A captivating historical gem nestled amidst the vast expanse of Qatar’s desert landscape. Located in the remote municipality of Madinat ash Shamal, this fort is a testament to Qatar’s rich heritage and its connection to the past.
Named after the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site, the archaeological town of Al Zubarah, the fort serves as a guardian of history. Al Zubarah, once a bustling pearl fishing and trading port with its own fort, Qalat Murair, witnessed the rise and fall of empires. The ruling Al Khalifa clan of Bahrain had a strong presence here, using it as a strategic base for their conquest of Bahrain in 1783.
In 1938, Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani erected the present-day Al Zubarah Fort to replace the dilapidated Qalat Murair. Over the years, it transformed from a coast guard and police station into a museum that narrates the region’s enthralling history.
Though not ancient, Al Zubarah Fort exudes an undeniable charm, beckoning travelers to explore its storied past. A visit to this historical treasure promises to transport you back in time, making the hour-long journey from Doha well worth the effort.
