Established: 1785 Population: 31,547 Distance from Doha: 60 km

The city of Al Khor is located on Qatar’s eastern coast. Al Khor means “bay”, as the city is situated on a 3km-long inlet. It is one of the oldest cities in Qatar, having first been settled by the Al Muhannadi tribe in the middle of the 18th century.

Like the other coastal cities in Qatar, Al Khor was known for its fishing industry and natural pearl trade. The city’s rich history is documented in the Al Khor Archaeological Museum, whose exhibits include the city’s wildlife and marine life, and artefacts from the fishing, diving and traditional ship-building industries for which Al Khor has long been renowned for.

The design of the city’s Al Bayt Stadium, which will host games at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, was inspired by bayt al sha’ar, the traditional tents in which the region’s nomadic people lived in older times. The city has many historical attractions, including the Ain Hleetan Well and the old souq (marketplace). Also of interest are the three Al Khor towers, located close to the city’s shore, and Al Khor Sports Club, whose logo features on one of the aforementioned watchtowers.