Qatar With Kids

Arrive in Qatar’s capital city of Doha where a private car will be waiting to take you to your hotel. Check in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to unwind and get adjusted to Qatar’s desert climes. To get acquainted with Doha and keep cool at the same time, we suggest heading to Katara Beach which spans close to a mile long and is conveniently located in the heart of the city. Parents and children alike can relax on the sandy shores and swim in the cool waters. Older kids can keep entertained with jet skis and other water sports available for rent. In the evening when shops and restaurants reopen in the cooler hours, there is a wealth of dining options, the majority of which is international fare, making it easy to find something even for the pickiest eater. 

The first stop this morning is just out of town to the Al Shaqab equestrian center where you can meet Qatar’s prized Arabian Horses. This facility is the leading of its kind with state-of-the-art machinery including swimming pools, Jacuzzis, gym areas, stables, and more, all designed for the best care and training of its horses. While here, keep an eye out for super cute newly born foal. Return to the city and visit the Museum of Islamic Art, an architecturally-stunning complex by the harbor that houses an extensive collection of Islamic art. Besides the artwork, the family-friendly museum also has a park, a library where walk-in workshops are held on Saturdays and a storytelling session in English and Arabic occurs once a month. Return to your hotel during the midday hours to escape the heat and rest. Alternatively, take the kids out for some fun at the Aqua Park or one of many indoor entertainment centers. You’ll find everything from rollercoasters, ice rinks, bowling alleys, laser tag, karaoke rooms, and more. In the late afternoon, venture out to Waqif Souq which offers a taste of old Qatar. Stroll the narrow lanes and take in the cacophony of sounds, sights, and smells. Don’t miss the falcon area of the souq where these birds are sold for thousands of dollars. Learn about the cultural significance of these beloved falcons and see them up close. If you’re lucky, you might even witness the monthly auction where vendors show off the physical abilities of the falcons to prospective buys.  Walk down the corniche promenade towards the pier where you will round out the day with an evening cruise on a traditional dhow boat to take in views of Doha’s lit-up skyline. 

Leave the city today for a sand and sea adventure. An hour south of Doha, across the desert, is one of the country’s most beautiful natural wonders. Khor Al Adaid, also known as the Inland Sea, is an UNESCO-listed reserve where sand dunes and salty water meet. Arrive at an upscale camp where the family can spend the day enjoying both in-water and sand dune activities from dune bashing, quad-biking, camel riding, and falconry to swimming and sunning in your private gazebo. Later in the day, return to the city and stop at the Katara Cultural Village. This modern complex is dedicated to Qatar’s traditions and cultures, offering art galleries and workshops, theaters, performance venues, and museums. The open space has plenty of green spaces for kids to run around as well. Enjoy your final evening in Doha with dinner on the waterfront, or for something more hands on, make a pizza together at a local pizzeria!

Have a leisurely breakfast and morning until your private transfer to the airport for your flight onward.