There's a reason why Qatar is highly regarded amongst travel destinations in the Middle East. One of the finest countries to spend your vacation in, Dawlat Qatar houses an array of wonders. From natural gems hidden from the world to man-made marvels set to take your breath away, there's a lot to keep you entertained in this part of the world. Speaking of wonders, for instance, the islands in Qatar are a perfect mix of luxury and natural wonders. One can spend a fascinating time in the lap of nature or indulge in a range of thrilling adventures.
Wish to know more? Here's our detailed take on some of the top islands nestled in Qatar.
Top Islands In Qatar To Spend Time On Your Vacation
Natural beauty doesn't get any better with islands in Qatar. So, let's take a look at the list of famous islands in Qatar to add to your travel wish list.
1. Banana Island
One of the finest man-made islands in the country that is popular for a range of things, the Banana Island in Qatar is a scenic haven built on the Persian Gulf and can be easily reached by taking a mere 30 minutes boat ride from the center of Doha. Being a private property of the Banana Island Resort, the island has more than a thing or two to surprise you. One can enjoy a lavish stay at a luxurious water villa on the island or engage in a range of activities.
In fact, this crescent-shaped island is regarded as one of the most popular spots in Qatar for banana boating. Travelers can click some nice photographs at the wooden swing here or enjoy water activities like kayaking, diving, snorkeling, paddle-boarding, and so much more.
Wish to get some relaxation after a long tiring day? Well, a rejuvenating spa retreat amidst the picturesque views isn't a bad idea at Banana Island in Doha.
How To Reach Banana Island?
If you wish to travel to Banana Island, there are luxury catamaran rides that operate on a daily basis from Doha Corniche. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
2. Purple Island
Now here's a thing, Purple Island is a lot more than one can possibly imagine it to be. One of those famous islands in Qatar, this gem is also known by the name Al Khor island and is set on the northeastern coast of the country. Boasting of its tranquil setting away from the busy life, the island has a range of attractions to offer to tourists. It is, in fact, one of the best places to visit in Qatar as far as kayaking is concerned.
One can not only indulge in water activities here but can also get to witness the exotic variety of flora and fauna. Interestingly, as far as attractions go, Purple Island in Qatar is home to the largest mangrove plantation in the country which is a sight you don't want to miss.
Wish to know more? Well, if you're willing to spot some fossils or enjoy fishing, this is the place for you. The island also houses a luxury resort that is perfect for families and honeymooners coming here. Are you a history buff? Well, the Purple Island houses a 3000 BC old archeological site which is considered to be the oldest site in Qatar. As for the name of the island, the appearance is somewhat contrary to what it is called.
The Purple Island is, in fact, green in color which is contrary to what it is called. So why do you think it is called Purple Island? As history has it, the island was a site for the production of dye which was purple in color. Hence, it got the name Purple Island.
How To Reach Purple Island?
Reaching Purple Island isn't a big hassle for travelers. One can take the on-road route through the Shamal Highway towards the island from Doha. The journey takes about 50 to 60 minutes.
3. The Pearl Qatar
Now here's a thing, Qatar has many wonders to fascinate travelers coming here and the Pearl Qatar is one of them. One of the most stunning man-made islands and luxurious retreats in Qatar, the Pearl Qatar is spread over an area of 4,000,000 square meters and houses some of the most interesting attractions in the country.
With the likes of malls, fancy villas, towers, restaurants, marinas, boutiques as some of the attractions found here, this has to be one of the best places to visit in Doha that you simply can't afford to miss. But hang on, do you long for a Venice-like feel in the heart of the Middle East? Well, Pearl Qatar island has you covered. It is home to various canals that offer a feeling of being in Venice, with a range of entertainment, and even boat rides that travelers can enjoy.
What is fascinating is that Pearl Qatar is the first land in the country that is available for freehold ownership to foreign nationals, adding a whole new dimension to the place. The island has several amenities that make one’s vacation perfect. People will never want to leave this place thanks to its stunning view of the waterfront and beaches that offer the most amazing view of the sea. For all those shopaholics, there is a range of chic boutiques that are ideal to buy whatever they want. So, what are you waiting for? Come and enjoy your time at the Pearl Qatar and experience some unique things that you won't find anywhere else in the country.
How To Reach The Pearl Qatar?
The ideal way to reach the island is by taxi or cab, which takes about 20 minutes to reach. People can even travel by bus or metro which are considered to be convenient modes of travel.
Suggested Read: Beaches In Qatar To Escape The Heat And Humidity
4. Old Palm Tree Island
One of the best islands in Qatar, a holiday is incomplete without visiting Old Palm Tree Island as it offers a divine view of Doha Corniche, waterfront promenade, and monuments of Doha including the MIA. Once a barren island, the island is known for its stunning views and a seafood restaurant that serves the best of delicacies to travelers coming here. For those searching for a tranquil place in the heart of Qatar, Old Palm Tree Island is certainly one of those places.
As far as reaching here is concerned, one can travel to the island by boat from Doha and the journey takes only about 10 minutes. Children get to have the best time playing in the play area while people can have so many things to do in Qatar as far as this island is concerned. Visit here and enjoy activities like sailboats, fishing boats, camel riding, and horse racing activities on the island. Want to experience the best of it all? Don’t miss out on such an opportunity of a lifetime as it only comes once.
How To Reach Old Palm Tree Island?
Traveling to Old Palm Tree Island isn't a big hassle for visitors. One can reach the island by boat in 10 minutes from Doha Corniche.
5. Al Safliya Island
Another of those famous islands in Qatar, Al Safiya island might be small in size but it boasts of some amazing vistas of the surrounding landscapes. If you like to experience unique adventures, then this is the place for you. In fact, your holiday is incomplete without enjoying the adventures and natural wonders of Al Safliya island. For travelers, this is a place that offers so much more than just scenic views. One can indulge in a variety of water activities while enjoying the natural beauty of the island.
However, when coming to Al Safliya, tourists will have to come fully equipped with their own facilities as the island doesn’t offer anything apart from wooden umbrellas and pergolas. Likes of Paddleboarding, kayaking, banana boat ride and jet skiing are some of the most common activities that people can enjoy here. Besides, one of the most stunning views that people should not miss out on here is the sunset.
How To Reach Al Safliya Island?
To reach Al Safliya, one can take a dhow ride or speed boat ride from Doha Corniche or the Pearl Qatar. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes to complete.
Suggested Read: Top Hotels In Qatar To Experience The Best Of Arabian Hospitality
6. Shuru Awa Island
Another haven nestled away from the hustle and bustle of city life is Shuru Awa Island, a place of true tranquility and picturesque views. It is amongst those famous Qatar islands where travelers can find themselves surrounded by turquoise waters and golden sand. If you prefer walking on the beach, then the Shuru Awa Island would give you all the fun you expect.
Stretching for a distance of about 1 KM, the island features green bushes and rocky hills that enhance the beauty while one can also find the exotic coral reef which is what really attracts travelers here. In fact, the coral reef is one of the major reasons why the majority of adventure fanatics or water sports lovers like to visit the island.
The best part? If you're a fan of birdwatching, then make sure to come here as Shuru Awa Island is considered one of the best places for birdwatching, especially during the period when the season changes. So, visit here and bring your loved ones with you as the Shuru Awa Island will certainly not disappoint you.
How To Reach Shuru Awa Island?
Shuru Awa Island is located close to Diynah Island. Hence, travelers can easily visit here by taking a boat ride from Doha. The journey takes about an hour to complete.
7. Ishat Island
Now here's a thing, we all long for a break from our hectic work life and the only thing that comes to mind then is a vacation amidst extreme tranquility, right? Well, Qatar is home to many such places that offer the privilege of tranquility which is otherwise hard to get. One such place is Ishat Island. A haven for those who seek true tranquility, Ishat Island is nestled in the Southeastern part of Qatar and is spread over an area of 20 square kilometers.
The best part of this Qatar island is its location which is scenic while the weather here stays somewhat favorable for enjoying. Although there isn't much to speak about as far as facilities are concerned, one can certainly spend time admiring the natural beauty or take a nature walk along the island. There are, in fact, many local travel agencies that arrange guided tours of Ishat Island. These tours are economical and are usually organized in a group.
How To Reach Ishat Island?
There are regular boat rides that are organized from Doha to Ishat Island. Travelers can easily hire a boat and travel to the island.
Suggested Read: Hotels In Doha To Holiday in Style And Comfort Surrounded By Beauty
8. Halul Island
Nestled about 80 KM to the northeast of Doha, Halul Island is one of the best islands in Doha and has a fine location. Another of those famous islands in Qatar, this is a place where one can experience the best of hilly terrains and shorelines. But hang on, do you know about the significance of Halul Island? Well, this may not be the biggest island in Qatar but it is of extreme importance because of the fact that it is a loading terminal for oil from the surrounding areas.
In fact, the significance of the island is also evident from the fact that one of the main bases of the Qatar Navy is located here on the island. So, not only can travelers catch a glimpse of the hilly terrain in the region, but they can also get to see a totally different side of the island.
How To Reach Halul Island?
Reaching the offshore of Halul isn't a big hassle for travelers today. One can take a bus ride from any popular location in the country and travel to the island.
One of the most majestic countries in the world today, Qatar is reaching new heights as far as ease of living is concerned. Today, there are many places in Qatar that have earned recognition from all over the world for their luxury and ease of living while the country also has many natural islands which are no short of a paradise for adventure seekers. From the luxury of Pearl Qatar to the wonders of Purple Island, Dawlat Qatar has it all. So, do you wish to uncover the wonders of islands in Qatar? Book your flight to Qatar today and come enjoy a fine island vacation in the country.
Islands In Qatar - FAQs
Although there are many islands in Qatar where travelers love to visit, Pearl Qatar and Banana Island have to be the top picks. While Banana Island is famous for its water sports, the Pearl Qatar offers luxury at its very best. This is an island where foreign nationals are free to own property.
While offering a range of attractions like malls, fancy villas, towers, restaurants, marinas, boutiques, and so much more, Pearl Qatar is the first land in the country that is available for freehold ownership to foreign nationals. It is, in fact, a man-made island which makes it even more special.
Halul Island carries immense importance in Qatar, and rightly so. It is a loading terminal for oil from the surrounding areas. In fact, the significance of the island is also evident from the fact that one of the main bases of the Qatar Navy is located here on the island.
No, Purple Island is, in fact, green in color. However, as history has it, the island was a site for the production of dye which was purple in color. Hence, it got the name Purple Island.
Although it depends upon travelers as to when they wish to visit Qatar, the best time to visit the country is between November and March. This is a period when the country records lower temperatures as compared to the rest of the year and sightseeing becomes relatively easy.
The Hamad International Airport is the main airport in Qatar. It is, in fact, one of the busiest airports in the Middle East and a major reason why Qatar is amongst the biggest transit gateways for overseas travelers in the world today.
Banana Island is famous for a number of things and water sports remain at the center of it. While this crescent-shaped island is regarded as one of the most popular spots in Qatar for banana boating, travelers can also click some nice photographs at the wooden swing here or enjoy water activities like kayaking, diving, snorkeling, paddle-boarding, and so much more.
Traveling within Qatar isn't a big hassle no matter where you want to go. If you wish to travel to Banana Island, there are luxury catamaran rides that operate on a daily basis from Doha Corniche. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
