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Zubarah Town Ruins: A Glimpse into Qatar's Pearling Past

Discover the captivating Zubarah Town Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Qatar's best-preserved example of an 18th-19th century pearl fishing and trading town.

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Explore the remnants of Zubarah, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once a thriving pearling and trading town in the 18th and 19th centuries. Wander through the ruins of houses, mosques, and fortifications, imagining life in this bustling Gulf port before its destruction in 1811.

A brief summary to Zubarah Town ruins

  • X2GJ+X6P, Al Zubara, QA
  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 12:30 pm-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October to March) for a more comfortable experience, as the site offers limited shade.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, as the desert environment can be harsh.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and archaeological significance of the site.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven terrain.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Doha, take the Al Shamal Road (Q1) north for approximately 105 km. Take the exit toward Al Zubarah and follow the signs to the Zubarah Town ruins. Parking is available near the Al Zubarah Fort, a short distance from the ruins. There is no entrance fee to visit the site.

  • Public Transport

    From Doha, take a taxi or ride-sharing service to Al Ghanim Bus Station. From there, board a bus heading towards Al Ruwais. Alight in Al Ruwais city center and hire a local taxi to Al Zubarah. The taxi ride should cost approximately 20-30 QAR. Bus fares are around 10 QAR. Confirm taxi fares before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Zubarah Town ruins

The Zubarah Town Ruins offer a fascinating journey into Qatar's rich history. Founded in the mid-18th century by merchants from Kuwait, Zubarah quickly became a prominent center for pearl diving and trade, connecting the Indian Ocean, Arabia, and Western Asia. The town flourished for a short period before being destroyed in 1811 and abandoned in the early 1900s. Today, the site sprawls across 60 hectares, revealing the layout of a once-bustling urban center. Though no buildings remain standing, the foundations and walls of houses, mosques, markets (souqs) and fortified structures offer a tangible connection to the past. Archaeological excavations have uncovered remnants of daily life, providing insights into the social and economic history of the Gulf before the discovery of oil and gas. A visit to Zubarah includes the Al Zubarah Fort, built in 1938, which serves as a visitor center and museum displaying artifacts from the site. While the fort itself is not directly related to the ancient town, it provides context and information about the historical significance of Zubarah. Guided tours are available, offering deeper insights into the site's history and ongoing archaeological efforts. A recently constructed boardwalk trail enhances the visitor experience, allowing exploration of the excavated areas, including residential compounds, watchtowers, and the former harbor.

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