Kids' retreat in Qatar

We have a brand new runner up entry for QL's writing contest, written by Cirilo Rodrigues.

Kids' retreat in Qatar

Qatar has evolved into a technologically advanced country in the last few years and that has bought about an influx of people and families from different regions and nationalities into the country that are in search of recreational activities for themselves and their kids. There are many state-of-art parks, family beaches with amenities, a Water Park, Malls with entertainment centers and a natural reserve / zoo in the making in which Qatar aims to accommodate the needs of every child.

Al Wakra family beach

The beach is about 15 km south east of the town of Wakra – The place is developing and the signage is much clearer now about how to reach the beach.  You enter through the open gates with a security guard on duty. The place is wide, flat and sandy with open showers, toilets, few shaded areas (first come first serve basis) and about three massive playgrounds for children. The water is quite shallow for swimming but kids can enjoy a light dip and start building sand castles and burying their legs in sand while the adults start the BBQ. Since no canteens or store are close by, we carry all snacks and drinks ourselves, and I find that better instead of having outside food. I prefer this beach as compared to others for the reason that it’s the closest to Doha city, has ample parking space, has playgrounds to keep the kids occupied, and nice place to walk along the shore.

Al Wakra

Aqua Park Qatar

Aqua Park is the premier water themed park in Qatar that has become my family’s’ favorite destination whenever the summer heat sets in. The Park is easy to locate on the Google map, easily visible from the main road. Once you enter and place your things in the locker, it’s a whole new world for the kids and adults alike. There are many water rides for grown-ups that really get your adrenaline rushing and I hear many new ones have also been installed this season. My kids’ personal favorite is the Kiddies’ Pirate Playground and the Lazy Pool. It’s very colorful with light music playing, many food kiosks and a main cafeteria for your lunch and dinner requests. Once the kids are in, it’s very difficult to convince them to come back home.

Aqua Park

Al Khor Park

It is one of the oldest parks that opened recently after having been closed for renovations in 2010. The park opened to a massive population of visitors, especially on weekends. One such day was when we decided to check the park. The long ride was exciting but finding the exact location wasn’t easy. Finally the excitement of seeing the signage – after paying the nominal fee, we enter into a green oasis with huge trees, vast children play area, basketball court, aviary with few birds and a mini zoo (which was quite a relief for the kids as they have been wanting to see a zoo after the last one has been closed for renovations) There is a gold area and a train track around the park meant for a battery operated train which was not functional yet. Kids love this place because it’s a big park to run around, designated areas for sports, watching the birds and animals – overall a fun family outing.

Al Khor Park by Roger Rondilla