Al Khor – A Complete Travel & City Guide

Al Khor, one of Qatar’s oldest coastal cities, lies about 50 kilometres north of Doha. Known for its serene beaches, traditional fishing heritage, and rapidly developing urban infrastructure, it has become a key cultural and tourism destination. The city’s name translates to “the creek”, referencing the natural bay that once sheltered pearl divers and fishermen.
Today, Al Khor blends modern leisure attractions like Al Khor Park and Zoo, Purple Island, and Al Bayt Stadium with preserved Qatari traditions, creating a destination suited for families, adventurers, and history lovers alike.

1. Overview of Al Khor

• Municipality: Al Khor & Al Thakhira
• Area: Approx. 101 km²
• Population: ≈ 31,000 (residents + expats)
• Postal Zone: Zone 74
• Key Landmarks: Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor Park, Purple Island, Corniche

Strategically located along the northeastern coast, Al Khor serves as a key residential hub for workers in the oil, gas, and industrial sectors, particularly near Ras Laffan Industrial City. Despite its economic importance, the city maintains a peaceful, coastal charm distinct from Doha’s urban bustle.

2. Top Attractions in Al Khor

2.1 Al Khor Park and Zoo

One of Qatar’s oldest and most beloved public parks, Al Khor Park covers over 240,000 m². It combines landscaped gardens, play zones, and picnic lawns with a full-size zoo housing over 300 animals, including the famous giant pandas gifted from China in 2022.

• Entry Fee: QAR 15 (adults), QAR 10 (children)
• Timings: 8 AM – 10 PM (daily)
• Facilities: Mini train ride, aviary dome, mini golf, restaurant area, family picnic spots

Families often spend the day enjoying the zoo, the mini-golf course, and the interactive playgrounds while soaking in the greenery that makes this one of Qatar’s most relaxing escapes.

2.2 Purple Island (Al Khor Island / Jazirat Bin Ghanim)

Just 6 kilometres from the city centre lies Purple Island, a natural wonder known for its mangroves, mudflats, and kayaking trails. The name comes from the purple dye extracted by ancient civilizations from shellfish in the area.
Visitors can take guided kayak tours through the Al Thakhira Mangroves, explore wooden bridges and footpaths, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by birds and marine life.

• Best Time to Visit: October – April
• Popular Activities: Kayaking, bird-watching, nature photography

2.3 Al Thakhira Beach & Mangrove Reserve

Located 10 minutes north of Al Khor, Al Thakhira Beach offers soft sands, turquoise waters, and a gateway to the region’s extensive mangroves. This area is ideal for barbecues, camping, and paddle-boarding.

• Facilities: Parking, picnic spots, kayak rentals
• Note: Bring snacks and water – shops are limited near the beach.

2.4 Al Bayt Stadium

A landmark of modern Qatar, Al Bayt Stadium hosted the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2022. Its design resembles a traditional Bedouin tent (“bayt al sha’ar”), reflecting Qatari hospitality.
Beyond sports, the complex includes a vast park, jogging tracks, children’s areas, and picnic lawns open year-round.

• Capacity: 60,000 spectators
• Attraction Nearby: Al Bayt Park and Play Zone

2.5 Al Khor Corniche

The Al Khor Corniche is a scenic waterfront walkway perfect for evening strolls. It features shaded paths, palm-lined promenades, and views of the marina and fishing boats. Local families gather here for jogging, kite-flying, and dining at seaside cafés.

2.6 Al Khor Mall

The Al Khor Mall, a major retail and entertainment hub, offers over 100 stores, cinemas, restaurants, and a hypermarket.

• Highlight Stores: Centrepoint, Max, H&M, Home Centre
• Dining Options: Nando’s, Papa John’s, Starbucks

3. Things to Do in Al Khor

1. Spend a day at Al Khor Park and Panda Zoo.
2. Go kayaking through Purple Island mangroves.
3. Relax at Al Thakhira Beach with a barbecue or picnic.
4. Watch a match or take a stadium tour at Al Bayt Stadium.
5. Enjoy sunset views along the Al Khor Corniche.
6. Shop and dine at Al Khor Mall.
7. Take photos at I Love Al Khor Sign or the fishing harbour.

4. Hotels and Accommodation in Al Khor

While Al Khor is smaller than Doha in terms of hotels, the city offers comfortable stay options for families and business travellers.

Recommended Hotels & Resorts

• Simaisma A Murwab Resort (5 ⭐) – Luxury beach resort 20 minutes south of Al Khor.
• Al Sultan Beach Resort (4 ⭐) – Traditional Arabian architecture and private beach.
• Murwab Hotel Al Khor – Modern amenities near the Corniche.
• Budget Options: Short-stay apartments and Airbnbs available in central Al Khor.

5. Restaurants and Cafés in Al Khor

Al Khor boasts a variety of dining choices, from local Qatari flavours to international cuisines.

Popular Restaurants

• Al Khor Grill & Seafood: Fresh fish and traditional Arab grills.
• La Mer Restaurant: Fine-dining seafood with Gulf views.
• Volume Café Al Khor Marina: Chic coffee spot for brunch and desserts.
• Saffron Lounge Al Khor: Indian cuisine with a family-friendly setting.
• Spar Al Khor: Convenient groceries and light meals for picnics.

6. Map & Location

Al Khor Location: Approximately 50 km north of Doha, accessible via Al Khor Expressway (Route Q1).
Coordinates: 25.683° N, 51.505° E
The city sits between Simaisma to the south and Al Thakhira to the north, facing the Arabian Gulf.

7. Getting There

By Car

The most convenient way to reach Al Khor is by car from Doha – a smooth 45-minute drive via Al Khor Expressway. Parking is plentiful around parks and beaches.

By Metro + Bus

Take the Doha Metro Red Line to Lusail Station, then transfer to the Mowasalat (Karwa) bus service toward Al Khor.

By Taxi or Ride-Share

Karwa taxis and Uber operate to Al Khor; expect a fare of QAR 80 – 120 from central Doha.

8. Weather in Al Khor

• Summer (May – Sept): Hot & humid, 35–45 °C
• Winter (Dec – Feb): Pleasant, 15–25 °C
• Best Time to Visit: November to April for outdoor activities
  Check the Al Khor weather forecast before planning a beach or kayak day.

9. Culture & Lifestyle

Al Khor retains the warm hospitality of traditional Qatari life. Local markets offer fresh seafood, spices, and souvenirs. While modern cafés and malls cater to families, the city remains deeply connected to its maritime roots and eco-tourism initiatives.

10. Sports & Recreation

• Al Khor Football Club (Al Khor FC): Qatar Stars League team.
• Al Bayt Park: Cycling tracks, jogging paths, outdoor gyms.
• MIA Kayak Tours (Purple Island): Guided eco tours available year-round.

11. Nearby Destinations

• Simaisma Beach Resort – 20 min south of Al Khor.
• Katara Cultural Village (Doha) – 50 km away.
• Lusail Boulevard & Marina Promenade – 40 km south.

12. Practical Information

• Currency: Qatari Riyal (QAR 3.64 = USD 1)
• Language: Arabic (English widely spoken)
• Time Zone: GMT + 3
• Safety: Extremely safe for tourists and families.
• Dress Code: Modest clothing recommended in public areas.
• Emergency Numbers: 999 (Police / Ambulance / Fire)

13. Future Developments

Al Khor is undergoing significant urban growth with new residential projects, eco-tourism zones, and expanded public transport links. Plans include improving the Al Khor Marina, building luxury hotels, and enhancing connectivity to Doha via the Doha-Lusail-Al Khor Corridor.

14. FAQs about Al Khor, Qatar

Q 1. What is Al Khor famous for?
Al Khor is famous for its coastal beauty, Al Khor Park and Zoo, Purple Island, and the iconic Al Bayt Stadium that hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony.

Q 2. How far is Al Khor from Doha?
It’s approximately 50 kilometres from Doha (45–50 minutes by car).

Q 3. Is there public transport to Al Khor?
Yes. You can take the Doha Metro to Lusail and then a Karwa bus to Al Khor.

Q 4. What are the best things to do in Al Khor?
Visit Al Khor Park and Panda Zoo, kayak at Purple Island, explore Al Thakhira Beach, and enjoy Al Bayt Park or Corniche.

Q 5. Does Al Khor have a beach?
Yes. Al Thakhira Beach and Al Khor Family Beach are popular for swimming and barbecues.

Q 6. Where can I stay in Al Khor?
Options include Al Sultan Beach Resort, Simaisma Murwab Resort, and Murwab Hotel Al Khor.

Q 7. When is the best time to visit Al Khor?
Between November and April when temperatures are mild and ideal for outdoor exploration.

Q 8. What is Purple Island famous for?
For its natural mangroves, kayak tours, bird habitats, and its archaeological significance as a historic site for purple dye production.

15. Conclusion

Al Khor beautifully balances heritage and modern living. Whether you are kayaking through the mangroves of Purple Island, visiting the pandas at Al Khor Park, or admiring the architecture of Al Bayt Stadium, the city offers a refreshing contrast to Doha’s urban pace. Its eco-friendly landscapes, family-oriented parks, and coastal tranquility make it one of Qatar’s most rewarding day trips or weekend getaways.