Background

Zubarah Town Ruins: A Window to Qatar's Pearling Past

Step back in time at Zubarah Town Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Qatar's best-preserved example of a Gulf pearl-trading town.

4.4

Explore the remnants of Zubarah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Qatar's largest archaeological site, offering a glimpse into the life of an 18th and 19th-century pearling and trading town. Wander through the ruins of houses, mosques, and markets, and imagine the bustling activity of this once-thriving port.

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.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the site's history.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    From Doha, take Al Shamal Road (Route 1) north. Continue for approximately 100 km, then take the exit towards Al Zubarah. Follow the signs to the Zubarah Town Ruins. Parking is available near the Al Zubarah Fort, which serves as the visitor center.

  • Public Transport

    From Doha, take a taxi or ride-sharing service to Al Ghanim Bus Station. Board a bus heading towards Al Ruwais. Alight in Al Zubarah. From there, take a local taxi to the Zubarah Town Ruins. Bus fare is approximately 10 QAR. Taxi fare from Al Zubarah to the ruins is approximately 20-30 QAR.

Unlock the Best of Zubarah Town ruins

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Zubarah Town ruins

The Zubarah Town Ruins, located on the northwestern coast of Qatar, offer a fascinating journey back in time to the 18th and 19th centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once a flourishing pearling and trading center, connecting the Persian Gulf with global markets. Founded in the mid-18th century, Zubarah quickly became Qatar's largest and most important settlement, attracting merchants and traders from across the region. As you explore the extensive site, you'll discover the remains of a fortified town, complete with inner and outer walls, a harbor, and even a sea canal. Imagine the bustling souq (market), where traders exchanged goods from distant lands. The ruins of houses, mosques, and industrial areas offer a glimpse into the daily life of the town's inhabitants. Despite its success, Zubarah's prosperity was short-lived. The town was attacked and burned to the ground in 1811, and by the early 20th century, it was completely abandoned. However, the desert sands preserved the ruins, providing a unique window into the region's past. Today, the Al Zubarah Fort, built in 1938, stands as a reminder of the town's strategic importance. Visitors can explore the fort and the archaeological site, gaining insights into the history, urban life, and economic significance of this once-thriving settlement.

Popular Experiences near Zubarah Town ruins

Popular Hotels near Zubarah Town ruins

Select Currency