Fuwairit Beach — Attraction in Ash Shamal

JUNE 2025

As a British couple visiting Qatar, we were keen to explore some of the quieter northern beaches, but found very limited information online before setting off. Hoping for a peaceful beach day, we made our way to Furwait Beach in June and, while the turquoise sea and white sand were undeniably beautiful, the overall experience was quite unexpected.

On arrival, most of the beach was boarded off and appeared to be private property, likely owned by locals. A very friendly Qatari man kindly explained that there were security cameras and we weren’t allowed to walk further down the beach. Only a small tiny section was publicly accessible, and unfortunately, it was all boarded up and quite a lot of litter, which really impacted the atmosphere.

We continued down the track to Ullal Beach, which was more clearly open to the public. It had a number of caravans and people staying overnight, creating more of a local, laid-back vibe. However, there were no cafes, shops, or toilet facilities, so it’s important to bring your own food and water.

We also drove further to visit the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, but it was completely deserted—no staff, no signage, and nothing really to do. The surrounding rocky coastline was quiet and scenic though, and made for a good photo stop.

A key issue was the road quality. Although we made it in a sedan, it’s really only suitable for a 4x4, and at one point we got stuck in the sand, which was stressful and time-consuming to deal with. The whole area is very remote, poorly signposted, and again, there was a significant amount of rubbish scattered along the way.

Another thing to be aware of is jellyfish—there were many in the water during our June visit, which made swimming uninviting.

While the water was stunning and we enjoyed the sense of adventure, the combination of limited access, poor roads, lack of facilities, and litter means we probably wouldn’t return. That said, we ended the trip with lunch in Al Khor, which has a cute family beach and restaurants—a much easier and more...

Fuert Beach in Qatar was a popular destination for its white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, but it closed in 2020 to protect the eggs of sea turtles, and became a protected area. Currently, the beach is a natural retreat for turtles and migratory birds, and is known for its opportunities for swimming (kite surf) at the dedicated resort, with water sports facilities and fitness classes.

Previous and modern features of Fuert Beach:

Its past as a public beach:

It is famous for its white sand and clear water.

It was an ideal destination for swimming, relaxation and family activities.

Its natural environment:

It has a unique coastal area, a haven for sea turtles and migratory birds.

It is an important nesting site for sea turtles.

Current activities:

Sailing (Kite Surf): Fuert Beach is known as an ideal place for Kite Surf, and provides a distinctive experience for fans of this sport.

Enjoying facilities: The resort includes fitness facilities, swimming pools, a sports centre, and a sun area.

Current status:

The beach is generally closed to visitors to protect wildlife during the turtle breeding season.

Turned into a protected area that enhances the survival of sea turtles and birds.

Location and access:

It is located a short distance from Doha on the northern...

Fuwairit Beach is easily one of the most beautiful natural beaches in Qatar. Located about 1.5 hours north of Doha, it’s a bit of a drive—but definitely worth it if you’re craving a peaceful escape from the city. The turquoise water, soft white sand, and untouched surroundings make it feel like a hidden paradise.

This beach is especially popular with locals and expats looking for a quieter, more natural setting. There’s plenty of space to spread out, and the water is usually calm and shallow—great for swimming or just wading in. It’s also one of Qatar’s key nesting sites for hawksbill turtles, which is a nice bonus for nature lovers (though parts of the beach may be closed during turtle nesting season).

On the flip side, facilities are limited. There are no proper toilets, changing rooms, or food outlets nearby, so it’s best to come prepared. Pack water, snacks, and anything else you’ll need for the day. Also, there’s little to no shade, so a beach umbrella is a smart idea if you’re staying a while.

It’s worth noting that access can sometimes be restricted during conservation periods, so checking before you go is a good idea.

All in all, Fuwairit Beach is a stunning spot for those who enjoy nature, calm waters, and quiet vibes—just don’t expect...