The crumbling ruins of Zekreet Fort appear to be ancient, but the site was built only 200 years ago, perhaps by the pirate leader, Raḥmah ibn Jābir al-Jalāhimah. It was used for just a decade or two. Visit Zekreet Fort to see how Qatar’s sun, sand, winds and occasional rains have reduced the structure to an outline of the former fortification. Walk around the fort’s typical square shape. Note its corner towers including three circular in shape and one square.
The fort is near research facilities for the Al Reem Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO pilot operation focused on sustainable development of dry, desert lands. Projects include providing resettlement areas for oryx and gazelles and investigating irrigation using salty ocean water. Watch for local farmers tending camels, sheep and goats in the reserve, often next to equipment pumping Qatar’s precious oil and gas from underground reserves.
Visit several other spots in the area while on this western side of the Qatar peninsula. Zekreet Beach is a popular area for swimming, windsurfing and glamping. View the interesting rock formations including remains of madabes, specially designed rooms to press dates to harvest their juice.
North of Zekreet is an area known as Film City, which was created as a set for an Arabic television series. Wander through the streets of this artificial city to meet its current inhabitants, who are not people, but ostriches and oryx. Keep a safe distance from these majestic antelope, which may charge if feeling threatened.
Travel west from Doha to Zekreet in the Al Rayyan municipality in just over 1 hour by car. The Zekreet Fort ruins are north of the village. As some of the travel will be on dirt roads, a four-wheel drive vehicle is best. It’s also possible to arrange a trip to this area and other abandoned sites with a local guide who will provide insights into the area’s history and culture.
The ruins are open at all times and do not charge admission. Be respectful of the environment and archaeological fragility when visiting. Always bring extra water and snacks when traveling to areas of Qatar away from the main cities.