Al Shahaniya, which is situated just to the west of Doha, is an interesting and charming place that vividly showcases Qatar’s desert customs and cultural heritage. It is considered the camel racing capital of Qatar, allowing travelers to participate in the country’s most loved and oldest sporting event, which is a mix of thrill, technology, and the deep Arabian roots.
The Al Shahaniya Camel Racetrack is where the whole thing is centered. It is the place where robot jockeys and the best racing camels have potent events and also make the world come to witness the competition. During the cooler months, the races are usually held on weekends and they turn into the most unforgettable event that is nothing but Qatar’s desert spirit.
Al Shahaniya, besides the racetrack, hides more places to discover. Among the private collections; the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum, one of the most admirable private collections, reveals thousands of artifacts, including vintage cars and Islamic art, Bedouin jewelry and ancient manuscripts, thus offering the visitors a trip through history, culture and curiosity.
Desert landscapes surrounding lure the adventurers and the reflective ones with their vast dunes and open skies, which are perfect for off-roading, photography, and/or just immersing in the quiet magnificence of the Qatari desert.
Al Shahaniya, whether you are watching a camel race, going through centuries of history or getting a close desert life experience, has the unique opportunity of getting a memorable encounter with Qatar’s real Arabian heritage, which is the point where the past and the present meet in the golden sands of the Gulf.