One benefit of a visit to Qatar is the abundance of quality 18- and 22- carat gold available in the dozens of tiny jewellery shops lining Al Ashat Street (a small street off Grand Hamad Street near Alfardan Centre) that make up the Gold Souq. In many of these shops, gold is not only sold but also handcrafted by second- and third-generation skilled craftsmen, any of whom will be happy to make up a piece of jewellery to your own unique design.

Row upon row of glittering 22-carat gold chains, bangles and earrings adorn the tiny shop windows, and it is often possible to watch the jeweler sitting cross-legged on the floor, busily melting down pieces of gold before carefully hammering it into shape using the most rudimentary equipment.

Centuries of trading with India, China and other distant lands have made their mark, influencing the designs of much of the ornate local jeweler. Traditional “bridal jewellery”, which is given to Qatari girls by their husbands-to-be prior to the wedding, includes spectacular headdresses, gold belts and heavy necklaces and gives an insight into local taste. Gold is priced according to weight, carat, and whether it is made by hand or machine.

Elsewhere in Doha, many up market shops sell gold jewellery more suited to Western tastes, with much of it made in Italy. Despite this, it is still very cheap and a must-have souvenir for most visitors.