Adventure is not outside man; it is within. - George Eliot
Qatar, once the land of Bedouin tribes, is fast becoming a must-visit destination for Indian travellers who seek a unique Middle Eastern experience. An arid beauty, it is a country that offers thrilling adventures for the people who crave adrenaline and rush to the next level, where its culture deeply resonates with the Indian heritage. This blog from musafir.com has been written exclusively for thrill seekers to experience the most exciting activities to cover in your Qatar packages.
Desert Adventures: Conquer the Dunes
Dune Bashing:
No Qatar package is complete without a desert adventure, and dune bashing is the ultimate thrill. Imagine this: towering sand dunes and a heart-pounding ride down in a 4x4 vehicle. It's an activity tailor-made for the thrill seekers.
- Where: There are several tours which depart from Doha and other locations. Some offer a half-day while others a full-day experience.
- Pro Tip: Choose a desert safari package that includes the Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid) with Dune bashing. And what's Inland Sea you may ask: It's a place in Qatar where the desert meets the sea (You have to see it, once in your lifetime).
- Alert: The Sun in the desert can be intense. Light clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (at least SPF 50 or higher) is necessary.
Sandboarding & Quad Biking:
Other activities to try in the desert safari can be sandboarding & quad biking. While sandboarding is similar to snowboarding, quad biking offers the person the opportunity to experience desert trails at their own pace.
- Where: These activities can easily be clubbed with your desert safaris where tour managers can provide important instructions and equipment if any.
- Pro Tip: If you are new to quad biking or sandboarding, start slow and get comfortable with the activity before tackling the dunes.
- Alert: Make sure you wear closed-toe shoes for both activities.
Water Sports & Coastal Thrills:
Jet Skiing & Parasailing:
If you are looking to experience the Qatar skyline with a new perspective, then you should definitely try jet skiing & parasailing in your Qatar package.
- Where: You can do this at Corniche, Katara Beach, and other coastal areas.
- Pro Tip: Go during weekdays if possible. Also, you can always negotiate the price for longer rental periods for the activity.
- Alert: Wear a life jacket at all times.
Snorkelling and scuba diving:
One can go snorkelling and scuba diving to experience the coral reefs and marine life of Qatar.
- Where: There are several registered dive centres which operate in Doha.
- Pro Tip: Please check the dive center’s certifications and their reviews online before booking or you can get help from musafir.com’s travel experts anytime in Qatar package.
- Alert: Ensure all safety rules are being followed.
Dhow Cruise:
If you want to experience the old charm of Qatar, then Dhow Cruise is the way to go. Dhow cruises are beautifully crafted wooden vessels that were earlier used for fishing, trading, and pearling in the region. These days they are transformed into floating restaurants taking on the tour of the Qatari paradise. Some Qatar packages have exclusive deals for Dhow Cruises.
- Where: They generally depart from ports in Doha.
- Pro Tip: Opt for the sunset cruises which offer stunning views of the Qatari skyline.
- Alert: Check what is included in the Dhow Cruise packages, like if there are food and entertainment options that are part of the package or an add-on.
High Flying Adventures: Embrace the Arabian Gulf
Skydiving:
For any thrill seeker, skydiving can be the ultimate dream. If skydiving is included in the Qatar package, it offers an even better experience as it shows the surreal skyline of the country.
- Where: The drop zones are mostly located outside Doha.
- Pro Tip: Book in advance as slots tend to fill quickly.
- Alert: This is a weather-dependent activity. Be ready for potential delays.
Kite surfing:
With consistent winds in the region, Qatar is becoming a popular destination for kite surfers.
- Where: This can be done around different beaches near Doha.
- Pro Tip: This activity requires coordination.
- Alert: Always follow the guidelines set by the instructor.
Qatar Travel Tips for Indians: Essential Information
- Dress Respectfully: While Qatar is relatively relaxed, it is essential to respect local traditions and customs. Therefore, it is best to dress modestly, covering knees and shoulders, especially in public and religious places.
- Hydrate Well: Bear in mind to drink plenty of water during outside activities. Prefer outdoor activities during cooler months (October to April) if possible.
- Respect Culture: Be mindful of Islamic traditions, which are important for the Qatari people. Also, public displays of affection are usually frowned upon.
- Plan Ahead: Plan and book in advance, especially desert safaris or Dhow cruises. Also, check the timings of the attractions on Fridays, as due to prayers, many of them can be closed or have alternate timings.
- Stay Connected & Safe: Consider a local SIM card. Know the emergency numbers (police, fire, ambulance: 999), and please ensure to take travel insurance.
Qatar: A Memorable Blend of Adventure and Culture
What truly sets Qatar apart, especially for Indian travellers, is the opportunity to connect with the authentic Qatari heritage. After your thrilling journey with the various adventurous activities in your Qatar Package, you can wind down for a memorable evening at Souq Waqif. Immerse yourself in the traditional Qatari culture and cuisine. With musafir.com, this could be a way to connect with the heart of Qatar.
Important Links for Qatar: