Travelling as a family isn’t always easy, but Qatar’s constant sunshine, amazing hotels and exciting attractions are sure to put a smile on your children’s faces - no matter their age. Doha is like one giant playground, and most of the fun can be found inside its luxurious shopping malls. From the first Angry Birds World theme park to the only e-gaming hub in the Middle East, there’s some pretty impressive options, too!

Want to swap that dry, desert heat for an Arabian winter? You can do exactly that at Snow Dunes Qatar, where 12 thrilling rides (including a snow slide) promise the ultimate adrenaline rush. Or,  parents looking to merge education with play will love the child-sized cities found at KidzMondo Doha. Whether you’re living with a mini doctor or chef, let their imagination run wild as they roleplay in full uniform. Speaking of educational fun, don’t forget to check out the many interactive experiences at the Museum of Illusions.

What about a family day trip away from the city? Al Khor Park Zoo (45-minute drive) is perfect for little animal lovers. See the best of Qatar’s wildlife in one spot with chimpanzees, rhinos and crocs among the enclosures. Or, hit one of the largest theme parks in the Middle East with a trip to Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park (1 hour’s drive). Thrill-seeking teens will make a beeline for King Cobra’s towering twin tube slides, while water babies splash around in the Ship Kids Pool. And there’s plenty of dry fun too, including a high-speed go-karting track. 

If you want to try something exhilarating, step away from Doha’s skyscrapers and head deep into the desert. Riding a camel is amazing, but have you tried dune bashing? This rollercoaster-like experience involves a skilled driver hitting the sand at varying speeds - an absolute must for thrill-seekers. After an adrenaline-filled day, we recommend a Bedouin camp sleepover, not just for the warm hospitality, but so you can wake up to the sun rising over the desert.

Qatar isn’t just known for its land adventures either! With winter water temperatures sitting above 20°C, you can enjoy wet sports all year round. Pop your snorkel on and dive into those marine-filled Gulf waters, or hop on a SUP from the Corniche waterfront for a truly unforgettable sunset experience. Keen kitesurfers are also in luck, particularly between November and July with those northerly winds on their side. Further from the city (1 hour’s drive) is Purple Island and Al Thakira Mangroves, where you can kayak through Qatar’s lush greenery spotting beautiful birds and sea life.

Want to take your Qatar trip to greater heights? You can also experience this beautiful country from the clouds with a skydive or hot air balloon ride. 

Day 1: Just an hour’s drive from Doha, you’ll kick things off on Al Thakira’s serene sands. When you’re taking a dip in the Gulf, you’ll be lapping up spectacular views of Qatar's oldest mangrove reserve. And to round off a relaxing first day, hop on a kayak so you can really appreciate the area’s serene beauty.

Day 2: The rest and relaxation doesn’t stop there! Now it’s time to explore Qatar’s small isles ( Al Safliya). Lying just off the capital’s coastline, take a dhow from the Pearl or Corniche to reach this peaceful blanket of sand. From here, make your way to Dukhan Beach, whose stretching shallows are perfect for mini paddlers.

Day 3: Cram in two more beaches - the beautiful Mafjar and Banana Island. Just a 25-minute boat ride from Doha, you’ll feel like you're miles away from civilisation as you step foot on this tiny piece of land.

Day 4: Venturing north again, retreat to Al Shamal Beach. Stretching along Shamal Corniche,  you’ll see everything from families playing in the water to couples enjoying a romantic stroll. Then, if you want to squeeze in another sand spot, Farkeh’s play zone is bound to go down a treat with the kids.

Day 5: Set your alarm early so you can spend the morning at one of Qatar’s most recognised beauty spots - Zekreet. Follow the main road to Dukhan and look out for the beautiful limestone cliffs. Make sure you bring your snorkel so you don’t miss a chance to spot what’s hiding in its clear waters. The area’s incredible ancient settlements are also worth a visit if you have enough time.

Day 6: Finally, end your stay at Al Ghariy, which is just 100km north of Doha, and perfect for a relaxing swim before you have to say goodbye to this incredible country.

Day 1: Head straight for the beach with a stay at the beautiful Banana Island Resort. Set away from the hustle and bustle of Doha, it’s perfect for couples looking to recharge their batteries. If you really want to up the romance, plan an oceanside dinner in an Arabian cabana. Waited on by your own private butler, this intimate experience is sure to impress that special someone.

Day 2: The next morning it’s time to take a flight, but don’t worry you’re not heading home just yet! Float high above the city with a hot air balloon ride, the perfect setting for a proposal. Once you’re back on land, make a break for Corniche. Take in views of the sunbathed Gulf with a gentle stroll along the water’s edge, before hitting the Pearl’s Porto Arabia for some delicious food.

Day 3: Treat your other half to a traditional keepsake with a shopping spree at Souq Waqif.  Afterwards, pack up your stuff and get ready for a cosy desert camping trip under the stars at Khor Al Udaid (Inland Sea). There’s something special about seeing a body of water surrounded by rolling dunes, and it’ll be even more spectacular at sunset when the sand changes color. 

Day 4: Experience Doha’s cultural heart - Katara. This heritage-rich village is home to some outstanding examples of ancient architecture including a Greek Amphitheatre and Katara Mosque ( inspired by Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul). Adventurous couples can choose to end the day hiking in the surrounding hills, while others may prefer to hop on dhow so they can gaze into the moon-lit Gulf (or, each other’s eyes).

Day 5: Final stop, Hilton Salwa Beach Resort for some pre-departure relaxation after the trip of a lifetime; be it a spa treatment or catching the last of the sun’s rays before you have to head home.