Desert Safari

Dhow Cruise in Doha

Considered a rite of passage for first-timers, embarking on a dhow cruise around Doha can be an unforgettable experience. Here’s what tourists can expect to experience on this excursion.

Timing the Tour

Depending on the duration of your stay in Doha, it is possible to schedule a dhow cruise for the daytime or in the early afternoon or evening. The advantages of signing up for a daytime tour are that you will be able to gaze upon the city’s biggest landmarks in the light of day and be able to distinguish the many iconic structures lining the shoreline. The night-time or evening tour is suitable for the romantically inclined as the veil of night lets one admire the city when it is lit up to the nines.

Duration and Tickets

Dhow cruises are at least 4 hours long and can be considered the perfect way to explore Doha for those who are travelling to the city on business or only visiting for the weekend. As various resorts and private tour operators organise dhow cruises, it is best to book your tour tickets online. Those based at Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels By Tivoli and other reputable hotels in Doha can also purchase tickets through their accommodation provider.

Cancellation Policy

If you cannot take part in the dhow cruise for any reason or due to unforeseen circumstances, you can ask for a full refund if you inform the tour operator 48 hours before the tour departure time.

Meals on Board and Other Activities

Dhow cruises in Doha also include a BBQ or buffet meal while also offering travellers the chance to go snorkelling and swimming during the excursion.

Best Adventure Sports in Qatar – For that much needed adrenaline pump

Doha is an interesting place to visit offering stunning attractions that will make all leisure travellers from around the world to stay in this wonderful city. Here are a few exciting sports to try out.

Image via Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli

You’ll miss a major part of your Qatar trip if you don’t go on a desert safari tour. The best time to enjoy the thrills and spills of a desert safari is in the evening since during the daytime it’s quite difficult with the scorching heat. Feel thrilling moments of a dune bashing session as you go by a 4×4 land cruiser. You’ll say ‘Do more!’

A game of golf

You might have known Qatar for its epitome of modern living and vibrant culture but now it comes as an appealing destination for the most discerning of golfers. Want to discover its incredible golf courses? Savour your stay with a host of social events, numerous leisure activities and dining options. If you are in search of one of the many best hotels in Doha close to the famous Doha Golf Club, try out an option such as Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli which is located 25 minutes away from the club.

Watersports

You’ll find no better place to try out some coastal adventures other than Oman’s huge coastline. There are many environmentally friendly beaches where one can try out diving, jet skiing, snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddle boating and sailing.

Beach fun

If you are not fond of any of these water sports activities, you can simply choose a deserted beach like Bimmah Beach to have a fantastic camping adventure. Have you ever heard of ‘Norway of Arabia’? Excited to know and explore it during your holiday? It is worth a visit!

Doha Quest

Doha Quest is the newest addition to the list of theme parks in Qatar. The high-tech indoor amusement park includes roller coasters, interactive games, and brightly lit kids’ rides.

Doha skyline from the Marriott Hotel, Qatar | Image by David McKelvey via flickr

Details

Located in Doha Oasis, Doha Quest is the recent most attraction added to the list of attractions in Doha. It is a location that has attractions for everyone, so no one has to stay behind in any hotels in Doha while the others go have fun. Quest is open from Monday to Saturday from 2 in the afternoon to 10 in the night, but it is closed on Sundays.

Highlights

Opened only in 2021, Doha Quest has already made history as it is home to the tallest indoor roller coaster known as EpiQ Coaster and the world’s highest drop water ride, which is known as Magma Blast.

Family attractions

Another speciality about Doha Quest is that it is separated into three different times, the past, the present and the future. The rides and the attractions are dedicated to each of the three themes giving them a story and a unique experience.

Adventures

Not located too far from Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels By Tivoli and the city centre, Doha Quest has something for everybody varying from rides, games, food and shopping.

Adventures in Abu Dhabi – Safaris in the desert

After reading this informative guide, your experience on the Abu Dhabi desert safari will be so much better. Discover the ideal time to visit, how to pick the finest excursions and advice on how to dress for your safari.

Image via Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

What is a desert safari?

The desert has always fascinated travellers, but many were put off by its harsh weather and lack of water, not to mention the potential for getting lost among the endless miles of sand hills. A desert safari is an expert-led tour of the desert where you can engage in a variety of activities that the native Bedouins of the area enjoy, examine the desert’s natural habitat, engage in exhilarating desert activities, or unwind by watching a desert sunrise or sunset.

When to go?

The best time for desert adventures in Abu Dhabi is during the winter, which lasts from October to April. To ensure that your trip is enjoyable, the weather throughout the winter months is neither overly humid nor overly hot. Visit the country during its summer months, which are between May and September, if you want to get more reasonable hotel prices.

What to wear?

Before pre-dawn, the weather can be a little chilly, so you should bring a light cardigan. After sunrise, the temperature rises. Dress in long trousers made of fabrics like cotton or linen with t-shirts or tops made of the same materials to be able to manage between both temperatures. The temperature starts to fall in the evenings, so it’s not as hot. You can bundle up against the cool that starts to set in about sundown by dressing in trousers and shirts and carrying a lightweight jacket or sweater.

Where to click nice pictures?

Locations such as Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara will look stunning on your Instagram profile whether you enjoy sharing travel photos there or just want to showcase your gorgeous vacation in the desert. The Abu Dhabi desert offers fantastic photo opportunities everywhere.

Dhow Cruise Doha: Sail Through the Teal Water of The Arabic Gulf

Are you wondering how to make your holiday in Doha extra memorable? Why not take a traditional cruise through the waters of the Arabian Gulf? Read on to find out more about this unforgettable experience!

1024px-Doha_Skyline_Nacht_night — FLASHPACKER TRAVELGUIDE, Doha Skyline Nacht night, CC BY-SA 2.0

Where Can You Stay?

Are you looking through all the hotels in Doha wondering which of them to check in to? Resorts such as Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels By Tivoli and many others offer guests unparalleled comforts as well as central stays. So, pick your hotel based on your budget, itinerary and your preference of location.

What is a Dhow Cruise?

It is a traditional wooden boat which was steered by sailors, which is unique to Doha. Apart from its wooden frame, what set it apart was the two triangular sails which had pointed ends for the bow and the stern. However modern designs have one large sail which has been proven to be more powerful and efficient.

Dinner on the Dhow

Set off at dusk and enjoy watching the sun dip into the still waters of the Arabian Gulf. Dinner cruises are a wonderful way to take in the views of the city skyline from a unique perspective as well. Admire the glittering skyline from the waters while you make some unforgettable memories on your holiday in Doha.

Top Reasons Why You Need to Visit Qatar

The nation of Qatar offers an array of alluring attractions for visitors. Seekers of sunny weather, shopping enthusiasts, and adventure lovers will all enjoy experiencing the attractions of this country.

The great weather

Qatar Sunny climate | Image via *unsplash*

If you seek a holiday destination with sunny weather, Qatar would be a great choice. You will find that the weather here would generally be pleasant. Winters in this country will be very mild, and the coldest month would be January. Meanwhile, summers will be warm and humid, with July being the hottest month, though there are plenty of air-conditioned comforts too!

The shopping opportunities

Qatar offers a splendid selection of shopping options. If you seek large modern malls you will not be disappointed here, with the Mall of Qatar being a highlight. On the other hand, for a traditional shopping experience, there is the historical Souq Waqif as well as Souq Al Wakra beside the coast; an accommodation choice to consider located next to the latter would be Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli which also offers a spa in Doha Qatar.

The blend of modernity and tradition

The nation of Qatar inherits a rich cultural heritage as suggested by its architecture, museums, marketplaces, and World Heritage Sites certified by UNESCO like the Al Zubarah Archaeological Site. However, this nation has also embraced modernity, as shown by its impressive skyscrapers, contemporary amenities, and modern infrastructure.

The outdoor adventures

Adventure seekers will be in their element in Qatar as this nation offers an array of exciting escapades. Outdoor adventurers will enjoy skydiving above the Arabian Gulf, ascending sand dunes, scuba diving off the coast and so on. You could also embark on an ATV desert safari, ride camels, go kayaking and more!

Best attractions in Doha

The capital of Qatar, Doha attracts visitors from across the world on a daily basis. If you’re planning a trip to the city, then here are some of the star attractions to explore while there.

Islamic Art

An architectural gem, the Museum of Islamic Art is hands down one of the best places to visit in the city. Here you will be able to take in an extensive collection of artworks, metal work, ceramics and textiles that span over 1400 years!

The Corniche

There is no doubt that The Corniche is one of Doha’s best-loved attractions. The waterfront promenade hugs Doha Bay for over seven kilometers. Consider heading there for a relaxing stroll or better yet to catch a sunset. The entrance is free, and the Corniche can be reached easily from hotels such as Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli with ease.

The Gate Mall

Offering a luxurious shopping experience, the Gate Mall is definitely a great place to visit. The mall is home to numerous designer brands, high-end restaurants, cute cafes and many a spa in Doha, Qatar.

Barzan Towers

The Barzan Towers is located in Muhammed, Qatar, and is considered to be a must-visit tourist attraction in Doha. It’s a great place to take in stunning views of the city. No entry fee is required.

Things to do in Doha

There is no doubt that Doha, the capital of Qatar has the best of everything! Here is a list of the four best things to do while on a visit to the middle eastern metropolis.

Experience Qatari culture in Souq Waqif

An authentic and one of the oldest marketplaces in Doha, Souq Waqif offers shoppers a variety of items to shop and choose from. From spices, souvenirs, and traditional Qatar clothes among much more. The marketplace can be reached easily from many restaurants in Wakra including hotels such as Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli with ease as well.

National Museum of Qatar

Spanning a whopping 1.5 kilometers, the National Museum of Qatar opened to the public in 2019, and tells the story of the country in three themes starting from the ” Beginning’ moving onto Life Qatar and Modern History of Qatar.

Aspire Park

Located in the Baaya district, the popular Aspire Park is the ideal place to rest and relax. The largest park in the city, this spot offers visitors plenty of recreation facilities and lies nearby the famous Villaggio Mall and Hyatt Plaza.

Barzan Towers

The Barzan rowers is open at all times and is quite a popular spot among visiting tourists. Today the Bazan Towers stand as a monument to the old history of Doha.

Exploring Saudi Arabia’s Heet Cave

The Heet Cave in Saudi Arabia is a wonder that many people would never expect to even exist. This cave offers people a treat in the middle of the desert, and is filled with water to boot!

Some background on the Heet Cave

The cave is believed to have been formed due to limestone dissolving through the anhydrite materials within the cave. For those looking to enter its domain, they must walk through a 20-metre-wide hole in the ground and across various crumbling rocks.If you are staying at the furnished apartments for rent such as the Ascott Rafal Olaya Riyadh be sure to make a trip to the cave!

How to get to the Heet Cave

The best way is to arrange transport to Al Heet and then make the rest of the journey along the dirt road.

Things to keep in mind

This is a natural wonder and as such, it is important to not leave any rubbish behind. Be sure to bring bags to take back any garbage.

Safety precautions

While the journey is fairly simple for an adult is it not recommended to bring a child along with you given the risk of falling and injury.

Best desert safaris in Doha

Doha is a sand dune full of thrills to enjoy! Be it conquering a rip-roaring four-wheel drive in the desert or an unforgettable camel ride, there is just so much to do. Here are a few exciting things to do on your safari.

Camel riding

Camels are quite laid-back creatures and what is a desert without the elegant line of camels walking across? Arrange a ride during your desert safari for the experience of a lifetime.

Dune bashing

This is the adventure you’ve been waiting for! Hop on a safari jeep and prepare for a roller-coaster ride on the dunes. Resorts such as Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli can help organise this experience. You might just have to hit a spa in Doha Qatar after your adventures to relieve your tiredness.

Sandboarding

Slide down the dunes of fine sand, but don’t scream in excitement unless you don’t mind getting sand in your mouth! This is something you definitely must try.

Visit the inland sea

Khor Al Adaid is just 60 km away from Doha and is a UNESCO Natural Reserve. The dunes gradually part into a sea and the views here are amazing.