Lauded as a young destination with a rich heritage, the Arabian Gulf paradise of Qatar is a perfect choice for a family holiday.

Merging ancient traditions with a dynamic outlook, this enchanting land welcomes holidaymakers of all ages to embrace striking natural beauty, intriguing culture and futuristic wonders. Enjoyment awaits every visitor, with a myriad of activities and attractions catered to young travellers and spectacular year-round weather ensuring sunny days and glorious temperatures. Venture to the Inland Sea, where the desert meets the ocean, for out-of-this-world adventures in the sand and in the sky. Aquatic fun can be had both indoors and outdoors, with a number of epic waterparks and stunning golden-sand beaches located across the country, while cultural experiences curated for families will engage, inspire and enrich. With all this and more to discover, this is a destination that will leave a lasting impression on both children and adults alike. Take a peek at what other delights await in our guide to fabulous family holidays in Qatar.

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Family-Friendly Attractions

Children will love a holiday to Qatar due to its myriad of family-friendly attractions, with many conveniently located in the capital, Doha. The number one place on everyone’s bucket list is Doha Quest, a never-before-seen indoor theme park in Doha Oasis Mall. Adults and children will have endless enjoyable hours in this state-of-the-art attraction that offers Virtual Reality, a 3D flying theatre, a gravity wheel and the EpiQ Coaster, the tallest indoor roller coaster in the world. In Villagio Mall, you’ll also discover the amusement park, Gondolania. Families will adore a gondola boat ride on the indoor river, built to echo the streets of Venice, as well as mini golf, the 4D cinema, ice skating and go-karting. Outdoor fun is provided at the Al Koot Fort. The 19th-Century Ottoman jail is now a child-friendly museum which displays fishing equipment, boats and art work from throughout Qatar’s history.

Outdoor Adventures

Qatar’s superb weather means you can venture outdoors for endless fun in the sun, immersing yourself in some family adventures. No holiday to Qatar is complete without a trip to the desert and there’s no better place than the UNESCO nature reserve, Khor Al Adaid, also known as the “Inland Sea”. Famous for being where the ocean meets the desert, here every member of the family can get involved in epic activities. Sandboard or experience a 4x4 safari across the massive dunes that surround the lagoon, camel ride and camp out Bedouin-style or take in the sights from above in a hot air balloon. Keen eyes will spot flamingos, Arabian oryx and dugongs. Aspire Park is the huge outdoor space in Doha, great for lazy afternoons spent as a family. With playgrounds and grassy spaces, you’ll have the perfect backdrop for a picnic, while the lake and fountains provide sensational photo opportunities.

Water Activities

Water activities provide excellent respite from the glorious warm weather you can expect in Qatar, with an abundance catering to family members of every age. Those looking for something energetic will love the Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park. Located in the Salwa Beach Resort, there are 56 slides and rides, a lazy river, canyon jumps and shipwreck diving. With family-friendly dining options, you can spend the whole day here. Qatar boasts many great beaches perfect for families. For access to central Doha and all its amenities, the Corniche is the place to go, with its 7-kilometre crescent-shaped scenic promenade bordering the sea. Katara Beach is the lively, sun-kissed spot in the Cultural Village. Families can have a blast partaking in water sports, including water skiing, paddle boarding and kite surfing, as well as boat tours in search of some exotic marine life like whale sharks.

Wonderful Wildlife

Qatar is a thriving environment for many species where families can spend insightful afternoons in search of them. Ban Ghannam Island, also known as Purple Island, is a tropical area of mangroves, lagoons and nature paths where you will find a plethora of flora and fauna unique to Qatar. Families will enjoy kayaking, hiking and picnicking in this mesmerising spot. The Al Khor Zoo is one of the most sought after family attractions in Qatar, where over 300 different animals are housed, including big cats, rhinos, giraffes and primates. Children will make long-lasting memories as well as enjoying an educational day out. Also residing at the zoo are the two Chinese Pandas gifted in honour of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. Thuraya and Suhail can be seen relaxing in the sunshine, munching on bamboo or napping in the specially made Al Khor Panda House; a spectacular sight for any holidaymaker.

Lots To Discover

Culture oozes in Qatar, with many monuments, architecture and districts showcasing this. The whole family will find a trip to the National Museum of Qatar illuminating as it displays important archaeological objects, manuscripts and photographs. You’ll be in awe of the Pearl Carpet of Baroda, which is made of 1.5 million pearls and other jewels. Spend a day in the Katara Cultural Village, which highlights how Eastern and Asian cultures have fused together to create the vibrant, modern day Qatar. Noteworthy sights include the Katara and the Gold Mosques. Discover culinary delights by trying traditional Qatari food that even children will enjoy. The national dish, Machboos, is renowned for its delicious blend of spices, rice and meat. Saloona, a tomato-based stew infused with ginger, cardamom and clove, is a favourite amongst locals, while dessert-lovers will enjoy the mouth-watering sweet fried dumplings, Luqaimat.

Best Time To Visit

Qatar is fortunate to receive year-round sunshine and warm weather. Due to its desert climate, the summers can be very hot, with temperatures rising to around 40℃. For family holidays, the best time to travel to Qatar is November to February as the temperatures drop to provide a pleasant, cooler environment. January experiences the lowest temperatures, with average daily reports of 17 to 20℃. These are perfect conditions for getting involved in some outdoor activities, such as water sports, desert safaris or nature walks. The indoor attractions are suitable when you’re looking to take a break from being out in the sun, with air conditioning on offer in every public space. Nighttime temperatures are similar in the city areas, while the desert can grow quite cold due to the winds that blow through the dunes. In winter, rain can fall but this is rare and often extremely short-lived.

“Qatar is the ultimate family-friendly destination. With endless sunshine and sensational weather, you’ll be able to tick off everything on your itinerary, whether it's some indoor activities, outdoor adventures, water sports or cultural excursions around the city centre.

“Because of the rich heritage Qatar has, you’ll be spoilt for choice as to which significant landmark you visit first. Choose from the National Museum of Qatar, the Katara Cultural Village or the Al Koot Fort for some incredible architecture and immersive activities within.

“Children will love the attractions dotted across Doha. Endless fun can be found in the water and theme parks. Indoor amusement parks and the zoo are a must visit as they offer something for the youngest members of the family as well as the oldest.

“The beaches are also a hit with all ages as they have every amenity you could need, plus spectacular views.

“Qatar really is the hotspot for family holidays in the sun.”

InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa

Embrace carefree moments of beach bliss surrounded by palm trees at this luxurious 5-star haven in the dazzling Qatari capital of Doha. Days filled with poolside relaxation, energising water sports, rejuvenating spa treatments, invigorating workouts and a variety of other wonderful leisure options can also be enjoyed. You’ll stay in a sleek room or suite filled with modern amenities and enjoy exquisite Greek, Middle Eastern, Far Eastern, Belgian, and Peruvian cuisine in inviting dining destinations.

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Rixos Gulf Doha

A world of all-inclusive delights awaits at this family-friendly 5-star sanctuary nestled beside blonde sands. Here you’ll find glistening pools, elegant wellness features, extensive fitness options and activities, amenities, entertainment and a Rixy Kids Club for your little ones. The plush accommodation will ensure you feel right at home during your holiday in Qatar, while you’ll discover culinary delights aplenty across a variety of enticing restaurants.

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Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha

Immerse yourself in palatial splendour during a 5-star holiday in this lavish island retreat. Relax and revive your senses in impeccable surroundings, with the splendid living spaces furnished to perfection to provide the utmost comfort. Leisure features include an indulgent spa, ultra-modern fitness areas, pools, tennis courts, padel courts and a children’s playroom, while innovative cuisine from around the globe can be discovered in the sublime restaurants.

Check out the Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha