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!

Pakistan has officially reopened its airspace to all commercial, cargo, and military flights after a period of heightened conflict with India, marking a significant move toward regional stability. The closure, which lasted several days, was implemented in response to a sharp escalation in hostilities that saw both nations exchange missile strikes and conduct military operations along their shared border.

The airspace shutdown caused widespread disruption, with hundreds of flights canceled or rerouted, affecting not only travelers between Pakistan and India but also international airlines whose routes traverse South Asian airspace.

The breakthrough came after a ceasefire agreement was reached on May 10, 2025, following intense diplomatic mediation involving the United States, China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar, the United Kingdom, and the United Nations. The ceasefire called for an immediate halt to all military activities and the reactivation of communication hotlines between the two countries’ militaries.

Officials in Islamabad stated that the decision to reopen the airspace was made in coordination with civil aviation authorities and after ensuring that security risks had subsided.

Airlines have welcomed the announcement, as the closure had forced many to take costly and time-consuming detours, leading to increased fuel consumption and operational expenses. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and other regional carriers have begun restoring their regular flight schedules, though authorities caution that it may take several days for operations to return to normal as aircraft and crews are repositioned.

The airspace reopening is expected to have a positive impact on the economies of both countries, restoring vital trade and travel links and allowing for the resumption of business and tourism activities. Analysts note that while the ceasefire and reopening are encouraging developments, the underlying issues-particularly the dispute over Kashmir-remain unresolved.

Nevertheless, the move is being seen as a hopeful sign that both nations are willing to take steps toward de-escalation and dialogue, with the international community urging continued engagement to build on this progress and prevent future crises.

Emirates has reached a new milestone in global aviation by recording its busiest year ever for baggage handling between April 2024 and March 2025, processing over 2.8 million bags each month-an average of 100,000 bags daily-across flights to 140 destinations worldwide. This surge represents a 3.7% year-on-year increase, reflecting the continued rebound and growth in international travel demand.

Despite the increased volume and complexity of international operations, Emirates maintained an industry-leading 99.9% baggage handling accuracy rate at its Dubai hub, one of the world’s busiest airports. The airline’s mishandling rate-covering delayed, lost, or misplaced baggage-remained exceptionally low at just 1.4 per 1,000 bags, which is nearly 30 times lower than some other major international carriers.

When baggage delays did occur, Emirates reunited 91% of affected bags with their owners within 72 hours, a notable achievement given the long and complex journeys typical of international and transfer baggage. In addition, Emirates’ Lost and Found team at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3 returned 94% of valuable lost items, such as passports and wallets, within 60 minutes, highlighting the airline’s commitment to customer service.

Emirates attributes its operational excellence to several factors:

• Advanced Technology and Innovation: The airline has invested millions in bespoke software and surveillance systems that provide real-time visibility over each bag’s journey, from check-in to final destination. In 2024, Emirates launched the Emirates Bag Connect digital tool, allowing passengers to track their luggage in real time via the Emirates app and website. This feature is now available at 80 international stations, enhancing transparency and customer confidence.
• Integrated Baggage Management Systems: Emirates leverages a combination of Dubai Airport’s Baggage Handling System, dnata’s Baggage Reconciliation System, and its own tracking platforms to monitor and manage baggage at every stage. These systems automatically assign delayed baggage to the next available flight, ensuring swift resolution.
• Highly Trained Workforce: Emirates’ ground handlers and operational staff undergo regular, rigorous training in both virtual and hands-on settings to stay updated on the latest systems, protocols, and best practices. This ensures consistent service standards and rapid adaptation to new technologies.
• Proactive Handling of Untagged Bags: At Dubai’s hub, around 2,300 bags per month are found without baggage tags. Emirates and dnata manage to recover and load 80% of these untagged bags onto their respective flights before departure, minimizing passenger disruption.
• Collaboration and Process Optimization: Seamless cooperation between Emirates, dnata, and Dubai Airports is essential for maintaining smooth baggage flow and high service levels, particularly given the scale and international nature of Emirates’ network.

The airline’s end-to-end baggage management workflow, robust digital infrastructure, and continuous innovation have set a new global benchmark for operational excellence and customer satisfaction in baggage handling. Emirates’ performance not only underscores its leadership in the aviation industry but also demonstrates how strategic investment in technology and people can deliver tangible benefits to millions of travelers each year.

On Sunday, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport experienced significant operational disruptions with at least 97 flights cancelled and over 150 delayed, as the fallout from the closure of 32 airports in northern and western India continued. These closures, implemented due to heightened security concerns amid tensions with Pakistan, remain in effect from May 9 to May 14, 2025, despite a ceasefire agreement reached on Saturday to halt all military action.

Of the cancelled flights, 96 were domestic-comprising 44 arrivals and 52 departures-while the sole international cancellation was Air India flight AI-139 to Tel Aviv. Flight delays averaged 15 minutes, affecting more than 150 flights on Sunday, following a day when 60 flights were cancelled and over 200 delayed.

The 32 airports closed are primarily located near the India-Pakistan border in the north, northwest, and western regions, severely restricting air traffic and reducing operations at Delhi Airport to about 60 percent of normal levels. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) cited operational reasons for the closures, which are part of ongoing security measures following the launch of Operation Sindoor earlier in the week.

Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has issued travel advisories urging passengers to anticipate schedule changes and longer security wait times due to enhanced screening protocols mandated by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security. Passengers have been advised to arrive at least three hours before departure and to stay updated via airline and airport websites for real-time flight information.

Despite the ceasefire, the security situation has kept airports on high alert, with continued disruptions expected until the closures lift on May 14. Airlines including Air India, IndiGo, and others have offered flexible rescheduling and refunds to affected passengers. The ongoing situation underscores the complex challenges in maintaining civil aviation operations amid geopolitical tensions and security imperatives.

 Korean Air, South Korea’s flagship carrier, has dramatically cut its international flights from regional airports by 45% betweeinternational n 2019 and 2024, igniting controversy and concern across the country’s regional hubs. The airline operated 6,199 international flights from regional airports in 2024, down sharply from 11,408 in 2019, excluding Seoul’s Gimpo and Incheon airports.

At Busan’s Gimhae Airport, a critical economic and tourism center, international flights plunged 42%, from 9,675 in 2019 to 5,567 in 2024. The decline continued into early 2025, with a 36% year-on-year drop in the first quarter. Korean Air attributes these reductions primarily to delays in aircraft deliveries from manufacturers, which have constrained its capacity and forced temporary route suspensions.

Critics, however, argue that Korean Air is disproportionately favoring Seoul’s Incheon Airport, where flight reductions were minimal at just 5.7%. This Seoul-centric approach has sparked backlash from civic groups and local politicians, who warn that the cuts could undermine regional economies by reducing connectivity, tourism, and trade opportunities.

Aviation experts explain that Korean Air is strategically reallocating resources toward long-haul, more profitable international routes amid uneven demand recovery, especially as regional routes like Busan to China have yet to fully rebound post-pandemic. By consolidating operations at major hubs like Incheon, the airline aims to optimize fleet utilization and reduce costs amid global supply chain disruptions and shifting travel patterns.

The regional flight cuts have raised alarms about South Korea’s aviation future. While Korean Air’s long-haul focus positions it to compete globally, regional airports such as Gimhae face challenges without diversified services. The recovery of regional routes depends on resolving aircraft delivery delays and stabilizing demand, but for now, Korean Air’s cautious strategy reflects the uncertain landscape of the aviation sector.

Local stakeholders urge government intervention to ensure more equitable flight service distribution, emphasizing the importance of balanced regional development in South Korea’s evolving air travel market.

This significant restructuring highlights the broader challenges facing the aviation industry as it adapts to post-pandemic realities and supply chain hurdles, with Korean Air at the forefront of navigating these turbulent skies.

The White House is in active talks with Qatar’s royal family about acquiring a luxury Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet, potentially to serve as Air Force One during President Donald Trump’s second term. While Qatar denies the plane is a gift, it confirms discussions are underway for the “temporary use” of the aircraft by the U.S. government.

The plane, described by some as a "flying palace," would be retrofitted by the U.S. Department of Defense to meet presidential security and communication requirements before entering service. Sources indicate it will not be ready immediately and will require thorough security clearance.

President Trump is expected to announce the arrangement during his upcoming Middle East trip, which includes a visit to Qatar. After his presidency, the jet is reportedly planned to be donated to Trump’s yet-to-be-built presidential library, a move that could sidestep constitutional restrictions on foreign gifts to government officials.

Qatar’s media attaché to the U.S., Ali Al-Ansari, emphasized that no final decision has been made and that the proposal remains under legal review by both countries’ defense departments. He also refuted reports that the jet would be gifted during Trump’s visit as inaccurate.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt assured that any gift from a foreign government would comply fully with U.S. laws and that the administration is committed to transparency. Trump himself defended the deal on his Truth Social platform, calling the plane a “GIFT, FREE OF CHARGE” and criticizing opponents who question the arrangement.

Currently, the presidential fleet includes two Boeing 747-200B aircraft, in service since the early 1990s. The proposed 747-8 model from Qatar is a newer, more luxurious plane, which Trump had previously sought from Boeing but found delayed until 2027 or 2028.

This unprecedented potential gift raises significant legal and ethical questions, as the U.S. Constitution’s Emoluments Clause restricts officials from accepting gifts from foreign states. However, the plan to transfer ownership to Trump’s presidential library after his term may provide a legal workaround.

The negotiations underscore the continuing close diplomatic ties between Trump and Qatar, which in 2019 committed to large purchases of American aircraft. Qatar has a history of gifting luxury jets to other countries, including Turkey in 2018.

As Trump prepares for his first major foreign trip of his second term, the world watches closely how this high-profile aircraft deal unfolds, blending diplomacy, politics, and presidential legacy in the skies.