Family holidays in the Middle East: exciting adventures and cultural discoveries for young and old alike

A few tips for your family holiday in Qatar

To make the most of your holiday in Qatar with your children, here are a few practical recommendations.

Choose a family-friendly hotel offering services such as kids’ clubs, secure swimming pools and special menus. Luxury hotels in Doha and on the coast often offer spacious family suites and activities for all ages.
Remember to book your excursions in advance, particularly to the desert or the sea, to guarantee quality family-friendly services. Theme parks such as Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park or Angry Birds World will delight your children and offer a refreshing break.
Finally, plan child-friendly cultural activities, such as the Qatar National Museum or the Katara Cultural Village, which offer interactive exhibitions and fun workshops. These enriching experiences will allow the whole family to discover Qatari history and traditions in a fun and educational way.

These are just some of the reasons why you should book your next family holiday to Qatar.

Qatari gastronomy: a Qatari feast for all the family

In Qatar, prepare your taste buds for a festival of flavours for young and old. Qatari cuisine, rich in Middle Eastern and Asian influences, offers a unique taste experience. Don’t miss machbous, an emblematic dish based on fragrant rice and tender meat, which children love for its sweet and spicy flavour. For a touch of luxury, Doha’s gourmet restaurants offer fusion menus combining local tradition and international cuisine. Let yourself be tempted by hammur, a local fish prepared according to refined recipes that appeal to even the most demanding palates. Those with a sweet tooth will be delighted by desserts such as umm ali, a creamy dried fruit pudding, or luqaimat, small fried bites with honey that your children will love. In the souqs, introduce your family to oriental flavours by sampling fresh dates and dried fruit. Fresh fruit juices and colourful smoothies will delight the youngest. For an unforgettable experience, opt for a desert dinner under the stars, where you can savour traditional grills in a magical setting. Luxury hotels also offer sumptuous buffets with live cooking stations, allowing everyone to put together their ideal meal. Don’t forget to try the local spiced tea, karak, a comforting drink the whole family will enjoy after a day of exploring.

Top 5 must-do activities for a family holiday in Qatar

Holidays are the perfect opportunity to connect, create lasting memories and discover new horizons during a 1 week, 2 weeks or 3 weeks stay in Qatar with your family. Discover our selection of 5 must-do activities in Qatar, perfect for families with children. These unique experiences will delight young and old alike, offering the perfect mix of adventure, culture and fun.

Qatar National Museum

Immerse yourself in Qatar’s fascinating history at this museum with its spectacular architecture. The interactive exhibits will captivate your children, allowing them to explore Qatari culture in a fun way. Don’t miss the regular family workshops, where your little ones can create their own masterpieces inspired by local traditions.

Desert safari

Experience an unforgettable family adventure on a desert safari. Climb aboard a 4×4 to surf the golden dunes, go sandboarding and watch the spectacular sunset. The evening continues with a Bedouin dinner under the stars, providing children with a magical, out-of-this-world experience.

Aquatic parc Desert Falls Water & Adventure

Cool off with the whole family at this modern water park. With slides for all ages, a wave pool and water games, it guarantees a day of laughter and fun. Parents will love the relaxation areas while the children have a blast on the safe attractions.

Souk Waqif

Explore this lively traditional market, a veritable cultural treasure trove. Your children will marvel at the colourful stalls, enchanting scents and lively atmosphere. Let them discover the local crafts, taste Qatari specialities, and visit the falcon corner for a unique experience.

Dhow cruise in Doha Bay

Give your family a unique perspective of Doha on a sunset cruise aboard a traditional dhow. Admire the glittering skyline, enjoy dinner on board, and relax with your family while discovering the beauty of the Qatari coastline.

Discover Qatar with your family: an oasis of culture, entertainment and unique experiences in the heart of the Middle East.

Climate and clothing: Qatar has extremely hot summers. It is best to visit between November and April for a more pleasant climate. In public places, dress that covers the shoulders and knees out of respect for local culture. In hotels and on private beaches, dress codes are more relaxed.

Transport and travel: Doha’s public transport network is modern and efficient, with a convenient metro for exploring the city. For added flexibility, taxis are affordable and safe. For desert excursions, choose reputable operators with suitable vehicles and experienced guides to ensure your safety.

Ramadan and public holidays: If you visit Qatar during Ramadan, be aware that many restaurants are closed during the day. Nevertheless, it’s a fascinating time to discover the local culture. Fridays and Saturdays are weekend days in Qatar, which may affect the opening times of shops and attractions.