With an incredible 560 kilometers of breathtaking coastline, warm Gulf waters, and year-round sunshine, Qatar has established itself as a premier destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. The country’s diverse beaches cater to all preferences, whether you’re looking for vibrant social scenes, serene natural escapes, or family-friendly spots.

From luxurious beach clubs to hidden gems untouched by crowds, each location offers a unique experience that showcases the natural beauty and cultural richness of Qatar. Get ready to unwind, explore, and discover the perfect beach getaway!

Doha Sands Beach Club

Your Oasis of Fun!
Dive into a vibrant atmosphere at Doha Sands Beach Club, where lively music and sun-soaked relaxation await. Enjoy exclusive access with every West Bay hotel booking through Discover Qatar. Indulge in delicious snacks from various kiosks, lounge on comfy sunbeds, and dance to the beats of talented DJs. The club also hosts themed events and beach parties, making it perfect for both families and nightlife enthusiasts.

• Activities: Water sports, beach games, and live DJ sessions enhance the beach experience.
• Family-Friendly: Designated kids' areas with activities ensure fun for all ages.
• Dining: A variety of food options from local cuisine to international favorites.

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM
Amenities: Snack kiosks, sunbeds, showers, and restrooms.

Al Maha Island

Entertainment Meets Luxury!
Al Maha Island is a sprawling 230,000 square meters of fun, featuring attractions like Lusail Winter Wonderland and the upscale Nammos Beach Club. Experience world-class dining with options from Zuma to casual eateries like Pura Vida, ensuring a delightful blend of leisure and excitement. The island also offers water sports, beach cabanas, and live entertainment events throughout the year.

• Attractions: Lusail Winter Wonderland for family-friendly entertainment and seasonal festivities.
• Dining Options: From fine dining to casual eateries, there's something for every palate.
• Water Activities: Jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling are among the available options.

Highlights:

• Dining Options: Fine dining and casual eateries
• Activities: Water sports, winter wonderland attractions, and beach clubs.

Fuwairit Beach

Nature’s Gem!
Fuwairit Beach boasts powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, ideal for kitesurfing and beach volleyball. This beautiful beach is also a nesting site for Hawksbill sea turtles from April to July, providing a unique touch of nature’s wonder. The beach is surrounded by scenic dunes, making it a perfect spot for photography and nature walks.

• Activities: Kitesurfing lessons available for beginners.
• Wildlife: Observe nesting turtles and various bird species in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Views: Ideal for sunset watching and photography.

Distance from Doha: 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Activities: Kitesurfing, beach volleyball, turtle watching.

Khor Al Adaid Beach

A Unique Retreat!
Known as the Inland Sea, Khor Al Adaid Beach offers a tranquil escape with stunning dune landscapes. Experience the magic of shifting sands and breathtaking sunsets in this serene environment. It’s a popular spot for camping, picnicking, and off-road driving, offering a chance to explore the nearby desert.

• Activities: Dune bashing and guided desert tours available.
• Camping: Designated areas for overnight camping under the stars.
• Photography: Stunning landscapes make it a favorite for photographers.

Distance from Doha: 80 km, best accessed by 4x4
Activities: Dune bashing, camping, stargazing.

Al Shamal Beach

Family-Friendly Fun!
Stretching along the Shamal Corniche, Al Shamal Beach features shallow waters perfect for children. With ample amenities like shade structures, fixed benches, and washrooms, it’s the ideal spot for a relaxing family day. The beach is also a great place for picnics, beach games, and exploring nearby historical sites.

• Amenities: Family-friendly facilities include picnic tables and playgrounds.
• Historical Sites: Nearby archaeological sites add educational value to your visit.
• Water Safety: Lifeguards on duty during peak hours ensure family safety.

Distance from Doha: 97 km, about 1.5 hours by car
Amenities: Family-friendly facilities, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

Al Thakhira Beach

Serene Sanctuary!
Located 35-40 km from Doha, Al Thakhira Beach is a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing, surrounded by Qatar’s largest mangrove reserves. Enjoy picnics and barbecues in this peaceful setting, where you can also engage in birdwatching and explore the unique mangrove ecosystem.

• Eco-Tours: Guided tours available for birdwatching and mangrove exploration.
• Picnic Areas: Designated spots for family gatherings and barbecues.
• Water Activities: Kayaking through the mangroves offers a unique perspective of nature.

Distance from Doha: About an hour’s drive
Activities: Swimming, picnicking, birdwatching.

Al Ghariya Beach

Island Paradise!
Al Ghariya Beach, situated northeast of Qatar, offers pristine sands and lush greenery. Ideal for outdoor activities and weekend camping, this beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The shallow waters are safe for children, making it a great family destination.

• Camping Facilities: Designated camping areas with amenities for overnight stays.
• Outdoor Sports: Volleyball and beach soccer are popular activities.
• Exploration: Nearby islands offer opportunities for snorkeling and exploring marine life.

Distance from Doha: 80 km, accessible by 4x4
Activities: Camping, water sports, beach games.

Al Wakrah Beach

Family-Friendly Escape!
Al Wakrah Beach is perfect for families seeking a relaxing day by the sea. With excellent facilities, including gazebos, children’s playgrounds, and sports courts, it’s a great spot for fun and relaxation. The beach also features a scenic promenade lined with cafés and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.

• Dining Options: A variety of eateries along the promenade serve diverse cuisines.
• Sports Facilities: Volleyball courts and soccer fields are available for active families.
• Scenic Walks: The promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls and sunset views.

Distance from Doha: 30 km via Ras Abu Abboud Expressway
Amenities: Gazebos, playgrounds, and dining options.

Al Aaliya Island

Snorkeling Paradise!
A hidden gem for snorkeling enthusiasts, Al Aaliya Island is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Enjoy a peaceful day in nature, perfect for family outings and adventure seekers. The island's untouched beauty and clear waters make it ideal for a day of exploration.

• Snorkeling Gear: Rentals available on-site for ease of access.
• Fishing Opportunities: Ideal spots for fishing enthusiasts to explore.
• Eco-Friendly Practices: Conservation efforts in place to protect marine life.

Travel Method: 30-minute boat ride from central Doha
Activities: Snorkeling, fishing, and nature walks.

Zekreet Beach

Picturesque Solitude!
Zekreet Beach features stunning limestone formations and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for camping under the stars. Explore unique geological features while enjoying the serene landscape. The beach is also known for its breathtaking sunsets and is a great spot for photography and nature lovers.

• Geological Features: Explore unique limestone structures and rock formations.
• Camping: Designated camping spots for a night under the stars.
• Wildlife Watching: Spot diverse wildlife, including migratory birds and local fauna.

Distance from Doha: 90 km, accessible by standard or 4x4 vehicles
Activities: Camping, photography, exploring rock formations.

Mafjar Beach

Cultural and Natural Beauty!
Mafjar Beach combines clean sandy shores with the remnants of an abandoned village, offering a unique experience. Perfect for families, this beach provides excellent facilities for a day of fun. Visitors can explore the historical ruins while enjoying activities like snorkeling and picnicking.

• Historical Exploration: Wander around the remnants of the old village for a glimpse into the past.
• Snorkeling: Clear waters provide great visibility for underwater exploration.
• Picnic Areas: Well-equipped spots for family gatherings and meals by the sea.

Distance from Doha: Drive north on Shamal Road, approximately 2.5 km from the last roundabout
Activities: Snorkeling, exploring ruins, picnicking.

Dukhan Beach

Idyllic Getaway!
On the west coast, Dukhan Beach offers a serene escape with dramatic landscapes. Known for its camping spots and water sports, it’s an excellent weekend destination for families and friends. The beach features soft golden sands and is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the shore.

• Camping Spots: Designated areas for overnight camping with facilities.
• Water Sports: Opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and fishing.
• Scenic Views: Dramatic cliffs and sunsets make it a photographers' delight.

Distance from Doha: 90 km, roughly a 45-minute drive
Activities: Camping, watersports, swimming.

Each of these stunning beaches offers a unique experience, ensuring that your time in Qatar is filled with relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Whether you're seeking family-friendly fun, thrilling water sports, or tranquil solitude, Qatar's beaches have something for everyone. Plan your visit today and create lasting memories by the sea!

A Saudia Airlines flight carrying 442 Hajj pilgrims was diverted in Indonesian airspace on Tuesday after a bomb threat was received via email. The aircraft, a Boeing 777 operating as Flight SV 5276 from Jeddah to Jakarta, was carrying 207 men and 235 women on their pilgrimage journey when the threat was reported at around 7:30 am local time. The message, sent by an unidentified individual, threatened to "blow up" the plane while it was en route to Jakarta International Airport.

In response to the security alert, the pilot diverted the flight to Kualanamu International Airport in Medan, North Sumatra, landing safely just after 10:00 am. Upon arrival, all passengers and crew were immediately evacuated without incident. Indonesian authorities, including a joint team from the police bomb disposal unit, military, and airport security, thoroughly searched the aircraft, baggage, and cargo compartments. The sweep concluded at 6:47 pm and found no evidence of explosives or other threats.

During the inspection, the aircraft was moved to an isolated area of the airport to ensure normal operations continued at Kualanamu. Passengers and crew were accommodated in nearby hotels while the investigation proceeded. After the aircraft was cleared and declared safe, it was allowed to continue its journey to Jakarta with its original passengers and crew on Wednesday morning.

Saudia Airlines emphasized that the safety and well-being of its guests and crew remain the highest priority. The airline provided full care and support to all onboard and arranged onward travel. Indonesian authorities praised the swift and coordinated response of the airline, airport security, and local government for maintaining calm and ensuring passenger safety throughout the incident.

The Directorate General of Indonesian Civil Aviation confirmed that the bomb threat was a hoax, and no one was harmed during the incident. The quick action prevented any disruption to other airport activities, and the situation was resolved without further incident.

The recent escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict has resulted in over 500 flights being cancelled or delayed across key international airports in Israel, the UAE, Qatar, and Turkey. This turmoil, characterized by missile attacks and extensive airspace disruptions, has forced airlines such as Delta, Air India, United, Emirates, Saudia, and Qatar Airways to alter their operations drastically.

As regional tensions rise, major airports—including Ben Gurion, Dubai International, Hamad International, and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen—have become focal points of aviation chaos, impacting countless travelers as they approach the busy summer season.

Ben Gurion Airport, Israel: 53 Flights Cancelled

In Israel, Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv faced significant disruptions, with 53 flights cancelled on Saturday alone. This surge in cancellations was largely due to safety concerns following Iran's missile retaliation against Israeli airstrikes that targeted prominent Iranian officials and nuclear scientists. While there were no reported delays, multiple airlines opted to suspend operations altogether.

United Airlines cancelled five flights, effectively halting their operations for the day. Similarly, Delta Air Lines and KLM cancelled all their scheduled flights. FlyDubai reported 10 cancellations, affecting over 60% of its daily operations. Other regional carriers, including Israir, El Al, and Cyprus Airways, also faced total cancellations on some routes.

Dubai International and Sharjah Airports, UAE: 362 Disruptions Combined

The UAE's aviation sector was hit particularly hard, with Dubai International Airport reporting a staggering 85 cancellations and 184 delays, summing up to 269 disruptions—the highest for any single airport in the region. Sharjah International Airport added to this chaos with 34 cancellations and 23 delays, bringing the national total to 362 flight disruptions.

FlyDubai, based in Dubai, suffered significantly, cancelling 62 flights and delaying 57 more, which impacted nearly one in five of its operations. Emirates, the UAE's flagship airline, experienced 16 cancellations and 86 delays. This ripple effect extended to other carriers such as Air India, Air India Express, SpiceJet, and Royal Jordanian, showcasing the widespread impact on airlines not directly operating in Israel.

Hamad International Airport, Qatar: 105 Disruptions

In Qatar, Hamad International Airport experienced a wave of complications, with 22 cancellations and 83 delays, totaling 105 impacted flights. Qatar Airways, the national carrier, was responsible for the majority of these disruptions, cancelling 22 flights and delaying 74, which accounted for roughly 12% of its daily schedule. Other airlines, such as Finnair, China Southern, and Jazeera Airways, also reported minor delays.

Despite Qatar's neutral position in the Israel-Iran conflict, the escalating regional instability and the risks associated with overflight prompted many airlines to reroute or suspend their operations through Qatari airspace.

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, Turkey: 68 Flights Affected

Turkey's Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul reported 15 cancellations and 53 delays, primarily driven by regional carriers. Pegasus Airlines was particularly affected, leading the disruption count with 34 delays and 15 cancellations. Turkish Airlines, while reporting 10 delays, managed to avoid cancellations.

Although Turkey is geographically distanced from the immediate conflict zones, the substantial number of connecting flights through its airports resulted in cascading effects on operations. Factors like repositioning of flight crews and regulatory detours contributed to the delays.

Understanding the Flight Disruptions

The extensive wave of flight cancellations and delays across Israel, the UAE, Qatar, and Turkey is a direct consequence of the rapidly escalating military tensions between Israel and Iran. The conflict began with Israel launching a significant air offensive aimed at Iranian nuclear facilities, military leaders, and scientists, which reportedly resulted in considerable damage and loss of life.

In retaliation, Iran launched approximately 200 ballistic missiles and drones toward Israel in successive waves, prompting air raid sirens and emergency shelter protocols in cities such as Tel Aviv. The ensuing chaos not only led to civilian casualties but also created a perilous environment for air traffic, forcing Ben Gurion Airport to suspend or limit its operations.

The conflict's repercussions quickly spread across the region, impacting airlines operating in Dubai, Doha, Sharjah, and Istanbul. Increased risks of airspace intrusions and the potential for misidentification by military radar created significant pressure for airlines to cancel or reroute flights. Countries like Qatar, Turkey, and the UAE, while not directly involved in the conflict, found themselves vulnerable due to their proximity and status as major aviation hubs.

In addition to physical threats, airspace closures and logistical challenges—including the repositioning of aircraft and crew shortages—compounded the operational impact. Airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, FlyDubai, United, Delta, and Saudia had no choice but to preemptively cancel flights or implement major delays to safeguard passengers and crew members.

Aviation regulators and defense agencies issued warnings and no-fly advisories for certain air corridors, further diminishing safe routing options. Consequently, what began as a localized military conflict evolved into one of the most significant aviation disruptions in the region this year, leaving many passengers stranded and airline operations fractured.

With tensions remaining high and both nations signaling potential further military action, these disruptions are likely to persist or even escalate in the coming days.

Conflict Fallout and Airspace Concerns

The current flight disruptions are unfolding amid one of the most dangerous escalations in the Middle East in recent history. Israel's military actions targeted Iranian nuclear capabilities, while Iran's response involved a concerted missile assault. Air raid sirens rang out across multiple Israeli cities, prompting a temporary grounding of civilian flights.

U.S. military forces have assisted Israel in intercepting some missile threats, yet the situation has compelled precautionary measures from aviation authorities throughout the region. Airlines have rerouted flights away from potential conflict zones, leading to widespread scheduling chaos.

Carriers operating through major regional hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Istanbul have faced severe disruptions to long-haul connections, particularly those connecting to Asia, Europe, and North America. Airlines, including Delta, United, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Saudia, either paused services or made significant network adjustments over the weekend.

Economic Impact: Oil Prices and Tourism Concerns

In conjunction with the aviation disruptions, oil prices surged by 7% in global markets, driven by concerns that the conflict could extend into the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit artery. The situation has raised alarms within the global tourism sector, especially with the summer travel season in full swing.

With over 500 flights cancelled or delayed, travelers across the Middle East are now bracing for ripple effects that may linger for days or even weeks. Airlines are striving to rebook passengers and redirect aircraft, but ongoing security uncertainties could lead to additional suspensions or timetable adjustments.

Airlines and Airports Affected

Here’s a detailed overview of the airlines impacted across the region:

Ben Gurion International Airport (Israel)

• Total Flights Cancelled: 53
• Total Flights Delayed: 0
• Airlines Affected:
  • FlyDubai: 10 cancellations (62% of flights)
  • Aegean Airlines: 8 cancellations (50%)
  • Israir: 7 cancellations
  • United Airlines: 5 cancellations
  • KLM: All flights cancelled
  • Delta Air Lines: All flights cancelled
  • El Al: Total cancellations on select routes
  • Cyprus Airways: Total cancellations on select routes

Dubai International Airport (UAE)

• Total Flights Cancelled: 85
• Total Flights Delayed: 184
• Airlines Affected:
  • FlyDubai: 62 cancellations, 57 delays
  • Emirates: 16 cancellations, 86 delays
  • Air India: Various delays
  • Air India Express: Various delays
  • SpiceJet: Various delays
  • Royal Jordanian: Various delays
  • Mahan Air: 2 cancellations
  • Syrian Arab Airlines: 1 cancellation

Hamad International Airport (Qatar)

• Total Flights Cancelled: 22
• Total Flights Delayed: 83
• Airlines Affected:
  • Qatar Airways: 22 cancellations, 74 delays
  • Finnair: Minor delays
  • China Southern Airlines: Minor delays
  • Jazeera Airways: Minor delays
  • Royal Jordanian: Minor delays

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Turkey)

• Total Flights Cancelled: 15
• Total Flights Delayed: 53
• Airlines Affected:
  • Pegasus Airlines: 15 cancellations, 34 delays
  • Turkish Airlines: 10 delays
  • Smart Lynx: 1 delay
  • Flynas: 1 delay

Summary of Disruptions

• Dubai International (UAE): 269 disruptions
• Hamad International (Qatar): 105 disruptions
• Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (Turkey): 68 disruptions
• Sharjah International (UAE): 57 disruptions
• Ben Gurion (Israel): 53 cancellations

In summary, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has led to a significant surge in flight cancellations and delays, with over 552 flights affected across the Middle East. Travelers now face a volatile environment for air travel, as major airlines scramble to adjust their schedules amid escalating tensions. International aviation authorities are closely monitoring the situation, anticipating further disruptions as military operations continue.

An easyJet flight from Geneva to Edinburgh was forced to declare a mid-air emergency and return to Geneva shortly after takeoff on Sunday evening due to a bird strike, cutting the journey short and causing flight cancellation.

The Airbus A320, flight EZY3294, took off from Geneva Airport around 6:06 PM local time but encountered a bird strike during its initial climb. The pilots immediately declared an emergency and circled near Geneva before safely landing back about 40 minutes after departure. The bird strike caused a technical defect on the aircraft that maintenance crews could not quickly resolve, leading easyJet to cancel the flight rather than attempt repairs, prioritizing passenger safety above schedule adherence.

EasyJet issued formal notices to affected passengers, apologizing for the inconvenience and providing information on rebooking options and accommodations for those impacted. Emergency services attended the aircraft upon landing as a precaution, and all passengers disembarked safely without incident.

This incident adds to a recent string of easyJet emergencies in mid-June 2025. Two other flights were forced to make emergency landings within days: one from Paphos to Bristol diverted to Izmir due to smoke detection, and another from Manchester to Enfidha diverted to Paris Orly for unspecified reasons. Both flights landed safely with no injuries reported.

These events underscore the operational challenges airlines face in ensuring safety amid technical issues and environmental hazards like bird strikes. EasyJet's response in following established emergency protocols demonstrates its commitment to passenger safety despite the disruption to travel plans.

In summary, the Geneva-to-Edinburgh easyJet flight's emergency return following a bird strike highlights ongoing aviation safety vigilance during the busy European summer travel period, with the airline taking all necessary precautions to protect its passengers.

Vietnam’s aviation authority has taken the unprecedented step of temporarily closing Tho Xuan Airport in Thanh Hoa Province after a series of unauthorized drone sightings near the runway raised serious safety concerns and disrupted flight operations over several days.

The suspension began at 6:00 p.m. on Monday and will last until 6:00 a.m. Tuesday, affecting at least 10 civilian flights. This move follows three consecutive days of drone incursions near the airport, which forced multiple flight diversions and delays. On Sunday alone, two Vietjet Air flights from Ho Chi Minh City were rerouted one to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport and the other to Vinh Airport in Nghe An Province.

Authorities described the situation as “increasingly complex and difficult to control,” prompting the urgent suspension of all flights in and out of the airport. The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has directed airport officials to work closely with air traffic controllers, police, and military units to detect and neutralize unauthorized drones.

The Thanh Hoa People's Committee has been tasked with investigating the breaches and holding violators accountable. Joint patrols have been deployed in nearby residential areas to prevent further incidents and raise public awareness about aviation safety regulations.

Vietnamese law strictly prohibits any unmanned aerial vehicles within an 8-kilometer radius of airports, especially near takeoff and landing zones. This ban includes drones, flycams, sky lanterns, kites, balloons, laser pointers, and signal flares. Violators face fines ranging from VND 3 million to VND 40 million ($115–$1,530) and confiscation of their equipment.

Tho Xuan Airport, located in Sao Vang Town, north-central Vietnam, is a joint civil-military facility handling 10 to 15 commercial flights daily alongside military operations. The recent drone incidents have exposed vulnerabilities in airport security and prompted urgent measures to safeguard civil aviation safety in the region.

The first four months of 2025 have brought a mixed bag of passenger traffic trends across Oman’s airports, reflecting shifting travel dynamics in the region. According to the latest data from the National Centre for Statistics and Information, a total of 4,701,055 passengers passed through the country’s airports from January to April, marking a slight 4.1% decrease compared to the same period last year.

Muscat International Airport, the nation’s primary aviation hub, handled 4,222,789 passengers by the end of April  down 4.7% from 4,428,726 in early 2024. Flight operations also saw a notable dip, with the number of flights falling 8.6% to 29,731, compared to 32,520 last year. Despite the decline, Muscat remains the busiest airport in Oman, serving as the gateway for millions of travelers.

Indian nationals continue to dominate the passenger demographic at Muscat International Airport, with 182,628 travelers recorded so far this year. Omanis rank second with 101,087 passengers, followed by Pakistanis at 47,078, highlighting the strong regional connectivity and expatriate travel patterns.

In contrast to Muscat’s slight downturn, Salalah Airport experienced a positive surge in passenger numbers, increasing by 6.8% to 458,394 compared to 429,181 last year. This growth underscores Salalah’s rising appeal as a travel destination and transit point. However, flight operations at Salalah saw a marginal decrease of 0.2%, totaling 2,974 flights.

Sohar Airport recorded the most dramatic drop in activity, with flights plunging 62.5% to just 72 from 192, and passenger numbers plummeting by a staggering 98.7% to only 307 travelers, down from 23,842 last year. This sharp decline signals significant operational challenges or changes in airline services at Sohar.
Duqm Airport also experienced a slight downturn, with flights decreasing by 1.9% to 204 and passenger numbers falling 2.7% to 19,565 from 20,106 in the previous year.

While Oman’s overall airport passenger traffic has softened slightly in early 2025, the varied performance across its airports highlights evolving travel trends and regional economic factors. Muscat International remains a vital hub, Salalah shows promising growth, and the steep declines at Sohar and Duqm suggest areas needing strategic focus to boost connectivity and passenger confidence.

As Oman continues to develop its aviation infrastructure and tourism offerings, monitoring these trends will be key to sustaining growth and enhancing the travel experience for both residents and visitors alike.