Winter is coming, and Doha is about to feel very different.
From new Qatar laws and winter camping to Primark, new flights, markets and major seasonal attractions, here are the biggest changes and openings to know before the cooler months arrive.
1. Qatar’s rental rules have changed
New rental rules have reduced the lease registration fee to QR250, while the settlement fee for certain registration violations has been reduced to QR1,000.
2. Outdoor work hours are back to normal
Qatar’s summer midday outdoor work restriction ended on September 15, meaning outdoor services can return to normal working hours as temperatures ease.
3. Lusail Winter Wonderland is returning
Lusail Winter Wonderland on Al Maha Island is one of the biggest winter attractions in Qatar, bringing rides, games, food and entertainment back for the season.
4. Torba Market is back
Torba Market is another winter favourite, bringing together food, coffee, fresh produce, shopping and activities in an outdoor setting.
5. Good Finds Market returns
Doha Fire Station will once again become a popular winter stop for vintage finds, art and creative shopping at Good Finds Market.
6. Qatar National Day is coming
December 18 will bring Qatar National Day celebrations across Doha, with decorations, flags and activities expected around the city.
7. School exams have changed
Qatar’s school calendar has been adjusted, with first-semester exams scheduled before Qatar National Day so students can take part in the celebrations.
8. Primark is opening in Qatar
Shopping fans have something new to look forward to. Primark is set to open its first Qatar stores at Doha Festival City and Villaggio Mall on October 29, bringing fashion, beauty and home products to Doha.
9. Qatar Airways is changing its winter network
Qatar Airways is expanding its 2026-27 winter network to more than 170 destinations, with increased services across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
The airline is also resuming flights to Qassim, Taif, Yanbu and Tabuk in Saudi Arabia during the winter season.
10. More winter travel from Doha
The expanded Qatar Airways winter schedule means more options for residents planning winter holidays, with increased flights to destinations including London, Phuket, Maldives, Ho Chi Minh City and Melbourne.
11. New hotel openings are coming
Corinthia Gewan Island is among the highly anticipated new hospitality projects around Doha, adding another major luxury destination to Qatar’s growing tourism scene.
12. Qatar’s winter camping season is officially back
This one is confirmed. Qatar’s 2026-27 winter camping season starts on October 25 and runs until April 20.
Registration opens October 11 through the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change website and the Bee’ah app, with registration opening in stages by region.
So yes, Doha winter is officially on its way.
From desert camping and outdoor markets to new shops, restaurants, hotels, events and easier travel, the next few months are set to be some of the busiest of the year.
