Public parks attract more visitors as mercury dips

Doha: Citizens and residents are taking advantage of the lush green public parks sprouting up around Qatar, particularly as the cold season gradually settles over the country. 

The most attractive features in these parks include designated areas for running, walking, and cycling, as well as children's play area which is essential for families. 

Another exciting and distinguising feature of these parks is the diversity of trees. Many plants that are not native to Qatar have also been planted to promote bio-diversity. 

Several of these parks also come with free wireless Internet access.  

The public parks aren’t streamlined to attract families, but some have become tourist sites. With the beginning of the winter season, the demand for parks has also increased dramatically, especially in the early morning and evening. Every park user’s goal is to enjoy the beautiful atmosphere and engage in physical activities.

In recent years, Qatar has doubled the number of public parks across the country to accommodate the growing number of residents and visitors. According to the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) report, the total number of parks in the country has reached around 95. The authorities were keen to establish these parks to keep pace with the country’s rapid development while ensuring these parks are built according to international standards. 

A resident Khalil, who visits the Old Airport Park, said, “I used to visit the park every morning to exercise. It is the best place for me, especially with the favourable temperatures and the beginning of the winter season.

Parks are becoming more popular, even among families, who spend some time at night in the parks. 

It isn’t just individuals, but families with their children also come to this park. Some of them have dinner, like a picnic in the park. Some even spend long hours relaxing here.”

For Murad, who visits Al Rayan Park regularly, the parks create a place of solace in these COVID-19 times. 

“I come here with friends every night. The weather is good now, and we don’t have another place to visit in light of COVID-19.”

“Many people come here daily but more visit during the weekend. Youth from different countries usually gather here, and you can hear some discussing happenings in their countries,” he added.

The Public Parks Department at MME has built a total of 51 new modern parks and renovated the old ones in the last five years.

The number of public parks reached 40 in Doha Municipality, which is the highest in the country. Al Rayyan Municipality is behind Doha with 20 public parks. There are seven public parks, each in Al Khor, Al Zakhira, and Al Daayen municipalities.  

Al Wakra and Umm Salal municipalities have six public parks each. Al Shamal Municipality has five parks, while Al Shahaniya has three public parks.