For a holiday like no other in a unique destination full of contrasts, energy and mystique, look no further than Qatar.

Simultaneously looking to the future, while anchored in the past, this land of futuristic skyscrapers, intriguing culture and alluring adventures is brimming with things to do. Whether you’re travelling to Qatar with family, friends, as a couple or solo, there’s something for every visitor to enjoy. You’ll find inspiring and enriching leisure opportunities and activities on land, at sea, in the city and in the sky. Desert escapades, animal magic, theme park thrills and adrenaline-fuelled ventures all await. You’ll discover breathtaking natural beauty and be dazzled by the glittering attractions of the capital, Doha. Offering year-round sunshine, Qatar is a destination for any season, serving up an experience that’s not to be missed. With this in mind, here’s our guide to the amazing things to do on holiday in Qatar.

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Family Activities

Family holidays in Qatar are filled with excitement and adventure with a multitude of things to do with children and teenagers. The world’s tallest indoor roller coaster, virtual reality experiences, simulators and a myriad of other sensational rides and attractions can be found at Doha Quest. Gondolania, an amusement park in Doha’s Villagio Mall, features gondola boat rides, a mini golf course, go-karting, a 4D theatre, an ice skating rink and more. Visitors to the Museum of Illusions Doha will be mesmerised by the interactive displays, visual tricks and optical illusions designed to fool the mind, while rides, slides and arcade games can be found at Jungle Zone. Virtuocity offers virtual reality fun and gaming thrills, you can jump for joy at BOUNCE Doha, enjoy cartoon delights at Angry Birds World Theme Park and all the fun of the big top awaits at Circus Land.

Adventure Activities

Qatar is the perfect destination if you’re craving an unforgettable adventure holiday, with an abundance of high octane activities to enjoy. Take to the desert on a 4x4 safari, crossing the dunes to reach Khor Al Adaid, a UNESCO recognised natural reserve known as the Inland Sea and one of the few places where the desert meets the sea. Other activities on the terracotta sands include quad biking, sandboarding, camel rides and authentic Bedouin-style camping experiences. For a bird’s eye view of the enchanting desert landscape and the awe-inspiring sights of Qatar, you could decide to take to the sky. Options include skydiving, paragliding, hot air balloon trips and helicopter tours. When you finally get back down to earth, you can discover even more outdoor activities, including trekking, rock climbing, caving, karting, golfing and a wonderful assortment of water sports.

Cultural Activities

If embracing new and intriguing cultures tops your holiday wish list, then Qatar is the place for you. Rich in history, this beguiling land has much to offer in the way of heritage and tradition, with ancient landmarks, captivating architecture and authentic experiences among the delights to be discovered. The National Museum of Qatar is a must visit attraction. As well as being a visually stunning building designed by award-winning architect Jean Nouvel, it is also an ideal place to immerse yourself in the nation’s past, boasting an array of historic artefacts, manuscripts and photographs. A taste of everyday Qatari life and an authentic shopping experience can be enjoyed at Souq Waqif, while other fascinating sites worth exploring include Al Koot Fort, the Museum of Islamic Art and Katara Cultural Village.

Water Activities

Aquatic delights await by the bucket load in Qatar. If you’re holidaying as a family, Meryal Waterpark, on Qetaifan Island North, is a superb choice for a day out. The largest attraction of its kind in Qatar, it has 45 rides and 52 slides, and is home to The RIG 1938, featuring Icon Tower, the highest waterpark tower in the world. Another option is Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park, offering more than 50 slides, chutes and attractions. Alternatively, beach fun is always a delight for little ones, while adventurous grown-ups will be drawn to the impressive water sports options. You can kayak through the mangroves of Al Thakhira Beach, learn to kite surf at Zekreet Beach, and Jet ski, stand-up paddleboard or enjoy a dhow boat ride in the waters off Doha’s 7km Corniche. Other water-based activities to choose from include banana boat rides, catamaran cruises, glass-bottomed boat trips, and scuba diving.

Wildlife Activities

Qatar is a wonderland for lovers of wildlife. The sand dunes and sea waters of Khor Al Adaid are home to a variety of animals. The nature reserve is well worth a visit to seek out turtles, flamingos, dugongs, Arabian oryx and camels. Bin Ghannam Island, popularly known as Purple Island, is another sublime place to immerse yourself in nature. Explore the mangroves and lagoons by kayak, enjoy a picnic amidst the delightful flora and fauna, or embrace a spot birdwatching. If you’re travelling with children, a visit to the first panda park in the Middle East, at Al Khor, is a must. Here the lovable creatures live in a spacious haven featuring 464 trees and 2,814 bamboo plants. A trip to nearby Al Khor Family Park & Zoo also provides a treat for little ones, with around 300 creatures including big cats, crocodiles, chimpanzees, zebras, rhinos and much more.

Best time to visit

With a desert climate and sunshine all year round, the best time to visit Qatar is completely up to you. If you’re planning outdoor activities, the months between mid-October and mid-March are a great option, with pleasant temperatures between 22°C and 25°C. During this period, the coolest time of year - December to February - offers temperatures from about 19°C to 23°C. This provides a superb chance for exploring, although you will find it chilly in the evenings. Warmer temperatures can be enjoyed between April and September, with average highs above 30°C, and even topping 40°C during the summer months from June to August. This is an ideal time for water sports fun or days at the water park. You’ll also find hotels, malls, restaurants and most indoor attractions air-conditioned to keep you cool.

“If you’re looking for a holiday destination that offers plenty of new and exciting activities and attractions, look no further than Qatar.

“This wondrous nation is packed with things to do, both indoor and outside, on land, in the water and up in the sky.

“You’ll find child-friendly attractions to visit as a family, adventure activities to enjoy with friends and cultural delights to discover as a couple.

“With aqua parks, theme parks, water sports, desert escapades, beautiful beaches, museums, zoos and nature reserves all on offer, no one misses out.

“There’s so much to enjoy in Qatar and now’s the perfect time to book your action-packed activity holiday.”

Fairmont Doha

Located in the magnificent Katara Towers, this ultra-modern 5-star hotel provides a sophisticated sanctum for your stay in Qatar. Expect gastronomic delights to tantalise the taste bud in the inspiring dining destinations, and discover immaculate living spaces that ooze style and come equipped with a plethora of impressive amenities. Personalised wellness treatments can be enjoyed at the sublime spa, while other features include an indoor lap pool, kids pool and a fitness centre.

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Rixos Gulf Doha

Embrace all-inclusive pleasures aplenty at this luxurious 5-star haven that’s perfect for the whole family. Make yourself at home in the plush accommodation that you’ll find equipped with all the holiday essentials and take advantage of the exceptional amenities, which include a swimming pool, spa, fitness centre and kids club. Entertainment is provided in the evening, while culinary delights from near and far can be enjoyed in the enticing dining destinations.

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InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa

Blissful beach days await atop sun-kissed blonde shores at this sublime 5-star sanctuary in Doha. Poolside relaxation, energetic gym workouts and invigorating spa treatments can all be enjoyed, while water sports and tennis add to the leisure options. When it’s time to dine, you can choose from a host of award-winning restaurants, while a heavenly night’s sleep awaits in your sumptuous room or suite.

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Ritz-Carlton Doha

Discover a world of pure luxury and sophistication at this opulent 5-star hideaway. A wonderful free-form swimming pool, a private beach, a world-class spa, an ultra-modern fitness centre, tennis courts and a children’s pool are among the impressive features that await. Elegant living spaces ensure comfort and relaxation throughout your stay, while you’ll discover international flavours to tantalise your taste buds at the hotel’s exquisite restaurants.

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Radisson Blu Hotel

It’s luxury, comfort and style all the way at this sensational downtown abode in Dazzling Doha. Prepare to be wowed by features such as swimming pools, a hot tub, two fitness centres and tennis and squash courts. Volleyball, basketball and badminton can also be enjoyed, while the hotel also boasts massage facilities and a nightclub. When not enjoying the extensive leisure amenities you can unwind in your delightful room or suite, or take your pick from one of the 14 dining venues on offer at the hotel.

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