Beaches:
The Qatar peninsula has a 563 km sandy coastline with numerous small islets, sand bars and reefs.
Below are a list of some of the most known beaches, but you can access to the sea everywhere you want. Just keep in mind not to leave behind you any sign of your activities.Enjoy relaxing, swimming, or any water sports on these endless shores.
Al Ghariya (80 km North of Doha)
Al Ghariya Beach - Take the Al Ghariya turnoff 4.5 km beyond Fuwarit on the Al Shamal (North) Road and follow the tarmac road, keeping to the right when the road splits. Once the location of a desert camp for Qatar’s scouting movement, Al Ghariya gradually developed into a small weekend facility for other campers. There is a beach resort as well as a popular sandy beach to the north with shallow water.
Dukhan (80 km West of Doha)
Dukhan is the centre of Qatar’s onshore oil industry and at the beginning of the 20th century had the only aircraft landing strip in the country. The security-gated complex owned by Qatar Petroleum (not open to the general public) consists of both residential and production areas and includes the first oil well drilled in Qatar, in 1938. Fossilised sharks teeth can be found in some of the shale hills and there is a popular beach accessible to all. At the gates to Dukhan township, turn left and follow the coast road for 9 km until reaching Dukhan Water Sports. The tarmac road ends here, but to the south, you will find plenty of places to stop. Although the beaches are sandy, there are sharp rocks under the water, so beach shoes are advisable.
Fuwairit (80 km North of Doha)
Fuwairit Beach - Take the Al Shamal (North) Road past the Al Khor turnoff and after 44 km, turn right at the Fuwairit sign; follow the road leading to a small village and as you reach the outskirts, turn left onto a rough track. Drive for 1.5 km along the small dune edging the beach until reaching the unusual formations of eroded hills (jebel) that run down to the water’s edge. These small ‘cliffs’ border a fine sandy bay with coves that make ideal picnic spots. The strange shapes in the rock face, resembling Gruyere cheese, make for great photos.
Khor Al Adaid (80 km south from Doha)
Also known as the Inland Sea, this breathtakingly beautiful area, surrounded by crescent-shaped sand dunes, is one of Qatar’s finest treasures and a prime tourism asset. A shallow tidal lake with a narrow outlet to the sea, the many-lobed Khor Al Adaid lies between Qatar and Saudi Arabia and has shores in each country. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are necessary and only experienced drivers should attempt the journey. Alternatively, local tour operators organise day trips and overnight camps, providing exhilarating drives along the dunes, with barbecues, entertainment and the opportunity to ride camels or sand ski.
Maroona (80 km North of Doha)
Also known as 42 km Beach or French Beach - Take the turnoff from Al Shamal (North) Road 42 km north of the Al Khor turnoff. There is a small signpost marked “Maroona”, leading to a narrow tarmac road. Follow for 6 km before turning right onto the dirt track heading towards two large palaces (driving parallel to the telegraph poles). Approach the beach between these two buildings, but beware, the sand is very soft for the last 100 m.
Ras Abrouq (Bir Zekreet) (70 km West of Doha)
Ras Abrouq and Bir Zekreet, a favourite spot for weekend campers, is at the very tip of a peninsula northeast of Dukhan (four-wheel-drive is required). Follow the main Doha-Dukhan road, and several kilometres past the turnoff for Al Jumailiya (about 5 km before the flyover) is a fork where the old Dukhan road veers off to the right – look out for this as there is only one sign, in Arabic. After 1.5 km, turn right onto the road that heads up the northeastern side of the Ras Abrouq peninsula, follow for about 21 km and then branch off to the left, heading up and onto the top of the jebel (hills). The track passes the wild deer reserve set up by the Supreme Council for the Environment and Natural Reserves (SCENR) and through an area that looks like a deserted village but was actually built as a film set. Notice the trees: the lower branches are ‘cropped’ in a straight line where the camels have eaten them!
After almost 9 km, an abandoned police post can be seen on top of a jebel. Go around the base and head out over the causeway on the left, leading to the tip of the peninsula. The area is full of interesting coves and bays, but the best is at the far end: a sweeping half-moon bay flanked at both ends by rocky outcrops.
Sealine Beach Resort (40 km South of Doha)
Just south of Mesaieed, this resort with a hotel, two swimming pools and landscaped grounds, has villas and chalets for overnight, weekend and holiday hire, and is also open to day visitors.
Watersports are available from the beach and dune buggies are available for hire just outside the resort.
The tarmac road ends at Sealine and any further journey, towards the Inland Sea, has to be made over the dunes in a four-wheeldrive.
Simaisma (40 km North of Doha)
Take the highway towards Al Khor, and for the exit to Lusail International Circuit. Instead of going right on the bridge, take left, until you reach the coastal village.
Umm Bab (90 km West of Doha)
Umm Bab is also known as “Palm Tree Beach” because of the small cluster of palms at the end of the road alongside the small breakwater. From Doha, take Salwa Rd, clocking 29 km from the industrial area and passing the Mukainis satellite earth station. Turn right and follow the road for a further 40 km until you reach the roundabout at the Umm Bab cement works. Go straight across and take the right-hand fork, passing a small ‘trading store’ on your right. On cresting a small hill, you will see the coast stretched out below and the distinctive group of trees. Most people turn left at the trees and stop a little further on. The sand is deep, so proceed with caution.BeachesThe Qatar peninsula has a 563 km sandy coastline with numerous small islets, sand bars and reefs.Below are a list of some of the most known beaches, but you can access to the sea everywhere you want. Just keep in mind not to leave behind you any sign of your activities.Enjoy relaxing, swimming, or any water sports on these endless shores. Al Ghariya (80 km North of Doha)Al Ghariya Beach - Take the Al Ghariya turnoff 4.5 km beyond Fuwarit on the Al Shamal (North) Road and follow the tarmac road, keeping to the right when the road splits. Once the location of a desert camp for Qatar’s scouting movement, Al Ghariya gradually developed into a small weekend facility for other campers. There is a beach resort as well as a popular sandy beach to the north with shallow water. Dukhan (80 km West of Doha)Dukhan is the centre of Qatar’s onshore oil industry and at the beginning of the 20th century had the only aircraft landing strip in the country. The security-gated complex owned by Qatar Petroleum (not open to the general public) consists of both residential and production areas and includes the first oil well drilled in Qatar, in 1938. Fossilised sharks teeth can be found in some of the shale hills and there is a popular beach accessible to all. At the gates to Dukhan township, turn left and follow the coast road for 9 km until reaching Dukhan Water Sports. The tarmac road ends here, but to the south, you will find plenty of places to stop. Although the beaches are sandy, there are sharp rocks under the water, so beach shoes are advisable. Fuwairit (80 km North of Doha)Fuwairit Beach - Take the Al Shamal (North) Road past the Al Khor turnoff and after 44 km, turn right at the Fuwairit sign; follow the road leading to a small village and as you reach the outskirts, turn left onto a rough track. Drive for 1.5 km along the small dune edging the beach until reaching the unusual formations of eroded hills (jebel) that run down to the water’s edge. These small ‘cliffs’ border a fine sandy bay with coves that make ideal picnic spots. The strange shapes in the rock face, resembling Gruyere cheese, make for great photos. Khor Al Adaid (80 km south from Doha)Also known as the Inland Sea, this breathtakingly beautiful area, surrounded by crescent-shaped sand dunes, is one of Qatar’s finest treasures and a prime tourism asset. A shallow tidal lake with a narrow outlet to the sea, the many-lobed Khor Al Adaid lies between Qatar and Saudi Arabia and has shores in each country. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are necessary and only experienced drivers should attempt the journey. Alternatively, local tour operators organise day trips and overnight camps, providing exhilarating drives along the dunes, with barbecues, entertainment and the opportunity to ride camels or sand ski. Maroona (80 km North of Doha)Also known as 42 km Beach or French Beach - Take the turnoff from Al Shamal (North) Road 42 km north of the Al Khor turnoff. There is a small signpost marked “Maroona”, leading to a narrow tarmac road. Follow for 6 km before turning right onto the dirt track heading towards two large palaces (driving parallel to the telegraph poles). Approach the beach between these two buildings, but beware, the sand is very soft for the last 100 m. Ras Abrouq (Bir Zekreet) (70 km West of Doha)Ras Abrouq and Bir Zekreet, a favourite spot for weekend campers, is at the very tip of a peninsula northeast of Dukhan (four-wheel-drive is required). Follow the main Doha-Dukhan road, and several kilometres past the turnoff for Al Jumailiya (about 5 km before the flyover) is a fork where the old Dukhan road veers off to the right – look out for this as there is only one sign, in Arabic. After 1.5 km, turn right onto the road that heads up the northeastern side of the Ras Abrouq peninsula, follow for about 21 km and then branch off to the left, heading up and onto the top of the jebel (hills). The track passes the wild deer reserve set up by the Supreme Council for the Environment and Natural Reserves (SCENR) and through an area that looks like a deserted village but was actually built as a film set. Notice the trees: the lower branches are ‘cropped’ in a straight line where the camels have eaten them! After almost 9 km, an abandoned police post can be seen on top of a jebel. Go around the base and head out over the causeway on the left, leading to the tip of the peninsula. The area is full of interesting coves and bays, but the best is at the far end: a sweeping half-moon bay flanked at both ends by rocky outcrops. Sealine Beach Resort (40 km South of Doha)Just south of Mesaieed, this resort with a hotel, two swimming pools and landscaped grounds, has villas and chalets for overnight, weekend and holiday hire, and is also open to day visitors. Watersports are available from the beach and dune buggies are available for hire just outside the resort.The tarmac road ends at Sealine and any further journey, towards the Inland Sea, has to be made over the dunes in a four-wheeldrive. Simaisma (40 km North of Doha)Take the highway towards Al Khor, and for the exit to Lusail International Circuit. Instead of going right on the bridge, take left, until you reach the coastal village. Umm Bab (90 km West of Doha)Umm Bab is also known as “Palm Tree Beach” because of the small cluster of palms at the end of the road alongside the small breakwater. From Doha, take Salwa Rd, clocking 29 km from the industrial area and passing the Mukainis satellite earth station. Turn right and follow the road for a further 40 km until you reach the roundabout at the Umm Bab cement works. Go straight across and take the right-hand fork, passing a small ‘trading store’ on your right. On cresting a small hill, you will see the coast stretched out below and the distinctive group of trees. Most people turn left at the trees and stop a little further on. The sand is deep, so proceed with caution.
Natural Landmarks:
With the sun shining every day and a surprisingly rich ecology, Qatar offers an engaging natural environment to explore. The surrounding desert provides a great deal of interest and adventure with such natural landmarks as the Dhal Al Misfir, Desert Roses and the Singing Sand Dunes.
Dhal Al Misfir
Dhal Al Misfir is a 40 meter deep cave formation located north of the Salwa Road, with fiberous gypsum crystal.
Desert Roses
The low salt flats near Al Shahaniya and north of the Saudi border are collecting grounds for those willing to dig for the attractive gypsum formations known as ‘desert roses’.
The Singing Sand Dunes (40 km southwest of Doha)
There are certain conditions in which the movement of sand grains can create a low murmur or ‘singing’ – a phenomenon often reported by desert explorers. Qatar is fortunate in having sand with the right abrasive qualities in an area that also experiences the necessary wind and moisture conditions to create this wonderful if weird effect. While the ‘singing’ occurs naturally, it can be triggered by sliding down the face of the dune or running along its crest, whereupon each footstep creates a humming that cannot only be heard but also felt as a vibration through the feet.
Parks:
Doha is home to many large grassy areas and parks, offering a fun and relaxing pasttime for families, walkers and joggers. From the perfectly manicured Corniche to the 88 hectare Aspire Park, visitors will find a spot to relax under the shade of trees or by the water.
Al Corniche
Still the top destination to have a walk, Doha's famous 8 km-long Corniche offers panoramic view of the capital. Overshadowed by palm trees, this promenade is well appreciated as night, when the lights of Doha’s skyline reflect across Doha Bay, from the Museum of Islamic Art to the business district of West Bay.
The landscaped waterfront provides paved and grassed areas that are popular with walkers, joggers and picnickers. Several hotels, government ministries and the Emir’s working palace are located along the route, and opposite the Diwan, traditional wooden boats are moored in the fishing harbor.
At the harbor entrance is an attractive fountain in the shape of a pearl oyster, a reminder of Qatar’s pearling heritage. Also accessed from the Corniche are the Museum of Islamic Art , Souq Waqif , the main souq areas, Al Rumeila Park and the Qatar National Theatre.
There are numerous benches dotted along the Corniche, and the sea wall is also of a convenient height to sit on. The paved areas are wheelchair-friendly. Car parking is available along the entire length of the Corniche, and the car park close to the Sheraton Doha Hotel & Resort has restrooms and a small cafeteria.
This park is one of several in which the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Urban Planning and ICT Qatar introduced free Wi-Fi access in 2007 as part of its ‘iPark’ initiative.
Powerboat championships and sailing regattas are held in Doha Bay and the Corniche is the ideal place to view firework displays on festive occasions.
Rumeila Park
A landscaped park on Doha Corniche with an outdoor theatre, art gallery, water features, children’s play area and skateboard/rollerblading half-pipe. There are several shops, a cafeteria and public toilets in the park which used to be known as Al Bidda Park.
Heritage Village, resembling a traditional Qatari village, showcases culture and crafts from the pre-oil period; at festival times there are exhibitions about pearling and performances of folksongs.
There is free Wi-Fi access; parking is available on both sides of the park, which is at its busiest in the evenings and weekends. The Gallery is open 9 am – 12 pm and 4 pm – 9 pm daily (entrance is free).
Dahl Al Hammam Park
The park, off Arab League and Al Markhiya Streets in the Medinat Khalifa North area of Doha, is named after the nearby limestone cavern which has a small freshwater lake in the bottom, linked to the sea by a series of underground caves and tunnels. The park has a substantial children’s play area and free Wi-Fi access.
Aspire Park
Located behing the Hyatt Plaza, theVillagio Mall and Aspire Zone, this park is a favorite for joggers and families. With the only lake in Qatar, a small hill and various kinds of trees, it is a unique place to relax, whether you stay in the coffee shop or just enjoy the lawn.
Zoo
Searching for wildlife in Qatar’s deserts can be difficult as the animals blend in so well with the sand and rocks that they are hard to spot.
Home to more than 1,500 animals belonging to 147 species from all over the world, the 42-hectare Doha Zoo on Al Furousiya St represents a miniature animal kingdom, and is a great opportunity to see the region’s desert creatures alongside traditional zoo animals. New species are regularly introduced through a number of international zoo exchange programmes.
There is a children’s play area, a cafeteria, and lush landscaped areas with plenty of shade, making it an ideal spot for a picnic. The Zoo is open 8 am – 12 pm and 2:30 pm – 7:30 pm daily (closed Friday mornings). School groups are welcome in the mornings; Tuesday afternoons are for ladies and children only (boys must be under nine years old); and Wednesday afternoons are reserved for families. Hours may vary throughout the year, so check by calling 468 2610.ParksDoha is home to many large grassy areas and parks, offering a fun and relaxing pasttime for families, walkers and joggers. From the perfectly manicured Corniche to the 88 hectare Aspire Park, visitors will find a spot to relax under the shade of trees or by the water.
Al Corniche
Still the top destination to have a walk, Doha's famous 8 km-long Corniche offers panoramic view of the capital. Overshadowed by palm trees, this promenade is well appreciated as night, when the lights of Doha’s skyline reflect across Doha Bay, from the Museum of Islamic Art to the business district of West Bay.
The landscaped waterfront provides paved and grassed areas that are popular with walkers, joggers and picnickers. Several hotels, government ministries and the Emir’s working palace are located along the route, and opposite the Diwan, traditional wooden boats are moored in the fishing harbor.
At the harbor entrance is an attractive fountain in the shape of a pearl oyster, a reminder of Qatar’s pearling heritage. Also accessed from the Corniche are the Museum of Islamic Art , Souq Waqif , the main souq areas, Al Rumeila Park and the Qatar National Theatre.
There are numerous benches dotted along the Corniche, and the sea wall is also of a convenient height to sit on. The paved areas are wheelchair-friendly. Car parking is available along the entire length of the Corniche, and the car park close to the Sheraton Doha Hotel & Resort has restrooms and a small cafeteria.
This park is one of several in which the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Urban Planning and ICT Qatar introduced free Wi-Fi access in 2007 as part of its ‘iPark’ initiative.
Powerboat championships and sailing regattas are held in Doha Bay and the Corniche is the ideal place to view firework displays on festive occasions.
Rumeila ParkA landscaped park on Doha Corniche with an outdoor theatre, art gallery, water features, children’s play area and skateboard/rollerblading half-pipe. There are several shops, a cafeteria and public toilets in the park which used to be known as Al Bidda Park. Heritage Village, resembling a traditional Qatari village, showcases culture and crafts from the pre-oil period; at festival times there are exhibitions about pearling and performances of folksongs.There is free Wi-Fi access; parking is available on both sides of the park, which is at its busiest in the evenings and weekends. The Gallery is open 9 am – 12 pm and 4 pm – 9 pm daily (entrance is free). Dahl Al Hammam ParkThe park, off Arab League and Al Markhiya Streets in the Medinat Khalifa North area of Doha, is named after the nearby limestone cavern which has a small freshwater lake in the bottom, linked to the sea by a series of underground caves and tunnels. The park has a substantial children’s play area and free Wi-Fi access. Aspire ParkLocated behing the Hyatt Plaza, theVillagio Mall and Aspire Zone, this park is a favorite for joggers and families. With the only lake in Qatar, a small hill and various kinds of trees, it is a unique place to relax, whether you stay in the coffee shop or just enjoy the lawn. ZooSearching for wildlife in Qatar’s deserts can be difficult as the animals blend in so well with the sand and rocks that they are hard to spot. Home to more than 1,500 animals belonging to 147 species from all over the world, the 42-hectare Doha Zoo on Al Furousiya St represents a miniature animal kingdom, and is a great opportunity to see the region’s desert creatures alongside traditional zoo animals. New species are regularly introduced through a number of international zoo exchange programmes. There is a children’s play area, a cafeteria, and lush landscaped areas with plenty of shade, making it an ideal spot for a picnic. The Zoo is open 8 am – 12 pm and 2:30 pm – 7:30 pm daily (closed Friday mornings). School groups are welcome in the mornings; Tuesday afternoons are for ladies and children only (boys must be under nine years old); and Wednesday afternoons are reserved for families. Hours may vary throughout the year, so check by calling 468 2610.
Beaches:
The Qatar peninsula has a 563 km sandy coastline with numerous small islets, sand bars and reefs.
Below are a list of some of the most known beaches, but you can access to the sea everywhere you want. Just keep in mind not to leave behind you any sign of your activities.Enjoy relaxing, swimming, or any water sports on these endless shores.
Al Ghariya (80 km North of Doha)
Al Ghariya Beach - Take the Al Ghariya turnoff 4.5 km beyond Fuwarit on the Al Shamal (North) Road and follow the tarmac road, keeping to the right when the road splits. Once the location of a desert camp for Qatar’s scouting movement, Al Ghariya gradually developed into a small weekend facility for other campers. There is a beach resort as well as a popular sandy beach to the north with shallow water.
Dukhan (80 km West of Doha)
Dukhan is the centre of Qatar’s onshore oil industry and at the beginning of the 20th century had the only aircraft landing strip in the country. The security-gated complex owned by Qatar Petroleum (not open to the general public) consists of both residential and production areas and includes the first oil well drilled in Qatar, in 1938. Fossilised sharks teeth can be found in some of the shale hills and there is a popular beach accessible to all. At the gates to Dukhan township, turn left and follow the coast road for 9 km until reaching Dukhan Water Sports. The tarmac road ends here, but to the south, you will find plenty of places to stop. Although the beaches are sandy, there are sharp rocks under the water, so beach shoes are advisable.
Fuwairit (80 km North of Doha)
Fuwairit Beach - Take the Al Shamal (North) Road past the Al Khor turnoff and after 44 km, turn right at the Fuwairit sign; follow the road leading to a small village and as you reach the outskirts, turn left onto a rough track. Drive for 1.5 km along the small dune edging the beach until reaching the unusual formations of eroded hills (jebel) that run down to the water’s edge. These small ‘cliffs’ border a fine sandy bay with coves that make ideal picnic spots. The strange shapes in the rock face, resembling Gruyere cheese, make for great photos.
Khor Al Adaid (80 km south from Doha)
Also known as the Inland Sea, this breathtakingly beautiful area, surrounded by crescent-shaped sand dunes, is one of Qatar’s finest treasures and a prime tourism asset. A shallow tidal lake with a narrow outlet to the sea, the many-lobed Khor Al Adaid lies between Qatar and Saudi Arabia and has shores in each country. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are necessary and only experienced drivers should attempt the journey. Alternatively, local tour operators organise day trips and overnight camps, providing exhilarating drives along the dunes, with barbecues, entertainment and the opportunity to ride camels or sand ski.
Maroona (80 km North of Doha)
Also known as 42 km Beach or French Beach - Take the turnoff from Al Shamal (North) Road 42 km north of the Al Khor turnoff. There is a small signpost marked “Maroona”, leading to a narrow tarmac road. Follow for 6 km before turning right onto the dirt track heading towards two large palaces (driving parallel to the telegraph poles). Approach the beach between these two buildings, but beware, the sand is very soft for the last 100 m.
Ras Abrouq (Bir Zekreet) (70 km West of Doha)
Ras Abrouq and Bir Zekreet, a favourite spot for weekend campers, is at the very tip of a peninsula northeast of Dukhan (four-wheel-drive is required). Follow the main Doha-Dukhan road, and several kilometres past the turnoff for Al Jumailiya (about 5 km before the flyover) is a fork where the old Dukhan road veers off to the right – look out for this as there is only one sign, in Arabic. After 1.5 km, turn right onto the road that heads up the northeastern side of the Ras Abrouq peninsula, follow for about 21 km and then branch off to the left, heading up and onto the top of the jebel (hills). The track passes the wild deer reserve set up by the Supreme Council for the Environment and Natural Reserves (SCENR) and through an area that looks like a deserted village but was actually built as a film set. Notice the trees: the lower branches are ‘cropped’ in a straight line where the camels have eaten them!
After almost 9 km, an abandoned police post can be seen on top of a jebel. Go around the base and head out over the causeway on the left, leading to the tip of the peninsula. The area is full of interesting coves and bays, but the best is at the far end: a sweeping half-moon bay flanked at both ends by rocky outcrops.
Sealine Beach Resort (40 km South of Doha)
Just south of Mesaieed, this resort with a hotel, two swimming pools and landscaped grounds, has villas and chalets for overnight, weekend and holiday hire, and is also open to day visitors.
Watersports are available from the beach and dune buggies are available for hire just outside the resort.
The tarmac road ends at Sealine and any further journey, towards the Inland Sea, has to be made over the dunes in a four-wheeldrive.
Simaisma (40 km North of Doha)
Take the highway towards Al Khor, and for the exit to Lusail International Circuit. Instead of going right on the bridge, take left, until you reach the coastal village.
Umm Bab (90 km West of Doha)
Umm Bab is also known as “Palm Tree Beach” because of the small cluster of palms at the end of the road alongside the small breakwater. From Doha, take Salwa Rd, clocking 29 km from the industrial area and passing the Mukainis satellite earth station. Turn right and follow the road for a further 40 km until you reach the roundabout at the Umm Bab cement works. Go straight across and take the right-hand fork, passing a small ‘trading store’ on your right. On cresting a small hill, you will see the coast stretched out below and the distinctive group of trees. Most people turn left at the trees and stop a little further on. The sand is deep, so proceed with caution.BeachesThe Qatar peninsula has a 563 km sandy coastline with numerous small islets, sand bars and reefs.Below are a list of some of the most known beaches, but you can access to the sea everywhere you want. Just keep in mind not to leave behind you any sign of your activities.Enjoy relaxing, swimming, or any water sports on these endless shores. Al Ghariya (80 km North of Doha)Al Ghariya Beach - Take the Al Ghariya turnoff 4.5 km beyond Fuwarit on the Al Shamal (North) Road and follow the tarmac road, keeping to the right when the road splits. Once the location of a desert camp for Qatar’s scouting movement, Al Ghariya gradually developed into a small weekend facility for other campers. There is a beach resort as well as a popular sandy beach to the north with shallow water. Dukhan (80 km West of Doha)Dukhan is the centre of Qatar’s onshore oil industry and at the beginning of the 20th century had the only aircraft landing strip in the country. The security-gated complex owned by Qatar Petroleum (not open to the general public) consists of both residential and production areas and includes the first oil well drilled in Qatar, in 1938. Fossilised sharks teeth can be found in some of the shale hills and there is a popular beach accessible to all. At the gates to Dukhan township, turn left and follow the coast road for 9 km until reaching Dukhan Water Sports. The tarmac road ends here, but to the south, you will find plenty of places to stop. Although the beaches are sandy, there are sharp rocks under the water, so beach shoes are advisable. Fuwairit (80 km North of Doha)Fuwairit Beach - Take the Al Shamal (North) Road past the Al Khor turnoff and after 44 km, turn right at the Fuwairit sign; follow the road leading to a small village and as you reach the outskirts, turn left onto a rough track. Drive for 1.5 km along the small dune edging the beach until reaching the unusual formations of eroded hills (jebel) that run down to the water’s edge. These small ‘cliffs’ border a fine sandy bay with coves that make ideal picnic spots. The strange shapes in the rock face, resembling Gruyere cheese, make for great photos. Khor Al Adaid (80 km south from Doha)Also known as the Inland Sea, this breathtakingly beautiful area, surrounded by crescent-shaped sand dunes, is one of Qatar’s finest treasures and a prime tourism asset. A shallow tidal lake with a narrow outlet to the sea, the many-lobed Khor Al Adaid lies between Qatar and Saudi Arabia and has shores in each country. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are necessary and only experienced drivers should attempt the journey. Alternatively, local tour operators organise day trips and overnight camps, providing exhilarating drives along the dunes, with barbecues, entertainment and the opportunity to ride camels or sand ski. Maroona (80 km North of Doha)Also known as 42 km Beach or French Beach - Take the turnoff from Al Shamal (North) Road 42 km north of the Al Khor turnoff. There is a small signpost marked “Maroona”, leading to a narrow tarmac road. Follow for 6 km before turning right onto the dirt track heading towards two large palaces (driving parallel to the telegraph poles). Approach the beach between these two buildings, but beware, the sand is very soft for the last 100 m. Ras Abrouq (Bir Zekreet) (70 km West of Doha)Ras Abrouq and Bir Zekreet, a favourite spot for weekend campers, is at the very tip of a peninsula northeast of Dukhan (four-wheel-drive is required). Follow the main Doha-Dukhan road, and several kilometres past the turnoff for Al Jumailiya (about 5 km before the flyover) is a fork where the old Dukhan road veers off to the right – look out for this as there is only one sign, in Arabic. After 1.5 km, turn right onto the road that heads up the northeastern side of the Ras Abrouq peninsula, follow for about 21 km and then branch off to the left, heading up and onto the top of the jebel (hills). The track passes the wild deer reserve set up by the Supreme Council for the Environment and Natural Reserves (SCENR) and through an area that looks like a deserted village but was actually built as a film set. Notice the trees: the lower branches are ‘cropped’ in a straight line where the camels have eaten them! After almost 9 km, an abandoned police post can be seen on top of a jebel. Go around the base and head out over the causeway on the left, leading to the tip of the peninsula. The area is full of interesting coves and bays, but the best is at the far end: a sweeping half-moon bay flanked at both ends by rocky outcrops. Sealine Beach Resort (40 km South of Doha)Just south of Mesaieed, this resort with a hotel, two swimming pools and landscaped grounds, has villas and chalets for overnight, weekend and holiday hire, and is also open to day visitors. Watersports are available from the beach and dune buggies are available for hire just outside the resort.The tarmac road ends at Sealine and any further journey, towards the Inland Sea, has to be made over the dunes in a four-wheeldrive. Simaisma (40 km North of Doha)Take the highway towards Al Khor, and for the exit to Lusail International Circuit. Instead of going right on the bridge, take left, until you reach the coastal village. Umm Bab (90 km West of Doha)Umm Bab is also known as “Palm Tree Beach” because of the small cluster of palms at the end of the road alongside the small breakwater. From Doha, take Salwa Rd, clocking 29 km from the industrial area and passing the Mukainis satellite earth station. Turn right and follow the road for a further 40 km until you reach the roundabout at the Umm Bab cement works. Go straight across and take the right-hand fork, passing a small ‘trading store’ on your right. On cresting a small hill, you will see the coast stretched out below and the distinctive group of trees. Most people turn left at the trees and stop a little further on. The sand is deep, so proceed with caution.
Natural Landmarks:
With the sun shining every day and a surprisingly rich ecology, Qatar offers an engaging natural environment to explore. The surrounding desert provides a great deal of interest and adventure with such natural landmarks as the Dhal Al Misfir, Desert Roses and the Singing Sand Dunes.
Dhal Al Misfir
Dhal Al Misfir is a 40 meter deep cave formation located north of the Salwa Road, with fiberous gypsum crystal.
Desert Roses
The low salt flats near Al Shahaniya and north of the Saudi border are collecting grounds for those willing to dig for the attractive gypsum formations known as ‘desert roses’.
The Singing Sand Dunes (40 km southwest of Doha)
There are certain conditions in which the movement of sand grains can create a low murmur or ‘singing’ – a phenomenon often reported by desert explorers. Qatar is fortunate in having sand with the right abrasive qualities in an area that also experiences the necessary wind and moisture conditions to create this wonderful if weird effect. While the ‘singing’ occurs naturally, it can be triggered by sliding down the face of the dune or running along its crest, whereupon each footstep creates a humming that cannot only be heard but also felt as a vibration through the feet.
Parks:
Doha is home to many large grassy areas and parks, offering a fun and relaxing pasttime for families, walkers and joggers. From the perfectly manicured Corniche to the 88 hectare Aspire Park, visitors will find a spot to relax under the shade of trees or by the water.
Al Corniche
Still the top destination to have a walk, Doha's famous 8 km-long Corniche offers panoramic view of the capital. Overshadowed by palm trees, this promenade is well appreciated as night, when the lights of Doha’s skyline reflect across Doha Bay, from the Museum of Islamic Art to the business district of West Bay.
The landscaped waterfront provides paved and grassed areas that are popular with walkers, joggers and picnickers. Several hotels, government ministries and the Emir’s working palace are located along the route, and opposite the Diwan, traditional wooden boats are moored in the fishing harbor.
At the harbor entrance is an attractive fountain in the shape of a pearl oyster, a reminder of Qatar’s pearling heritage. Also accessed from the Corniche are the Museum of Islamic Art , Souq Waqif , the main souq areas, Al Rumeila Park and the Qatar National Theatre.
There are numerous benches dotted along the Corniche, and the sea wall is also of a convenient height to sit on. The paved areas are wheelchair-friendly. Car parking is available along the entire length of the Corniche, and the car park close to the Sheraton Doha Hotel & Resort has restrooms and a small cafeteria.
This park is one of several in which the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Urban Planning and ICT Qatar introduced free Wi-Fi access in 2007 as part of its ‘iPark’ initiative.
Powerboat championships and sailing regattas are held in Doha Bay and the Corniche is the ideal place to view firework displays on festive occasions.
Rumeila Park
A landscaped park on Doha Corniche with an outdoor theatre, art gallery, water features, children’s play area and skateboard/rollerblading half-pipe. There are several shops, a cafeteria and public toilets in the park which used to be known as Al Bidda Park.
Heritage Village, resembling a traditional Qatari village, showcases culture and crafts from the pre-oil period; at festival times there are exhibitions about pearling and performances of folksongs.
There is free Wi-Fi access; parking is available on both sides of the park, which is at its busiest in the evenings and weekends. The Gallery is open 9 am – 12 pm and 4 pm – 9 pm daily (entrance is free).
Dahl Al Hammam Park
The park, off Arab League and Al Markhiya Streets in the Medinat Khalifa North area of Doha, is named after the nearby limestone cavern which has a small freshwater lake in the bottom, linked to the sea by a series of underground caves and tunnels. The park has a substantial children’s play area and free Wi-Fi access.
Aspire Park
Located behing the Hyatt Plaza, theVillagio Mall and Aspire Zone, this park is a favorite for joggers and families. With the only lake in Qatar, a small hill and various kinds of trees, it is a unique place to relax, whether you stay in the coffee shop or just enjoy the lawn.
Zoo
Searching for wildlife in Qatar’s deserts can be difficult as the animals blend in so well with the sand and rocks that they are hard to spot.
Home to more than 1,500 animals belonging to 147 species from all over the world, the 42-hectare Doha Zoo on Al Furousiya St represents a miniature animal kingdom, and is a great opportunity to see the region’s desert creatures alongside traditional zoo animals. New species are regularly introduced through a number of international zoo exchange programmes.
There is a children’s play area, a cafeteria, and lush landscaped areas with plenty of shade, making it an ideal spot for a picnic. The Zoo is open 8 am – 12 pm and 2:30 pm – 7:30 pm daily (closed Friday mornings). School groups are welcome in the mornings; Tuesday afternoons are for ladies and children only (boys must be under nine years old); and Wednesday afternoons are reserved for families. Hours may vary throughout the year, so check by calling 468 2610.ParksDoha is home to many large grassy areas and parks, offering a fun and relaxing pasttime for families, walkers and joggers. From the perfectly manicured Corniche to the 88 hectare Aspire Park, visitors will find a spot to relax under the shade of trees or by the water.
Al Corniche
Still the top destination to have a walk, Doha's famous 8 km-long Corniche offers panoramic view of the capital. Overshadowed by palm trees, this promenade is well appreciated as night, when the lights of Doha’s skyline reflect across Doha Bay, from the Museum of Islamic Art to the business district of West Bay.
The landscaped waterfront provides paved and grassed areas that are popular with walkers, joggers and picnickers. Several hotels, government ministries and the Emir’s working palace are located along the route, and opposite the Diwan, traditional wooden boats are moored in the fishing harbor.
At the harbor entrance is an attractive fountain in the shape of a pearl oyster, a reminder of Qatar’s pearling heritage. Also accessed from the Corniche are the Museum of Islamic Art , Souq Waqif , the main souq areas, Al Rumeila Park and the Qatar National Theatre.
There are numerous benches dotted along the Corniche, and the sea wall is also of a convenient height to sit on. The paved areas are wheelchair-friendly. Car parking is available along the entire length of the Corniche, and the car park close to the Sheraton Doha Hotel & Resort has restrooms and a small cafeteria.
This park is one of several in which the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Urban Planning and ICT Qatar introduced free Wi-Fi access in 2007 as part of its ‘iPark’ initiative.
Powerboat championships and sailing regattas are held in Doha Bay and the Corniche is the ideal place to view firework displays on festive occasions.
Rumeila ParkA landscaped park on Doha Corniche with an outdoor theatre, art gallery, water features, children’s play area and skateboard/rollerblading half-pipe. There are several shops, a cafeteria and public toilets in the park which used to be known as Al Bidda Park. Heritage Village, resembling a traditional Qatari village, showcases culture and crafts from the pre-oil period; at festival times there are exhibitions about pearling and performances of folksongs.There is free Wi-Fi access; parking is available on both sides of the park, which is at its busiest in the evenings and weekends. The Gallery is open 9 am – 12 pm and 4 pm – 9 pm daily (entrance is free). Dahl Al Hammam ParkThe park, off Arab League and Al Markhiya Streets in the Medinat Khalifa North area of Doha, is named after the nearby limestone cavern which has a small freshwater lake in the bottom, linked to the sea by a series of underground caves and tunnels. The park has a substantial children’s play area and free Wi-Fi access. Aspire ParkLocated behing the Hyatt Plaza, theVillagio Mall and Aspire Zone, this park is a favorite for joggers and families. With the only lake in Qatar, a small hill and various kinds of trees, it is a unique place to relax, whether you stay in the coffee shop or just enjoy the lawn. ZooSearching for wildlife in Qatar’s deserts can be difficult as the animals blend in so well with the sand and rocks that they are hard to spot. Home to more than 1,500 animals belonging to 147 species from all over the world, the 42-hectare Doha Zoo on Al Furousiya St represents a miniature animal kingdom, and is a great opportunity to see the region’s desert creatures alongside traditional zoo animals. New species are regularly introduced through a number of international zoo exchange programmes. There is a children’s play area, a cafeteria, and lush landscaped areas with plenty of shade, making it an ideal spot for a picnic. The Zoo is open 8 am – 12 pm and 2:30 pm – 7:30 pm daily (closed Friday mornings). School groups are welcome in the mornings; Tuesday afternoons are for ladies and children only (boys must be under nine years old); and Wednesday afternoons are reserved for families. Hours may vary throughout the year, so check by calling 468 2610.