It’s one of the most anticipated events in the Qatar events calendar – Formula One weekend.
From October 6 to 8, 2023, racing fans will descend upon Doha hoping to see their favourite driver cross the finish line first. However, many will also be looking to experience what the capital of Doha has to offer.
With that, GRAZIA brings you the complete guide to the F1 weekend in Doha including where to stay, where to brunch, the full F1 schedule and more.
The Full Schedule
The 2023 Qatar Grand Prix will take place over 57 laps of the 5.418-kilometre Lusail International Circuit. Practice rounds for the racers will begin on October 6 at 5.30pm (6.30pm GST), followed by the qualifying round from 9pm (10pm GST). The following day, on October 7, the sprint shootout will begin at 5pm (6pm GST) and the sprint will begin at 9.30pm (10.30pm GST). Finally, on October 8, the Doha F1 race will take place at 9pm (10pm GST). You can see the full F1 schedule here.
The Performers
Watch headlining acts at the F1, Amr Diab, Bruno Mars and Alesso. Combining the excitement of racing with the electricity of live music.
The stay
Looking for a place to stay? Raffles, Doha is a five-star ultra-luxury hotel with breathtaking views and beautiful rooms. Inspired by Qatar’s national symbol, this Doha hotel looks like a crescent. Personal butler services? Spa treatments? Raffles has it all. After a relaxing night in Raffles, you can go get a massage at their in-house spa before attending the F1 races.
The Brunch
What is a Doha weekend without brunch? Indulge in the Bubbalicious brunch at The Westin Doha. It is a lively party brunch with live cuisine stations. Serving Italian and Japanese cuisine with free-flowing drinks. For 2023, the brunches will have a weekly theme. We wonder if they will make the upcoming brunch F1 related. Open Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm.
The Instagram-Worthy Breakfast
Have breakfast and a coffee at this Instagrammable café so you can stay focused while watching the races. Did we mention they have hanging chairs that are the perfect photo-op? Indulge in their Bohemian breakfast offering avocado toast, shakshuka and more.
The Free Time
Get in the spirit of F1 and admire vintage cars at the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum. The Museum is divided into four sections: Islamic art, vehicles, Qatar heritage and coins/currency. The sheikh’s incredible collection of more than 600 cars is the most stunning feature of the museum. Everything is in flawless condition. A car fan’s dream. Visit on a Saturday before the F1 sprints, starting from 10am.
Pre-Race Sun
Spend the morning before an adrenaline filled day relaxing at the beach. B12 beach club Doha is the ultimate beach club destination where you can listen to live DJs, eat good food and enjoy the amazing weather. Lounge around and unwind before a busy day full of F1 plans.