Qatar’s summer season is now in full swing, with a packed calendar of exciting events underway, offering something for visitors of all ages, whatever their interests.
Among its many attractions, Qatar is known for its wealth of outdoor activities, which range from hiking and cycling trails to fun-filled watersports, available at its pristine beaches.
However, the high temperatures that are a hallmark of the Gulf countries in summer have often led to visitors opting to focus on indoor attractions instead through the hottest months, such as Qatar’s renowned shopping malls and museums, where air-conditioning units provide plenty of comfort.
Cool innovations
In a significant development that spells good news for lovers of the great outdoors, however, several of Qatar’s most popular, high-profile destinations have now been fitted with pioneering, sustainable air-cooling systems for open spaces, making these popular locations both accessible and enjoyable, even in high summer.
Aside from reaffirming Qatar’s position as a leader in the field of cutting-edge, environmentally friendly cooling technology, these developments align with the country’s broader tourism strategy to enhance its entertainment offerings and boost the hospitality sector during the summer months.
Qatar first began developing innovative, outdoor cooling systems several years ago as part of its preparatory plans to host the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. Having funded numerous scientific research projects in the field, the country was then able to successfully introduce these systems across the football stadiums where the matches were held, providing pleasant conditions for both the participating teams and the more than 1 million visitors who attended the tournament.
Over the years, Qatar has also begun integrating these pioneering facilities into the design of other popular locations to provide added comfort and enjoyment to visitors and locals in the hotter summer months.
Groundbreaking global firsts
A prime example is Al Gharrafa Park, which holds the prestigious title of first air-conditioned park in the world. The cutting-edge integrated outdoor cooling and air-conditioning system in place there means that visitors can now enjoy the 50,000 square-meter park’s picturesque surroundings, complete with stunning Islamic architecture, all year round.
In a separate groundbreaking development, one of Qatar’s best-known addresses Katara’s 21 High Street – has secured another global first by becoming the first outdoor street in the world to introduce air-conditioning. This means visitors can now stroll along the street, browse and buy in the big-name stores, which include Galeries Lafayette, in full comfort.
Other popular destinations with outdoor cooling technology now in place include Place Vendôme, a must-visit destination lined with restaurants and cafes, alongside its iconic fountain square, where boat trips are available. Visitors to Lusail Boulevard can also look forward to a cool, comfortable welcome, making a leisurely stroll around its squares and pathways an enjoyable experience even in summer.
Already high on the checklists of many visitors keen to admire its shops and art and cultural offerings, and set against a backdrop of breathtaking Italian-inspired architecture, Al Hazm Mall is another air-conditioned location. Equally stunning, thanks to its lush green lawns, is the Oxygen Park, located in the Education City of Qatar Foundation. Set out over 130,000 square meters, and home to everything from picnic areas to running, walking and cycling tracks, the park is now equipped with air-conditioning in covered walkways to enhance visits in the warmer months.
Cooling technology has also been installed at some of Qatar’s newest outdoor attractions, including West Walk Al Waab, a location with a contemporary design where visitors can take a leisurely stroll, browse and shop.
Impressive start for 2024
Thanks to the introduction of the cooling technology across these and other popular locations, and many other initiatives, Qatar’s tourism sector continues to go from strength to strength. The country welcomed over 2.6 million visitors in the first half of 2024, putting it well on track to top the record-breaking, full-year total for 2023 of 4 million. Hotel keys now top 39,000, with visitors able to choose from a vast range of accommodations to suit all budgets and requirements.
Summer campaign in full swing
For 2024, visitors are being kept up to date on the many events available this summer through Visit Qatar’s ‘Your Summer Starts Here’ campaign, in which Bahraini influencer and film-maker Omar Farooq highlights what’s on during a 24-hour trip to Doha, while also giving information about the many special offers and promotions available.
Returning for a second year to the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center this summer, the Qatar Toy Festival will be high on the checklists of younger members of the family, who will also undoubtedly want to visit some of the country’s renowned indoor parks, such as Doha Quest, Virtuocity, Angry Birds World and Trocadero. Outdoor fun for families is also available in abundance at Qatar’s waterparks, including at the newly opened Meryal Waterpark in Lusail, located on Qetaifan Island, which boasts an 85-meter-tall waterslide, among many others.
Visitors will also want to check out the country’s many beaches, where swimming in pristine waters and a fantastic range of activities for thrill-seekers are available. Many of these destinations, which include West Bay Beach, 974 Beach, Doha Sands Beach, Banana Island Resort, Doha Beach Club and Katara Beach, offer special promotions.
Dining out is an essential part of a trip to Qatar, which has established itself as a renowned global culinary hub in recent years. Visitors and locals alike are now able to choose from thousands of restaurants, serving a vast range of cuisines from around the world, from high-end gastronomy to tasty quick take-outs, helping to ensure a stay in Qatar is truly unforgettable.
To find out more about what’s on in Qatar this summer, download the Visit Qatar app or go to visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar
