Qatar is best known for its oil wealth. But, of course, there is much more to the country than that. Qatar lies on a small peninsula in the Arabian Gulf, surrounded by warm blue seas. Naturally, those seas attract watersports fans, including windsurfers. This is our guide to Qatar windsurfing.
Qatar’s winds blow at around 8-15 knots for most of the year. It’s not a place to break speed records, but the winds are consistent enough to be able to get some satisfying sailing in. They are great for beginners, strong enough to catch but not too strong. During the summer months, the Shamal winds blow strong – speeds over 20 knots are not uncommon.
Qatar is surrounded by beaches. Fuwairit Beach, on the northern tip of Qatar, is one of the most popular spots. It catches some of the country’s strongest winds and has become a firm favourite with both windsurfers and kitesurfers. Doha Bay is also a popular spot, especially with expats living in the capital. On the western side of Qatar, the seas around Dukhan can get quite choppy, giving wave-sailors something to keep them happy.
Those seeking stronger winds and more challenging conditions can head to Oman. It is around a day’s journey by car, but is worth it for many, especially in summer when the winds are strongest. Oman is starting to attract windsurfers from Europe to its shores, lured by big waves and winds that can be 25 knots or more.
Take a Qatar windsurfing trip and explore its wind and waves. The country is surprisingly windsurf-friendly and the sport is growing there. Catch the summer Shamal winds and you’ll be away…
