Qatar is arguably one of the Gulf’s most rewarding destinations for a weekend getaway. Not only is it culturally rich and very diverse, but it is also very compact: traffic allowing, you could feasibly drive from one end of the country to the other in under two hours.
Whether you are based in Doha and looking for a change of scenery or tacking on a couple of days to a business trip, everything that Qatar has to offer is within reach, either by guided tour or with a rental car. Here are the best weekend getaways in Qatar to inspire your next short break.
1. Visit Zekreet and marvel at Qatar’s ‘Wild West’
As well as otherworldly rock formations and an untamed coast, Zekreet and the surrounding areas (like Ras Abrouq) reveal a huge range of wildlife, from gazelles and zebras to an abundance of birds. Also close by is the so-called Film City, designed for a movie that – the legend goes – never got made and was then left in the desert for a generation of curious tourists.
Richard Serra’s EastWest-West/East exhibit is also in the desert at Ras Abrouq, as well as an abandoned fort and a camel racetrack. Just off the coast (a mile from the Qatari mainland) is Hawar Island, part of Bahrain. Sadly, you cannot visit the islands from Qatar.
Western Qatar is remote and, although there are hotels in Abrouk and at Dukhan, most visitors either return to Doha or camp. It is best visited with a 4X4.
2. Wander the canals and cafés of The Pearl
For a Doha staycation, why not book in at one of the Pearl’s luxury hotels for the day and enjoy beach clubs and brunch deals. Marsa Malaz Kempinski – smack in the middle of the project known as ‘the Arabian Riviera’ – offers day passes that include private beach access. If you choose to stay over, you can venture into the Qanat Quartier for European vibes or Porto Arabia for marina views and street food.
3. Explore dunes and sea at Khor Al Adaid
Most visitors just pop down to the Inland Sea for a day of dune bashing and camel-ogling, but it is perfectly possible to spend a day or two out in the desert – as long as you bring everything you need with you and have some experience driving a 4X4 on soft sand.
If you don’t fancy that, tour operators based in Doha offer overnight stays that usually involve food, drink and tents as well as transport. Make sure you bring your swimming trunks for a dip in the lagoon, and your camera for those magical golden hour shots of the sunset in the desert.
4. Kayak through the mangroves of Al Thakhira
Usually explored in a day trip from Doha, those who want to get a longer mangrove fix can stay in Al Khor, where the Tio Sea Resort gets great reviews for its turquoise pools and spa. Rent a kayak and head out into the mangroves to spot flamingos and other bird life, before heading back to Al Khor itself for facilities and seaside cafes.
Al Khor is also the jumping off point for Purple Island, which is a popular spot for camping amongst the mangroves and hiking. Many operators in Al Khor offer rental of kayaks and can arrange for a trip to the islands if you don’t have your own car.
5. Take a culture-packed staycation in central Doha
You don’t have to leave the city to feel like you’re on holiday: why not spend a weekend as a tourist in your own town by staying in Msheireb Downtown, West Bay, or one of the new boutique hotels around Souq Waqif, and visit the Museum of Islamic Art and National Museum of Qatar. Msheireb’s own museums are also nearby, and free.
Other options for a staycation include a rooftop dinner at Nobu Doha, known for its architecture as much as its Michelin ranked Peruvian-Japanese fusion food, or a dhow cruise at night including dinner. You can also find good deals – especially off season – in many of Doha’s luxury hotel spas.
6. Unwind by the waterfront in Al Wakrah
Just 20 minutes south of Doha, Al Wakrah is a historic fishing town turned beachside retreat, where the beautifully restored Souq Al Wakrah hugs the coastline. The long public beach – separated into areas for families and solo men – has soft sand and facilities. There are a number of mid-range hotels in Al Wakrah proper, but you get far more choice back in Doha. Be sure to stay in Al Wakrah for dinner, however, in one of the many beachside seafood restaurants.
7. Take the ferry to Banana Island Resort by Anantara
Just 25 minutes by boat from Doha, Banana Island feels like a world away from downtown Doha. The crescent-shaped island is home to the five-star Anantara Resort, with overwater villas, a private beach, and a spa that’s perfect for couples looking to fully switch off.
You can stay overnight or book a day pass, which includes ferry transfers and access to the island’s beaches, pool, and restaurants. Banana Island is a particularly good spot for families, with a kids club for children aged four to 12 that includes supervised sand and water play, a soft play area, and cooking and cultural activities. Even outside of the kids club, the resort has a water park and even a surf pool for older children looking to sharpen up their cut backs.
