Amiri Diwan of the State of Qatar, Royal palace in Doha, Qatar
The Amiri Diwan is the official residence and seat of government in Doha, located on a prominent site overlooking the bay. The complex comprises multiple interconnected buildings featuring white stone, Islamic architectural details, and geometric decorative patterns.
The site evolved from an 18th-century fortress called Al Bidda Fort, which became the seat of Qatar's ruling family after Ottoman forces departed. Following Qatar's formation as a modern state in the 20th century, the palace served as the primary center for state administration.
The Diwan maintains dedicated spaces for national ceremonies, diplomatic receptions, and governmental meetings that shape Qatar's international relations.
The complex functions as an active governmental center, so visitor access to the interior is generally limited or not available to the public. The best views of the buildings and surroundings are visible from the pathways and public spaces around the perimeter.
The gardens surrounding the complex feature native desert vegetation and water features that form a natural buffer between the modern city and the governmental center. This landscape design reflects how the state intentionally blends its natural geography with formal administrative spaces.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
