There is more to Qatar than its capital, Doha, and there are plenty of tourists to explore the country. Its rich architectural heritage is rooted in the laws and traditions of Islamic culture. The country’s beautiful towns and cities are the perfect destinations to experience this historic charm. These towns and cities possess unique characteristics. While some of them are port cities, others were actually founded as a result of the discovery of oil and gas. These are the places to explore the country’s history, islands, beautiful golden sands and more.
11/11 Al Rayyan
Located about 10 kilometers north of the capital of Qatar, Al Rayyan is the third largest municipality in the country and got its name derived from an Arabic word meaning “irrigation”. The city is home to some of Qatar’s most iconic attractions, making it a must-see location, especially for travelers interested in local culture. In addition to sharing borders with the main municipalities in the country, Al Rayyan offers a wealth of galleries, museums, shopping centers and an incredible culinary scene. The city has something for every traveler. Whether you are interested in different delicacies, culture, art or history, it is all in Al Rayyan.
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Accommodation:
Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel -
Approach:
Al Baaya Street, Aspire Area, Al Rayyan -
Facilities:
Outdoor pool, indoor pool, spa and wellness center, fitness center, restaurant, room service, free Wi-Fi, coffee machine and cafe.
10/11 Al Wakra
Al Wakra is located north of Doha and is known for being a major fishing destination with some amazing places to visit. From beautiful parks to numerous historical sites to pristine beaches, this city has much more to offer than visitors may realize. The town is also a major spot for pearl diving and has some thriving merchants. One of the top places to visit in this city is Souq Al Wakra, which is home to several courtyards and alleys that have been there for years. Souq Al Wakrah is the best place to experience the city’s vintage beauty to its fullest.
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Accommodation:
Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar By Tivoli -
Approach:
SF. 891 Loulou, Al Wakra -
Facilities:
Beachfront, spa and wellness center, fitness center, restaurant, room service, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee maker, coffee maker, coffee shop and free parking.
9/11 Umm Salal Mohammed
Located in Umm Salal, one of the smallest municipalities in Qatar, Umm Salal Mohammed might be a smaller town, but it has plenty of things to see and do. Tourists who have come here in the past visit the city again and again because it has a lot of beautiful attractions, including gorgeous parks, historical sights, playgrounds and fun tours. Some of the places that tourists can include in their bucket lists include Barzan Olympic Park, Barzan Towers, Umm Salal Stadium and the most popular market, Umm Salal Central Market.
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Accommodation:
Smart 1 BHK in Lusail Near World Cup Stadium -
Approach:
Umm Salal Mohammed, Umm Salal, Qatar -
Facilities:
Hot tub, kitchen, balcony, air conditioning, washing machine, flat screen TV, internet, pets allowed on request (fees may apply), smoke alarms and free parking.
8/11 Khawr Al Udayd
Located in the southeast of Qatar near the border with Saudi Arabia, Khawr Al Udayd is an amazing city to visit. It is also a beautiful nature reserve listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts a magnificent beach which is its most iconic attraction. The sand dunes of the area are some of the most spectacular and definitely worth experiencing. Tourists should book tours to explore this place as only experienced drivers with proper vehicles can access the place. 4X4 rides on the dunes, sand skiing, camel rides and barbecues are some of the most exciting activities.
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Accommodation:
Regency Sealine Camp -
Approach:
Mesaieed, Qatar -
Facilities:
Barbecue, private bathroom, coffee maker, air conditioning, heating, conference/banquet rooms, internet, restaurant, laundry service and room service.
7/11 Al Khor
One of the most interesting things about Al Khor is its long and fascinating history, which is older than that of Doha. The city’s population is just over 30,000, but its tourist attractions are some of the most spectacular in Qatar, luring tourists from different parts of the world. From impressive parks to pristine beaches to cultural and natural attractions, there is so much to discover in this city. some of the must-sees include Al Thakira, Al Khor Park and Purple Island.
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Accommodation:
Al Messila, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha -
Approach:
Um Al Saneem Street, Street Number 970, Area 36, Doha -
Facilities:
Outdoor pool, indoor pool, spa and wellness center, fitness center, restaurant, bar/lounge, room service, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee maker and coffee maker.
6/11 Ras Laffan Mechanical City (RLIC)
Ras Laffan Mechanical City (RLIC) is located approximately 80 kilometers northeast of Doha and is home to some of the most successful international companies. No wonder the city is frequented by businessmen and entrepreneurs. Located along the northern shore of the Qatari Landmass, the mechanical city of Ras Laffan is one of the largest export industrial locations in the world and assumes a significant role in the business world.
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Accommodation:
Al Sultan Beach Resort -
Approach:
PO Box 60002, Al Khawr -
Facilities:
Private beach, outdoor pool, infinity pool, spa and wellness center, fitness center, restaurant, room service, tennis, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee maker.
5/11 Mesaieed
Mesaieed is full of fun adventures that travelers of all interests and ages would be happy to explore. From its magnificent beaches to spectacular sand dunes to a fascinating history and culture, this city guarantees unforgettable travel memories. Mesaieed is one of the most unique and modern cities in Qatar, which is totally different from all other cities. In fact, it is among the cities in the Middle East recognized for being the oil hub and the main industrial center. So the visit is worth it.
4/11 Madinat Al Shamal
Located in the northern part of the country, Madinat Al-Shamal came into existence in the 1970s and is among the least populated cities in Qatar. The city has some impressive attractions to explore, including abandoned fishing villages, pristine beaches, archaeological sites and scenic natural spots, making it one of the most impressive and iconic cities in Qatar. One of the most stunning abandoned villages in Qalaat al Thaqab, boasting beautiful houses inspired by Islamic culture.
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Accommodation:
Zulal Wellness Resort -
Approach:
Block 100, Street 319, Zone 79 P. O Box 70034, Ar Ru’ays -
Facilities:
Private beach, water sports facilities (on site), outdoor pool, infinity pool, spa and wellness center, fitness center, restaurant, room service, free Wi-Fi and coffee shop.
3/11 Al Zubara
Al Zubara has a fascinating history as a trading port and pearl fishing town in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, it is the largest archaeological wonder in Qatar and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013. Located approximately 100 km northwest of Doha, Al Zubara was founded in the 18th century and developed into one of the largest and most important cities. Tourists can explore the ruins of old houses, mosques, fortified buildings and a beautiful square.
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Accommodation:
Zulal Wellness Resort -
Approach:
Block 100, Street 319, Zone 79 P. O Box 70034, Ar Ru’ays -
Facilities:
Private beach, water sports facilities (on site) outdoor pool, infinity pool, spa and wellness center, fitness center, restaurant, room service, free Wi-Fi and coffee shop.
2/11 Al Ruwais
Al Ruwais is Qatar’s most important fishing center, known for housing fishermen’s huts from centuries ago. There are plenty of attractions for tourists to explore in this city, from its historic buildings to the harbor to the nearby Jassasiya sculptures, which is actually the most spectacular attraction. The Jassasiya carvings date back to 1500 BC and exploring them is truly a magical experience. Al Ruwais is a perfect destination for tourists in the historical sites and the stories behind their existence.
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Accommodation:
Villa Meshaf -
Approach:
Al Wakrah, Qatar -
Facilities
: Air conditioning, no smoking, free parking, private parking, private bathroom, shared kitchen, family rooms and first aid kit.
1/11 Dukhan
Dukhan is located about 80 kilometers from Doha and gained popularity with the discovery of oil, making it one of the most important industrial cities to explore in Qatar. Its incredible beaches, beautiful sands and waterways are some of its major attractions, making it a must-visit summer destination for tourists looking for perfect family getaways filled with fun adventures. Found in Al Shahaniya Municipality, Dukhan is not as visited as many times as the neighboring cities, but it has its own share of iconic attractions that are sure to make for an unforgettable trip. Dukhan Beach and Dukhan Masjid are some of the top tourist attractions of the city.
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Accommodation:
Premier Inn Doha Education City -
Approach:
Off Al-Luqta Street, PO Box No: 17128 Education City Doha, Qatar, Doha -
Facilities:
Outdoor pool, fitness center, restaurant, room service, free Wi-Fi, coffee machine, coffee shop, free parking, business center and Wi-Fi available in all areas.