Guide to Beaches in Qatar

IQatar has a large coastline with many beaches and its only border is Saudi Arabia in the south. The beaches were used for pearl hunting in the past; today they form a large part of the recreational activities in Qatar. While Qatar is not as strict as Saudi Arabia in their dress code, both men and women are expected to respect the Islamic culture and avoid wearing clothing that is tight and revealing.

Women are expected to cover their knees and shoulders, while the men should opt for longer shorts or trousers and should not go about shirtless. This dress code extends to the public beaches. Women should refrain from wearing revealing bikinis and swim suits. However, the rules are more relaxed at resorts and hotels and men and women are permitted to wear ‘normal’ beach attire, though we strongly advise against the tiny bikini and thong bottoms.

Al Ghariya Beach

Historically this was the location of a desert camp, and is now popular with desert campers. The beach boasts sandy shores and is a hit with locals and expats alike. This is a family friendly beach that people frequent for overnight stays and fun weekends in the sun.

There is a resort on the beach called the Al Ghariya Beach Resort where you can order drinks from the pool, dine in fabulous restaurants and wear more westernized swimwear.

Katara Beach

One of the most beautiful natural beaches of Qatar, Katara’s private beach spans over 1.5km. Beach goers have a choice between enjoying a relaxed beach experience and diving into the fun with a great variety of adrenaline-boosting beach activities.

Dukhan

Dukhan is the centre of Qatar’s oil industry and the town caters to the employees of Qatar Petroleum. There is a beach that is open to all. The beaches are sandy, however the water is lined with sharp rocks and beach shoes are advisable. There are many hotels and resorts along the Dukhan coast with temperature controlled swimming pools for the hot summer months.

SEE ALSO: Best natural attractions in Qatar

Khor Al Adaid

This is one for the adventurous as Khor Al Adaid is only accessible by 4 wheel drive. It is also known as “The Inland Sea” and is categorised as a nature reserve due to its largely untouched beauty exhibiting a diverse eco system of fauna and flora. The area presents a remarkable landscape formed by a globally unique combination of geological and geomorphological features. Only experienced drivers should attempt the trip, also have a GPS navigation system with you as the beach borders Saudi Arabia. Tour operators organize both day trips and overnight tours to the beach.

Ras Abrouq

Many of the public beaches in Qatar are popular camping spots. This is because beaches are not used for tanning, but instead for messing about in the sand and water, eating, socializing and telling stories. Ras Abrouq is one such beach. You will, once again, require a 4 wheel drive to reach this beach. Once you get there, it will seem a little eerie, because it looks like an abandoned town … fear not for this is the location of an old movie set, enjoy it!! And while you’re there, stop in at the Zekret Fort to see a bit of history.

Maroona

Also known as the ‘French Beach’ Maroona is located around 80km outside of Doha and is a great place to enjoy the water and spend the day. However, the sand is really fine and too soft for camping. It is popular with westerners and many ladies wear their bikinis at this beach. It is a relatively small beach.

Fuwairit

Furwairit beach is close to Maroona and is a long white sandy coastline. It is popular for camping, kite surfing and barbequing, however there are no facilities located near the beach. The beach also offers an unusual sight of eroded hills meeting the water’s edge. The strange shapes in the rock face, resembling Gruyere cheese, make for great photos. 

SEE ALSO: Guide to scuba diving in Qatar

Local Tour Companies

Arabian Adventures 4436 1461/5556 5359
Black Pearl Tourism 5555 1169
Gulf Adventures World 4422 1888/5588 1760
Qatar International Adventures 4455 3394/5552 1761
Qatar International Tours 4455 1141/5586 4568
Qatar Ventures Tourism 4431 8440/5577 6679
Regency Travel and Tours 4434 4444

For more information please visit: http://qatartourism.gov.qa/en/