Things to Do in Qatar: Discover Everything This Middle East Gem Has to Offer

Doha Sands Beach Club

Located in the heart of Doha, this lavish beach club is the perfect spot to soak up the sun while enjoying upscale amenities. With pristine sands, crystal-clear waters, and a range of activities like jet skiing and paddleboarding, Doha Sands Beach Club is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It also boasts excellent dining options, making it ideal for a day-long retreat.

Sealine Beach

Just under an hour’s drive from Doha, Sealine Beach in Mesaieed is a renowned resort offering luxury experiences in Qatar. Nestled between golden dunes and the sparkling sea, it provides an ideal setting for a relaxing getaway. Guests can enjoy serene beachside lounging, elegant accommodations, and top-tier amenities, all while taking in breathtaking sunset views.

Inland Sea (Khor al Adaid)

A UNESCO-recognized natural reserve, Khor al Adaid is a breathtaking inland sea surrounded by towering dunes. Accessible only by 4×4 vehicles, this secluded landmark is easily one of the most unique places to visit in all of Qatar. It’s the place to go for thrilling dune adventures, camping and stargazing, and spotting wildlife life like flamingos and dugongs.

Al Maroona Beach

Known for its shallow, calm waters and soft sandy shore, Al Maroona Beach is one of the most popular places to visit in Qatar for families. It’s a great beach for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying a peaceful day by the sea. Best of all, it’s only about an hour’s drive from Doha, making for an easy day trip.

Katara Beach

Katara Beach provides visitors with the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. You can enjoy water sports like kayaking and water skiing, or you can simply unwind with a scenic view of the Doha skyline. Its proximity to the city makes it easy to combine a beach day with exploring cultural attractions in Qatar.

Umm Bab Beach

Often referred to as the “Palm Tree Beach” due to the clusters of palm trees along its shore, Umm Bab Beach offers a serene escape. It even provides camping facilities, making it ideal for a weekend getaway under the stars. The beach’s calm waters also make it one of the best beaches in Qatar for a leisurely swim.

Doha

From the iconic skyline to the historic Souq Waqif, Doha offers a range of attractions, including high-end shopping malls, art galleries, and world-class restaurants. It’s also home to luxurious hotels and the best Qatar nightlife activities, like dinner cruises and rooftop bars. A Doha city tour promises a captivating combination of cutting-edge architecture and rich cultural heritage sites.

Al Khor

Al Khor is one of Qatar’s oldest cities, known for its fishing harbor and picturesque Corniche. It’s a great place to explore traditional Qatari life and enjoy seafood delicacies. Nearby, Purple Island serves as a unique escape with its lush greenery, walking trails, and shallow waters, making it an idyllic area for nature walks. The island is also an ideal destination to witness seasonal flamingos, best seen during the winter months from November to April.

Dukhan

Dukhan is an industrial city in Qatar’s western region. While the city itself is off-limits to visitors and photography is restricted, the surrounding area offers plenty to explore. Dukhan Beach, for example, with its striking rocky cliffs and crystal-clear waters, is a favorite spot for snorkeling around the vibrant reef.

Madinat Ash Shamal

Situated at the sparsely populated northern tip of Qatar, Madinat Ash Shamal serves as a gateway to numerous beautiful beaches, including Fuwairit Beach, Shamal Beach, and Azerbaijani Beach. The area is also home to the popular Abu Dhalouf Park, offering a laid-back vibe and scenic surroundings that make it a must-visit destination.

Al Ruwais

Al Ruwais, a charming coastal town east of Madinat Ash Shamal, is characterized by a blend of serene beauty and unique attractions. A highlight is Arsan Café, a former police station transformed into a stylish artisan cafe. Al Ruwais Beach is another must-visit, especially for catching breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.

Abu Dhalouf

Located in the Madinat al Shamal area, Abu Dhalouf is a peaceful town known for its beautiful park. Abu Dhalouf Park is one of Qatar’s finest, offering lush green spaces and plenty of shade for relaxation. With two dedicated play areas for children and direct access to a beach with shallow waters, it’s one of the best things to do in Qatar for families.

Qatar Museums Gallery

The Qatar Museums Gallery has been a cornerstone of the country’s art scene since its establishment in 2010. Showcasing rotating exhibitions every two months, the gallery features thought-provoking works by both Qatari and international artists, often centered around human themes that inspire reflection.

National Museum of Qatar

Designed by the renowned architect Jean Nouvel, the National Museum of Qatar is one of the top Doha tourist spots. The museum’s striking design, inspired by the desert rose crystal, is a masterpiece in itself. Its immersive exhibits take visitors on a journey through Qatar’s history, from its nomadic past to its rapid modernization.

Qatar National Library

Also designed by a renowned architect, Rem Koolhaas, the Qatar National Library is an architectural marvel resembling two pieces of paper pulled apart. More than just a library, it provides Innovation Stations with tools for videography, design, and 3D printing. The Conservation and Digitization Labs also work to preserve Qatar’s cultural heritage.

UNESCO World Heritage Al Zubarah Archaeological Site

Al Zubarah, an ancient fortified town, offers a fascinating glimpse into Qatar’s past. Once a thriving pearling and trading center, now serves as a museum displaying artifacts from the pearl diving era. Nearby, the 20th-century Al Zubarah Fort serves as a pristine example of traditional Arab architecture.

Katara Cultural Village

Katara Cultural Village is, as the name suggests, the cultural heart of Doha, featuring theaters, galleries, and concert halls where it hosts numerous festivals, performances, and exhibitions. With its variety of restaurants, beautiful amphitheater, and beachfront views, Katara provides visitors with a full day of exploration and relaxation.

Museum of Islamic Art

Housing one of the most extensive collections of Islamic art found anywhere, the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha showcases artifacts from across the Islamic world. The stunning architecture and serene waterfront location further add to the museum’s appeal. It is considered one of the most important historical landmarks in Qatar.

Desert

The sandy dunes of Qatar offer an unforgettable Qatar desert safari experience, with thrilling activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. The rocky desert areas provide stunning views and unique geological formations that lend themselves to photography, while sunsets over the dunes paint the landscape in breathtaking shades of orange and gold.

Islands in Qatar

From The Pearl, an artificial island known for its luxury living and marina, to Al Safliya Island, a serene escape known for boating and water sports, Qatar’s islands offer diverse experiences. The Pearl, in particular, is renowned for its exceptional dining scene, offering a wide range of world-class restaurants. These islands are also popular for sunset cruises and yacht parties.

Nature Reserves

Qatar is home to several nature reserves such as Al Reem Biosphere Reserve, where you can spot the Arabian oryx, and Irkaya Farm, known for its abundant birdwatching opportunities. These reserves offer hiking trails, wildlife encounters, and stunning landscapes for nature enthusiasts.

Mangroves

The Al Thakira and Purple Island mangroves near Al Khor provide a lush green escape amidst the Qatari desert. Kayaking through the mangroves allows you to explore the rich biodiversity, including migratory birds and marine life. It’s also a peaceful retreat for those looking to connect with nature.

Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve

A favorite among families, Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve offers close encounters with animals like oryx, gazelles, and ostriches. It also features picnic areas and an amusement park for kids. Educational tours and feeding sessions add an interactive element to your visit.

Doha Quest

Qatar’s first-ever indoor theme park, Doha Quest offers a mix of adrenaline-pumping rides, interactive games, and immersive experiences, catering to all age groups. Its futuristic design and VR attractions make it a particular hit among tech-savvy kids and teens.

Meryal Waterpark

Situated on Qetaifan Island North, Meryal Waterpark is the largest waterpark in Qatar. It boasts a variety of water rides, lazy rivers, and splash zones, providing endless entertainment for children and adults alike. The park’s themed areas ensure that every visit feels like a new adventure.

Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park

Located in Salwa, the expansive Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park features thrilling slides, wave pools, and adventure activities like canyoning and laser tag, making it a perfect destination for a family day out. The park also has a dedicated kids’ pool for the little ones.

Box Park

Box Park is a vibrant and trendy outdoor shopping and dining destination in Doha made from shipping containers. It boasts a fun and energetic atmosphere with street food stalls, play areas, and live entertainment. It’s a great place for a casual family outing with plenty to keep everyone amused.

Al Khor Park

One of the oldest and largest parks in Qatar, Al Khor Park features a zoo, children’s playgrounds, a mini-golf course, and beautifully landscaped gardens, making it a wonderful place for family outings. The park’s train rides and waterfall area are especially popular with kids.