Do you love taking long drives in Qatar and are a nature lover too? Then you are in for a treat! Next time, be sure to explore Al Karaana Lagoon in Qatar - it is one of the most peaceful places in the country and you will be surrounded by clear water and lots of green areas all around. Amazing, isn't it?!

Let's get to know a bit more about this place and why you should be visiting with your friends and family soon!

Note: Kindly do not litter and dispose of your waste properly. The Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) has imposed heavy fines on violators.

What is the history of Al Karaana Lagoon?

Al Karaana Lagoon, located 60 kilometers southwest of Doha, was once home to 10 separate lagoons. As per The Public Works Authority ‘Ashghal’, "it had been used since 2006 to receive about 6,000 cubic meters of industrial wastewater every day, resulting in the accumulation of sediments and solids at the bottom of the lagoons, and the formation of a contaminated layer (sludge) of up to 3.5 meters in some areas."

Reclamation and Rehabilitation of Al Karaana Lagoon

Ashghal announced on 16 November 2019 the completion of works of the Reclamation and Rehabilitation project in Al Karaana Lagoon. The project was aimed at re-establishing the area by draining the old lagoons and treating the contaminated soil at their bottom, using international experts to assess the levels of pollution and treatment of all contaminated sediments directly at the site, in order to re-establish the natural area and ensure the protection of the environment.

Ashghal also announced that one of the most important components of the project is the three artificial lagoons which were designed to store about 2.4 million cubic meters of treated sewage effluent coming from Al Karaana treatment plant.

What can you see when you visit Al Karaana Lagoon?

This artificial lagoon is unlike any other place in the entire country, you are sure to be stunned that this place exists in Qatar! Located in Al Rayyan Municipality, it is a place you should visit at least once. A beautiful oasis in the middle of nowhere. Here one can see lots of different species of birds (you can also get to spot migratory birds), fish, local wildlife, and flora.

It is a beautiful tourist destination worth visiting in Qatar. This is an off-beat place to get some much-needed relaxation and is a must-visit place for photography enthusiasts and bird watchers.

Things to keep in mind when you visit

• Make sure you take water and some snacks with you. There are no shops around here.
• The nearest petrol station is Woqod Petrol Station - Sawdaa Nateel which is about 33 minutes away from the lagoon, as per Google Maps.
• It is ideal to visit the place during the cooler months in Qatar and before sunset to enjoy the scenery.
• Wear comfortable sneakers or sports shoes as the terrain is not ideal for other kinds of shoes.
• Please be mindful of the local flora and fauna here and do not disturb the environment.
• Keep an eye on children as there are no barriers in and around the waters.

Do you need a 4x4 to visit?

• You do not need a 4x4 to reach this place.
• Do note that there's a little bit of off-roading involved on a gravelly road once you get off the main road.
• Drive slowly and follow the GPS to lead you to the location.

Are there tickets to enter the lagoon?

• No! Entry to Al Karaana Lagoon is absolutely free and people of all ages are welcome to enjoy the surroundings here!

Location: Al Karaana Lagoon

RELATED:

• Al Rayyan Municipality Guide: what to see and do
• Al Karaana Lagoon: A new healthy habitat for wildlife in Qatar

Have you explored this place in Qatar yet? Do let us know in the comments section below! Do share this article - it keeps us going!

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Vrinda Abilash

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