Boasting a vibrant array of entertainment, a wealth of captivating architecture and a rich variety of charming cultural and historical attractions, Qatar ranks amongst the Middle East's biggest draws. Whether you're new to the country or are looking to experience something different on your next visit, here are some useful tips to help you plan your next visit.
The purpose-built new Fuwairit Kite Beach (FKB) an hour north of Doha has excellent kitesurfing conditions from its powder-soft sands thanks to consistent winds. A yoga studio, gym, pool and restaurants add to the mix. Meanwhile, the Outpost Al Barari is a unique resort of tented villas, close-to-nature experiences (including stargazing, hot-air ballooning and immersive desert walks) and sustainability within the Inland Sea nature reserve.
Elsewhere, Qetaifan Island North is Qatar’s first ‘entertainment island’, with floating hotels, beach clubs and a water park embracing The Icon Tower, an 85m slide that will be the highest of its kind in the world. And in Doha, the West Bay North Beach Project includes public and private beach areas and an array of drinking and dining.
The Losail International Circuit will welcome the F1 crews back to the Qatar Peninsula this year in October for the second Qatar Grand Prix . Experience the excitement and speed of the world's most prestigious motorsport, with long-sweeping corners and a variety of hairpins thrown into the mix.
Beyond the glamour and glitz of Doha, the desert beckons with activities including dune bashing in SUVs, with half-day tours available. Also exhilarating is a stand-up paddleboard trip through the mangroves of the Al Thakira natural reserve north of Doha with its herons, purple crabs and seasonal flamingo population. You can also take an organised day tour to Khor Al-Adaid, the Inland Sea, in southeast Qaar. This tidal river forms a unique lagoon system protected by UNESCO for its terns, ospreys and oryx.
Shopping is also brilliant in Doha - not least at Souq Waqif with its stalls purveying handmade gold jewellery, fabrics, fragrances, nuts and spices on a historic Bedouin market site. There are also vast malls with high-street shops and designer boutiques; Villaggio Mall stands out for its Italianate decor and even a canal with gondola rides.
If your Qatar stopover happens to include a Friday daytime, make sure to join in the local institution of the Friday brunch, which often includes the likes of sushi, ceviche, oysters, dim sum and cocktails.
Enjoy a seven night family holiday in Abu Dhabi combining luxury hotel living with standout experiences designed for all ages. Staying at the iconic Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal, this trip balances relaxed resort time with desert adventure and world class theme parks. With direct flights from Dublin, special hotel rates and included attractions, this is a well rounded and easy to enjoy family escape.
Spend seven nights discovering Thessaloniki in northern Greece, a city that combines a long seafront promenade with layered history and a strong food scene. With direct flights from Dublin, private transfers, a central boutique hotel and two included experiences, this itinerary offers a relaxed way to explore the city at your own pace.
This fourteen night fly drive through Western Canada is built for families who want big scenery, varied stops and the freedom to explore at their own pace. From the city buzz of Vancouver to mountain towns, national parks and lakes, the route is designed to show you the best of British Columbia and Alberta without feeling rushed. With flights from Dublin, one way car hire and a mix of well located hotels, this trip balances driving days with time to properly enjoy each stop.