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Al Zubara Fort: A Coastal Guardian

Explore Al Zubara Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing Qatar's military history and rich cultural heritage through fascinating exhibits.

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Al Zubara Fort, constructed in 1938 by Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani, stands as a well-preserved example of a Qatari military fortress. Originally a coast guard station, it now serves as a museum showcasing the region's history and archaeological findings.

A brief summary to Al Zubara Fort

  • Al Zubara Fort, 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

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the fort and the archaeological site.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially during warmer months, as the area offers limited shade.
  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they may vary.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the fort and its history.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like Al Jumail Fishing Village or Purple Island for a fuller experience of the region.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Al Zubara Fort is approximately 105 km northwest of Doha. From Doha, take Al Shamal Road (Q1) north. Continue for about an hour until you reach the Madinat ash Shamal exit. Follow the signs to Al Zubarah. There is a designated parking area for visitors near the fort. Driving time is approximately 1.5 hours. There are no tolls. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    While there's no direct bus to Al Zubara Fort, you can take a bus from Doha to Al Khor Gardens. From Doha, take the bus to Al Khor Gardens. Then, take a taxi to Al Zubara Fort. The bus and taxi journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Alternatively, take the Metro from Msheireb to Lusail Red, then a taxi to the fort, totaling about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Bus fares are around $17-$26. Taxi fare from Al Khor to Al Zubara is approximately 4.50€.

Unlock the Best of Al Zubara Fort

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Discover more about Al Zubara Fort

Al Zubara Fort, located on the northwestern coast of Qatar, is a significant historical and cultural landmark. Built in 1938 under the supervision of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani, it initially served as a coast guard station. Some accounts suggest it also functioned as a police station. The fort is situated in the ancient town of Al Zubarah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013. The fort's architecture reflects traditional Arabian design, featuring a square courtyard surrounded by walls and corner towers. Three of the towers are round, while the fourth is rectangular and has machicolations. The walls, about 1 meter thick, are constructed from coral rock and limestone, using mud as mortar and coated with gypsum plaster. Inside the courtyard, a 15-meter deep well provided a vital water source. Today, Al Zubara Fort functions as a museum, displaying diverse exhibits and artwork, including archaeological finds from the nearby Zubarah city. Visitors can explore artifacts such as pots, pans, diving weights used by pearl divers, cannonballs, and coins. The fort offers insights into Qatar's history, particularly the Zubarah's role as a thriving pearl fishing and trading port between the 18th and 19th centuries. The adjacent Al Zubarah Archaeological Site, partly excavated, reveals the remains of the once-bustling town.

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