When you think desert you think sandy, hot and inhospitable – perhaps not the first place you think of going with children. But Purple Island Qatar is a perfect desert experience for the whole family. Whenever we have visitors in town, especially visitors with children, we always head out to Purple Island Qatar

How to get to Purple Island Qatar

To get to Purple Island you need to drive to Al Khor. Purple Island is approximately 5km further on from Al Khor Town centre. Though you have to go down a dirt path to get there, the drive is relatively flat to Purple Island.

Reasons why you should visit Purple Island Qatar

There’s no dune bashing 

Purple Island is really safe as there is a limited amount of Land Cruisers and other dune bashing vehicles. There are even trenches dug into the Island to prevent cars getting into the main area meaning it is a really safe option as it is a pedestrian area.

Walk on the wild side!

Purple Island Qatar

Purple Island is a great place for wildlife spotting. The Island itself gets its’ name from the small snails, which when the shells are crushed create a purple dye. A story I have been told, it that the Qatar flag actually gets its colour from these snails.Other than snails. There are amble birds to spot including flamingos during the Winter months. We took our nieces and nephews when they visited, even though they were more interested in crabbing in the rock pools!

Get some exercise

Apart from walking and crabbing, there are plenty of other outdoor activities. One of the most popular is kayaking with Entalek. We haven’t been yet, but it is definitely on our bucket list!

There are plenty of ‘dunes’ 

There are plenty of small dunes and rocky sections which provide a great climbing area for kids to explore in safety.

Wandermust Daddy at Purple Island, Qatar

You’re Not that Remote at Purple Island, Qatar!

Though you feel remote and like you are in the middle of the desert, you are only about five minutes away from civilisation including an Al Meera supermarket and Al Khor hospital meaning it is a really safe location for children.  Have you been to Purple Island? What did you think? What are your experiences of the desert with children?

Have you visited Purple Island Qatar? What do you like about it?

Further Reading on Qatar:

Preparing For Your Trip:
Ultimate Guide of Where to Stay in Doha
What to Wear in Doha