Things To Do
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Explore things to do in Qatar!
The picturesque skyline of downtown Qatar reveals just a little of what the country has to offer. While the capital Doha is exciting, journeys out of town to indulge in popular activities such as kayaking, paragliding, cave exploring, and spotting flamingos create lasting memories. So too does splashing about in safe, pristine beaches, riding over rolling dunes and camping under the stars.
Start with some rollercoaster-style dune bashing. With views of the Arabian Gulf on one side and endless desert on the other, there's nothing quite like dune bashing.
Desert decisions
In days gone by, Bedouin tribes largely engaged in trade, moving from place to place as they conducted business. They would set up camp and graze their animals, and this tradition of camping remains an integral part of Qatari culture.
While travel through the desert was once conducted on camels, modern day safaris are carried out by expert drivers in modern 4X4s. On the way to the desert, marvel at the cityscape, and watch the suburbs recede into the distance as the expansive desert comes into view. Photo opportunities abound as you arrive at a Bedouin camp. Your thoughts will go into overdrive as you imagine the life of Qatari folk hundreds of years ago.
Spending quality time in the enchanting, storied desert is nothing short of a voyage of discovery. All-encompassing natural beauty, fantastic adventures and experiencing a new culture all come with the sandy, action-packed territory. Here is how families get familiar with the country that has so much to offer.
The top desert activities
Quad biking
What's not to love about cruising over unspoiled terrain while enjoying breathtaking views?
Glamping
Glamorous camping is a luxury experience. The Regency Sealine Camp offers air-conditioned accommodation with amenities such as bathrobes, toiletries, room service, and, would you believe, wi-fi! Sarab Camp also provides generously sized, lavish tents for families.
Magical sunsets
As memorable for loving couples as they are for families. After exhausting yourself crashing over dunes, Qatar's stimulating sunset awaits to uplift your spirits.
Camel rides
Many tour companies and hotels will arrange desert adventures for you and yours. Mesaieed in Al Wakrah is a highly recommended destination for this ever-popular activity.
Dune bashing
The adrenaline-pumping thrill of racing over undulating hills is a favourite pastime for Qataris too. Speeding up and slowing down may make you feel like you are on a funfair ride. With a knowing driver at the wheel, you spin, skid, slide, slip and gasp.
Overnight camping
When picking a spot, consider your children and the depth of the water. Zekreet is a popular, safe, shallow water location for camping. Wakrah and Umm Bab also promise the safety you may seek.
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The top air activities
Paragliding
World-class instructors and the latest facilities welcome all fun-seekers, while strong winds make the desert perfect for paragliding and give a new perspective of the landscape.
Hot-air balloon
A thrilling adventure and a must-do for visitors of all ages. You haven't seen Qatar until you are hundreds of feet up in the air.
Kitesurfing
Riding and gliding across the water powered by the wind; a fantastic experience
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The compelling wildlife scenes of Qatar
Must-visit locations for practicing activities
Inland Sea
The impressive Inland Sea, a UNESCO recognised site, is where the sea encroaches into the desert. A camel ride over the soft dunes before embarking on an exhilarating desert safari is not to be missed. Sandboarding, quad biking, buggy riding, and kitesurfing are also incredible experiences for youngers, teens, mums, and dads. You can enjoy daytime or overnight camping excursions through one of several companies that operate Bedouin-style camps. Make sure your camera has enough battery power to capture turtles, dugongs, oryx and camels.
Purple Island – Al Khor Island
The island's spectacular natural beauty makes it the ideal place to birdwatch, spot marine animals, kayak through mangroves or relax on the beach. Camping is allowed on-site, offering a rustic experience. The island's name comes from when it was the site of a thriving purple dye industry in the second millennium BC.
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Not to miss
The top 10 things to do with kids in Qatar
Qatar with kids: A 5-day itinerary
Family-friendly beaches in Qatar
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Things to know before travelling
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Visas
Want to travel visa-free? Check if you qualify here.
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Getting here
Planning your trip to Qatar? Check how to get here.
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Travel tips
Make the most of your visit with our handy travel guide.
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Getting around
From a dhow boat to our world-class metro, here’s how to easily explore Qatar.
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