In a previous blog post, I listed a few locations in Qatar where a photography permit is necessary. Nevertheless, since then, I’ve gotten questions asking if there are any locations in Qatar, specifically in the city, where a photography permit is not required.
The good news is that there are still a few locations in Qatar where you can use your DSLR camera without restriction.
So I listed below some places in Doha, Qatar where a photography permit is not required.
1. SOUQ WAQIF
First on the list is the famous Souq, Waqif. This place is popular not only for tourists but also for local photographers. It is one of the best places to take photoshoots such as Wedding Prenup, Birthday, and even for Family photography because of its traditional and ancient style buildings. The entire area has been redeveloped to look the part of a 19th century Souq (Market) with mud-rendered shops and some beautifully restored original Qatari buildings.
Related Article: Things to do in Souq Waqif, Doha Qatar
2. OLD DOHA PORT
The first thing that draws your attention in Mina District are the colorful buildings. Find them in colors including pink, orange, teal, blue, and more.
Admire the structures as you stroll through the winding pathways and check out the docks.
For those who enjoy photography, the entire district is a perfect location. Visit there during the golden hour to take beautiful pictures and perhaps even capture the ideal “sunset-shot”!
3. BOX PARK
Box Park is also one of the places where you can take photos without worrying to request a photography permit. It is the newest park in Doha Qatar which was recently opened last 2021. It is also considered as one of Doha’s most scenic locations due to the park’s collection of brilliant and colorful recycled containers. Box Park is the newest hotspot for all selfie enthusiasts and is situated in the Doha Old Port. From 7:30 AM until 11:00 PM, Box Park is open.
4. MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART & MIA PARK
Museum of Islamic Art is one of the popular museums in Qatar. It is famous not only because of it’s spectacular architectural design but also because it is considered as a perfect place to take photos and selfies. MIA Park is just beside of the Museum of Islamic Art and many photographers prefer to do photoshoots in this place as this green space overlooking the Persian Gulf and Doha Skyline.
5. MUGLINA UNIT PARK
Muglina Unit Park located in Ras Abu Aboud is not that really popular to tourists and even locals are not familiar about this place but one thing that I am certain of is that this Park is really a perfect place to do Prenup and Birthday Photoshoots! You can take a good shot of your subject or model while he/she is standing on the eye-catchy curved bridge or maybe while posing in the instagrammable standing tall Watch Tower. Again, this place does not have requirement to obtain photography permit.
6. EDUCATION CITY MOSQUE
Education City is unlike any other location in Qatar because it houses branch campuses of some of the top educational institutions in the world, a local research university, start-up incubators, technological parks, historical landmarks, cultural organizations, and much more.
The mosque at Education City is one of the local attractions. Guests are welcome to enjoy exploring the area and taking pictures.
7. CORNICHE
The Doha Corniche, a seven kilometer stretch of stunning promenade overlooking the tranquil coastline, is one of Qatar’s most recognizable attractions. The Corniche, which has a crescent-shaped walkway encircling Doha Bay, provides the greatest views of the city’s contemporary skyline and serves as the focal point of events like the National Day celebrations and National Sports Day. Take a boat ride to take in the view of beautiful city while watching the dhows illuminate the Corniche in the evenings as you stroll around the harbor.
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What about Corniche and Hamad Hospital??
Hi Philip. In Corniche, you can take photo without worrying to secure photography permit. In Hamad Hospital to be honest I am not sure but most probably they will not allow you to take photos as it’s government owned hospital. For security reason and confidentiality of the patients, I think Hamad Hospital is not the best place to take photos.
Hi, what are the rules about MIA park ? It looks like a good spot to take photos of the city at night
Hi Riaan. Indeed, MIA Park is a good spot for photoshoots especially for special events like prenup, birthday photoshoots, etc. And the good thing is there is no requirement to obtain photography permit so far.
What about mina district?
Hi. I haven’t been to Mina District yet but I asked a friend who went there last week with his DSLR and as per him, he was able to take nice photos and no one interrupted him. Just try to avoid taking photos of other people to avoid any issues. Hope it helps.