Must See

Al-Zubara

Al-Zubara was a large commercial region in the 18th century, and was the historic stronghold of the ai-Khalifa, the ruling family of Bahrain. However, all that remains now is a fort, which has been restored and converted into the Al-Zubara Regional Museum. It has some interesting exhibits of pottery and archaeology and some bleak views from the towers, which may conjure up visions of French Foreign Legion.

Camel Racing

While the national sport of Qatar is football, there are several camel racing tracks, offering a fun four-legged spectacle. The main racetrack is at Shahaniya, about 30 kilometres west of Doha. Rather like an Arabian version of Newmarket or Newbury, the town is given over to the training and breeding of racing camels. The races take place during the cooler months, and spectators follow the camels in 4x4 vehicles, as they canter around the 18-kilometre circuit. Up to 250 camels take part, with big money and prestige at stake. However, travellers should be aware that child jockeys are often badly treated.

Doha

It may not have the glamour and the allure of some of the other big cities in the region, but the capital, Doha, has a certain innocent charm of its own, with its rich mixture of traditional Arabic and modern architecture. The modern town clusters around the Grand Mosque, the New Amir's Palace and the Clock Tower. The Corniche and the souks are the heart of the city, while at night the Downtown area is a throng of people eating, shopping or just hanging out. Daytime activities include strolling around the city's lawned gardens and fine museums, such as the excellent National Museum, which traces the country's development.

Doha also has several marinas, sub-aqua clubs and some good sailing facilities.

Khor Al-Odeid

Dubbed the 'inland sea' by tour operators, this tidal lake can only be reached by 4-wheel drive vehicles. The area is known for its outstanding natural beauty and the surrounding dunes are very Lawrence of Arabia. A tranquil night spent among the sands under the brightly-shining stars is another highlight.

Umm Salal Mohammed

Located in the east of the country, 25 km (15 mi) from Doha, Umm Salal Mohammed is home to the ruins of a 19th-century fort. This relatively small, whitewashed rectangular building has two towers, one of which rises to a height of four storeys. There is a small mosque near the fort with an old minaret that has recently been restored to its original state, and some ruined mud-brick fortifications.