Joanna James
Qatar is a fantastic country, which is visited by thousands upon thousands of travellers on a daily basis. Having one of the busiest airports in Doha, this country is a must visit, both as a transit point as well as a point of cultural exploration. A great place to visit in Doha is the Doha Fort. This Fort, which is also known as Al Koot Fort, is a historically significant monument that is a standing testament to the colourful past of Qatar. Located in the heart of Doha, in close proximity to the lively Souq Waqif market, this 19th century fort is a place that everyone must visit and is especially interesting for all history enthusiasts and travellers keen to explore the nation's rich heritage and ancient history. Here’s how you can make the most out of your visit to this iconic site while also enjoying some of the other attractions in the area.
The Fort was originally built in 1880 by the Ottomans, and it was initially meant to be a police station that would have served to keep watch over the city's famous trade routes. It has since served various other functions, including as a prison in the early 1900s. The Fort's significance in history lies not only in the planning and architecture but also in the role it played in the development of Qatar over the last few decades. The year 1927 saw the Fort’s restoration at Sheikh Abdulla bin Jassim Al Thani's hands, which allowed the Doha fort to shine as a symbol of Qatar’s evolution. The Fort in the modern day serves as a museum that showcases some of the more interesting Qatari artefacts as well as photographs and other significant exhibits.
The Doha Forts architecture is based much on the traditional style of the Arabian military. There are four tall walls of the square structure of the Fort and each of those has its own circular tower at the corners. It is obvious that the tower's sturdy construction and high walls were built to keep people out, in other words, to act as a defensive structure. When you enter the Fort, you are greeted with many displays of Qatari artefacts, historical relics, and even some traditional crafts.
Visiting this iconic Fort during the cooler hours of the day would ensure a much more pleasant experience for everyone. The Fort is open from Sunday to Thursday, with hours from 9 AM to 12 PM and 4 PM to 7 PM. If you prefer to avoid crowds, it's best to visit in the early morning when the site is quieter and the temperatures are more manageable.
After touring the Fort to your heart’s content, consider extending your stay in Doha by heading to Banana Island Resort Doha or any other suitable accommodation in the area. Some of the five star hotels in Doha are located just a short boat ride from the mainland and usually feature world-class facilities, including fine dining, access to a private beach, and a relaxing spa. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
No visit to the iconic Doha fort is complete without exploring the nearby attractions. One such infamous place is the Souq Waqif. Located just a short walk from the Fort, this souq is home to a number of interesting shops that sell goods like spices and textiles as well as jewellery and unique souvenirs. It is a great place to experience the Qatari way of life first hand. The Museum of Islamic Art and the Mathaf, which is the Arab Museum of Modern Art, are also two viable options for visiting. Both these museums feature a collection of unique exhibits, and they will be a nice addition to your Qatari exploration.
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.
