Souq Waqif is a major attraction in Doha for tourists and locals alike. There has been a souq in this spot for centuries, but at one point the old complex was close to being condemned for demolition, until some enterprising person realized its potential and redeveloped it to resemble a 19th century souq complete with mud-rendered shops, exposed beams and restored Qatari architecture. The souq keeps expanding, and despite the redesigned construction, Souq Waqif is considered to be one of the most traditional marketplaces in the region.