Things to do in Doha when it rains

It’s raining in Doha, and we couldn’t be more thrilled that the weather is finally turning.

But don’t let the rain dampen your spirits. There are plenty of things to do in Doha when it rains, including getting out there and soaking up the fun.

Qatar Meteorology forecasts thunder, rain and strong winds for the weekend, with temperatures ranging between 28°C and 37°C, so get your umbrellas ready.

While rain in Doha is rare, it’s always good to have a backup plan. So, let’s explore some fantastic things to do when it’s raining in Doha:

Things to do in Doha when it rains

Discover Qatar’s cultural treasures

When the rain starts falling, Doha’s world-class museums offer a dry haven of culture and history. Explore the desert rose-shaped National Museum of Qatar, marvel at 1,400 years of Islamic art at the Museum of Islamic Arts, or lose yourself in the eclectic collection at Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum. Who knew rainy days could be so enlightening?

Shop ’til you drop… or dry

malls in Doha - Landmark Mall — Things to do in Doha when it rains: Hit the malls. (Credit: Supplied).

Retail therapy is always a good idea, especially when it’s pouring outside. From the Venetian-inspired canals of Villaggio Mall to the traditional charm of the covered Souq Waqif, Doha’s shopping scene has you covered – literally. Doha Festival City even throws in some indoor entertainment between purchases. Now that’s what we call a rainy day well spent. Check out our list of shopping malls in Doha.

Indoor thrills and spills

Who says you need sunshine for an adrenaline rush? Doha Quest brings all the excitement of an amusement park indoors. With roller coasters, drop towers and virtual reality experiences, it’s one of the most thrilling things to do when it’s raining in Doha. Scream if you want to go faster.

Prices vary. Mon-Sat 2pm-10pm. Doha Oasis, Doha Oasis. www.questdoha.com (4410 3444).

Pamper yourself… go on, you deserve it

Turn the pitter-patter of rain into a soothing soundtrack for a spa day. Doha’s luxury wellness centres, like The Spa at Sharq Village or ESPA at Mondrian Doha, offer the perfect escape. Massages, facials, hydrotherapy – who cares about the weather when you’re in paradise? Head to any of these fabulous spas in Doha for the ultimate treat.

Bounce away the blues

Things to do indoors — Things to do in Doha when it rains: Get bouncing! (Credit: Bounce Qatar).

At Bounce Qatar, rainy day blues turn into bouncy day woos. With trampolines, dodgeball courts and slam dunk zones, it’s impossible not to smile. It’s a great spot for the entire family, and you might even pick up some new trampoline tricks.

Open Sat-Tue 10am-10pm; Wed-Fri 10am-11pm. Tawar Mall, Al Duhail, www.bounce.qa (4408 6500).

Dive into literature

Rain outside means it’s perfect reading weather. The Qatar National Library isn’t just about books (though with over a million titles, you’re spoilt for choice). From 3D printing to music studios, it’s a world of discovery under one roof.

Open Sat-Thu 8am-8pm, Fri 4pm-8pm. Education City, Home qnl.qa/en (4454 0100).

Strike it lucky

Things to do in Doha when it rains: Head to a bowling alley (Credit: Qatar Bowling Centre)

Rainy days and bowling alleys are a match made in heaven. Qatar Bowling Centre’s 32 lanes provide hours of fun, whether you’re aiming for a perfect game or just aiming to avoid the gutter. The sound of falling pins will soon drown out the rain.

Open Sun-Wed 2pm-midnight; Thu 2pm-1am; Fri 8am-6pm (league), 6pm-1am (open to all); Sat noon-midnight. Qatar Bowling Centre, Al Bidda, www.qatarbowlingcenter.com (3336 2722).

Play all day

Megapolis Entertainment Centre is like a rainy day survival kit come to life. Bowling, billiards, arcade games, karaoke – you name it, they’ve got it. You might find yourself wishing for more rainy days.

Sat-Thu 10am-3am, Fri 1pm-3pm. Megapolis Entertainment Centre, The Pearl Island @megapolisqatar (3303 0555).

Catch a flick in style

Among the best things to do in Doha when it rains is watching a movie. And watching a movie in Doha takes it up a notch. Luxury cinemas like Flik, Vox, and Novo offer experiences so comfortable, you might forget you’re not at home, and you’ll definitely forget it’s raining outside. Reclining chairs, gourmet snacks – who knew staying dry could be so delicious?