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!

In a decisive stride towards digital transformation and enhanced traveler convenience, Kuwait has launched its new e-Visa portal, effective July 2025. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Interior and reported by Gulf News, positions Kuwait among the Gulf region’s digital frontrunners by streamlining the visa process for visitors from a wide array of countries.

The e-Visa platform, available through e.gov.kw, is open to nationals from most European and North American countries, Australia, Japan, and all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) residents. This digital gateway welcomes applications for four primary visa categories:

• Tourist Visa (90 days per entry): Welcoming globe-trotters eager to explore Kuwait’s culture and landscape.
• Family Visit Visa (30 days): Easing reunions for relatives of Kuwaiti residents.

• Business Visit Visa (30 days): Facilitating professionals and entrepreneurs attending meetings or forging partnerships.

• Official Visit Visa (30 days): Streamlining entry for government delegations and diplomats.

Each visa category comes with dedicated requirements and a hassle-free, paperless application flow.
Applying for a Kuwaiti entry visa is now entirely digital, removing the need for embassy visits or physical paperwork. The process involves:

1. Registering online via email or government account.
2. Selecting the suitable visa type aligned with the visit's purpose.
3. Zploading essential documents, including:
   A passport bio page (valid for at least 6 months)
   A passport-sized photo on a white background
   Evidence of return flight and hotel bookings
   Sponsor or invitation letters where required
4. Paying visa fees online (ranging from USD 10 to USD 30, depending on nationality).
   Tracking the application using a passport number or reference code.
5. Visa decisions are typically made within 1–3 working days. Approved applicants receive their e-Visas via email, ready for printout or digital presentation upon arrival.

This fully digital system lies at the heart of Kuwait’s Vision 2035, marking a significant leap forward in public service modernization. The move also reflects broader regional goals within the GCC to foster seamless cross-border mobility, reinforcing Kuwait’s commitment to welcoming visitors and investors in a tech-forward, streamlined manner.

Key rules to know include:

• Stay Limits: Tourist visas allow stays of up to 90 days; all other categories permit 30-day visits.
• Eligibility: Open to citizens of approved countries and all GCC residents.
• Visa on Arrival: Still available for some nationalities—however, travelers are encouraged to use the e-Visa system for efficiency.
• Enforcement: Overstays or misuse may result in fines or future entry bans—a firm reminder that digital convenience comes with clear accountability.

With its new e-Visa portal, Kuwait is not only simplifying travel but also setting a digital benchmark in the region—paving the way for smarter, faster, and more welcoming borders.

The European Union is set to revolutionize the Schengen visa application process by making it fully digital by 2028, phasing out the traditional paper-based applications and visa stickers. Instead, a secure, encrypted digital barcode will replace the physical visa sticker, enhancing security, speeding up processing, and embracing technological innovation.

France pioneered this digital move by issuing 70,000 digital Schengen visas with barcodes during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Travelers scan these barcodes at border checkpoints, allowing immigration officials to access personal and visa details through a central EU database. This pilot marked a significant step toward a seamless, contactless travel experience.

From the applicant’s perspective, the entire visa process will be conducted online. Individuals will upload documents, monitor their application's progress, and pay fees digitally through a centralized EU portal. After completing these steps, travelers receive a digitally signed barcode visa. First-time applicants will still need to provide biometric data in person, but repeat travelers whose biometric data have been collected within the past 59 months will enjoy a simplified process.

Applicants must apply through the embassy of their main destination or, for trips involving multiple countries, via the embassy of the country where they will spend the most time or enter first. Most countries use application centers like VFS Global, except Spain, which uses BLS International in India, while France requires appointment booking via the Démarches Simplifiées platform.

 Required documents include a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and two blank pages, a completed application form, photographs, travel insurance with coverage of €30,000 or more, flight and hotel bookings, a cover letter, and financial proof such as recent bank statements or salary slips.

Biometric data—fingerprints and photograph—must be provided during the appointment for first-time applicants and then stored in the EU’s Visa Information System to facilitate future applications. Visa fees generally stand at approximately €80 for adults, €40 for children aged 6 to 12, and are free for children under six, with additional service fees depending on the application center.

Processing times are typically 15 calendar days but can extend to 30 or even 60 days during busy periods or for complex cases. Applicants are advised to apply 30 to 60 days before their trip and avoid last-minute filings to reduce the risk of delays. Embassies like Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia often offer faster processing times and have lower rejection rates.

Applicants should be prepared for the possibility of interviews, especially with embassies such as Germany and France, where questions about their itinerary, finances, and intent to return might be asked.
Changes to the appeals process were introduced in Germany as of July 1, 2025, where informal appeals are no longer permitted, and rejected applications must undergo formal legal procedures. Additionally, Indian nationals who have previously held two Schengen visas within three years may now qualify for multi-year visas valid for two or five years under the EU’s new “cascade” regime.
This digital upgrade not only reduces paperwork and costs but also significantly enhances fraud prevention and border security across the 27 Schengen countries. Travelers can expect a more transparent, streamlined visa application and entry process, embracing the future of travel in Europe with greater convenience and security. For the latest updates, travelers should consult the official EU visa website.

Starting August 1, 2025, Sri Lanka will grant one-year visas to Maldivian nationals, a significant policy shift aimed at strengthening regional tourism and economic cooperation, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath announced during the 2025 Hotel Show in Colombo. Previously, Maldivians could only obtain short-term visas under certain conditions, limiting travel and stays.

This new visa provision is expected to encourage more frequent visits and longer stays, particularly boosting health tourism, as many Maldivians have historically traveled to Sri Lanka for medical treatment but faced visa-related hurdles that caused a decline in arrivals.

The move comes ahead of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s upcoming official visit to the Maldives, at the invitation of Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, where both sides will engage in high-level discussions to further deepen bilateral ties and explore cooperation opportunities in the hospitality sector.

This policy complements Sri Lanka’s broader tourism revival strategy, which recently included waiving visa fees for tourists from 40 additional countries, including the UK, expanding visa-free access to a total of 47 countries. Although this expansion is expected to reduce direct visa fee revenue by an estimated USD 66 million, the government views it as a strategic investment to stimulate long-term growth in tourist arrivals and economic recovery.

This enhanced visa offering for Maldivians not only strengthens people-to-people connections with a key neighboring country given that Maldives grants visa-free entry to Sri Lankan nationals—but also signals Sri Lanka’s commitment to revitalize its tourism sector by facilitating easier, more sustained travel from the region.

As international travel surges this summer, Emirates has unveiled fresh insights into global travel trends, showing a marked shift towards immersive cultural experiences and lesser-explored destinations. Analysis of booking data and flight searches for July and August reveals where wanderlust is taking travellers in 2025 and the results point to exciting new hotspots across Asia, Europe, and the Indian Ocean.

Overall global flight searches for summer 2025 have risen by 7% compared to last year. France tops the list with a remarkable 35% increase in outbound travel searches, followed closely by Ireland, Canada, and Saudi Arabia. Germany and the UAE also show robust demand, underscoring widespread intent to travel from major hubs.

But it is the Far East and Indian Ocean that really steal the spotlight in Emirates’ summer booking patterns. Vietnam emerges as this year’s breakout star with a phenomenal 61% jump in interest paired with strong booking numbers. Emirates operates 25 weekly flights to three Vietnamese cities Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and new this June, Da Nang via Bangkok offering seamless connections from Europe and key American hubs.

Vietnam’s appeal is multifaceted: its vibrant cities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and over 3,000 km of unspoiled coastline entice culturally curious travellers and culinary adventurers alike. From bustling street markets to hidden gems, Vietnam promises an authentic feast for the senses.

Not far behind, the tropical island paradise of Mauritius captivates travellers with a 41% rise in flight searches. Emirates offers two daily A380 flights to this idyllic Indian Ocean destination, perfect for those seeking luxury and tranquility.

Sri Lanka also ranks highly with a 32% surge in interest, thanks to its rich culture, pristine beaches, scenic ‘tea country,’ and accessible luxury. Meanwhile, Japan, a perennial favourite, continues to draw travellers with a 28% rise in flight searches. Emirates’ 21 weekly flights connect passengers to Tokyo Narita, Tokyo Haneda, and Osaka, providing gateway access to Japan’s blend of stunning landscapes, modern cities, and renowned cuisine.

Completing the top five, France enjoys a 25% increase in booking demand. Emirates supports this boost robustly, flying 21 weekly routes including three daily A380 flights to Paris, daily A380s to Nice, and a daily A350 service to Lyon helping meet the heightened demand from global travellers.

Travellers in the UAE have increased flight searches by 13%, with rising interest in destinations like Sri Lanka, Jordan, France, India, Lebanon, and Morocco. US-based Emirates customers are increasingly exploring African destinations such as Egypt, Kenya, and South Africa, while UK travellers have ramped up searches by 12%, focusing on far-flung locales like New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius.

Indian travellers show growing appetite for Australia, New Zealand and Ireland, while Australians plan their European summer adventures with increased interest in France and the UK. German travellers are heading east with rising searches for Japan, Vietnam, South Korea, and the Seychelles.

Longer vacations dominate summer plans, with nearly one-third of travellers from India, Australia, the UK, and Germany extending their trips beyond a month. US travellers typically opt for slightly shorter, 2-3 week getaways.

With inbound passenger traffic projected to remain strong this summer, Dubai continues to affirm its position as a premier global destination year-round. Emirates’ data show solo travellers make up nearly half of visitors from the US, India, and Australia, blending business and leisure in stays averaging just over a week.

Family travel patterns vary by nationality: about one-third of US and Indian visitors arrive with family, with Indian families preferring shorter visits and American families exploring Dubai over 1-2 weeks. UK families usually stay longer than two weeks.

Couples also represent a significant visitor segment, especially younger Australian and German pairs who favor extended stays ranging from two weeks up to a month maximising their time to explore Dubai’s extensive offerings.

Emirates’ data reflects flight searches and bookings on emirates.com for travel between 1 July and 30 August 2025, compared year-over-year.

This summer, with Emirates’ extensive global network, travellers are embracing fresh experiences, new cultures, and longer escapes—proving that the world’s curiosity is as boundless as ever.

Starting July 1, 2025, Armenia has opened its doors visa-free to citizens and residents of all Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. This landmark policy allows GCC passport holders and expatriates with valid residency permits (valid for at least six months) to visit Armenia for tourism, leisure, or business stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period—without the need for a visa.

This move marks a significant expansion of Armenia’s visa-free regime, which previously applied only to select GCC nationals such as those from the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait. By extending visa-free access to all GCC countries and their residents, Armenia aims to position itself as an accessible and welcoming destination in the South Caucasus, capitalizing on growing interest among Gulf travellers seeking authentic cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, and unique culinary offerings.

Armenia’s rich historical heritage, including ancient monasteries and vibrant urban culture in its capital Yerevan, combined with its natural beauty such as Lake Sevan and Dilijan National Park make it an attractive choice for GCC visitors. The country’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, coupled with direct flights from Gulf carriers like flydubai, Air Arabia, and Wizz Air, further enhances its appeal.

Officials highlight that the visa exemption will not only boost tourism but also strengthen economic and cultural ties between Armenia and the Gulf region, fostering increased business exchanges and investment opportunities. The policy also broadens accessibility for the substantial expatriate communities residing in the GCC, facilitating easier travel and deeper regional connections.

In summary, Armenia’s new visa-free entry for GCC citizens and residents is a strategic step to attract more visitors from the Gulf, offering them hassle-free access to explore its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and business potential starting mid-2025.