’ll love visiting the Sisha Terrace at the Four Seasons Hotel! Here, you’ll be able to listen to laid-back trance, progressive, and dance house music while enjoying the elegant atmosphere from your personal booth.
The entire terrace is surrounded by glass, which allows you to overlook the city lights and the ocean while sipping a craft cocktail and smoking Doha’s finest shisha
After you’re done partying, head downstairs to the Elements restaurant and enjoy a bite to eat or some of Doha’s best cake and desserts!
3) Dinner Cruise On The River
If you’re looking for an all-you-can-eat buffet, Doha has plenty of those. However, if you’re looking for a romantic, one-of-a-kind dinner experience, then taking a dinner cruise on the water is an amazing way to spend the evening!
You’ll start off in the early evening by booking a cruise on a traditional Dhow boat, which slowly floats through the calm waters of the river and the bay. As you watch the sunset, you’ll be presented with traditional Middle Eastern foods.
Cruises can typically be booked during the morning or afternoon and depart two hours before sunset.
4) Sunset Desert Safari
Now, here’s an experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world! If you’re looking for a wild time that doesn’t involve drinking or partying, you can book a sunset desert safari.
Once early evening hits, your tour guide will take you out across the sand dunes in the desert in custom 4×4 vehicles designed for tearing up the sand!
The rides typically last for an hour or two and you’ll be able to watch the bright orange sunset over the desert sand dunes and watch the brilliant moon rise as you head home for the night.
5) Oxygene Club
Oxygene Club is a European-style disco club where you can get down and dance in true rave fashion. Here, the music is hyped and upbeat, the DJs are live, and the laser lights flash all night long. On a busy night, this club can get packed.
The bar area is super cool with blue backlighting and fancy cocktails. There is also seating and booth areas to the side of the dancefloor for those who want to sit down, take a break from dancing, and order some light snacks.
6) The Club at St. Regis
If you’re looking for a more refined clubbing experience, then The Club at St. Regis Hotel is the epitome of upscale nightlife. Here, you’ll be able to reserve a table or booth, while being served fine food, fine wine, and fine cocktails.
The Club regularly attracts singers, DJs, and even comedians to entertain while you imbibe!
Tips For Doha Nightlife
Last week, I made a post about how safe Doha is for visitors. Generally speaking, as long as you follow the local laws and customs, you won’t run into any trouble. That being said, here are some tips to follow to ensure that you have the best experience. Although Qatar was once a British colony, it’s governed by a strict Islamic government these days.
- Watch Your Alcohol Consumption: Consumption of alcohol in public and public drunkenness is very illegal in Doha. Make sure you know when to stop drinking or stay inside the club or venue until you sober up.
- Women Should Dress Modestly: Remember that Qatar is an Islamic city and has strict laws. Women should always keep their shoulders covered and avoid short skirts and dresses to avoid harassment.
- Be Careful What You Post: Posting on social media about drunken or disrespectful behavior is a big no-no. If you’re consuming alcohol, then it’s best to stay away from social media.
- Avoid Intimate Behavior: Kissing, groping, or other displays of public affection can get you arrested in Doha, especially if you’re unmarried. Save the shenanigans for the privacy of your hotel room. Also, Qatar is not LGBTQ-friendly, so you’ll want to avoid same-sex intimacy as well.
Final Tips
As long as you make sure to follow the local laws and respect cultural customs, you’ll have a great time enjoying some of Doha’s nightlife. As most of the nightlife activity is centered around international hotels and the tourism center, you should be safe within these areas. If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, I definitely recommend the desert 4×4 safari tour!
