The Great Forts of Qatar - Fascinating history in the exotic Gulf nation

Right in the heart of the capital city Doha, standing in all its glory is the majestic Al Koot Fort — a testament to the heyday of the country’s bygone Bedouin times. Also known as Doha Fort for its significance in the capital city, the old military fortress is best known for its breathtaking grandeur and striking architecture, but there’s more to the historic fort than just that. Its history dates back to the late 19th century, where the building complex was first used as an Ottoman police post before it was reconstructed into a fort in 1927. The remarkable architecture is certainly something that all visitors to the fort can look forward to but the collection of artefacts and exhibits housed inside the museum — from traditional Qatari handicrafts, and wooden ornaments to fishing equipment, boats and gypsum — are just as fascinating.

Dating all the way back to 1938, the Arab fort initially served as a coast guard station in Al Zubarah’s glory days, where the quarter was a prominent trading and pearling centre in Qatar. While the ancient town might be past its economic and commercial prominence, it is one of the country’s most historically and culturally significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites, where the eponymous fort complex is easily the star attraction.

Venturing to the sandy northwest coast of Qatar, the magnificent Al Rekayat Fort is an unmissable destination for all ardent history buffs. The 19th-century fortress boasts mind-blowing architectural magnificence and never fails to leave its many visitors in complete awe. After a day of revelling in fascinating history, retreat to one of the finest resorts in Doha. Your options include Banana Island Resort Doha.

Barzan for “high place”, the towering Barzan Towers are a couple of 19th-century watchtowers used for surveillance to protect local settlements back in the day. The stunning towers in traditional Qatari design are a magnificent architectural work of coral rock and limestone, making for a treat for the eyes for everyone to the historic site. The towers are set in Umm Salal Mohammed, a small laidback town about 15 kilometres north of Qatar’s capital city.

Nestled away in the seclusion of Madinat ash Shamal’s golden desert, Al Thaqab Fort is all you can see in the vast sandy expanse. This well-preserved fort complex dates back to the early 1800s and the rough blocks of coral, limestone and mud are just as good as they were in the olden days. Al Thaqab Fort is a 110-kilometre drive from the capital city, Doha.