Attention all intrepid travellers! Searching for a country well off the tourist trail? Then listen up.... 

Occupying a relatively small area bordering Saudi Arabia by land but otherwise surrounded by the waters of the Persian Gulf, Qatar only first began to issue tourist visas in 1989 and remains a well kept secret on the traveller’s grapevine. So, if exploring relatively untouched territory appeals, Qatar is a prime candidate for you. What’s more, it is generally perceived to be one of the safest Middle Eastern countries in which to travel. 

What to do in Qatar

Qatar has only recently begun to unveil itself to outsiders and as such it does not cater specifically to visitors by offering a wealth of tours as found in countries that have long been on the well worn traveller’s path. However, as hotels and skyscrapers begin to rise up out of the blazing sands, so have spas and pools and complexes to accompany these swanky havens. But if you are seeking something more than lounging by the pool reading this summer’s bestseller, you will discover that Qatar’s true attractions are its culture, history and people.

Culturally, Qatar is an Islamic nation and traditional and religious values are deep rooted. In recent years a great deal of emphasis has been placed on education and this has led to a resurgence of museums and art galleries, with a number of new ones having been designed in order to showcase historical artefacts and a huge collection of Islamic art. Qatar is another of the oil rich emirates and therefore has quite deep pockets with which to build a new empire and it is doing so at a fairly rapid pace by focusing on the building of new libraries, universities and other educational and cultural establishments. Architectural style is an interesting mix of distinctive traditional designs blended with plush contemporary waterfront apartments and futuristic looking villas. Qatar appears to be paving the way for a new outlook on life, a cosmopolitan mix of old and new and an encouragement of intellectual advancement to secure its future rising place in the Middle East and beyond. In 10 years time the facelift will be astonishing, which is perhaps one of the best reasons to visit the country now.

Islamic custom is ever present, but in today’s emerging society, custom blends easily with contemporary fashion, music and cuisine. Shopping is one favoured past time – head to the opulent marble clad mega malls and you’re likely to see a gaggle of women browsing in Prada or coveting designer shoes to wear under their traditional black burkhas (still worn by a large proportion of Qatar women).

When the city gets too much, head to Qatar’s adventure playground – the desert. Here you will find a number of local outfits who will take you on a grand desert tour by dune buggy. The attraction here is the huge sand dunes and you’ll be clutching your sides in fits of giggles (or fear!) as your dune buggy escort carves its way through the sandy waves, reaching up to 60 metres high.

The national symbol of Qatar is the Oryx, an antelope with tall pointed horns, found mainly in Arabia and Southern Africa. It is well worth getting a close glimpse of these majestic looking animals and you can do so with ease by visiting the Oryx Farm, located in Shahaniya. They are quite unlike any antelope you may have seen before. 

Likewise, visiting an Arab horse stud or show is an excellent way to pass an afternoon as the Arabs really do know how to show these graceful creatures to their best and it is impossible not to be captivated by their beauty even if you’re not normally a horsey person. 

As you can imagine of a country surrounded by the watery womb of the Persian Gulf, much activity takes place on the water and the world is your oyster as far as water sports are concerned. Sailing and wind surfing are especially popular, as is kayaking. For divers, 2 artificial reefs have been built, providing a home for a diverse array of sea life. For a magical experience, a perfect way to end a day on the water is by taking a sunset cruise in a traditional Dhow boat and gazing out at the skyline of Doha all lit up.

Also a hive of activity in the capital city of Doha is the 7km coastline called the Corniche. Here you can show off your rollerblading skills, run, cycle or just take it at a slow amble. You’re likely to see the ‘in’ crowd gather here so it’s a great place for people watching! Parts of the Corniche are flanked by architecturally designed villas and apartments that have a glossy homes magazine feel to them and are interesting to see against a backdrop peppered with Islamic influences. The innovative designs are not confined to private residences either. Also close to the waterfront is the emerging sight of the new National Library, based on a design by renowned Japanese architect Arata Isozaki, consisting of an inverted pyramid sitting on 3 gargantuan pillars. The face of Qatar is most definitely changing....

Fast Facts

Country Full Name: State of Qatar

Population: 800,000

Currency: Qatari Rial 

Language Spoken: Arabic

Time Zones: GMT/UTC +3

Country Dialing Code: +974 

Getting there and around

You can fly to the capital city from most places in Europe, as well as some places in the USA and Asia. There are also frequent flights from just about anywhere in the Gulf. Alternatively, you can cross the border into Qatar overland by car from Saudi Arabia.
Getting around Qatar is a little more trying as there is no bus network. Your only option is to either hire a car or to take taxis from place to place. This is no bad thing, as it will give you absolute freedom to explore! 

Sleeping

There is a downside to Qatar’s low profile on the tourist trail and that is the lack of budget accommodation available for backpackers and other shoestring travellers. Sure, this is the perfect intrepid travel destination but be certain to bring your flexible friend as you may need to flash some cash and stay in a 4 or 5 star hotel, particularly whilst in the capital city. On the up side, it will be an indulgent experience!