Top 10 Things to Do in Qatar Beyond FIFA and Doha

Qatar which is famous and known for hosting some of the most famous sports events, especially the FIFA World Cup. Sports have always been the highlight of Qatar. But there are other undiscovered and unheard gems of the Middle East, which are beyond the football matches, and especially the capital city of Doha. Qatar gives you an experience of a blend of tradition, culture, and innovation, be it the beaches of Qatar or the cultural treasure, along with a modern touch. Want to plan a trip to Qatar, but don’t know how? This guide will give you a whole idea and planning for a 10-day trip to Qatar, which gives you an experience of something beyond the football matches, stadium, and the tall buildings.

1. Discover the Desert at Khor Al Adaid

Khor Al Adaid, also known as the Inland Sea, is one of those few places where you will find the desert and the sea blending; it is an experience full of drama and harmony. It is located near the Saudi border, it is also recognised by UNESCO, and this place is a heaven for all those people who love adventure and want to experience thrillers.

You can get the experience of a ride, which will take you up and down over the golden and shiny sand dunes in a 4×4 vehicle; it is a thrilling adventure. The time you reach the place, you will be blessed to see the view where the shiny desert meets the crystal-clear water. The best time to visit this place is during sunset, as you can see the canvas of warm hues. Some activities take this trip to the next level, like the camel rides, sandboarding, and especially the desert camping. This adds to the beauty and magic of this place.

Pro Tip: Try to stay up late at night in the desert camping, so that you can get the taste of the traditional food of Qatar, enjoy the live music, and watch the night sky filled with stars.

2. Explore the Pearl – Qatar

Pearl-Qatar is known for the modernity that it gives to Qatar; it is known for its artificial archipelago, which is shaped in such a way that it seems that the island has been tied in a single string. It is one of the best places in modern Qatar, be it the marinas, the apartments which are filled with luxury, and the expensive shopping places. This will give a cosmopolitan vibe.

By seeing the expensive places, don’t think that this place is only for those who are wealthy, and common people cannot come to this space. You can come to this place, roam around the boardwalks, have some coffee in the cafe, or try some traditional food ranging from Italy to the Middle East countries. If you are coming with your family, then you can try to play some outdoor games in the playground, and if you are a photographer, then this is going to be your dream destination. You will be able to click endless photographs of some beautiful attractions and the view of the water.

3. Step Back in Time at Al Zubarah Fort

The people who love history should not miss the opportunity to visit the fort of Al Zubarah, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located somewhere in the northeastern part of Qatar. This fort was built in the year 1938, and it will give you the experience of pearling and the trading past of the fort.

When you enter the fort, you will find some interesting archaeological findings that will take you back to the old times, and you will come to know about the lifestyle of the people from ancient times. The site around the forts tells us the story of the merchants, traders, and other people who used to keep the land of Qatar flourishing. Doha provides us with a modern touch to Qatar, whereas this place will give us glimpses of history and culture, and the knowledge of that time.

4. Relax on the Beach of Al Wakrah

Tired of the busy and noisy cities and want to come out of that then come toward the south, then come to Al Wakrah, the beautiful, charming coastal town, which has the most beautiful beaches in Qatar. Want to relax and enjoy some peace? Al Wakrah provides you with that. You can enjoy the shoreline of the beach, the clear water, and the vibe of the place allows you to relax.

You can have a picnic in place, you need to rent a beach umbrella, and then you are good to go. You can roam around the place and experience the lane lined with stalls with local foods. Al Wakrah Souq is located nearby, so you can enjoy the architecture, seafood available there in the local stalls that serve you with fresh ones, and you can also get a glimpse of the handicrafts.

5. Admire the Art at Katara Cultural Village

Katara Cultural Village is a place where you will find a blend of theatre, music, and festivals. It is a hub of culture and art. All those who love or are attached to culture will definitely love this place. Katara is close to Doha, which means it creates itself to be the hub of creativity and heritage.

You can get the experience of live performances, you can also visit the art galleries, and you can get the experience and explore the amphitheatre. You can also visit the mosque located here, which is made up of gold tiles, making it an architectural masterpiece, which you will admire for life long. You should not miss the chance of visiting the old, ancient markets and the cafes located near the beachside, which makes the village look more beautiful and stunning, and relaxing.

6. Take a Trip to Dukhan Beach

There is a cost located on the west side of Qatar, which is less visited by tourists, but it is very famous among the locals. This beach is known by the name of Dukhan Beach. You are coming on the trip with your family, then this is the best place where you can come for an outing. This place is perfect for swimming, and you can also have barbecues here.

This place will be loved by the photographers as the scenic beauty of this place is an advantage to this, especially during the time of sunset. You can also experience camping along the shore and also have a bonfire, and relax under the desert sky filled with stars. This place is the best and popular destination for camping.

7. Wander Through Al Thakira Mangroves

Hearing of Qatar, it only reminds us of the desert, but it is not true; Qatar also has greenery, which can be seen in the landscapes of Al Thakira Mangroves, which are located near Al Khor. This land of mangroves is not only the habitat of them but also some unique wildlife that are found there, such as the flamingos, herons, and especially the tiny crabs.

You can explore the mangroves and that too from a close proximity by boating through the same. As you go inside the forest, you will come to know that you have entered a world that is very far from the dusty deserts. This is an adventure trip that you are going to love if you are a nature lover; otherwise, you will also enjoy the trip.

8. Experience Souq Al Wakrah and Local Life

This place provides you with more cultural intimacy and experience than the famous Doha Souq Waqif. The markets here are decked in such a way as if they are the ancient old villages, where you can wander around the streets can take a look at the souvenirs in the shop, and even try the authentic local foods of Qatar.

The market helps you experience the traditional beauty of the place, be it the handmade crafts or the traditional cooking spices, or the clothes; it adds charm to the market. The best time to visit these markets is in the evening, it is the time when the streets are lit up with lanterns and the families come out of their houses to enjoy the traditional atmosphere of the place.

9. Marvel at the Zekreet Rock Formation

If you want to explore something unique that you have never seen in your life, then come to the western coast and come to the place known as Zekreet Rock Formation. The variety of rock formations found in this place is made naturally with the help of wind and time, and you will find these pieces of art all over the desert.

Somewhere around, only you will find the sculpture of Richard Serra, which is known by the name of “East-West/West-East”; this sculpture adds to the beauty and artistic touch to the landscape. This place is famous for some adventure activities, like off-roading, hiking, and also offers advantages for photographers. This place offers you a view that you will not find anywhere else in this country.

10. Camp Under the Stars in the Desert

You can never complete your trip to Qatar without spending a night under the night sky in the desert. This is a tradition in Qatar that whoever comes for a trip here has to get the experience of Desert camping. This is an experience where you will find yourself in a wide-open space where you will find peace. You will also get the warmth of the campfire and the countless number of stars, which you are going to enjoy.

Whatever you choose, a luxury camp where you will get all the facilities or just a simple tent which will be operated by the locals, the experience and exploration you are going to have is unforgettable. There are different activities which are offered by the camps, like shows, traditional food, and some other activities like falconry demonstrations. This is how you end your adventure trip in Qatar.

Practical Tips

• Best time to visit: The best time you visit Qatar during the month from November to March, you will find the weather is pleasant during this time and you can enjoy most of the outdoor activities here.
• Transportation: You can rent cars, which is more convenient for exploring the nearby sites along with Doha.
• Local Etiquette: You should wear proper clothes while travelling, especially when you are travelling in the ancient and old and rural areas and the cultural sites.
• Food to Try: Some foods you should not miss are the seafood, which are served fresh, karak tea, and especially the machboos, which is a staple food here, which is basically spiced rice along with meat.

After knowing the places now, we can say that Qatar is not only a place and hub of sports but also has some amazing attractions. Qatar offers something for everyone, be it the beaches, the deserts, or the adventure activities. Qatar provides a special experience for every traveller.