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!

Oman’s airports experienced a significant surge in revenue and operational activity in 2024, reflecting the country’s growing role as a regional aviation hub. According to the Civil Aviation Authority, total airport revenues rose by 17% to reach $272 million, driven by a 14% increase in aircraft movements, which totaled about 540,000, and a 12% rise in cargo handled, exceeding 150,000 tonnes.

This growth was supported by new air transport agreements signed with 19 airlines, raising the total number of carriers operating in Oman to 34.

Muscat International Airport, the largest in the country, saw passenger numbers climb by 3% to 12.9 million, while overall passenger traffic across all Omani airports increased by 4.1%. Salalah Airport, nearing full capacity, began receiving direct flights from Europe, signaling an expansion in international connectivity.

Oman Airports reported operational revenues of RO 114.5 million (approximately $296 million), with net income rising 15% to RO 23.5 million ($61 million), marking a record profit for the company. This financial success came despite challenges such as high maintenance costs and competitive pressures in ground handling services.

The Sultanate is actively investing in airport infrastructure to sustain this growth, with tenders issued for the construction of Musandam Airport near the strategic Strait of Hormuz and plans underway for a second terminal at Sohar Airport. These developments align with Oman’s broader strategy to boost tourism and business travel, aiming to increase annual tourist arrivals from three million in 2024 to 12 million by 2040.

The government is also fostering closer collaboration between Oman Airports and Oman Air to enhance service quality and regional competitiveness.

Despite Oman Air posting a loss of OR 72 million ($187 million) in 2024, Oman Airports’ strong financial performance and expanding airline network—now serving 40 airlines and 146 destinations—highlight the sector’s resilience and potential. The airports’ improved profitability and increasing passenger throughput underscore their critical role in supporting Oman’s economic diversification and tourism ambitions

Riyadh Air, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, has signed a landmark agreement with Rolls-Royce for 100 Trent XWB-97 engines to power its fleet of up to 50 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. The deal, announced during the 55th Paris Air Show at Le Bourget, follows Riyadh Air’s order for 25 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft with options for 25 more, marking a major step in the airline’s ambitious growth strategy.

The Trent XWB-97 is recognized as the world’s most efficient large aero-engine, delivering 97,000 pounds of thrust and specifically engineered for the A350-1000. This partnership is set to support Riyadh Air’s goal of connecting over 100 global destinations by 2030, with the airline’s total fleet orders now reaching up to 182 aircraft across three types.

In addition to the engine deal, Riyadh Air and Rolls-Royce signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the comprehensive TotalCare service package, ensuring the health and maintenance of the engines throughout their lifecycle.

The agreement was formalized by Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air, and Ewen McDonald, Chief Customer Officer at Rolls-Royce, in the presence of Tony Douglas, Riyadh Air CEO, and Rob Watson, President of Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce.

Adam Boukadida, CFO of Riyadh Air, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “Selecting world-class companies like Rolls-Royce to power our future Airbus wide-body fleet ensures we have the right partners to achieve our ambitions. This deal brings us closer to realizing our long-term vision of enhanced connectivity for Riyadh and delivering an unrivalled guest experience.”

Rob Watson, President of Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce, added:
“We’re looking forward to supporting the significant growth ambitions of Riyadh Air in its launch year. The Trent XWB-97 is an incredible engine, and our TotalCare package will provide operational certainty across the fleet.”

The new A350-1000 aircraft, powered by the Trent XWB-97 engines, will enable Riyadh Air to expand its network globally, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to transform Riyadh into a leading aviation hub. With its Air Operator Certificate secured earlier this year, Riyadh Air is on track to commence operations later in 2025.

Launched in March 2023, Riyadh Air is a digitally led, full-service airline committed to sustainability, safety, and premium guest experiences. The carrier aims to connect guests to over 100 destinations worldwide by 2030, featuring advanced cabin interiors and next-generation in-flight entertainment.

Rolls-Royce is a global leader in power and propulsion, supporting a wide range of industries and customers in over 100 countries. In 2024, the company reported annual underlying revenue of £17.8 billion and an underlying operating profit of £2.46 billion. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc is publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange.

This collaboration underscores Riyadh Air’s commitment to innovation and world-class service, positioning the airline as a key player in the future of global aviation.

At the 2025 Paris Air Show, EgyptAir solidified its ambitious fleet renewal and expansion plans by confirming a firm order for six additional Airbus A350-900 aircraft, increasing its total commitment for this model to 16 jets.

This follows the airline’s initial order of 10 A350-900s placed at the Dubai Airshow in November 2023, with the latest order converting six purchase options into firm commitments, underscoring EgyptAir’s confidence in the aircraft’s advanced capabilities and strategic fit.

Fleet Modernization and Delivery Schedule

The delivery timeline for these aircraft is carefully phased to support EgyptAir’s growth and operational efficiency. The first batch of the original 10 A350-900s is scheduled to arrive starting December 2025, with six more deliveries in 2026 and three additional aircraft by 2030.

The six newly ordered A350-900s will be delivered between 2030 and 2033, ensuring a continuous influx of modern, fuel-efficient aircraft to replace aging widebodies, including six leased Boeing 777s averaging 14.6 years in service.

Aircraft Features and Passenger Experience

Configured to seat approximately 340 passengers, EgyptAir’s A350-900s feature Airbus’s latest Airspace cabin design, which enhances passenger comfort with wider seats, higher ceilings, larger overhead bins, and customizable ambient lighting.

The airline is pioneering the use of Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova In-Flight Entertainment system in Africa, equipping every seat in both economy and business classes with larger screens and fast charging capabilities, elevating the onboard experience to global standards.

Operational Capabilities and Environmental Commitment

Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84 engines, the A350-900 offers a range of up to 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 kilometers), enabling EgyptAir to expand its long-haul network to new destinations in North America, Europe, and Asia, while increasing frequencies on existing routes.

The aircraft is 25% more fuel-efficient than previous-generation widebodies and certified to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with Airbus targeting 100% SAF capability by 2030. This aligns with EgyptAir’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and supporting Egypt’s national goals for sustainable aviation.

Strategic Network Expansion

EgyptAir aims to grow its destination network from 89 to 114 cities, leveraging the A350’s capabilities to enhance connectivity through its Cairo hub. The airline plans to increase flight frequencies on high-demand routes and explore new nonstop services, particularly targeting markets in Europe, the United States, and the Middle East.

This expansion is part of a broader strategy to position Cairo as a competitive international aviation hub, complementing Egypt’s growing tourism and business sectors.

Financial and Industry Context

The order coincides with EgyptAir’s sale of its 12 Airbus A220s to lessor Azzora, optimizing its fleet composition to better match demand and operational efficiency. The integration of the A350-900 into the fleet will reduce maintenance costs and improve reliability compared to older aircraft.

Rolls-Royce, the engine supplier, welcomed the order for an additional 12 Trent XWB engines, highlighting the engine’s role in delivering superior fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

Leadership and Industry Perspectives

Captain Ahmed Adel, EgyptAir’s Chairman and CEO, emphasized that the new A350 order is a cornerstone of the airline’s five-year plan to modernize its fleet, expand its global network, and enhance sustainability. Airbus executives praised EgyptAir’s commitment, noting that the A350 family’s global order book of over 1,390 aircraft from 60 customers reflects its status as a leading widebody aircraft for efficiency and passenger comfort.

This comprehensive fleet upgrade positions EgyptAir to meet growing international travel demand with a modern, environmentally responsible fleet, while offering passengers enhanced comfort and connectivity. The airline’s strategic focus on advanced aircraft like the A350-900 supports its vision to become a major player in global aviation, leveraging Cairo’s geographic advantage and Egypt’s expanding economic ties worldwide

Qatar Airways has made a pivotal decision to cancel its entire order for 25 Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft, a move aimed at enhancing its regional service. This shift solidifies Airbus as the exclusive provider for the airline's upcoming narrowbody fleet.

The cancellation stems from ongoing delays in the MAX 10's certification, which is now not expected to enter service until at least 2026. Consequently, Hamad International Airport (DOH) will transition to a fully Airbus-operated narrowbody fleet, with the delivery of A321neos anticipated to resume shortly. The A321neo is recognized for its efficiency and extended range, making it well-suited for regional operations.

Qatar Airways Withdraws from Boeing Orders

In a recent announcement to Bloomberg, CEO Badr Mohammed Al Meer confirmed the airline's withdrawal from the MAX 10 order, which included options for an additional 25 aircraft. This order was initially placed during the 2022 Farnborough Airshow amid tensions with Airbus, following the cancellation of A321neo and A350 orders due to legal disputes.

However, ongoing delays in certifying the MAX 10 have altered the situation, affecting major airlines like United, American, and Delta. United's Chief Commercial Officer indicated that deliveries could be postponed until 2027 or 2028, raising doubts about the program’s feasibility.

Given this uncertainty, Qatar Airways chose to cancel the Boeing deal rather than risk further delays. The airline is prioritizing reliable and readily available aircraft for its fleet.

Airbus Orders Reinstated

The original Boeing order emerged from a contentious dispute with Airbus regarding surface issues on the A350. In 2022, Qatar Airways grounded 29 A350s and sought $600 million in damages, leading to a highly publicized legal battle. In retaliation, Airbus canceled pending orders for A350s and A321neos, prompting Qatar to consider Boeing's MAX 10 as an alternative.

By early 2023, the dispute was resolved, resulting in a mutual settlement and the resumption of delivery schedules. As a result, Qatar Airways has reinstated its order for 50 Airbus A321neos, ensuring that Airbus will be the sole supplier for its narrowbody fleet. This alignment allows the airline to streamline its operations and enhance customer experience.

Continued Partnership with Boeing

Despite the cancellation of the MAX 10, Qatar Airways is deepening its partnership with Boeing. Recently, the airline announced its largest-ever order, comprising 130 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 30 Boeing 777-9s, with options for an additional 50 aircraft. This order, totaling 210 widebody planes valued at $96 billion, aims to reinforce long-haul capabilities and address rising international travel demand.

CEO Al Meer emphasized that while the narrowbody segment will be exclusively Airbus, Boeing will continue to play a vital role in the airline’s widebody strategy. He clarified that the focus is on operational efficiency rather than competition between manufacturers.

“Our narrowbody fleet will be exclusively Airbus,” Al Meer stated. “We will begin receiving 50 A321neos starting next year, solidifying Airbus's role in our narrowbody operations.”

Overview of Qatar Airways Fleet

Current Narrowbody Fleet:

• 27 Airbus A320s (with 132 or 144 seats)
• 3 Boeing 737 MAX 8s (176 seats), which will soon be phased out or leased

Upcoming Narrowbody Orders:

• 40 Airbus A321neos
• 10 Airbus A321LRs
• Deliveries set to start in 2026

Current Widebody Fleet:

• Aircraft Type | In Fleet | On Order
• Airbus A350-1000 | 24 | 18
• Boeing 787 | 41 | 130
• Boeing 777X | 0 | 90

As the largest operator of the Airbus A350-1000, Qatar Airways is well-equipped to serve both standard and premium long-haul routes. With substantial orders for A321neos and A350s, the airline is modernizing its fleet and enhancing its operational capabilities.

Looking Ahead

While Qatar Airways solidifies its partnership with Boeing for widebodies, industry experts suggest that the airline may soon seek additional A350s or consider the Airbus A330-900neo to replace its aging A330 models. This strategy prioritizes standardization and operational efficiency over diversification, allowing Qatar Airways to maintain a competitive edge.

Furthermore, as the aviation sector recovers post-pandemic, Qatar Airways is well-positioned to take advantage of the increasing travel demand. The airline's strategic choices reflect its commitment to fleet enhancement and improved service quality.

At the same time, Boeing is under pressure to resolve its backlog and address certification delays for the MAX 10, as airlines like United, Delta, and Alaska Airlines explore other options. Qatar Airways' exit from the MAX 10 program adds to the challenges facing Boeing in meeting customer expectations, highlighting the urgent need for timely solutions in a rapidly evolving market.

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new flagship airline, and Blacklane, the global chauffeur service, have announced a strategic partnership at the 2025 Paris Airshow, showcased alongside a Riyadh Air-liveried A321 aircraft and a Blacklane-wrapped vehicle. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Riyadh Air’s commitment to delivering best-in-class service throughout the entire customer journey.

Under the new agreement, Riyadh Air’s Business Elite and Business Class passengers, as well as eligible loyalty members, will benefit from complimentary luxury chauffeur services provided by Blacklane within a 50-kilometer radius of Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport. The service features elegant, high-end vehicles and is seamlessly integrated into Riyadh Air’s booking platform, allowing guests to arrange their chauffeur as part of their travel experience.

Beyond airport transfers, travelers will have access to Blacklane’s chauffeur services for city-to-city travel, in-city rides, and hourly bookings, both in Riyadh and at any of Riyadh Air’s global destinations. This partnership sets a new standard in the airline industry within Saudi Arabia and internationally, reflecting the shared dedication of both companies to exceptional hospitality and attention to detail.

Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, highlighted the importance of the partnership: “Our partnership with Blacklane reinforces our ethos of ensuring our customers experience Saudi hospitality with world-class service standards. We revealed our stylish new Business Elite and Business Class seats recently, and this is the next step in keeping our promises to deliver an exceptional premium experience to our guests.

Riyadh Air and Blacklane are two outstanding brands with hospitality and an attention to detail at heart, and our relationship will offer our guests a truly elevated travel itinerary, from the first mile to the last.”Dr. Jens Wohltorf, CEO and Co-Founder of Blacklane, added, “This partnership is more than a service it’s a promise.

 Together, Riyadh Air and Blacklane will offer guests a thoughtfully curated journey, marked by reliability, sophistication, and genuine care. We look forward to welcoming Riyadh Air guests and ensuring every moment of their journey is unique.”

This partnership not only enhances Riyadh Air’s premium offering but also reinforces Blacklane’s position as a leader in luxury chauffeur services worldwide. It promises travelers a seamless, sophisticated experience that begins long before boarding the aircraft and continues well beyond arrival, embodying the future of elevated travel.