The State of Qatar is rich in ancient landmarks. With numerous historic places to visit in Qatar, archaeologists and history enthusiasts classify it as a must-visit country. Despite all its hustle and bustle, the country holds unique architectural significance as well.
So, let’s explore the historic spots to visit in Qatar and discover the heritage of this Middle Eastern country.
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Top Historic Places in Qatar
Here are some of the best historic places to visit in Qatar:
1. Al Zubarah Fort
Al Zubarah is Qatar’s largest archaeological heritage site. The place was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. It is the best-preserved example of an 18th-19th century trading and pearl-fishing town in the Gulf region.
The fort is 100 km northwest of Doha, stretching 2.5 km from the Al Zubarah Fort to the coast. Today, the site covers 60 hectares, featuring:
- Houses
- Masajids
- Madabis
- Fortified Buildings
- Market
Location
Madinat Ash Shamal, Al Zubarah, Qatar
https://maps.app.goo.gl/AvM7fy84QSgHV8jd9
Visitor’s Timings
- Saturday to Thursday: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm
- Friday: 12.30 am to 05:00 pm
Phone
+974-4422-4154
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2. Al Wakrah Old Souq
The Al Wakrah Old Souq is a heritage market in Al Wakrah city. Located on the ruins of the city’s Old Town, the Al Wakrah Souq is a popular tourist destination. Those ruins are over 200 years old and have witnessed numerous historical events.
This historical place spans 623,765 square metres and comprises 415 old houses. Located on the eastern side of Al Wakrah beach, it is the only heritage market in Qatar with a seashore view.
Location
Al Wakrah Old Souq, Al Wakrah, Qatar
https://maps.app.goo.gl/qoZbw2sC3AxKuYUj9
Attractions
- The Garden and the Playground
- Seashell sculpture
- Camel and Horse Stables
- Al Madhoub port
- Al Shioukh majlis
Timings
- Monday to Thursday: 08:00 am to 12:00 pm, 03:30 pm to 10:00 pm
- Friday: 09:00 am to 12:00 pm
- Saturday: 08:00 am to 12:00 pm
- Sunday: 03:30 pm to 10:00 pm
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3. Doha Fort/Al Koot Fort
Doha Fort, or Al Koot For,t is an architectural masterpiece in Qatar. The fort was initially built by Ottomans but served many roles over the years. Al Koot Fort is square, with one rectangle and three round towers topped with typical Qatari battlements and triangular-based ledges.
Guards utilised ledge slits to mount guns and protect against attackers. The courtyard mosque in the fort lacks walls and a roof, allowing guards to observe convicts utilising it during prayers.
As the Koot Fort has now transformed into a museum, the visits are scheduled by appointment only. However, travellers can see its majestic architecture from the outside without any restrictions.
Timeline
The following table describes the brief history of this magnificent fort:
| Years | Role of Military Fort |
| 1880 | The Ottomans erected Al Koot Fort in 1880 to serve as a police post. |
| 1906 | The fort was built to protect the surrounding market from criminals and also served as a prison. |
| 1927 | The Ottomans abandoned the original Turkish fort in 1915, and Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani rebuilt it in 1927. For many decades, the region northeast of the fortress served as a camel mart. |
| 1978 | Renovation began in 1978, and the fort is now being restored to its former glory. Also, it serves as a museum and occasional exhibition venue. |
Location
Ukaz Street, Doha, Qatar
Exhibits
- Qatari Handicrafts
- Wooden Ornaments
- Fishing Equipment
- Boats
- Gypsum
- Historical Photos
- Paintings Of Craft Workers
Visitor’s Timings
08:00 am to 12:00 pm
Phone
+974-6699-5477
https://elements.envato.com/selective-focus-on-light-bulbs-katara-cultural-vil-WZHL7KZ
4. Msheireb Museums
The oldest town and a refurbished part of Doha, Msheireb, is home to Qatar’s cultural history.
Msheireb has restored four heritage houses and transformed them into must-visit museums in Doha to preserve the country’s history.
The Mshereib Museum houses are built in the traditional Qatari style, with courtyards and corridors. Radwani House, a restored family home, showcases traditional family life in Qatar and changing domestic norms, exhibiting the changing landscape.
Museums
- Bin Jelmood House
- Company House
- Mohammed Bin Jassim House
- Radwani House
Location
Zone #3, Street #830, Building #10, Al Arsheef Al Watani Street, Doha, Qatar
https://maps.app.goo.gl/XyWb8nNNigANwbEo7
Timings
- Monday to Thursday: 9:00 am to 05:00 pm
- Friday: 03:00 am to 09:00 pm
- Saturday: 9:00 am to 05:00 pm
- Sunday: Closed
Note: The last entry is 30 minutes before closing.
Phone
+974-4006-5555
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5. Zekreet Fort Ruins
Zekreet Fort was initially designed for defence. Rahma bin Jaber Al Jalahmah built the entire fort of faroush stones and later added towers. Archaeologists discovered small structures, including three Madabis (date-pressing rooms), between the fort and the sea.
The area also has an ancient Zekreet Mosque close by. The mosque features a courtyard with a cylindrical minaret and a modern fountain. Its open prayer hall connects to the courtyard through seven openings.
Location
Zekreet Fort, Zekreet, Qatar
https://maps.app.goo.gl/dyqzpoma5MVSZHf17
Visitor’s Timings
- Saturday to Thursday: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm
- Friday: 12.30 to 05:00 pm
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6. Katara Cultural Village
Katara Cultural Village, situated on the northern side of Doha, is a year-round hub for cultural experiences and events. The Katara village embodies local culture through its architecture, activities and services.
Katara, a popular tourist destination, offers a variety of experiences, including:
- Amphitheatre
- Opera House
- Cinema
- Conference Hall
- Beach
- Souq
Location
Katara Cultural Village, Doha, Qatar
https://maps.app.goo.gl/rLaMspsYnEWpGu2i9
Activities
- Art Workshops
- Film Screenings
- Children Activities
- Exhibitions
- Planetarium
- Festivals
Timings
24/7
Contact
+974-4-408-0000
FAQs
1. What Are the Most Famous Landmarks in Qatar?
The top places in Qatar, including historic and cultural places, are:
- Souq Waqif
- National Museum of Qatar
- Katara Cultural Village
- Qatar National Library
- Zekreet Fort Ruins
- Oxygen Park
2. How Many UNESCO Heritage Sites Are in Qatar?
Qatar is home to the Al Zubarah Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. What Is the Famous Historic Place in Qatar?
Al Zubarah Fort is a popular historical attraction in Qatar. Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani built this site in 1938.
With all the historic places to visit in Qatar, the country attracts archaeologists and enthusiasts from around the globe. Places like Zekeerat Fort Ruins and Al Zubara Fort possess the roots of Qatar’s significant history.
For more places to visit in Qatar, check out the Property Finder Blog.
