Whenever the majority of travelers are asked about Qatar, what comes to the mind is the modern skyline of the city of Doha, posh shopping malls, and nightlife. But notwithstanding the glitz and glamour, Qatar has a treasure trove comprising of historical villages that can give one a glimpse of how its rich cultural heritage was. Traveling around these villages is a trip back in time, as desert scenery, old-fashioned buildings, and traditional way of life will make contemporary civilized life forgettable. In case you are considering the trip, the Qatar tourist visa UAE is the key to discovering these hidden gems.

Exploring Al Zubarah: a UNESCO heritage site.

Al Zubarah is certainly among the greatest historical villages of Qatar. This is a well-preserved settlement that had a vibrant pearl trade hub in the 18 th and 19 th centuries and is located on the northwestern coast. Taking a stroll through its ruins, one will be able to discover the remains of traditional Qatari houses, watchtowers, and a busy marketplace that narrates about the ancient times.

Al Zubarah Fort is a museum which was constructed in 1938 and this offers a very intriguing experience of how Qatar was. The adjacent archaeological location, a UNESCO-recognized one, represents the creativity of ancient Qatari architecture and city planning. Travelers who are also interested in history and culture must visit Al Zubarah.

The Allure of Al Ruwais: A Seaside Village.

Another historical village that fascinates the visitors with the peaceful desert coast is Al Ruwais which is situated at the tip of the Northern Qatar. It was a fishing, pearling as well as small scale trade village. Nowadays people have a chance to make a calm stroll in the beach, explore ancient defenses, and observe the local lifestyle that has not changed greatly.

Al Ruwais is also the best place to watch birds especially during the migratory season. It is a unique tourist destination because of the harmonious combination of the past and nature that offers a tourist the perfect place to relax without the hustle and bustle of the city.

Al Khor: Where is Tradition to meet Nature.

The history of the Al Khor town is several centuries old. It is a classical fishing and pearling village, and is known to have traditional Qatari houses, the coral built buildings, and colourful souqs. The Al Khor Corniche is one of the attractions when visiting Al Khor as you can enjoy beautiful scenes of the Arabian Gulf as you explore the heritage of the village.

Another attraction in the town is the Al Khor Museum where people will be able to learn more about the maritime history of Qatar, the practice of pearl diving, and development of local communities. To visit Al Khor, one can have a real picture of what life in Qatar used to be like before the 20 th century when it was modernized at a very rapid pace.

Inland Adventures: village of Al Jemailiya.

Al Jemailiya is a very small hill in the middle of the desert setting of Qatar, of which the tourists do not know a lot. This village boasts of the traditional mud-brick houses, and old wells, and this is one of the few opportunities to live in the desert the way it used to be more than 100 years ago. Tourists are able to walk through the small streets of the village, communicate with the residents, and even undergo certain cultural experiences that preserve Qatar culture.

The photography lovers can also find Al Jemailiya suitable. The coloring of the desert, presented with the golden sands, and the earth colors of the traditional houses give the incredible images, particularly at the sunrise and the sunset.

Festivals and Experiences in Culture.

Qatar has numerous historical villages that are used to hold cultural festivals to celebrate the traditions of the country. Traditional music, performances, workshops of handicraft, and local cuisine are always part of the events. By attending such festivals, the tourists are enabled to experience the full richness of the Qatari heritage and engage the local community in a way that is significant to them.

It is also possible to visit the country and take falconry demonstrations, camel rides, and desert tours that reveal the close relation between Qataris and their country. Such activities will offer a peculiar insight into the life in the historical villages of Qatar, which are way different to the contemporary cities.

How to see the Historical Villages in Qatar.

• Planning: Although most villages can be easily reached by car, there are more remote locations that need to be toured. The trick to this is to plan ahead so you do not miss anything of interest.
• Wear Light Clothes: Light and breathable clothes work well in the desert, hats and sunscreen to keep off the sun.
• Observing Local Culture: Traditional norms are observed in these villages despite the fact that Qatar is quite modern. Wear simple clothing and observe the local culture when communicating with locals.
• Photography Etiquette: It is always best to seek permission before capturing images of human beings or private homes so that it can be an experience to be treasured.
• Integrate Nature and Heritage: There are a lot of villages that are close to some natural interest such as beach or mangrove or a desert landscape. Spend time at the cultural and natural landmarks to get a wholesome experience.

The reasons why Historical Villages are a must when visiting Qatar.

Taking a trip to historical villages in Qatar will be an alternative to the skyscrapers and luxurious life of the city. These villages are living museums, which remain centuries in their traditions, architecture and village life. They enable the travelers to enjoy the endurance and resourcefulness of the people of Qatar and give them tales that cannot be found anywhere but in the modern sights.

As a family, history enthusiast or an individual traveler who wants to unwind and be on a peaceful retreat, the historical villages in Qatar offer the most authenticity and calmness. It may be the exploration of the fort of Al Zubarah, the walk of the coastline of Al Ruwais, or the exploration of the desert beauty of Al Jemailiya, each of the villages offers a different aspect of the past.

Conclusion

The historical villages of Qatar are a historical trip to the past where they can have a rare view of the traditional life in the desert and along the coast. These villages contain the historical heritage of the country, reconstructed by ancient forts and mud-brick houses and will offer an unforgettable experience of the culture. When you are planning your trip, you have to first acquire a Qatar tourist visa UAE. To have a hassle free and easy process, passengers can get a Qatar visa with Go Kite Travel, a reputable company that has a good reputation in the provision of quality services and good advice. Combine history, culture, and natural beauty that the villages of Qatar promote and make some memories that will be remembered throughout the entire life.