Joanna James
Ranked among the Middle East's most family-oriented travel hubs, the capital of Qatar is the perfect destination for a holiday with the kids. In addition to the city's massive shopping compounds and lush parks, there are plenty of cultural and recreational experiences to be had in this part of the world. From hitting the local zoo and going on a cruise to tours of local bazaars, here are items that should be on every family travel itinerary for Doha.
As one of Doha's most popular enclaves for families, the Jungle Zone Theme Park is a one-stop leisure hub where kids and adults can have a ball of a time regardless of the season. This indoor theme park and entertainment hotspot is specially geared towards children of all ages from toddlers to teens and encompasses most of the classic rides one expects to find at city amusement parks. Everything from bumper cars to rollercoasters and water-bound excursions are available at this venue where a multisensory encounter called the 7D Dark Ride is also open to visitors. As a prime location for local kiddie's birthday parties and other celebrations, families will need a full day to take part in all the activities available at this sprawling park.
While most tourists will classify the Katara Cultural Village as a point of interest that mainly caters to culture buffs and art lovers, this vast enclave dedicated to celebrating authentic arts and crafts in Qatar is an engaging family highlight. There are a wide variety of workshops where kids can get their hands dirty learning the basics of silk dyeing or calligraphy while the large number of souvenir shops and traditional food vendors are also likely to keep the young ones occupied.
As an ancient sailing vessel that has been used in Qatar for over a thousand years, dhows are not only a cultural remnant of the country's maritime past but the ideal seafaring vehicle for a family cruise. Travelling along the Doha coastline with your family in tow can be a magical experience for sailing fanatics while it can also offer one quality time with loved ones. Employed for everyday travel, fishing trips and pearl diving, dhows are primarily used for cruises and other tourist excursions around the coast.
Officially called the Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve, this one-of-a-kind wildlife sanctuary is actually a family-owned business in Qatar. The Dosari family's passion for wildlife has been translated into a mesmerizing enclave devoted to the conservation of various animal species. Considered the best place to go on a safari in Doha, the zoo is also a great venue for family picnics and spending time out in the wilderness.
Whether you are based at nearby Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels or any of the other best hotels in Doha, a family trip to the capital would not be complete without a shopping spree at Souq Waqif. This maze-like traditional Arabic bazaar is not only one of the best places to pick up souvenirs and other gifts but is also a foodie's paradise. The best ice cream parlours at the souq are undoubtedly the Turkish stands which also serve up delicious burgers and pizza slices.
One cannot forget MIA Park when it comes to playgrounds and public parks that must be part of your Doha travel itinerary. Perfect for picnics and biking around leafy landscapes with the family, the well-equipped play area means that parents can keep their tiny tots gainfully occupied for hours.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
