Doha Film City - a wonder to behold
Doha Film City at Zekreet Qatar is a complete recreation of an Arabic style village. It is totally unique because no one actually lives there, but it is constantly maintained as if it were a thriving village in real life – which makes it the perfect setting for a ghost town!
It was first established as a location for filming Arabic TV series, and if you are a resident of Qatar or even planning a tour in the region then Doha Film City is surely a great option to explore at least once. In general, there are not many visitors, however, it is still a great place to have a taste of adventure.
What will you find to explore here?
The Ras Abrouq peninsula, located eighty kilometers from Doha at Zekreet is a wonder to behold. The landscape is truly captivating with open desert, superb architectural styles, magnificent rocks, beautiful palm trees, eye-catching plateaus, salt flats and more. The whole set is the size of a real village and is terrific fun to explore with your entire family. There is a main gate through which to enter the village, which is walled from all sides.
When and how to visit?
Follow the Dukhan highway, taking the D-Ring Road to Shamal and then turn left at the Al Rayyan Interchange. Continue on to the Dukhan Highway and after approximately 90 kms, turn right when you see the Zekreet route sign. The total trip will take 1-2 hours. A regular car can make it there if you keep to the graded road, but of you want to get off the graded tracks, 4WD is recommended.
When you do get there, the best way to explore the majestic aura of the artificial city is on foot, and when you need rest and relaxation there is an oasis next to Film City where you can spend some quality time with your family and take refreshments in small shops that stock all you could require for a perfect visit. Try to time your visit before the heat of the midday sun, and try to leave before sunset or you could face difficulty navigating through the dark.
Things to keep in mind while visiting Doha film city
Carry a lot of water while travelling to this place. Keep your snacks ready at hand, and protect yourself from the searing sun with hats, headscarves, sunscreen and sunglasses. Don’t forget your camera to capture some superb photographs, and please ensure that your car has sufficient fuel and spare tires. Use your smartphone or satnav to get there and back safely; and above all – have fun in this enchanting historical reminder of the past!
Image credits:
Cover image: D. Rufino/flickr,
Inline image 1 - Cazzadoha/flickr
Inline image 2 - OAS PHOTOS/flickr
