Discover Qatar beyond Doha

If Doha embodies a concentration of must-see places that visitors passing through Qatar discover, the rest of the peninsula is full of enchanting natural sites that will delight travellers in search of experiences to live off the beaten track. From the inland sea to the natural rock formations, passing by the historical fort of Al Zubarah classified as a UNESCO world heritage site, a small tour of the most beautiful sites to discover outside Doha.

The inevitable, the inland sea of Khor Al Adaid

The natural site of Khor Al Adaid lies in the heart of the dune desert. To get there, head south of Doha, where a 4×4 drive through the desert takes explorers to the shores of the inland sea. After this thrilling journey, the Bedouin camps on the shores of the Gulf offer an ideal setting to watch the sunset.

A little extra: On the way from Doha to the inland sea, a stop at the authentic fishing village of Al Wakrah is a must. With its souq of spices and jewels and its traditional dhows on the beach; the Qatari tradition is felt in Al Wakrah.

Zekreet and Ras Abrouq, another face of the Qatar desert

West of Doha, direction Zekreet to discover the desert landscape with the unique relief of the rock formations of Ras Abrouq which make the fame of the place. The picturesque area popular with tourists and locals offers a lunar landscape from which emerges limestone rocks sculpted with the wind and over the years.

A few cables from Zekreet art lovers can admire the atypical installations of the American sculptor Richard Serra. The metal monoliths at the heart of this lunar landscape are named East/West and connect the West and East seas while paying homage to the vastness of the Qatari landscape.

Small plus : Not far from Zekreet is Film City, a village built on the model of an authentic traditional village which is now used as a film location. Zekreet is also home to many oryx farms, emblematic animals of Qatar.

Fort Al Zubarah, guardian of Qatar’s traditions

At the northern end of the Qatar peninsula lies a major historic site in the country, Fort Al Zubarah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its typical architecture of the forts of the Gulf region, Al Zubarah traces the entire history of Qatar.

Small plus : In the vicinity of the fort, the shallow waters which border the coast are adorned with thousands of colours at sunset.