10 Amazing Things to Do in Qatar that Indian Travelers Usually Miss

Qatar is a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition, offering a wealth of experiences for all types of travelers. While Indian tourists often explore popular sites like the Museum of Islamic Art or the Souq Waqif, there are plenty of hidden gems and unique activities that are often overlooked. If you're an Indian traveler planning a trip to Qatar, this list of 10 amazing things to do will ensure you discover parts of the country that many tourists miss.

Qatar’s Best-Kept Secrets: 10 Must-Visit Spots for Indian Travelers

1. Discover the mangroves of Al Thakira

Image Credit: Abraham Puthoor | Flickr

Al Thakira Mangroves, located just outside the coastal city of Al Khor, is an unexpected natural wonder in the desert landscape of Qatar. These mangroves are a serene escape and home to diverse wildlife, including flamingos and herons.

Insider tip: Rent a kayak and paddle through the tranquil waters of the mangroves to fully experience this ecosystem. It's a great way to connect with nature in Qatar.

Don’t miss: Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning views and excellent bird-watching opportunities.

2. Explore Film City – A desert ghost town

Hidden in the middle of the Zekreet desert, Film City is a quirky destination that looks like a traditional Qatari village but was actually built as a set for a film or television show. Now abandoned, this ghost town provides a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Cultural highlight: The architecture reflects ancient Qatari villages, making it an intriguing place to explore and learn about local building techniques.

Insider tip: Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Mystery Village and the Zekreet Rock Formations for a full day of desert exploration.

3. Visit the Al Zubarah Fort – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Al Zubarah Fort, located in the northwest of Qatar, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that Indian travelers often miss. This historic fort, built by Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani, is a beautifully restored example of 18th-19th century Qatari military architecture and today serves as a museum to showcase archaeological findings and artworks.

Don’t miss: Explore the nearby archaeological site of Al Zubarah, one of the largest and best-preserved historic towns in the region.

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the scorching midday heat (which can be quite exhausting) and enjoy the serene desert surroundings.

4. Experience the art at East-West/West-East sculpture by Richard Serra

Image Credit: Ben Koorengevel | Unsplash

A hidden gem in the Qatari desert is the monumental art installation by world-renowned sculptor Richard Serra. Known as East-West/West-East, commissioned by Sheikha Al-Mayassa, sister of Qatar’s current ruling Emir. The mammoth installation consists of four towering steel plates standing amidst the barren desert, which change hues due to the rusting process and have now turned a deep rich red.

Cultural highlight: This minimalist art piece blends beautifully with the natural environment, providing a contemplative experience for visitors.

Insider tip: These otherworldly sculptures are best visited during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, when the play of light creates stunning, gigantic shadows across the desert.

5. Relax at the Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid)

While Indian tourists may visit Qatar’s beaches, many miss the breathtaking Inland Sea, or Khor Al Adaid, which is a UNESCO-recognized natural reserve. Located near the border with Saudi Arabia, this is one of the few places in the world where the sea encroaches deep into the desert.

Don’t miss: Plan a dune bashing experience en route to the Inland Sea, as the journey through the sand dunes is half the adventure.

Why visit: Qatar's unique and pristine landscapes, home to diverse native flora and fauna, including rare species like Dugongs, Turtles, Arabian Gazelles, and Ospreys, all thriving in a rich marine and terrestrial ecosystem not found anywhere else in the Arabian Peninsula, are a visual treat and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

6. Visit the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum

For Indian travelers interested in history, the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum offers an eclectic and fascinating collection. The museum houses over 15,000 artifacts, including Qatari cultural heritage items, Islamic art, and 300 classic, sport, and vintage vehicles, and even coins from ancient India.

Cultural highlight: The museum has a strong focus on bridging cultural gaps between Qatar and the rest of the world, making it an ideal visit for Indian travelers curious about global connections.

Insider tip: Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum’s diverse collection. And don’t forget to visit the interesting and unique leaning minaret and mosque.

7. Stroll through the Purple Island

Purple Island, located near the town of Al Khor, is a tranquil natural hideaway perfect for those who love the outdoors. Its name comes from the purple dye that was once harvested here during ancient times, making it a historic yet peaceful retreat.

Don’t miss: Walk across the natural wooden bridge to reach the island and enjoy the lush greenery, mangroves, and unique flora.

Best time to visit: Early mornings are ideal for birdwatching and catching glimpses of the island’s rich wildlife.

8. Take a private pearl diving tour

Qatar’s history is deeply connected to pearl diving, and Indian tourists can immerse themselves in this tradition with a private pearl diving tour. Explore the waters of the Arabian Gulf and dive for pearls, learning about the country's rich maritime history with origins dating back to around 4,600 BCE.

Cultural highlight: Pearl diving was once the backbone of Qatar’s economy before the oil boom, and this activity connects travelers to an important part of Qatari heritage.

Don’t miss: The chance to keep any pearls you find during the dive as a unique souvenir from your trip.

9. Visit the Barzan Towers

A little-known historical site, the Barzan Towers were built in the late 19th century as watchtowers to protect Qatar’s coastline and water sources. These towers, located in the Umm Salal Mohammed area, offer a glimpse into Qatar’s defensive history and were also used by native Qataris to observe the new moon during Ramadan, as tracking the moon was crucial.

Cultural highlight: The towers have recently been restored into a museum and offer insight into the traditional military architecture of Qatar.

Insider tip: Climb to the top of the towers for panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape, and visit during sunset for some stunning photography opportunities.

Also read: 10 Must-Visit Tourist Places in Qatar for Your Itinerary in 2023

10. Visit Katara Cultural Village

While Katara is popular among tourists for its open-air amphitheater and beach, many Indian travelers miss the deeper cultural experiences it offers. The Katara Cultural Village is a hub for arts and culture, with galleries, theaters, and workshops promoting local and international art.

Cultural highlight: Check out the various exhibitions and events held at Katara, from international film festivals to Qatari art showcases, giving Indian tourists a deep dive into local culture.

Don’t miss: Visit the stunning Katara Mosque, which is one of the most beautiful in the region, featuring intricate blue and gold mosaics that resemble Persian designs.

All in all, Qatar is more than just a luxurious stopover; it’s a land rich in hidden cultural and natural treasures waiting to be discovered. Indian travelers should venture beyond the typical tourist attractions to explore these lesser-known yet spectacular experiences. Whether it’s kayaking through mangroves, wandering through ghost towns, or experiencing Qatar’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, these 10 amazing things will certainly make your trip unforgettable.