DOHA, Qatar – Often overshadowed by glitzy neighbours Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, the Qatari capital of Doha has invested extravagantly in its own skyline.

Many Doha landmarks have been boldly and memorably designed by the world’s top architects, including Dutchman Rem Koolhaas and Chinese-American I.M. Pei.

On a recent visit to Doha, I am as impressed by the architecture and photo opportunities of its museums and libraries as I am by their fine facilities and collections. The Qatar National Library and the Education City Mosque, both colossal yet intimate, are among the compelling designs.

It is a similar story as I wander through the Doha Design District.

This collection of buildings in downtown Doha opened in 2021 as a creative hub for architects, fashion designers, interior decorators and graphic artists. Visitors can admire its design exhibits, peruse its art galleries and use its co-working spaces.

Qatar is also pouring money and enterprise into creating significant design events. In 2024, it launched Design Doha, a major biennale that featured 14 venues and 24 exhibitions, attracting 118,000 visitors. It returns in April 2026 for a 10-week run.

Qatar’s drive in branding itself as a destination for design lovers seems successful. It is one of the world’s fastest-growing tourist destinations, recording a 25 per cent increase in visitors in 2024. Travellers are drawn partly, but also notably, to Doha’s space-age architecture.

Here are four architectural wonders that entwine the global and the local in Doha.