Al Kharaitiyat, in the Umm Salal municipality, is just a stone’s throw away from bustling Doha.

It’s known for its close proximity to historical sites and its local soccer club, where the area’s beloved team plays in the Qatari Second Division.

Top attractions in Al Kharaitiyat

Families love the area’s vibrant green space, Al Kharaitiyat Park. With inviting benches, canopies for picnics, a playground and meticulously manicured gardens, it’s a popular spot to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.

A bit further into the Umm Salal area, you’ll find the Barzan Towers, a 10-minute drive north of Al Kharaitiyat. The exact purpose of these watchtowers has never been ascertained, but they may have been used to monitor the ‘rawdat’ (a valley where precious rainwater collects) and to track the lunar cycle.

Nearby is the Barzan Olympic Park, where Qatar’s love of sports is proudly on display. The park boasts many sporting facilities, from table tennis to soccer. There’s also shaded seating, a children’s play area and miniatures of some of Qatar’s most iconic landmarks.

Things to do in Al Kharaitiyat

While primarily residential, the town of Al Kharaitiyat is conveniently located near several attractions. From the iconic Museum of Islamic Art to the bustling Souq Waqif, Doha’s cultural and commercial hubs are just a 20-minute drive to the south.

Getting around Al Kharaitiyat

While there are buses available to get from Al Kharaitiyat to downtown Doha and other nearby cities, a rental car will give you the ultimate freedom to explore all the offerings of this region of Qatar.