One of the smaller countries around the Arabian Gulf, Qatar has been able to meld millennia of Middle Eastern culture with both adventure and luxury. In a press statement, the state’s tourism body Qatar Tourism says that a line-up of attractions be it the expansive coastline, cultural attractions or modern architecture abound the nation. For those looking for a break from the city, the board compiles a list of the most iconic and photographed spots to explore throughout the country.

Khor Al Adaid 

Khor Al Adaid is also known as the ‘Inland Sea’

A UNESCO recognised natural reserve with its own ecosystem, Khor Al Adaid, also known as the ‘Inland Sea’, is a destination where the sand dunes meet the shores of the sea. The board adds that it is one of the major attractions in Qatar and especially with the dunes reaching heights of up to 40 m, the place makes up for a fun ride. Qatar Tourism says that families can make the most of this attraction by spending an afternoon in the desert, dune bashing, taking a stop along the way to ride camels, and posing with the country’s famous national bird, the falcon.

Sand Dunes

Sand Dunes in Qatar are known to reach major heights

According to Qatar Tourism, the sand dunes in the Gulf nation are a major draw for tourists and residents alike. The desert is enjoyable for a leisurely safari and to take in the breath-taking scenery.

Al Thakira Mangroves

Al Thakira Mangrove Forest is among Qatar’s oldest and largest such forests

Al Thakira mangroves provide a special contrast of greenery, from the desert landscape. The board says that this location forms an adventure off the beaten track, with kayaking as a key fun activity, surrounded by vegetation that attracts a variety of bird species, including herons and flamingos.

Dahl Al Misfir Cave 

Dhal Al Misfir is a cavern that is a natural landmark

A 40-metre-deep gypsum-fibrous cave, the board adds that the Dahl Al Misfir Cave is known to sometimes emit a phosphorescent glow that resembles the moon. The peninsula is also covered in gypsum crystals that resemble roses, or desert roses. As one descends inside the cave and steps on to the path, the temperature begins to drop.

North Sarda and the Heenat Salma Farms

Heenat Salma is an Eco-Farm and Camp in the north-west of Doha

According to Qatar Tourism, an enchanting experience for families await at the North Sedra Farm, the first agritourism destination in Qatar. The farm has a mini zoo with various animals, including Arabian Oryx, zebra, ostrich, lama, and camels with a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables to handpick, which also sells top-quality Sedra honey produced in-house, in the winters.

Ras Abrouq or Zekreet

Ras Abrouq is the northernmost extension of the Zekreet Peninsula

Formed of limestone rocks that have been moulded into mushroom-shaped lunar-like landscapes by the wind, the statement says that the remote Ras Abrouq peninsula is home to sandy beaches and a wild deer reserve. Nearby, visitors can also enjoy a fort called ‘Film City’, the ancient 9th-century Murwab Fort, and Richard Serra’s famous steel sculpture called East-West/West-East.

Fuwairit Beach

Fuwairit Beach is famous for the turtles that lay eggs here from April to July every year

Just more than an hour’s drive outside of Doha, the board says that Fuwairit Beach is worth a visit for its white sand and clean waters. A Hawksbill Sea Turtle hatchery may be found at Fuwairit Beach, which is popular with kitesurfers.

Qatar’s flora & fauna

There are almost 21 species of mammals in Qatar

The desert turns into a lush oasis after it rains. The board adds that there is a wide variety of fauna, including flamingos, foxes, birds, reptiles, and, of course, the Arabian oryx, which is Qatar’s national animal. Stretching over a 560 km coastline, the sea is an integral part of Qatari life. The water is rich with marine life. There are ‘Whale Shark in Qatar Tours’ that have recently opened for public sightings, for those interested in seeing the magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The destination has plenty of natural attractions and cultural heritage sites to enjoy, while taking a break from the city life, adds the board.