Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
biking and 4WD racing compete with the time-honoured picnic and a song, much to the
consternation of some and the pleasure of others. The area is big enough, thankfully, to
satisfy both, although environmental concerns are being expressed as more and more
travel agencies make the area the central attraction of their tours.
This region is
only
accessible by 4WD, and independent travellers should accompany
someone who knows the area and really can drive a 4WD. Being stuck in the sand is no
fun after the first hour and in summer is very dangerous. If you're determined to do it
yourself, make sure you have at least a box of water bottles on board for each passenger, a
map and compass, very clear directions of the best route currently navigable, a tow rope
and a shovel. If you get stuck don't dig: let out the air in the tyres and return to the nearest
petrol station immediately to reinflate.
Going on an organised tour is probably the safest way to see Khor al-Adaid; overnight
tours often include folkloric entertainment and a barbecue, as well as camping equipment.
Rates vary but a six- to seven-hour day excursion usually costs around QR625 per person
for two people; add another QR100 per person for an overnight trip.
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Umm Salal Mohammed
POP 60,509
There are several old buildings dating from the 19th and early-20th century dotted around
this small, modern residential district. The ruined
Umm Salal Mohammed Fort
( 8am-1pm &
4-7pm)
was built for military and civil use. Neighbouring
Barzan Tower
is possibly
more interesting as the triple-decker, T-shaped construction is unique in the Gulf;
however, this whitewashed building was closed to the public at the time of research and is
unlikely to reopen any time soon.
Umm Salal Mohammed is about 22km north of Doha, just west of the main highway to
Al-Ruweis. It's impossible to give directions to the fort or tower as there are no street
signs, but it's easy enough to stumble across both as they are visible above the surround-
ing houses.
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Umm Salal Ali
A small field of six 'Iron Age'
grave mounds
, dating from the 2nd millennium BC, is worth
a visit in Umm Salal Ali if you're visiting nearby Umm Salal Mohammed, especially if
