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Nature in Qatar

Our unique peninsula is one of stark contrasts and fascinating natural wonders, where an arid desert and beautiful coastline are home to over 300 species of wild plants and rare wildlife.  

Desert landscapes to capture your heart

Singing dunes, exquisite desert roses and prehistoric petroglyphs are just some of the sandy secrets that will leave you with a lasting impression when visiting Qatar.

Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders
Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Take a closer look at Qatar’s desert landscapes

Be amazed at the diversity of our vast sandy plains.

Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Hamada

The rocky desert or hamada is the ecosystem most commonly found in Qatar. Rocks are formed by the weathering of local bedrock and joined by particles from sand and rainstorms.

   

   

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Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Jebels

Fossilised limestone sand dunes called jebels are famous in Qatar for the nearly 900 carvings (petroglyphs) found at sites like Al Jassasiya. Dating back to Neolithic times, you’ll discover etchings of ancient board games, pearl holders, ostriches and dhow boats. 

   

   

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Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Wadi and runnel

While there are no permanent rivers in Qatar, you might spot slivers of green in the dry river valleys called wadis. Flash flooded during the rainy season, these short runs (runnels) attract a diverse animal community of birds, geckos, spiny-tailed agamas, hedgehogs, snakes and more.

   

   

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Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Rawdah and sinkholes

Rawdah (Arabic for fertile or meadow), sinkholes and caves prove that once a wetter Arabia existed. As groundwater dissolved carbonate rock, sinkholes and caves like the spectacular Dahl Al Misfir were formed. As these underground pockets fill during winter rains, life follows the water and lush green oases beckon hopping desert rodents, birds, foxes and bats.

   

   

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Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Sand dunes

Qatar is famous for its striking crescent-shaped sand dunes in the desert, giving off a magical vibrating sound when you move the sand, similar to singing or humming. Sand dunes might look static, but they move as much as 10 metres per year. If you’re a thrill seeker, Qatar’s sand dunes offer endless adventures.

   

   

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Qatar’s coastline holds countless surprises

Discover the riches of our diverse coastline, from coral reefs and mangroves to wild beaches.

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Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Unique features of Qatar’s mesmerising coastline

Home of dugongs, flamingos and more, dive into this special coastal ecosystem.

Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Sabkha

The eerie beauty of Qatar’s salt flats or sabhkas is the result of salt water coming into contact with low-lying land, giving these plains their signature salt encrusted appearance. On the way to Khor Al Adaid (the Inland Sea), you will spot many sabkhas and, if you’re lucky, the nocturnal Gulf sand gecko.

   

   

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Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

   

Mangroves

You’ll be amazed at the lush green oases found at Purple Island and Al Thakhira Beach. These mangrove forests are true ecological wonders, acting as a carbon sink and playing home to birdlife, fish and gastropods. Grey and white mangrove trees thrive in briny water, extreme temperatures, changing tides and high-water levels. A favourite resting place during the flamingo migration, you’ll love exploring the mangroves on a peaceful kayak ride.

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Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Coral reefs

Did you know that coral reefs are home to 25% of all marine species? Qatar is the richest in coral reefs of all the Gulf countries. The best ones can be found on the north-eastern coast and around Al Aaliya Island – a sanctuary and foraging habitat for an array of aquatic life and endangered species like hawksbill sea turtles.

   

   

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Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Seagrass beds

Gulf seagrass beds are among the highest productive ecosystems on the planet, boasting fantastic carbon sequestration capacity like mangroves and salt marshes. Seagrasses are the staple diet of marine reptiles, fish and mammals like the smiley-faced dugongs

   

   

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Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Beaches

Our popular beaches and warm turquoise waters are not just for swimming and water sports but are also wonderful places to discover birds and sea life, see interesting rock formations and walk along miles of sand. Explore the sandy shores of the unspoilt Zekreet Beach, the serene paradise of Simaisma Beach or reef of Dukhan Beach – there are plenty of wild beaches where you can enjoy a picnic or even spend the night.

   

   

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More natural places to visit in Qatar

Tiny islands, tranquil nature reserves and parks full of natural vegetation give you plenty more opportunities to feel at one with nature.

Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

The island ecosystem

Qatar has 10 islands near the coast, both inhabited and uninhabited. From the vibey Banana Island and Pearl Island to the snorkelling paradise of Aaliya Island and the picturesque Al Safliya Island, you’ll enjoy views of the Doha skyline and imagine a time when pirate dhows cruised around the peninsula.

Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Nature reserves

Qatar has established several nature reserves and conservation areas to protect ecological systems. These include Al Reem, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and home of the Arabian oryx, the remarkable Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea) and Al Thakhira Reserve with Qatar’s oldest mangrove forests.

Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders

Public parks

You don’t have to travel far to be surrounded by natural vegetation and sprawling gardens. Our parks are popular hangouts for picnics, workouts or meeting up with friends as you escape to nature for a few hours.  

Nature in Qatar | Discover natural wonders