This sparkling gem of cultural heritage and glorious sunshine is a favourite destination for tourists seeking more than just sun, sea and sand. Qatar can of course provide pristine white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and has much more to offer for those wishing to explore this fascinating nation.
Cheap flights, accommodation and holidays to Qatar
Located on a peninsula to the east of Saudi Arabia, Qatar is a small Islamic state, with a history dating back well before 3000BC. As a result, a deep culture has evolved: there are many magnificent mosques to visit and guided tours of cities and desert alike, to familiarise visitors with the area and its history. Qatar's inhabitants were originally Bedouin, and aspects of this lifestyle are still preserved today. Falconry remains a popular sport in Quatar, hailing from times when falcons were used by Bedouians in the desert to hunt game. Other sports that will be available during your time in Qatar include scuba diving, water-skiing, golf, sailing, horse-riding and fishing.
In addition to mainland Qatar, there are also several coastal islands to explore, adding to the beauty of the country's coastline. For most visitors, Qatar's Corniche is a must-see attraction. This 7km stretch of coastline showcases the area's pristine coastline, and provides an excellent environment for water-sports. There are also several artificial reefs off the coast of Qatar in the Arabian Gulf's calm tropical waters, which now harbour a diverse array of marine life. As a result, this area is also popular for cruises and boat trips.
Qatar's capital city, Doha, is where most tourists arrive, and it's worth budgeting a few extra days to look around this desert metropolis.
Whether you're stopping off for a few days, or planning a longer trip, Qatar is sure to be a holiday to remember!