This summer season, Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha announces the official opening of its newest experience, the Serenity Pool, an elegant, adult-only sanctuary designed for guests seeking tranquility, privacy, and refined leisure, elevating the resort facilities to new heights.
Designed as a tranquil escape, the Serenity Pool introduces a concept centered around relaxation and exclusivity, blending serene waters, refined ambiance, and uninterrupted moments of leisure. Guests can bask under the warmth of the sun, and enjoy seamless access to a private—creating the ultimate coastal retreat.
L’Occitane en Provence
Marking the occasion, Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha partners with L’Occitane en Provence, the globally celebrated French Maison founded in 1976 and renowned for its luxurious skincare, fragrance, and wellness products crafted from authentic natural ingredients. Inspired by the sun-kissed landscapes and traditions of Haute-Provence, L’Occitane celebrates Provençal savoir-faire while creating moments of well-being and connection to nature. Today, the brand reaches customers worldwide through over 3,000 boutiques, 100 spas, and 2,500 partner hotels, alongside its lifestyle cafés, including locations in Dubai and Riyadh. Bringing its signature elegance and wellness philosophy to Doha, L’Occitane will transform the Serenity Pool with a month-long takeover from 13th May to 13th June.
During this exclusive collaboration period, the pool will be transformed through exclusive L’Occitane en Provence branding, immersing guests in a refined, sensorial setting inspired by the spirit and beauty of Provence. The launch will spotlight the brand’s iconic almond-based collection – celebrated for its nourishing, smoothing, and delicately scented properties – offering guests an immersive experience that captures the essence of summer and self-care.
Open to both hotel guests and day pass visitors, the experience is complemented by a fresh and curated menu, inspired by vibrant summer flavors. From light bites to refreshing sips, every detail has been thoughtfully crafted to enhance long, leisurely days by the water, inviting guests to unwind in a vibrant coastal setting with effortless comfort, and seaside charm.
Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha
With its blend of refined leisure, coastal beauty, and sensorial luxury, the Serenity Pool sets a new standard for adult escapes in Doha- establishing itself as the ultimate summer destination for adults, a setting defined by sunlit ease, refined energy, and unforgettable ambience.
Qatar has a coastline most residents never fully see. We get stuck on Corniche and Katara, forgetting there is an entire shoreline beyond Doha with white sand, turquoise water, turtles, and not a single entry fee. These are the free beaches in Qatar worth the drive. Bookmark this for your next weekend.
1. Azerbaijani Beach, Madinat Ash Shamal
Azerbaijani Beach, Madinat Ash Shamal
The hidden gem everyone keeps quiet about. Around 90 km north of Doha, Azerbaijani Beach is famous for its soft white sand and crystal clear shallow water. No jet skis, no boats allowed, which is why the sea stays so clean. It is one of the busiest free beaches on weekends but the stretch is huge, so you will still find your spot. Bring your 4×4 if you want to drive onto the sand, but a regular car can manage the bumpy access road too.
Best for: camping, BBQ, stargazing, families Distance: 90 km from Doha Facilities: None on the beach itself, small shop nearby
2. Fuwairit Beach, Al Shamal
Fuwairit Beach, Al Shamal
White sand, clean water, and a turtle nesting site. Fuwairit is closed from April to August because hawksbill turtles come here to lay eggs, but Qatar Museums runs hatching visits through Culture Pass during the season. The rest of the year, it is one of the most photogenic beaches in Qatar and a favourite for kitesurfers.
Best for: kitesurfing, turtle watching season, photography Distance: 1.5 to 2 hours northeast of Doha Facilities: Minimal, bring everything
3. Al Wakra Old Souq Beach
Al Wakra Old Souq Beach
The most underrated beach in the country, and the closest one in this list. Right behind the Old Souq Al Wakra, this beach has the kind of view that makes you forget Doha is only 19 km away. Pair it with a karak at the souq, a walk along the heritage buildings, and a seafood lunch. The Wakra Family Beach nearby has gazebos, BBQ pits, playgrounds, and showers if you want more facilities.
Best for: half day trips, families, food and beach combo Distance: 19 km south of Doha Facilities: Restrooms, food at the souq, BBQ pits at the family beach
4. Legtaifiya Beach (The Night Beach), West Bay
Legtaifiya Beach (The Night Beach), West Bay
Qatar’s first night beach and the only entry on this list you can reach by metro. Legtaifiya is right behind District One food market, with Pearl Qatar lighting up the view across the water. Most activities start after 3 PM and run past midnight. Bouncing castles for kids, food stalls all around, and zero entry fee.
Best for: evening hangs, families, no-car trips Metro: Legtaifiya Station Facilities: Toilets, loungers, kids’ play area, food next door
5. Umm Bab Beach (Palm Tree Beach)
Umm Bab Beach (Palm Tree Beach)
The west coast pick. Umm Bab is known for the cluster of palm trees that frames the shoreline, which is rare for Qatar. The shore is more rocky than sandy, but the sunsets here are unmatched because you are facing west. Locals come here for camping and overnight BBQs.
Best for: sunsets, camping, west coast escape Distance: About 1 hour west of Doha, near Dukhan Highway Facilities: None
6. Sealine Beach, Mesaieed
Sealine Beach, Mesaieed
The only place in the country where the desert meets the sea on a public beach. Sealine sits in the south near Mesaieed, and you get high tide beach on one side and the famous sand dunes on the other. Camel rides, ATV rentals, dune bashing, and a swim, all in one Friday.
Best for: adrenaline, dune bashing, full day adventure Distance: 63 km south of Doha Facilities: No public toilets, parking only at the start of the dunes
7. Al Ghariya Beach, Al Shamal
Al Ghariya Beach, Al Shamal
Two beaches in one location. The maintained Al Ghariya Swimming Beach has restrooms, showers, shaded eating areas, and BBQ pits. The open Al Ghariya Beach next to it has zero facilities but full peace. Pick your version of a beach day.
Best for: clean water swims, snorkelling, picnics Distance: 100 km from Doha, around 1 hour drive Facilities: Restrooms, showers, shaded areas, BBQ pits (swimming beach side)
8. Simaisma Beach, North of Doha
Simaisma Beach, North of Doha
The 30 minute beach. If you want sand without committing to a road trip, Simaisma is your answer. Shallow water, soft sand, cabanas, and nearby playgrounds make it the most family friendly beach close to Doha. Great for a Friday morning with the kids before the heat builds.
Best for: families with little kids, quick beach trips Distance: 30 minutes from Doha Facilities: Cabanas, playgrounds nearby
9. Dukhan Beach, Dukhan
Dukhan Beach, Dukhan
Famous for its soft white sand and the deeper water that lets you actually swim, not just wade. Most public beaches in Qatar have very shallow shores, but Dukhan gives you proper depth for a real dip. Two beaches sit on either side of the private Qatar Petroleum Sports Club, both free, both stunning.
Best for: actual swimming, snorkelling, quiet weekday visits Distance: 80 km west of Doha Facilities: Restrooms and showers available
Local Tips Before You Pack the Car
Most free beaches in Qatar do not have lifeguards. Watch your kids.
The further you go, the less you will find. Take water, snacks, sunscreen, shade, and a trash bag. Leave the beach cleaner than you found it.
The best time to go is from October to March. Summer is brutal even at the coast.
A regular sedan can reach most of these beaches, but a 4×4 makes life easier on the sandy access roads.
Some beaches are technically open 24 hours but feel safer with company after sunset.
Qatar has more coastline than most residents will ever explore. These nine beaches are the easiest way to start. The cars are full, the sea is free, and the weekend is already calling.
Doha is gearing up to host the biggest weekend on the global triathlon calendar. Here’s your complete guide to the Qatar T100 Triathlon 2026, race categories, registration, prices, course details and how to be part of it.
Last year’s Qatar T100 sold out. This year, the world’s pinnacle long-distance triathlon is coming back to Lusail, and registrations are already open.
The Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final 2026 takes over Lusail from 10 to 13 December 2026, with the main race weekend on 11 and 12 December. It’s the grand finale of the T100 Triathlon World Tour, the season-long series that crowns the world’s best long-distance triathletes, and Doha is locked in as the host city through 2029.
Whether you’re a serious athlete chasing an age-group world title, a Sprint-curious first-timer, or a family who just wants to do a fun 5K through Lusail Boulevard before the drone show lights up the sky, there’s a race here with your name on it.
When and Where Is the Qatar T100 Triathlon 2026?
Dates: 10 to 13 December 2026 Location: Lusail, Qatar Race village and expo: Lusail Plaza Main race weekend: Friday 11 and Saturday 12 December
The course runs through one of Qatar’s most photogenic stretches of real estate. Lusail’s waterfront is the backdrop, starting with a 2km swim in the Arabian Gulf, an 80km bike through Lusail’s iconic streets, and an 18km run through Lusail Plaza and Boulevard. Roads are fully closed. Spectators line the route. Lusail Stadium, the 2022 FIFA World Cup final venue, sits within view.
Qatar T100 2026 Race Categories: Pick Your Distance
Five races. Every level of athlete covered.
1. 100km Triathlon (The Main Event)
The full T100 distance: 2km swim, 80km bike, 18km run.
Same course the pros race. Same finish line. Open entry, so you don’t need to qualify, you just need to commit.
This is where most first-time long-course triathletes test themselves and where seasoned athletes chase a slot at the World Championship Final.
Date: Saturday 12 December 2026 Super Early Bird Price: QAR 1,521 (prices rise with demand)
2. T100 Age-Group World Championship
Qualification-only. If you placed top 10 in your age group at a T100 event during the season, you’re invited to race for your country.
10 qualification slots per age group are available at each T100 event on the tour.
Date: Saturday 12 December 2026
3. Sprint Triathlon
The entry point. 750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run.
If you’ve ever thought about doing a triathlon but the full T100 feels like too much, this is the format that gets most people hooked. Short enough to be doable. Long enough to feel real.
Date: Saturday 12 December 2026 Early Bird Price: QAR 466
4. Youth Super Sprint Triathlon
For young athletes ready to race. 400m swim, 10km bike, 2.5km run.
Built for newcomers and developing competitors who want a taste of multisport without the grind of longer distances.
The most accessible event of the whole weekend. No experience needed. Walk it, jog it, run it.
It kicks off the weekend on Thursday evening with a finale drone show over Lusail Boulevard.
Date: Thursday 10 December 2026
How to Register for Qatar T100 Triathlon 2026
Entries for the 100km Triathlon and Sprint Triathlon are live. The Youth Super Sprint and 5K Run are on interest-registration for now, with full registration opening soon.
A few things worth knowing before you click register:
Prices adjust in real time based on demand. The earlier you sign up, the less you pay.
Every T100 entry comes with a refund safety net: 50% refund up to 90 days before race day, 25% refund until 30 days out.
Last year’s edition sold out. Don’t sit on it.
The Qatar T100 Course: What You’re Actually Racing
The 100km race is broken down like this:
Swim: A 2km single-loop swim starting at the Lusail Ferry Dock and finishing at the transition area. Water temperature in December sits at around 22 to 23 degrees Celsius, so wetsuits are typically optional.
Bike: An 80km bike course featuring four laps around the dynamic streets of Lusail. Closed roads. Flat, fast and built for PRs.
Run: An 18km run, three laps of a 6km loop starting on Lusail Boulevard and circling the waterfront of Getaifan Island.
Spectator-friendly the whole way through.
Why the Qatar T100 Matters
The 2025 edition pulled in 5,171 participants across all race categories, with 3,087 of them in the running events alone and 753 children taking part in the 1km run. It put Lusail on the global endurance map overnight.
The professional field is genuinely elite. The T100 World Tour offers more than $8 million in prize money across the season, and the Qatar final is where world champions are crowned. Visit Qatar ambassador Sir Mo Farah handed out finisher medals to amateurs at last year’s race. T100 Triathlon
For Qatar, this is the long game. The T100 Triathlon World Championship Final is locked in as a Lusail event from 2025 through 2029, cementing Doha’s place alongside Singapore, San Francisco, London and Vancouver on the global multisport circuit. T100 Triathlon
What to Expect on Race Weekend
Beyond the racing itself, the Qatar T100 weekend is built like a festival. The event village at Lusail Plaza is open from Thursday with food vendors, expos, entertainment and merchandise. Athletes collect race packs in the days before the race. The pro races on Friday turn into prime spectator viewing. Saturday is the big amateur day.
If you’re not racing, come down anyway. The whole stretch is open to the public, the atmosphere is electric, and the finish line on Lusail Boulevard is one of the most photogenic in world sport.
Whether you’re chasing a world title or you just want to walk a 5K through Lusail at sunset with a drone show waiting at the finish, the Qatar T100 2026 has a lane for you.
Registrations are open. Prices are climbing. The clock is already ticking.
Friday in Doha hits different. The morning is quiet, the malls are closed till after prayers, and the city slows down just enough for you to remember why you actually like living here. The best way to spend it? Pack a basket, grab a karak on the way, and head to a park.
These are six picnic spots in Doha that locals genuinely use. Not tourist lists. Not Pinterest fantasies. The ones you actually drive to on a Friday afternoon with your people.
1. 5/6 Park
5/6 Park, Onaiza
The newer kid on the block and easily the most photogenic. 5/6 Park sits next to the Al Wahda Arches and is built around a giant plant maze shaped like the map of Qatar. There is a 5-metre observatory hill that gives you a full view of the Doha skyline, perfect for golden hour photos. The maze is lit up at night, the walls have murals by Qatari artists, and there is a 1.4 km jogging track if you actually want to move.
Best for: couples, Instagram pages, sunset hangs Open: 24/7, free entry Metro: Al Qassar (Red Line)
2. Al Bidda Park, Corniche
Al Bidda Park, Corniche
The OG. If you have been in Doha longer than six months, you have already had a barbecue here. Al Bidda is the largest park in central Doha, it is pet friendly, and it has bookable BBQ pits and gazebos. The waterfront views of West Bay are unmatched, especially after Asr prayer when the breeze finally shows up.
Best for: big families, group BBQs, dog walks Open: 4 AM to 11:50 PM, free entry Metro: Al Bidda (Interchange station)
3. Aspire Park, Aspire Zone
Aspire Park, Aspire Zone
The biggest park in the city and probably the most popular. Aspire has the artificial lake, the paddle boats, the view of The Torch, and roughly a hundred shaded picnic corners. It is the kind of place where you go for an hour and stay for four. Pro tip: park near the Villaggio side and walk in, the lake side gets crowded by 5 PM on Fridays.
Best for: families with kids, joggers, paddle boat dates Open: 24/7, free entry Metro: Al Aziziyah (Gold Line), then a short taxi
4. Crescent Park (North Hills), Lusail
Aspire Park, Aspire Zone
The quieter pick. Crescent Park in Lusail spans 275,000 square metres and locals know it as the North Hills park area. It has forested zones, kids’ playgrounds, and TeaTime Premium for your karak fix. It is far enough from central Doha that you actually get peace, but close enough to make it a real Friday option. If you want a picnic without the Aspire crowd, this is it.
Best for: quiet picnics, Lusail residents, slow afternoons Open: 24/7, free entry Best access: Lusail Metro (Red Line), then short drive
5. MIA Park, Corniche
MIA Park, Corniche
The view park. Sitting right behind the Museum of Islamic Art, MIA Park gives you the most postcard-ready picnic spot in Qatar. West Bay across the water, traditional dhows lined up on the corniche, Richard Serra’s “7” sculpture standing tall at the end of the pier. Park Café at the far end is perfect for an iced coffee, and on Fridays the MIA Park Bazaar usually pops up with food trucks and small vendors.
Best for: skyline photos, first-time visitors, slow sunset walks Open: 24/7, free entry Metro: National Museum (Gold Line)
6. Umm Al Seneem Park, Al Rayyan
MIA Park, Corniche
Save this one for summer because it is the only park in the world with a Guinness World Record for the longest outdoor air-conditioned jogging track. Yes, you read that right. 1,143 metres of cooled outdoor walkway, available from 3 PM to 11 PM, plus a reflexology path with cobblestones you can walk barefoot on. It is family friendly, has kids’ zones split by age group, and food kiosks scattered around. If you have been avoiding outdoor plans because of the heat, this is your park.
Best for: summer Fridays, joggers, families with little kids Open: AC track 3 PM to 11 PM, free entry Location: Wadi Al Theebiya Street, Al Rayyan
A Few Friday Picnic Tips From Someone Who Lives Here
Pack water. Way more than you think you need.
Bring a mat. The grass is often wet from the sprinklers, especially in the cooler months.
Go after Asr. Most parks fill up around 4 to 5 PM but the light is better and the heat has dropped.
Reserve BBQ pits in advance, especially at Al Bidda. Walk-ins on Friday will leave you grilling on disappointment.
Check the weather. Even in winter, the wind can flip your samosas.
Friday is the one day Doha gives you back. Use it.
The wait is over. CBSE declared the Class 12 Result 2026 today, 13 May 2026, and lakhs of students across India and the Gulf are finally refreshing the right page instead of the wrong one.
Here is what you actually need to know, and where to check.
CBSE 12th Result 2026 at a Glance
The overall pass percentage this year is 85.20%, which is about 3.19 percentage points lower than last year. Out of 17,68,968 students who appeared, 15,07,109 cleared the exam.
Girls have done it again. The girls’ pass percentage stands at 88.86%, while boys came in at 82.13%. That is a gap of nearly 6.73 percentage points.
The Central Board of Secondary Education declares 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀 XII 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲
SMS Service: Type CBSE12 [Roll Number] [School Number] [Center Number] and send to 7738299899
Keep your roll number, school number, admit card ID, and date of birth ready before you click. You will not get past the login screen without them.
How to Download Your Marksheet on DigiLocker
DigiLocker handles the load better than the main CBSE portal on result day. The marksheet you download here is digitally signed and accepted by colleges and universities for provisional admission.
Sign in using your Aadhaar number or mobile number
Search for CBSE under issued documents
Select Class XII Marksheet cum Passing Certificate 2026
Download and save it
What This Means for Students in Qatar
This is the part most national coverage skips, but Doha cares about it for a reason.
Qatar has one of the largest CBSE student communities outside India. Schools like Birla Public School Doha, MES Indian School, Bhavans Public School, DPS Modern Indian School, Shantiniketan Indian School, Rajagiri Public School, and Ideal Indian School all follow the CBSE curriculum. Hundreds of Class 12 students in Doha sat for the same March exams as their counterparts in Delhi, Trivandrum, and Mumbai, and they are checking the same portal tonight.
The result also lands during CUET UG 2026 season. The National Testing Agency is running the entrance exam from 11 to 31 May 2026, and Doha is one of only 14 international centres hosting it. That means Class 12 students based in Qatar can sit for their Indian university entrance test without flying out, which makes the next two weeks unusually packed for families here.
For Indian expat parents in Qatar, the timeline matters. Most Indian universities open admission rounds within 10 to 14 days of result declaration. The DigiLocker marksheet is the document you will need for provisional applications, since original certificates take longer to reach foreign schools.
What Comes Next
If you cleared with the marks you wanted, the real work starts now. College shortlists, CUET counselling, application deadlines. If you did not get the result you expected, CBSE allows verification of marks, re-evaluation, and a compartment exam in July for students who fell short in one subject.
Either way, the score is one chapter. What you do in the next two weeks usually matters more than the number on the page.
If you’ve been looking for a Pilates class in Doha that feels less like a gym and more like a moment, this one is for you.
Old Doha Port and Fit Island are launching Pilates in the Aquarium, a ladies-only weekly class set inside the aquarium at City Gallery, starting Friday, June 6.
What to expect from Pilates in the Aquarium
The sessions are designed as a one-of-a-kind wellness experience, blending mindful movement with the calm, immersive setting of the Old Doha Port aquarium. Think slow stretches, controlled breathing, and a wall of fish gliding past you while you flow through your practice.
It is open to women only, making it a comfortable space for ladies in Doha looking for a private, peaceful workout away from mixed gyms.
Class details
Here is everything you need to know before booking:
Location: City Gallery, The Terminal, Old Doha Port
Start date: Weekly from Friday, 6 June 2026
Time: 10:00 AM
Price: 150 QAR
Open to: Ladies only
Hosted by: Fit Island in collaboration with Old Doha Port
How to register for Pilates in the Aquarium
You can sign up in two ways:
Through the FIT ISLAND app
By calling or messaging +974 5100 0570
Spots are likely to fill up quickly given the unique setting, so booking in advance is recommended.
Why this matters for Doha’s wellness scene
Old Doha Port has been steadily building its profile as a lifestyle and cultural destination, and this collaboration with Fit Island adds another reason to visit. Ladies-only fitness offerings are still limited in Doha, especially in scenic, non-gym settings, which makes this launch worth bookmarking.
For residents and expats searching for something different from the usual studio class, a Pilates session surrounded by marine life inside one of Doha’s most photographed venues is about as unique as it gets.
Qatar Airways is bringing back two major international routes this summer, with flights to Helsinki, Finland, and Tokyo Haneda, Japan resuming from July 15, 2026.
Helsinki flights return with daily service by August
The national carrier will launch four weekly flights to Helsinki from July 15, scaling up to seven weekly flights from August 1.
The route is expected to benefit travellers connecting from Australia, Kenya, and Southeast Asia through Doha, tapping into Qatar Airways’ global network.
Tokyo Haneda joins existing Narita service
Qatar Airways is also returning to Tokyo Haneda (HND) with four weekly flights from July 15, complementing its existing service to Tokyo Narita (NRT).
The Haneda route will increase to daily flights from August 1, making onward transfers easier for travellers from Europe and the Middle East heading into Japan.
Part of Qatar Airways’ wider summer expansion
The new routes are part of Qatar Airways’ broader push to rebuild its global network, with the airline set to cover over 160 destinations across six continents this summer.
Qatar Calendar House has announced that Monday, May 18 is expected to mark the start of Dhu Al Hijjah 1447 AH, with Eid Al Adha 2026 forecast to begin on Wednesday, May 27, according to astronomical calculations.
When does Dhu Al Hijjah 1447 start?
Dhu Al Hijjah is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar and one of the holiest periods in Islam. It is the month during which Muslims perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
Executive Director of Qatar Calendar House, Dr Faisal Al Ansari, said specialists had conducted precise astronomical calculations to determine the dates.
The crescent moon marking the start of Dhu Al Hijjah will be born late on Saturday at 11:02pm Doha time (8:02pm GMT).
Why the crescent cannot be sighted on Saturday
Dr Al Ansari explained that sighting the crescent on Saturday evening will be “impossible” in Qatar and across the Arab and Islamic world, because the moon will not yet have been born at the time of sunset.
Under the Islamic lunar calendar, the beginning and end of Hijri months are determined by the moon’s movement around the Earth, while the Gregorian calendar follows the Earth’s orbit around the sun.
Eid Al Adha 2026: What it marks
Eid Al Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is observed by Muslims worldwide to commemorate the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim, known as Abraham in Christianity and Judaism, to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.
Official Eid date still to be confirmed
The announcement provides an early astronomical indication of the timing of Eid Al Adha in Qatar. Official confirmation of the start of Dhu Al Hijjah and Eid dates is typically made by religious authorities following the moon-sighting process.
A commercial cargo vessel was struck by a drone in Qatar’s territorial waters on Sunday morning, the Qatari Ministry of Defense confirmed in an official statement. The ship was sailing northeast of Mesaieed Port, having arrived from Abu Dhabi, when the attack took place.
The strike caused a limited fire on board. No injuries were reported. The fire was brought under control quickly, and the vessel continued its journey toward Mesaieed Port. Authorities have taken the necessary measures and are coordinating closely with relevant agencies.
What the Ministry of Defense Said
The Ministry ended its statement with a prayer for the protection of Qatar, its Amir, its people, and all residents on its land.
تعلن وزارة الدفاع القطرية عن تعرض سفينة بضائع تجارية في المياه الإقليمية للدولة، شمال شرق ميناء مسيعيد، قادمة من أبو ظبي، صباح اليوم الأحد، لاستهداف بطائرة مسيّرة، مما تسبب في اندلاع حريق محدود في السفينة، دون وقوع أي إصابات، وتابعت السفينة رحلتها باتجاه ميناء مسيعيد بعد السيطرة… pic.twitter.com/p6wC7M3Iig
— وزارة الدفاع – دولة قطر (@MOD_Qatar) May 10, 2026
In its statement, the Ministry of Defense said the cargo vessel was targeted while in Qatari territorial waters. The Ministry confirmed that the fire was contained, the crew was unharmed, and the ship reached Mesaieed Port safely.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry Condemns the Attack
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong condemnation of the targeting of the commercial cargo ship. In its statement, the Ministry called the attack a flagrant violation of the principle of freedom of navigation and a dangerous escalation that threatens the security of commercial maritime passages and vital supplies in the region.
بيان | دولة قطر تدين تعرض سفينة بضائع تجارية لاستهداف بطائرة مسيرة في المياه الإقليمية للدولة
الدوحة | 10 مايو 2026
تعرب دولة قطر عن إدانتها واستنكارها الشديدين لتعرض سفينة بضائع تجارية في المياه الإقليمية للدولة، شمال شرق ميناء مسيعيد، قادمة من أبو ظبي، صباح اليوم، لاستهداف… pic.twitter.com/xCzM0sMdn3
The Ministry made it clear that targeting commercial and civilian ships, regardless of who is responsible, is a grave breach of international law. It added that such actions pose a direct threat to regional and international security and stability.
Qatar said it is following the developments closely and working with regional and international partners. The competent authorities will investigate the incident and determine responsibility. The statement also reiterated Qatar’s firm position that the security of maritime navigation and freedom of passage in international waterways must not be undermined under any circumstances.
Where the Attack Took Place
According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the bulk carrier reported being struck by an unknown projectile while sailing 23 nautical miles (43 kilometers) northeast of Doha. UKMTO confirmed the strike caused a small fire on board, which was extinguished, with no reported casualties. Vessels in the area have been advised to transit with caution while authorities investigate the source of the projectile.
A Wider Regional Backdrop
The attack on the cargo vessel comes during a tense period in the Gulf. Kuwait’s military also reported a drone attack on Sunday, without specifying where the drones came from. Both incidents have tested the month-old ceasefire in the Iran war, which the Trump administration says remains in effect.
Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most important energy corridor, have remained high since strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran in late February 2026. Several commercial vessels in the Persian Gulf have been hit in recent days, raising concerns across the shipping industry.
For Qatar, the targeting of a vessel in its own territorial waters marks a significant moment. The country has consistently called for de-escalation and emphasised the importance of protecting commercial shipping routes that serve the global economy.
Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the relevant authorities are investigating the circumstances of the attack and working to determine responsibility. The Ministry’s statement closed with a clear message: the security of maritime navigation is a fundamental pillar of regional and international stability, and it must be protected.
Residents and visitors across Qatar are being reassured that the situation is under control, the vessel reached port safely, and authorities continue to monitor the maritime environment closely.
Date of attack: Sunday, 10 May 2026
Location: Qatari territorial waters, northeast of Mesaieed Port (around 23 nautical miles northeast of Doha)
As summer sets in, Qatar’s coastline offers a refreshing way to experience the country, where tranquil northern shores, vibrant city beaches and dramatic desert landscapes come together along the Arabian Gulf. Whether it is a quiet morning by the water, a family day out or an active beach escape, each destination offers a distinct experience shaped by its surroundings. The country offers a diverse mix of public and private beaches, catering to a wide range of preferences, from open-access natural shores to curated beachfront destinations.
Nami Beach
Nami Beach, the latest addition to Qatar’s coastline located in the heart of Doha, offers a curated beachfront experience with cabanas, landscaped areas and dining options. It also features a dedicated ladies-only zone, providing a more private and comfortable setting for visitors.
974 Beach
974 Beach
Located near Stadium 974, this contemporary beach combines leisure with a lively atmosphere. With water sports including jet skiing and kayaking, as well as beach volleyball, football and dedicated activity zones, it offers a dynamic and interactive seaside experience.
West Bay Beach
West Bay Beach
Positioned in central Doha, West Bay Beach offers a convenient escape with views of the city skyline. As one of the few dog-friendly beaches, it is ideal for relaxed walks, swimming and casual time by the sea.
Sealine Beach
Sealine Beach
Situated in Mesaieed, Sealine Beach is a long-standing favourite, cherished by generations for its unique blend of desert and sea. Visitors can enjoy dune bashing and swimming in a dynamic, all-day beach and desert setting.
Inland Sea
Inland Sea
The Inland Sea, or Khor Al Adaid, features a rare landscape where desert dunes meet the sea. Recognised as a UNESCO-listed natural reserve, visitors can experience desert adventure and swimming, making it one of Qatar’s most immersive desert-to-sea adventure destinations.
Fuwairit Beach
Fuwairit Beach
Located along Qatar’s northeast coast, Fuwairit Beach is known for its soft white sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters. Home to the purpose-built Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, it offers world-class kitesurfing, water sports and beachfront leisure facilities, making it a key destination for active coastal experiences.
Al Maroona Beach
Al Maroona Beach
Al Maroona is known for its golden sands and shallow waters. Its untouched setting makes it ideal for swimming, picnics, camping and spotting marine life such as starfish and crabs along the shore.
Simaisma Beach
Simaisma Beach
Located north of Doha, Simaisma Beach is a family-friendly destination known for its calm, shallow waters. With shaded picnic areas, playgrounds, barbecue spots and open spaces for beach games, it offers a complete setting for relaxed family outings.
Zekreet Beach
Zekreet Beach
Located on Qatar’s west coast, Zekreet Beach is known for its dramatic limestone rock formations and remote desert setting. Popular for camping, windsurfing, it offers a secluded, off-the-grid coastal experience surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Dukhan Beach
Located on Qatar’s west coast, Dukhan Beach is known for its wide shoreline and calm, clear waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkelling along reef areas, fishing and camping, making it ideal for group outings and outdoor seaside experiences.
Dukhan Beach
Together, these beaches reflect the diversity of Qatar’s coastline, offering experiences that range from natural settings to well-developed urban destinations. Whether seeking relaxation, adventure or family-friendly outings, Qatar’s beaches continue to position the country as an accessible and compelling summer destination.
Beyond its coastline, Qatar offers an exceptional summer season filled with activities, events, attractions, offers and promotions under the Hala Summer programme and Kids Go Free offer. For more information, please visit: https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar/summer
