Madinat Ash Shamal

Al Khor is a city in Qatar located in the north. It’s the capital of the Al Khor and Al Thakira Municipality, and one of Qatar’s main hubs of the oil and gas industry. The city was established in 1972 and, at the time, pearl trading was one of Qatar’s main sources of income. Al Khor started off as a small and isolated settlement that earned its income from fishing and pearl diving, but today, it’s approximately 16,000 square metres and one of Qatar’s main cities after Doha. One might think Al Khor is all about oil and gas because most of its 250,000 people are the industry’s employees with their families who live here, because it’s close to Ras Laffan Industrial City and North Oil. However, Al Khor is actually a treasure trove of exciting things to do and see. Some of Qatar’s vibrant natural wonders reside in this area like the the ancient Ain Hleetan Well and the Al Khor Towers, the Thakira Mangroves, Purple Island, Al Farkiah Beach, and last, but not least, the Al Khor Park and Zoo and the Al Bayt Stadium where the first FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ match will take place.

Al Ruwais is located in the east of Madinat Ash Shamal and is a small coastal town with some great landmarks. Must-see attractions in the area include: Arsan Café A must-visit if you’re in the area. A old and derelict police station has been converted into an artisan café with a great view of the Arabian Gulf and some of the best coffee in the area. Al Ruwais Beach A must-visit if you want to watch the sun rise or set in its full grandeur. Nestled in a quiet corner of Al Ruwais, the green-blue water on this beach is clear and shallow, so letting the water run over your feet and walking barefoot in the sand will have you falling in love with this beautiful unadulterated beach, that’s a perfect spot to enjoy the day as a family.