Whether searching for a relaxing winter sun destination for February half-term, or the ultimate family adventure over the Easter break, Qatar offers a variety of attractions for children of every age.

From desert excursions and record-breaking theme parks to beautiful beachfront resorts and thrilling watersports, this under-the-radar travel destination is the perfect spot for a family retreat.

ATTRACTIONS

Ride the world’s tallest indoor rollercoaster at Quest: Recently claiming two Guinness World Records® titles for the ‘Tallest Indoor Rollercoaster’ and the ‘Tallest Indoor Drop Tower Ride’, newly opened indoor theme park, Quest Doha, offers fun for the whole family. This colourful, high-tech venue features more than 30 adrenaline-heavy thrill rides, virtual reality simulators and family-friendly attractions. Tickets for entry from £30 per person.

Swap golden desert sand for thrilling white snow dunes: Themed around a fantastical Arabian city, Snow Dunes Park offers 12 exhilarating snow-themed rides and attractions for all ages and abilities. Visitors can experience dune bashing over snowy hills, bumper cars, a climbing wall, numerous slides and an ice-skating rink whatever the weather at this unforgettable indoor destination. Packages start from £36 per person.

Visit the world’s first Angry Birds World with themed rides and attractions: Situated in Doha Festival City, this Angry Birds themed park features 20 exhilarating rides, as well as go karting, trampolining, zip wire, soft play, arcade games and laser tag attractions. Kids can witness one of the entertaining daily live shows as the Angry Birds characters flock to the stage and have the chance to meet and greet their favourite characters. Top-up cards can be purchased from £20 for individual and £50 for families.

Explore the interactive exhibitions at National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ): NMoQ is one of Qatar’s most fascinating buildings, designed in the form of a desert rose. Comprising a series of interconnected galleries, visitors are taken on a visual journey through the country’s history, from animals and fossils to pearl diving and Qatari traditions. Kids will be fascinated by the many interactive exhibits and dedicated children’s areas throughout the museum. Entry costs £10 per person and children under 16 go free.

ADVENTURES

Explore Qatar’s scenic landscapes on an epic desert safari: Starting with dune bashing in a 4X4, travellers are taken on an unmissable adventure through the Qatari desert. The experience includes swimming in the tranquil Inland Sea, followed by a visit to an Arabian camp for a barbecued lunch or dinner, with the option to ride a majestic camel. Desert safaris with an overnight stay at a traditional Bedouin camp are also available. Day trips cost from £109 per person and overnight trips from £154 per person (based on three people travelling).

Discover the underwater world with a scuba diving adventure: Departing from one of Qatar’s most spectacular beaches, Sealine Resort, keen explorers will witness marine animals, shipwrecks, limestone formations and colourful fish in the tropical waters of the Arabian Gulf. Tours for non-certified/beginner divers take place at a man-made reef, whereas certified divers will be taken to the natural rock reefs. Tours from £157 per person, including hotel transfers (minimum two people per session; divers must be aged 10 years+).

See Qatar from the water on a traditional dhow boat cruise: Dhow boats have been cruising the waters of the Arabian Gulf for centuries, so a boat trip is an ideal way for all members of the family to soak up Qatar’s rich history and discover the country from a unique perspective. Tours are available throughout the day from the Corniche and can be booked through most hotels or local tour operators.

RESORTS

Enjoy a watersports haven at Banana Island Resort by Anantara: Home to one of Qatar’s best beaches and offering a diverse range of water adventures, families can enjoy kayaking, banana boat rides, exhilarating waterslides and a spectacular pool at this world-class resort. A dedicated children’s swimming area features three water slides, as well as a 100-metre-long lagoon pool. Two-bedroom family villas cost from £920 per night. Visitors not staying at the resort can purchase a day pass for £71, which includes Wi-Fi and luxury boat transfers.

Visit the recently opened Hilton Salwa, home to Qatar’s largest water park: Situated on two miles of picturesque private beach with over 20 international restaurants and its own water park, Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas is a perfect resort for sun-seeking families. One of the largest water parks in the Middle East, Desert Falls has 56 thrilling slides and rides for the whole family, as well as go-karting and laser tag. Rooms at the Hilton Salwa start from £178 per night. Entry to Desert Falls is free for hotel guests or from £30 for a day pass.

Relax and rejuvenate at the new family-friendly Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som: Opening in February, this award-winning wellness resort is split into two zones, including a dedicated family zone, Zulal Discovery, that offers enriching wellness programmes for all ages. Younger kids will enjoy nature-based outings and arts and crafts, while older children can spend their time being active with kayaking, dance and personal training. Family deluxe room (two adults, two children) from £1,200 per night, minimum two-night stay required.