With an intriguing mix of old and new, this northern city in Qatar is a great destination for a daytrip from Doha.
Al Khor was once a small and rather isolated fishing and trading settlement, but it is now a modern city. Look for towers and other artefacts of its tribal past not far away from a giant modern stadium where teams from around the world play soccer.
On the northern side of town, study history at the three Al Khor Towers. Here guards watched over the waters of the Persian Gulf for invading pirates. They also protected the precious Well of Ain Hleetan, which provided drinking water for the community. Find out more about archaeological excavations in and near the town with a visit to Al Khor Museum.
On the southern side of the city, see some of the most modern architecture in Qatar. The huge Al Bayt Stadium has capacity for 60,000 fans during the soccer games of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Its tent-like appearance is similar to the shelters used in earlier times by nomadic travellers.
Walk along Al Khor Corniche near Al Khor East Tower to look at the peaceful waters of an inlet of the Persian Gulf.
Bring the kids to enjoy family-friendly Al Khor Beach, which has cabanas, barbecue grills, showers and restrooms. About a 15-minute drive southwest of the town, Al Khor Park has a children’s playground, restrooms and small zoo and animal sanctuary.
In the city, shop at Al Khor Mall, a large air-conditioned shopping centre with over 100 stores, restaurants and entertainment sites.
Al Khor is one of the largest cities in Qatar beyond Doha and its immediate suburbs. Drive north from Doha for roughly 45 minutes or travel by bus to get here in about 90 minutes.
While in Al Khor, include extra time in your schedule to visit nearby attractions. About a 40-minute drive north are the impressive Al Jassasiya Rock Carvings while the nature and wildlife of Al Khor Island (Jazirat bin Ghanam) is just 20 minutes away.
