Qatar Tourism: Six Must-See Tourist Sites in Doha, Qatar--Part 2
By: Leyelle Mosallam / Arab America Contributing Writer
Doha, Qatar is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. This year, tourism in Doha will be at its all-time high as Qatar is hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup this November. If you plan on traveling to Qatar for the FIFA World Cup, or anytime in the near future, check out these six tourist attractions to make your time in Qatar a memorable one. Be sure to also check out these six other must-see tourist attractions in Doha, Qatar here!
1. Sealine Qatar
The Sealine Beach Resort is one of the most popular and iconic beach resorts in Qatar. If you wish to explore and capture stunning views of the Arabian Desert and the Persian Gulf, Sealine Qatar is the perfect spot. Located just about 40 minutes away from Qatar’s capital Doha, Sealine Qatar is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and get away from the city life. At Sealine Qatar you can enjoy dune bashing, quad biking, camel riding, and a range of water sport activities such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, and donut rides. Whether you are with friends or family, the Sealine Beach Resort is the perfect place for an outdoor adventure in Qatar.
2. The Inland Sea & Desert Safari
Qatar’s Inland Sea, also known as Khor al-Udayad, is Qatar’s most natural ecosystem. Where the desert meets the sea, Khor al-Udayad is one of the rarest places on earth. Due to its unique lagoonal system, this natural landscape was just recently recognized by UNESCO’s Biosphere Reserve as Qatar’s most natural and unique Landscape. Visiting Qatar’s Inland Sea is another great way to explore the Arabian Desert and the Persian Gulf. Taking part in a desert safari is the best way to visit the area. A desert safari is an experience that can never be forgotten when visiting Qatar or anywhere in the Arabian Gulf for that matter. A desert safari is the best way to experience the culture of the Arabian Gulf. On a desert safari in Qatar, one will go on an exhilarating dune bashing ride through the desert of Qatar and stop at Khor al-Udayad. There are also stops at Qatar’s Bedouin camp near Khor al-Udayad where you can sand board, enjoy a barbecue, shisha, henna, and other cultural activities.
3. Dhow Cruise
4. Banana Island
Banana Island is an artificial island that opened in 2015. The island was built in the shape of a banana, hence the name “Banana Island.” Banana Island is a beach resort that offers a wide range of activities. Banana Island is the perfect “staycation” spot for residents of Qatar. All you need is a weekend on the island. There are multiple sea view rooms, swimming pools, villas, a surf pool, a bowling alley, mini-golf, and a cinema. Banana Island is located 20 minutes off the coast of Doha by ferry. Make sure to also enjoy a Banana boat ride during your stay!
5. Aspire Park
Aspire Park is Qatar’s largest park. Aspire park offers many facilities for the community. It is a great place to go for a run and a walk, enjoy a picnic, or have a drink at a cafe that overlooks the park. Aspire Park also has a small lake where you can rent a paddleboat giving you another activity to enjoy with friends. While you are in Aspire Park, you will also see Qatar’s iconic tower called “The Torch.” The Torch was built for the 15th Asian Games in 2006.
6. Villagio Mall
Villagio Mall replicates The Bellagio in Las Vegas. The Venice-themed mall is one of the most popular malls in the country. Not only is there shopping, but you can go ice skating, bowling, go-karting, laser tagging, watch a movie at the cinema, and enjoy an indoor theme park with games and rides!
