Off The Beaten Path: 5 Unusual Things to Engage in Doha

Located in the margin of Saudi Arabia and Qatar, this unusual site sees three magnificent dunes clustering around a landlocked lagoon. This destination is called Khawr al Udayd by locals while the English name for the place is Inland Sea. The best time to visit this place is from November to April since the heat of the summer has died down by then. The water is usually warm and calm so it is a safe place to go for a swim. You can also experience exceptional wildlife and vegetation which are endemic to the area. 

Considered one of Qatar’s truly exceptional experiences, riding the golden dunes of the desert on a sandboard is a must-try activity for adventure lovers and tourists who are looking to encounter a once-in-a-lifetime experience during their Doha stay. This exceptional activity derives from similar sports like skateboarding, snowboarding and surfing. Just like they do in these sports activities, the rider balances on the board and skids down the dunes. Since there are bindings fixed to the boards, it is relatively safe for beginners too. This experience is often included in desert safaris which also offer dune bashing as part of their packages. 

Another thrilling activity which is only offered in this region is camel races. This extraordinary sports activity is deeply rooted in the country’s lineage and has been staged as part of special celebrations like weddings and other nationally important events in the past. Since the summer season runs from June to September, camel races usually take off towards the end of September, during the morning hours. The ideal time to go in search of this activity would be from October to February. These races are typically held on Fridays and the most famous race in the country, His Highness (H.H.) the Amir’s Main Race, takes off every year in March and April. 

The local food comprises Arab dishes. Machboos, a flavourful rice dish which includes meat and vegetables, is the country’s national dish. Spices like saffron, coriander, cumin and cinnamon are frequently used to marinade the dishes. Some of the most delicious street food to try includes harees (wheat and meat porridge especially consumed during Ramadan), luqaimat (sweet flour dumplings), madrouba (rice pudding), warak enab (stuffed vine leaves) and falafel (deep-fried chickpea or fava bean balls).

Suppose you are planning to visit Doha during the summer and are concerned about whether there are any cool activities available during this time of year - worry not. This wondrous city has ample things to do during the humid spell. One of the best activities is to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage at the National Museum. The exterior of the building itself is something to behold as it resembles Qatar’s emblem – the fragile and stunning desert rose. Explore stunning artefacts, historic manuscripts, awesome paintings, enthralling jewellery, splendid costumes and much more at this popular tourist destination. Since you are venturing there during the less crowded period, you will be able to inspect these wonders in peace. Doha Hotel Deals too can be easily located during this off-season. Book a Summer Staycation at Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli and you will be able to take advantage of some discounts and offers included in the package. This will help you save a few dollars to spend on more exciting activities during your trip.