Explore the Wonders of Qatar
The pint-sized nation of Qatar isn’t technically a one-city state, but there’s no denying that Doha, home to more than 90% of Qatar’s population, is the main attraction.
However, the country’s modern capital isn’t the only corner of this Gulf nation that’s worth a visit. Venture beyond Doha to discover the shiny new sister city Lusail and a pseudo-tropical island escape, or strike out into the desert to uncover glimpses of Qatar’s pearling past and unexpected natural wonders.
See the Sights and Dine Out in Doha
Doha’s rapid transformation from a sleepy seaside settlement to a glitzy Gulf capital is legendary. As the city’s futuristic skyline continues to expand, so too do reasons to visit. Recent years have welcomed the striking National Museum of Qatar and the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, complemented by a new metro system making it easier to get around.
Get a taste of Doha’s early days and regional culinary specialties at the fabulous Souq Waqif. Stroll along the waterfront Corniche to admire views of the city and Doha Bay, marvel at the Museum of Islamic Art, and explore public art, mosques, and more in the Katara cultural village.
Hop on the Metro to Visit Lusail
Just 20km (12.4 miles) north of downtown Doha and connected by metro, Lusail feels like an extension of the capital. This coastal metropolis, while still largely a construction zone, is already home to some of Qatar’s most striking architecture, notably Lusail Stadium and Katara Towers. This area boasts a marina with a pleasant promenade and the high-end Parisian-inspired Place Vendome mall, among other attractions.
With the first line of the Lusail Tram opened in 2022, Lusail is easier than ever to visit via public transport.
Families Should Save Time for Banana Island
Qatar’s only offshore island of note, Banana Island, is just a 30-minute catamaran ride from Doha. This small, crescent-shaped isle is entirely occupied by the family-friendly Banana Island Resort. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful palm-studded beach, with day passes including boat transfers and credits to spend on restaurants and watersports at the resort.
Uncover History at Al Zubarah and Al Jumail
Known for its UNESCO-listed fort, Al Zubarah was named for the thriving pearling port that now lies in ruins. While the ruins are currently closed to the public, visitors can glimpse the town’s crumbling foundations from the entrance to the fort.
About 20km (12 miles) farther north, the deserted village of Jumail offers a unique glimpse into Qatar’s economic history. Al Zubarah is a 90-minute drive northwest of Doha, easily explored on an organized tour, while Jumail requires a car for access.
History and Nature Meet in Al Khor
An hour’s drive north of Doha, Al Khor is home to several noteworthy attractions, including three historical stone watchtowers built around 1900 to monitor ships. Just beyond Al Khor, a boardwalk takes you through a lush mangrove nature reserve to Bin Ghannam Island (also known as Purple Island), revealing traces of human activity dating back to the 2nd millennium BC.
Hit the Beach in Northeastern Qatar
The largely undeveloped northeastern corner of Qatar offers a handful of attractions worth checking out. Discover the mysterious Al Jassasiya Rock Carvings near Al Maroona Beach, one of Qatar’s most pleasant public beaches. With its development as a kitesurfing destination, Fuwairit Beach is quickly becoming popular.
The luxury Zulal Wellness Resort, guided by traditional Arabic and Islamic medicine, offers a unique getaway in the region. Enjoy a scenic sunset stroll along the Shamal Corniche in the nearby town of Al Ruwais.
Explore Desert Oddities in Zekreet
The small village of Zekreet is the starting point for visiting the Brouq Peninsula, home to attractions like artist Richard Serra’s East–West/West–East installation and the Film City ghost town. Zekreet itself features a historic mosque and fort remains, along with a few simple eateries but no accommodations.
Southern Qatar is Ready for Adventure
The small city of Al Wakrah features a pleasant seafront market selling everything from honey to souvenirs. While the historic Al Wakra Fort is not currently open to the public, it’s still worth visiting.
From here, you can take a bus or ride-sharing service to Sealine Beach, famous for its dive sites and beautiful landscapes, with towering sand dunes beginning nearby. Off-road tours offer an exciting venture across the dunes to Khor Al Adaid, known for its scenic tidal embayment marking Qatar’s border with Saudi Arabia.
Similarly, southern Qatar is often explored on day trips from Doha; however, it has several accommodation options for those looking to linger a bit longer.
