Al Sheehaniya: The Heart of Qatar's Desert Wonders

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaea]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlik/ala alrahb wasiata]
• Thank youشكرا لك
  [shukran lak]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bukhayr. wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad an ara alqaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحوم
  [ana la aakol allahum]
• Cheers!في صحتك
  [fi sahtak]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfaa, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajda!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [atassil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [awad an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatlaa]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam siroh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsiroh?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'a alwaahida]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد العاشرة
  [alnissf baad alaashirah]
• Morningالصباح
  [assabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [aldhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tasia]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين يوجد...؟
  [ayn yujad...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tareeni (ala alkhareeta)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yati alhafilat altaliat?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [tazkirah (ila...)]

Al Sheehaniya's origins trace back to Qatar's nomadic Bedouin tribes who settled in the area due to its strategic location and resources. The town evolved from a small settlement into a notable locality, contributing significantly to the cultural tapestry of Qatar.

Like many regions in Qatar, Al Sheehaniya played a role in the thriving pearl diving industry that was central to the country's economy before the discovery of oil. The town's proximity to the coast made it a favorable location for pearl divers who ventured into the Arabian Gulf.

The discovery of oil in the 1940s marked a significant turning point for Al Sheehaniya, as it did for the rest of Qatar. The influx of wealth led to rapid modernization and development, transforming the town into a hub of economic activity and infrastructural growth.

In the 1970s, Al Sheehaniya was officially designated as a municipality. This administrative change brought about organized development and better governance, further accelerating its growth and importance within Qatar.

Al Sheehaniya is renowned for its camel racing heritage. This traditional sport, deeply embedded in Qatari culture, sees the town hosting numerous races and events at the Al Sheehaniya Camel Racetrack. The introduction of robot jockeys in the early 2000s added a modern twist to this ancient sport.

The establishment of Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve has made Al Sheehaniya a significant destination for wildlife enthusiasts. This sanctuary showcases a variety of native and exotic animals, promoting conservation and education about Qatar's natural heritage.

Al Sheehaniya played a supportive role in Qatar's hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022. The town's infrastructure and facilities were enhanced to accommodate the influx of visitors, showcasing Qatar's hospitality and organizational prowess on a global stage.

Al Sheehaniya is located approximately 30 kilometers west of Doha, the capital of Qatar. The most convenient way to reach Al Sheehaniya is by car. From Hamad International Airport in Doha, you can rent a car or take a taxi. The drive generally takes around 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing services like Uber or Careem, which are widely available in Doha.

While Al Sheehaniya is relatively small, having your own mode of transportation is highly recommended for flexibility. Car rentals are available in Doha and offer the best means to explore the town and its surroundings. Taxis and ride-hailing services can also be used for local travel. Public transportation options like buses are limited but available; however, they may not be as convenient for tourists.

The official currency in Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (QAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Al Sheehaniya. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in various locations, but it's a good idea to withdraw enough cash in Doha before your trip.

Al Sheehaniya is considered a safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are generally low, but it's always wise to take standard safety precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Al Sheehaniya.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. Al Sheehaniya has local police stations and medical facilities to handle emergencies. Make sure to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly. Men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Avoid public displays of affection. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful. Avoid loud conversations and eating on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a slight nod. Avoid hugging or kissing in public. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Al Sheehaniya like a local, visit the camel racetrack, which is a significant part of the town's culture. Engage with locals and explore the local markets. Don't miss the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Qatari heritage and culture. If you're visiting during the camel racing season, make sure to attend a race for a unique experience.