Mohammad cracked a smile as he bashfully increased the radio volume in his 4x4 Jeep. He put his hand on the gear shift and revved the engine, accelerating through Qatar's vast desert, the Middle East's natural highway and a place where speed limits don't apply. This “Inland Safari” was another dizzying moment that left me momentarily breathless.
This excursion took place during my fourth visit to this jewel of the Persian Gulf, and I am still awestruck by its opportunities for adventure. Qatar offers bountiful discovery for a country half the size of New Jersey. Qatar cultivated its most significant profit and recognition from pearl diving until the discovery of oil in 1939. But it has since grown, flourished, and continues to make a substantial imprint on global tourism. While one often associates the country with modern innovations in the world-class capital of Doha, the government is actively focusing on expanding tourism outside the metropolis.
Qetaifan Island North, the “entertainment island” that is currently under construction, is one of the new major tourism developments set outside of Doha.
Credit: 2022 Qetaifan Island North
Besides preparing to host the FIFA World Cup 2022, Qatar is also developing its natural and cultural offerings outside of Doha. I recently had the opportunity to explore this dynamic country with Discover Qatar, and here are my takeaways.
News From Qatar Airways
In 2022, the award-winning Qatar Airways celebrates its 25th anniversary. A vision in 1997 by His Highness The Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the airline has transformed into a leading international carrier. Since its onset, Qatar Airways has been collecting many accolades, including recognition as "Airline of the Year" six times by Skytrax, the international air transport rating organization.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Qatar Airways has also been recognized for its perseverance and innovation. The airline earned the title of "World Class" airline and "2022 Five Star Global Airline" at the APEX/IFSA Awards.
Privilege Club, the official frequent flyer program of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, has recently launched an initiative to continue honoring the loyalty of its valued members by extending their tier status. This will benefit all Silver, Gold and Platinum members whose tier status is due for renewal between December 2021 and December 2022.
Stopover Programs in Doha
Qatar now has more than 30 four- and five-star Doha hotels in their stopover program, with prices starting from $14 per night with Discover Qatar and Qatar Airways. Stays can be customized to include breakfast, a choice of transfers, plus a full range of tours and excursions for a truly unique experience.
To easily book for clients: Choose a Qatar Airways flight through the normal process, log into the Discover Qatar account, and reserve both a hotel and a customized stay with transfers and tours.
We're taking the opportunity to diversify our offering and broaden our appeal to visitors with new and enhanced tourism experiences, offering something for all types of travelers.
Qatar's Newest Hotels and Resorts
Even in a pandemic, Qatar has seen expansive growth in the hospitality sector, with an influx of hotels opened in 2021 and more than 100 new properties under construction.
"The new accommodation will add to Qatar's already extensive portfolio of properties as the country prepares to host the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022," according to Berthold Trenkel, chief operating officer for Qatar Tourism.
The Banyan Tree Doha, which opened in 2021, is a five-star urban sanctuary in the capital that was designed by revered interior designer Jacques Garcia. It offers more than 340 rooms, suites, and residences, along with outstanding dining venues, unique wellness opportunities and an indoor experimental theme park.
And looking forward into 2022 and beyond, several new properties are anticipated to open.
The Rosewood Doha and Rosewood Residence Doha, located in two towers inspired by Qatar's coral reef, will offer a luxury hotel, a spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center and diverse culinary options.
The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, meanwhile, a unique stand-alone location that celebrates the rich heritage of Qatar's oriental culture, will open in 2022 on The Pearl Qatar, an artificial island in Doha fusing pleasure and business.
Tourism Expansion Beyond Doha
Qatar has blossomed into an international hot spot, primarily due to Doha's eclectic mix of history and modernity. However, there is now a significant focus on tourism expansion outside the capital, as well.
"There are several locations in Qatar waiting to be discovered," Trenkel said. "We are proud of the impeccable hospitality and leisure offerings that Qatar has and welcome travelers to other diverse, yet exceptional, regions across the country."
Properties outside of Doha include Zulal Wellness Resort, an oasis surrounded by desert and sea on the northern tip of Qatar. Opened last November, Zulal is the first immersion wellness resort in the Middle East, holistically blending traditional Arabic and Islamic medicine.
Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, about two hours southwest of Doha and 15 minutes from the Saudi Arabian border, spans about 2 miles of picturesque private beaches. It features more than 350 rooms, including spacious beach villas, with private pools and gardens for a luxurious-yet-secluded getaway. Ideal for families, the resort is home to Qatar's largest theme park, Desert Falls Water and Adventure Park, with 28 rides and slides, go-karting, laser tag experiences and a diving center opening soon.
Travelers can see the Katara Towers in Lusail City.
Credit: 2022 Katara TowersOther areas to explore include Khor Al Adaid, or the "Inland Sea." Accessible only by 4x4 vehicles, this unique haven features clear waters and fine sand, surrounded by miles of desert.
"Al Khor, home to Al Bayt Stadium and Al Thakira Mangroves, is another great destination," Trenkel said. "The natural formation of Qatar's Al Thakira Mangroves, north of Doha, can be discovered and admired by kayak. The tranquil waters of Purple Island Lake reveal unique flora and fauna, salt-encrusted tree branches, pencil roots and migratory birds."
"Travelers should also visit Lusail City, a major urban project in Qatar and the first development of its kind," he added. "Located across 38 square kilometers, the city will blend residential and commercial neighborhoods, including 22 hotels, golf courses and an amusement park."
Qetaifan Island North is currently under construction, but soon will be the first "Entertainment Island" in Qatar with a series of five-star hotels and resorts, beach clubs and a prominent waterpark. It will be near Lusail Stadium, where the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022’s final match will take place.
"We're taking the opportunity to diversify our offering and broaden our appeal to visitors with new and enhanced tourism experiences, offering something for all types of travelers," Trenkel said. "Adventure-seekers can enjoy the thrill of dune-buggy bashing across the desert, cultural enthusiasts can explore our world-famous museums and galleries and fine dining can be experienced at one of the numerous restaurants offering local and international cuisine."
The Details
Qatar Tourism
