Qatar — Attractions
National Museum of Qatar
A visit to the National Museum is a cultural highlight of any Doha vacation. Set in an Arabian palace surrounding a salt-water lagoon, this museum boasts vast and varied exhibits including traditional art, architectural artifacts and ornately furnished rooms. Don't miss the documentary on the making of the Bayt Sha'ar(House of Hair). The Marine Museum's testament to Qatar's nautical heritage include full sized dhows and a pearl diving exhibit.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Al Corniche
- Phone Number
- +974 4452 5555 or +974 4432 8471
- Website
- www.qma.com.qa/eng
- Hours
- The museum is currently closed for refurbishment, it will reopen in 2013.
Doha Fort (Al Koot)
This Moorish-style relic of military power now exhibits historical photographs and artwork depicting daily life as well as many Bedouin Sadu handicrafts including wooden ornaments, fishing equipment, boat building, rope-making and gypsum burning techniques. While the examples may be unrefined, they are a true indication of the local people's ability to adapt certain objects and situations to suit their needs. The fort itself was built in 1880 during the Ottoman occupation. The fort was originally a military barracks and police station before being used as a jail from 1906.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Jassim bin Mohammed St, Al Bidda
- Phone Number
- +974 4444 2747
- Website
- www.qma.com.qa/eng
- Hours
- 9am to 12pm and 4pm to 7pm (closed on Friday and Saturday afternoons)
Aladdin's Kingdom
As the only theme park in the entire Persian Gulf, and often referred to as 'Entertainment City', Aladdin's Kingdom is a Doha fairground offering visitors the thrill of roller-coaster rides, bumper cars and a Ferris wheel, as well as great fairground treats such as candies and cool drinks. Aladdin's Kingdom is open to women and children only (no men or boys over 12 years old) on Mondays and Wednesdays, and on Sundays it is reserved for men and boys over 12.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- West Bay
- Phone Number
- +974 483 1001
- Hours
- Sunday to Thursday, 4pm to 10pm
- Admission
- QR25
Al Wakrah
On the way to Umm Said lies the town of Al Wakrah, boasting all the charm of a seaside village. Local livelihood has traditionally depended on pearl diving and fishing, focused around the stunning beach and active harbor. The Al Wakrah Museum is not to be missed while in town, exhibiting traditional diving equipment, local handicrafts and treasured antiques.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- 10 miles (17km) south of Doha
- Phone Number
- +974 4464 3201 (Al Wakrah Museum)
Palm Tree Island
Less than 15 minutes away by boat, Palm Tree Island ( Al Nakhil) is essentially a sandbar in the middle of Doha Bay. This retreat is best enjoyed by visitors relaxing on its gorgeous beaches with a cold drink in hand and a barbecue in the making. The island also boasts beautifully landscaped gardens, good restaurants and no traffic!
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Doha Bay
- Phone Number
- +974 4486 9151
- Transport
- Catch the dhow from a jetty near the Sheraton Hotel
Al Khor Museum
The town of Al Khor lies about 35 miles (57km) north of Doha. The Al Khor Museum is a double story building housing anthropological exhibitions as well as an excavation section displaying the numerous archaeological discoveries made in the Al Khor vicinity.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Phone Number
- +974 4472 1866
Weaponry Museum
The Qatar Museum Authority has an extensive collection of antique weapons, such as swords, daggers and historic firearms housed in the Weaponry Museum in Qatar's Al Lagta area. This museum showcases the beauty of traditional Arabic weaponry, particularly the swords and intricate craftsmanship of the daggers on display. The exhibitions show weaponry through the ages, revealing the various changes that have taken place as the use of weaponry has been honed, mastered and advanced.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Phone Number
- +974 4486 7436
- Website
- www.qma.com.qa
Museum of Islamic Art
The Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar houses an exquisite collection of artworks from the Islamic world. The pieces date from the 7th to the 19th centuries and include glass, ivory, wood, ceramics, textiles, metal, precious stones, and manuscripts. The collection housed at the Museum of Islamic Art was sourced from three continents and the building itself was designed by the acclaimed architect I. M. Pei.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- The Museum is located on the corniche surrounding the Doha Harbour; it is adjacent to the Dhow Harbour of Doha Port.
- Phone Number
- +974 4422 4444
- Email Address
- informia@qma.com.qa
- Website
- www.mia.org.qa/english/index.html
- Transport
- Public bus route 76 stops outside the museum gate.
- Hours
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday: 10.30 to 5.30; Friday: 2pm to 8pm; closed on Tuesdays.
- Admission
- Free, except for special exhibitions.
Ethnographic Museum
Doha's Ethnographic Museum, also known as The Wind Tower House, is housed in a traditional Qatari building built in 1935. The building itself is a fascinating attraction complete with a wind tower, sometimes known as a badger, which directs the wind into the main museum creating a cooling effect. This architectural design was once a regular feature in most houses throughout the country. The museum contains an informative selection of exhibits about the way Qataris have lived, their cultural heritage and the traditional lifestyle of people throughout the region.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Grand Hamad Street
- Hours
- 9.00 to 12.00 (Sun to Tues), 3.00pm to 6.00pm (Wed to Fri), Closed on Saturdays.
- Admission
- Free of charge.
Doha Zoo
The Doha Zoo is situated 12 miles (20km) outside of the city on the Salwa Road. The zoo boasts a collection of more than 1500 mammals, reptiles and birds. Some of the inhabitants include giraffe, zebra, elephants, baboons and 150 other species. The most popular attraction at the Doha Zoo are the national animal of Qatar, the Oryx. These beautiful creatures are endangered and may be extinct soon.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Near the Sports City Complex
- Hours
- 2pm to 7pm daily. Closed on Saturdays.
- Admission
- QR5 (adults), QR2 (children).
Oryx Farm and Equestrian Club
The Oryx Farm and Equestrian Club is a protected breeding center for the endangered Oryx. Situated 10 miles (15km) from Doha in Al Shahaniya, the center offers visitors the chance to see relatively large herds of the protected Arabian Oryx. The farms warders are friendly and offer informative opinions about the breeding project and the protection of Qatar's national animal. The easiest way to visit the farm is through a registered tour provider as approval must be granted before arrival at the farm.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Al Shahaniya
- Hours
- Bookings are essential as the farm can only be accessed by registered tour companies.
Al Shaqab Stud Farm
Horsemanship is an important and age-old tradition in the Arab world. The Al Shaqab Stud Farm is owned by the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani. The Emir's Stud Farm breeds some of the best Arabian horses in the region and worldwide. Tourists can visit the farm to view the prize stallions and mares. Al Shaqab has informative lectures and demonstrations as well as desert rides and dressage and jumping lessons. The stud farm is situated 10 miles (15km) from Doha.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Al Rayyan
- Phone Number
- +974 4481 2816
- Email Address
- alshaqab@alshaqabstud.com
- Website
- www.alshaqab.com
Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea)
Khor Al Adaid is a breathtaking and unique geographical area in the south-east of Qatar. The Inland Sea is a tidal lake nestled in amongst the crescent shaped sand dunes. The shallow body of water has a narrow outlet into the sea and many shore lobes. It is situated along the border between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, with shores in both countries. Khor Al Adaid is only accessible in four-wheel drive vehicles, tour operators offer a range of trips to the Inland Sea, including overnight camps, camel riding and dune boarding opportunities. Only drivers who are experienced in driving four-wheel drives over dunes should attempt the trip without a tour guide.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
National Museum of Qatar
A visit to the National Museum is a cultural highlight of any Doha vacation. Set in an Arabian palace surrounding a salt-water lagoon, this museum boasts vast and varied exhibits including traditional art, architectural artifacts and ornately furnished rooms. Don't miss the documentary on the making of the Bayt Sha'ar(House of Hair). The Marine Museum's testament to Qatar's nautical heritage include full sized dhows and a pearl diving exhibit.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Al Corniche
- Phone Number
- +974 4452 5555 or +974 4432 8471
- Website
- www.qma.com.qa/eng
- Hours
- The museum is currently closed for refurbishment, it will reopen in 2013.
Doha Fort (Al Koot)
This Moorish-style relic of military power now exhibits historical photographs and artwork depicting daily life as well as many Bedouin Sadu handicrafts including wooden ornaments, fishing equipment, boat building, rope-making and gypsum burning techniques. While the examples may be unrefined, they are a true indication of the local people's ability to adapt certain objects and situations to suit their needs. The fort itself was built in 1880 during the Ottoman occupation. The fort was originally a military barracks and police station before being used as a jail from 1906.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Jassim bin Mohammed St, Al Bidda
- Phone Number
- +974 4444 2747
- Website
- www.qma.com.qa/eng
- Hours
- 9am to 12pm and 4pm to 7pm (closed on Friday and Saturday afternoons)
Aladdin's Kingdom
As the only theme park in the entire Persian Gulf, and often referred to as 'Entertainment City', Aladdin's Kingdom is a Doha fairground offering visitors the thrill of roller-coaster rides, bumper cars and a Ferris wheel, as well as great fairground treats such as candies and cool drinks. Aladdin's Kingdom is open to women and children only (no men or boys over 12 years old) on Mondays and Wednesdays, and on Sundays it is reserved for men and boys over 12.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- West Bay
- Phone Number
- +974 483 1001
- Hours
- Sunday to Thursday, 4pm to 10pm
- Admission
- QR25
Al Wakrah
On the way to Umm Said lies the town of Al Wakrah, boasting all the charm of a seaside village. Local livelihood has traditionally depended on pearl diving and fishing, focused around the stunning beach and active harbor. The Al Wakrah Museum is not to be missed while in town, exhibiting traditional diving equipment, local handicrafts and treasured antiques.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- 10 miles (17km) south of Doha
- Phone Number
- +974 4464 3201 (Al Wakrah Museum)
Palm Tree Island
Less than 15 minutes away by boat, Palm Tree Island ( Al Nakhil) is essentially a sandbar in the middle of Doha Bay. This retreat is best enjoyed by visitors relaxing on its gorgeous beaches with a cold drink in hand and a barbecue in the making. The island also boasts beautifully landscaped gardens, good restaurants and no traffic!
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Doha Bay
- Phone Number
- +974 4486 9151
- Transport
- Catch the dhow from a jetty near the Sheraton Hotel
Al Khor Museum
The town of Al Khor lies about 35 miles (57km) north of Doha. The Al Khor Museum is a double story building housing anthropological exhibitions as well as an excavation section displaying the numerous archaeological discoveries made in the Al Khor vicinity.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Phone Number
- +974 4472 1866
Weaponry Museum
The Qatar Museum Authority has an extensive collection of antique weapons, such as swords, daggers and historic firearms housed in the Weaponry Museum in Qatar's Al Lagta area. This museum showcases the beauty of traditional Arabic weaponry, particularly the swords and intricate craftsmanship of the daggers on display. The exhibitions show weaponry through the ages, revealing the various changes that have taken place as the use of weaponry has been honed, mastered and advanced.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Phone Number
- +974 4486 7436
- Website
- www.qma.com.qa
Museum of Islamic Art
The Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar houses an exquisite collection of artworks from the Islamic world. The pieces date from the 7th to the 19th centuries and include glass, ivory, wood, ceramics, textiles, metal, precious stones, and manuscripts. The collection housed at the Museum of Islamic Art was sourced from three continents and the building itself was designed by the acclaimed architect I. M. Pei.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- The Museum is located on the corniche surrounding the Doha Harbour; it is adjacent to the Dhow Harbour of Doha Port.
- Phone Number
- +974 4422 4444
- Email Address
- informia@qma.com.qa
- Website
- www.mia.org.qa/english/index.html
- Transport
- Public bus route 76 stops outside the museum gate.
- Hours
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday: 10.30 to 5.30; Friday: 2pm to 8pm; closed on Tuesdays.
- Admission
- Free, except for special exhibitions.
Ethnographic Museum
Doha's Ethnographic Museum, also known as The Wind Tower House, is housed in a traditional Qatari building built in 1935. The building itself is a fascinating attraction complete with a wind tower, sometimes known as a badger, which directs the wind into the main museum creating a cooling effect. This architectural design was once a regular feature in most houses throughout the country. The museum contains an informative selection of exhibits about the way Qataris have lived, their cultural heritage and the traditional lifestyle of people throughout the region.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Grand Hamad Street
- Hours
- 9.00 to 12.00 (Sun to Tues), 3.00pm to 6.00pm (Wed to Fri), Closed on Saturdays.
- Admission
- Free of charge.
Doha Zoo
The Doha Zoo is situated 12 miles (20km) outside of the city on the Salwa Road. The zoo boasts a collection of more than 1500 mammals, reptiles and birds. Some of the inhabitants include giraffe, zebra, elephants, baboons and 150 other species. The most popular attraction at the Doha Zoo are the national animal of Qatar, the Oryx. These beautiful creatures are endangered and may be extinct soon.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Near the Sports City Complex
- Hours
- 2pm to 7pm daily. Closed on Saturdays.
- Admission
- QR5 (adults), QR2 (children).
Oryx Farm and Equestrian Club
The Oryx Farm and Equestrian Club is a protected breeding center for the endangered Oryx. Situated 10 miles (15km) from Doha in Al Shahaniya, the center offers visitors the chance to see relatively large herds of the protected Arabian Oryx. The farms warders are friendly and offer informative opinions about the breeding project and the protection of Qatar's national animal. The easiest way to visit the farm is through a registered tour provider as approval must be granted before arrival at the farm.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Al Shahaniya
- Hours
- Bookings are essential as the farm can only be accessed by registered tour companies.
Al Shaqab Stud Farm
Horsemanship is an important and age-old tradition in the Arab world. The Al Shaqab Stud Farm is owned by the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani. The Emir's Stud Farm breeds some of the best Arabian horses in the region and worldwide. Tourists can visit the farm to view the prize stallions and mares. Al Shaqab has informative lectures and demonstrations as well as desert rides and dressage and jumping lessons. The stud farm is situated 10 miles (15km) from Doha.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Al Rayyan
- Phone Number
- +974 4481 2816
- Email Address
- alshaqab@alshaqabstud.com
- Website
- www.alshaqab.com
Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea)
Khor Al Adaid is a breathtaking and unique geographical area in the south-east of Qatar. The Inland Sea is a tidal lake nestled in amongst the crescent shaped sand dunes. The shallow body of water has a narrow outlet into the sea and many shore lobes. It is situated along the border between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, with shores in both countries. Khor Al Adaid is only accessible in four-wheel drive vehicles, tour operators offer a range of trips to the Inland Sea, including overnight camps, camel riding and dune boarding opportunities. Only drivers who are experienced in driving four-wheel drives over dunes should attempt the trip without a tour guide.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
National Museum of Qatar
A visit to the National Museum is a cultural highlight of any Doha vacation. Set in an Arabian palace surrounding a salt-water lagoon, this museum boasts vast and varied exhibits including traditional art, architectural artifacts and ornately furnished rooms. Don't miss the documentary on the making of the Bayt Sha'ar(House of Hair). The Marine Museum's testament to Qatar's nautical heritage include full sized dhows and a pearl diving exhibit.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Al Corniche
- Phone Number
- +974 4452 5555 or +974 4432 8471
- Website
- www.qma.com.qa/eng
- Hours
- The museum is currently closed for refurbishment, it will reopen in 2013.
Doha Fort (Al Koot)
This Moorish-style relic of military power now exhibits historical photographs and artwork depicting daily life as well as many Bedouin Sadu handicrafts including wooden ornaments, fishing equipment, boat building, rope-making and gypsum burning techniques. While the examples may be unrefined, they are a true indication of the local people's ability to adapt certain objects and situations to suit their needs. The fort itself was built in 1880 during the Ottoman occupation. The fort was originally a military barracks and police station before being used as a jail from 1906.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Jassim bin Mohammed St, Al Bidda
- Phone Number
- +974 4444 2747
- Website
- www.qma.com.qa/eng
- Hours
- 9am to 12pm and 4pm to 7pm (closed on Friday and Saturday afternoons)
Aladdin's Kingdom
As the only theme park in the entire Persian Gulf, and often referred to as 'Entertainment City', Aladdin's Kingdom is a Doha fairground offering visitors the thrill of roller-coaster rides, bumper cars and a Ferris wheel, as well as great fairground treats such as candies and cool drinks. Aladdin's Kingdom is open to women and children only (no men or boys over 12 years old) on Mondays and Wednesdays, and on Sundays it is reserved for men and boys over 12.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- West Bay
- Phone Number
- +974 483 1001
- Hours
- Sunday to Thursday, 4pm to 10pm
- Admission
- QR25
Al Wakrah
On the way to Umm Said lies the town of Al Wakrah, boasting all the charm of a seaside village. Local livelihood has traditionally depended on pearl diving and fishing, focused around the stunning beach and active harbor. The Al Wakrah Museum is not to be missed while in town, exhibiting traditional diving equipment, local handicrafts and treasured antiques.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- 10 miles (17km) south of Doha
- Phone Number
- +974 4464 3201 (Al Wakrah Museum)
Palm Tree Island
Less than 15 minutes away by boat, Palm Tree Island ( Al Nakhil) is essentially a sandbar in the middle of Doha Bay. This retreat is best enjoyed by visitors relaxing on its gorgeous beaches with a cold drink in hand and a barbecue in the making. The island also boasts beautifully landscaped gardens, good restaurants and no traffic!
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Doha Bay
- Phone Number
- +974 4486 9151
- Transport
- Catch the dhow from a jetty near the Sheraton Hotel
Al Khor Museum
The town of Al Khor lies about 35 miles (57km) north of Doha. The Al Khor Museum is a double story building housing anthropological exhibitions as well as an excavation section displaying the numerous archaeological discoveries made in the Al Khor vicinity.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Phone Number
- +974 4472 1866
Weaponry Museum
The Qatar Museum Authority has an extensive collection of antique weapons, such as swords, daggers and historic firearms housed in the Weaponry Museum in Qatar's Al Lagta area. This museum showcases the beauty of traditional Arabic weaponry, particularly the swords and intricate craftsmanship of the daggers on display. The exhibitions show weaponry through the ages, revealing the various changes that have taken place as the use of weaponry has been honed, mastered and advanced.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Phone Number
- +974 4486 7436
- Website
- www.qma.com.qa
Museum of Islamic Art
The Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar houses an exquisite collection of artworks from the Islamic world. The pieces date from the 7th to the 19th centuries and include glass, ivory, wood, ceramics, textiles, metal, precious stones, and manuscripts. The collection housed at the Museum of Islamic Art was sourced from three continents and the building itself was designed by the acclaimed architect I. M. Pei.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- The Museum is located on the corniche surrounding the Doha Harbour; it is adjacent to the Dhow Harbour of Doha Port.
- Phone Number
- +974 4422 4444
- Email Address
- informia@qma.com.qa
- Website
- www.mia.org.qa/english/index.html
- Transport
- Public bus route 76 stops outside the museum gate.
- Hours
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday: 10.30 to 5.30; Friday: 2pm to 8pm; closed on Tuesdays.
- Admission
- Free, except for special exhibitions.
Ethnographic Museum
Doha's Ethnographic Museum, also known as The Wind Tower House, is housed in a traditional Qatari building built in 1935. The building itself is a fascinating attraction complete with a wind tower, sometimes known as a badger, which directs the wind into the main museum creating a cooling effect. This architectural design was once a regular feature in most houses throughout the country. The museum contains an informative selection of exhibits about the way Qataris have lived, their cultural heritage and the traditional lifestyle of people throughout the region.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Grand Hamad Street
- Hours
- 9.00 to 12.00 (Sun to Tues), 3.00pm to 6.00pm (Wed to Fri), Closed on Saturdays.
- Admission
- Free of charge.
Doha Zoo
The Doha Zoo is situated 12 miles (20km) outside of the city on the Salwa Road. The zoo boasts a collection of more than 1500 mammals, reptiles and birds. Some of the inhabitants include giraffe, zebra, elephants, baboons and 150 other species. The most popular attraction at the Doha Zoo are the national animal of Qatar, the Oryx. These beautiful creatures are endangered and may be extinct soon.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Near the Sports City Complex
- Hours
- 2pm to 7pm daily. Closed on Saturdays.
- Admission
- QR5 (adults), QR2 (children).
Oryx Farm and Equestrian Club
The Oryx Farm and Equestrian Club is a protected breeding center for the endangered Oryx. Situated 10 miles (15km) from Doha in Al Shahaniya, the center offers visitors the chance to see relatively large herds of the protected Arabian Oryx. The farms warders are friendly and offer informative opinions about the breeding project and the protection of Qatar's national animal. The easiest way to visit the farm is through a registered tour provider as approval must be granted before arrival at the farm.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Al Shahaniya
- Hours
- Bookings are essential as the farm can only be accessed by registered tour companies.
Al Shaqab Stud Farm
Horsemanship is an important and age-old tradition in the Arab world. The Al Shaqab Stud Farm is owned by the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani. The Emir's Stud Farm breeds some of the best Arabian horses in the region and worldwide. Tourists can visit the farm to view the prize stallions and mares. Al Shaqab has informative lectures and demonstrations as well as desert rides and dressage and jumping lessons. The stud farm is situated 10 miles (15km) from Doha.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Al Rayyan
- Phone Number
- +974 4481 2816
- Email Address
- alshaqab@alshaqabstud.com
- Website
- www.alshaqab.com
Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea)
Khor Al Adaid is a breathtaking and unique geographical area in the south-east of Qatar. The Inland Sea is a tidal lake nestled in amongst the crescent shaped sand dunes. The shallow body of water has a narrow outlet into the sea and many shore lobes. It is situated along the border between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, with shores in both countries. Khor Al Adaid is only accessible in four-wheel drive vehicles, tour operators offer a range of trips to the Inland Sea, including overnight camps, camel riding and dune boarding opportunities. Only drivers who are experienced in driving four-wheel drives over dunes should attempt the trip without a tour guide.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
National Museum of Qatar
A visit to the National Museum is a cultural highlight of any Doha vacation. Set in an Arabian palace surrounding a salt-water lagoon, this museum boasts vast and varied exhibits including traditional art, architectural artifacts and ornately furnished rooms. Don't miss the documentary on the making of the Bayt Sha'ar(House of Hair). The Marine Museum's testament to Qatar's nautical heritage include full sized dhows and a pearl diving exhibit.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Al Corniche
- Phone Number
- +974 4452 5555 or +974 4432 8471
- Website
- www.qma.com.qa/eng
- Hours
- The museum is currently closed for refurbishment, it will reopen in 2013.
Doha Fort (Al Koot)
This Moorish-style relic of military power now exhibits historical photographs and artwork depicting daily life as well as many Bedouin Sadu handicrafts including wooden ornaments, fishing equipment, boat building, rope-making and gypsum burning techniques. While the examples may be unrefined, they are a true indication of the local people's ability to adapt certain objects and situations to suit their needs. The fort itself was built in 1880 during the Ottoman occupation. The fort was originally a military barracks and police station before being used as a jail from 1906.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Jassim bin Mohammed St, Al Bidda
- Phone Number
- +974 4444 2747
- Website
- www.qma.com.qa/eng
- Hours
- 9am to 12pm and 4pm to 7pm (closed on Friday and Saturday afternoons)
Aladdin's Kingdom
As the only theme park in the entire Persian Gulf, and often referred to as 'Entertainment City', Aladdin's Kingdom is a Doha fairground offering visitors the thrill of roller-coaster rides, bumper cars and a Ferris wheel, as well as great fairground treats such as candies and cool drinks. Aladdin's Kingdom is open to women and children only (no men or boys over 12 years old) on Mondays and Wednesdays, and on Sundays it is reserved for men and boys over 12.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- West Bay
- Phone Number
- +974 483 1001
- Hours
- Sunday to Thursday, 4pm to 10pm
- Admission
- QR25
Al Wakrah
On the way to Umm Said lies the town of Al Wakrah, boasting all the charm of a seaside village. Local livelihood has traditionally depended on pearl diving and fishing, focused around the stunning beach and active harbor. The Al Wakrah Museum is not to be missed while in town, exhibiting traditional diving equipment, local handicrafts and treasured antiques.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- 10 miles (17km) south of Doha
- Phone Number
- +974 4464 3201 (Al Wakrah Museum)
Palm Tree Island
Less than 15 minutes away by boat, Palm Tree Island ( Al Nakhil) is essentially a sandbar in the middle of Doha Bay. This retreat is best enjoyed by visitors relaxing on its gorgeous beaches with a cold drink in hand and a barbecue in the making. The island also boasts beautifully landscaped gardens, good restaurants and no traffic!
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Doha Bay
- Phone Number
- +974 4486 9151
- Transport
- Catch the dhow from a jetty near the Sheraton Hotel
Al Khor Museum
The town of Al Khor lies about 35 miles (57km) north of Doha. The Al Khor Museum is a double story building housing anthropological exhibitions as well as an excavation section displaying the numerous archaeological discoveries made in the Al Khor vicinity.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Phone Number
- +974 4472 1866
Weaponry Museum
The Qatar Museum Authority has an extensive collection of antique weapons, such as swords, daggers and historic firearms housed in the Weaponry Museum in Qatar's Al Lagta area. This museum showcases the beauty of traditional Arabic weaponry, particularly the swords and intricate craftsmanship of the daggers on display. The exhibitions show weaponry through the ages, revealing the various changes that have taken place as the use of weaponry has been honed, mastered and advanced.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Phone Number
- +974 4486 7436
- Website
- www.qma.com.qa
Museum of Islamic Art
The Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar houses an exquisite collection of artworks from the Islamic world. The pieces date from the 7th to the 19th centuries and include glass, ivory, wood, ceramics, textiles, metal, precious stones, and manuscripts. The collection housed at the Museum of Islamic Art was sourced from three continents and the building itself was designed by the acclaimed architect I. M. Pei.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- The Museum is located on the corniche surrounding the Doha Harbour; it is adjacent to the Dhow Harbour of Doha Port.
- Phone Number
- +974 4422 4444
- Email Address
- informia@qma.com.qa
- Website
- www.mia.org.qa/english/index.html
- Transport
- Public bus route 76 stops outside the museum gate.
- Hours
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday: 10.30 to 5.30; Friday: 2pm to 8pm; closed on Tuesdays.
- Admission
- Free, except for special exhibitions.
Ethnographic Museum
Doha's Ethnographic Museum, also known as The Wind Tower House, is housed in a traditional Qatari building built in 1935. The building itself is a fascinating attraction complete with a wind tower, sometimes known as a badger, which directs the wind into the main museum creating a cooling effect. This architectural design was once a regular feature in most houses throughout the country. The museum contains an informative selection of exhibits about the way Qataris have lived, their cultural heritage and the traditional lifestyle of people throughout the region.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Grand Hamad Street
- Hours
- 9.00 to 12.00 (Sun to Tues), 3.00pm to 6.00pm (Wed to Fri), Closed on Saturdays.
- Admission
- Free of charge.
Doha Zoo
The Doha Zoo is situated 12 miles (20km) outside of the city on the Salwa Road. The zoo boasts a collection of more than 1500 mammals, reptiles and birds. Some of the inhabitants include giraffe, zebra, elephants, baboons and 150 other species. The most popular attraction at the Doha Zoo are the national animal of Qatar, the Oryx. These beautiful creatures are endangered and may be extinct soon.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Near the Sports City Complex
- Hours
- 2pm to 7pm daily. Closed on Saturdays.
- Admission
- QR5 (adults), QR2 (children).
Oryx Farm and Equestrian Club
The Oryx Farm and Equestrian Club is a protected breeding center for the endangered Oryx. Situated 10 miles (15km) from Doha in Al Shahaniya, the center offers visitors the chance to see relatively large herds of the protected Arabian Oryx. The farms warders are friendly and offer informative opinions about the breeding project and the protection of Qatar's national animal. The easiest way to visit the farm is through a registered tour provider as approval must be granted before arrival at the farm.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Al Shahaniya
- Hours
- Bookings are essential as the farm can only be accessed by registered tour companies.
Al Shaqab Stud Farm
Horsemanship is an important and age-old tradition in the Arab world. The Al Shaqab Stud Farm is owned by the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani. The Emir's Stud Farm breeds some of the best Arabian horses in the region and worldwide. Tourists can visit the farm to view the prize stallions and mares. Al Shaqab has informative lectures and demonstrations as well as desert rides and dressage and jumping lessons. The stud farm is situated 10 miles (15km) from Doha.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
- Address
- Al Rayyan
- Phone Number
- +974 4481 2816
- Email Address
- alshaqab@alshaqabstud.com
- Website
- www.alshaqab.com
Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea)
Khor Al Adaid is a breathtaking and unique geographical area in the south-east of Qatar. The Inland Sea is a tidal lake nestled in amongst the crescent shaped sand dunes. The shallow body of water has a narrow outlet into the sea and many shore lobes. It is situated along the border between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, with shores in both countries. Khor Al Adaid is only accessible in four-wheel drive vehicles, tour operators offer a range of trips to the Inland Sea, including overnight camps, camel riding and dune boarding opportunities. Only drivers who are experienced in driving four-wheel drives over dunes should attempt the trip without a tour guide.
- Region/City Name
- Doha
