Apart from Doha, there are many other small cities and towns in Qatar. Some are port cities, while others are more important due to the thriving oil and gas industry in these areas. Dilapidated and abandoned villages, archaeological sites that give a little touch to the history of the region; bays; islands; natural mangrove forests; golden sand dunes; blue-green waters; and many more await you in Qatar.
Al Khor
Al Khor is a city located in the north of Qatar. Al Khor is the capital of the Al Thaqeera Municipality and one of the main centers of Qatar’s oil and gas industry. The city was founded in 1972. Al Khor began as a small, isolated settlement that earned its living from fishing and pearl diving, but today, with an area of about 16,000 square kilometers, it is one of Qatar’s major cities after Doha. Due to its proximity to Ras Laffan Industrial City and North Oil, most of Al Khor’s 250,000 people are employees of this industry and their families.
There are many things to see here, including the ancient Ain Hlitan Well, Al Khor Towers, Takira Mangroves, Purple Island, Al Farqiya Beach, Al Khor Park and Zoo, and Al Bait Stadium, which will host Qatar’s first FIFA World Cup match in 2022.
Dukhan
Dukhan is an industrial city in the western region of Qatar, which became popular after the discovery of oil there. Almost all of the residents are employees of Qatar Petroleum. Others are not allowed into the city, and photography is not allowed inside Dukhan. However, the area around Dukhan is very popular with visitors, as there are many interesting places and attractions to see in the area.
Madinat Ash Shamal
Madinat Al Shamal is located on the northern tip of Qatar. Although it is today the least populated area in Qatar, it is surrounded by several beaches where you can relax and see the ruined and abandoned fishing villages. Visitors flock to the Madinat Ash Shamal area all year round.
Al Ruwais
Located east of Madinat Ash Shamal, Al Ruwais is a small coastal town with some great landmarks. Arzan Cafe is a must-visit for anyone visiting the area. An old, abandoned police station has been converted into an artisan cafe, offering a beautiful view of the Arabian Gulf and some of the best coffee in the area.
Abu Dhaluf
Abu Dhaluf is located to the west of Madinah Ash Shamal. Although it is a quiet town, it is home to one of the most beautiful parks in Qatar. Abu Dhaluf Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Qatar. It is a favorite of everyone from young children to adults. The park is full of greenery, filled with trees, fences, and colorful flowers. There are two playgrounds where children can have fun and play games.
If you are in Madinah Ash Shamal, this park is not to be missed.
Mesaieed
Mesaieed is another oil and gas center in Qatar. In 1949, it became a tanker terminal for Qatar Petroleum. This helped grow Qatar’s oil industry due to the deep waters surrounding the area and its proximity to Doha.
Located in the southeast of Qatar, it is mostly inhabited by Qatar Petroleum employees. Additionally, Mesaieed is surrounded by beautiful beaches and golden sand dunes.
Many of us think of Qatar as just Doha. But there is so much more to this small, vibrant country. With a long, beautiful coastline and plenty of sunshine all year round, Qatar is a place where you can enjoy it all.
