Staycations offer a simpler escape as more families rediscover Doha

“Many residents in Doha are increasingly turning to staycations as a practical and enjoyable alternative to overseas travel amid rising travel costs, fluctuating airfare prices, and regional uncertainties. Hotels, beaches, cultural destinations, and family attractions across the city have seen growing interest on weekends, public holidays, and festive occasions such as Eid al-Adha, as residents opt for shorter, more flexible breaks closer to home. “Travelling abroad excites everyone, but with a staycation, we still get the feeling of taking a break without spending so much on flights and travel arrangements,” said Geraldine, who often spent festive periods abroad but decided to book a stay at a local beachfront hotel this Eid. She pointed out that she chose a quick getaway to relax and spend the holidays with friends, rather than spending days planning complicated itineraries. “Instead of arriving at airports hours before departure, carrying heavy luggage and waiting in long queues, we can simply drive to a nearby hotel or destination and begin our holiday almost immediately,” Geraldine said. She added that ongoing regional tensions had also influenced her decision to spend the Eid holiday in Qatar. Apart from financial considerations, some residents said concerns about possible travel disruptions had also influenced their decision to remain in the country. For parents with young children, the ease and flexibility of local travel have become especially appealing. Filipino expatriate Nards D said that travelling abroad with children can be stressful due to long journeys, airport procedures, and tight schedules, making staycations a simpler and more convenient alternative that still offers the feeling of a genuine holiday. “It actually allows us to fit leisure activities and other commitments, minus the stress. With a staycation, nearly everything is hassle-free,” he said. Hotels and hospitality venues across Doha have adapted to this growing demand by offering packages designed for local residents. Family-oriented activities, pool access, spa experiences, fitness programmes and entertainment events have become key attractions for guests seeking relaxation without extensive travel. Apart from swimming pools and beachfront activities, hotel gyms and fitness centres have also appeared as popular spots for staycation guests, particularly among younger residents looking to maintain active lifestyles even during holidays. Another ‘staycationist’, Tony, said: “After months of stressful office hours, I had the chance to ‘sweat it out’ in the gym this time while at the hotel, and it feels great. Staycations, I would say, encourage a slower, more relaxed pace than tightly packed overseas travel. “I no longer need to rush between tourist attractions. I think many people are choosing to focus on wellness, family bonding and simple recreational activities”. Residents are also taking advantage of local attractions that they previously overlooked while focusing mainly on international travel. Museums, public beaches, desert destinations, waterfront promenades, and cultural districts are now attracting holiday-goers eager to rediscover what Qatar has to offer. Menon, an Indian expatriate who also booked a two-night stay at a hotel in Doha, said he loves to travel abroad but preferred a staycation this time. “I was thankful to have been granted a break this Eid and to have the chance to take some time out at a hotel here and later visit places in Qatar I haven’t seen and explored. Sometimes when you live somewhere for a long time, you forget to enjoy it like a visitor would,” he pointed out.

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