Across major water activities hotbed like Katara, Lusail, Fuwarit beach, Al Thakira, and others, families engaged in kite surfing, parasailing, wakeboarding, kayaking, sailing, and diving.
The gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions fell perfectly in time for the Eid Al Adha holiday. Families and individuals restricted from enjoying different outdoor activities took advantage of the several offers from tour agencies and organisers as Qatar’s fun places were packed with fun-seekers.
Since it’s also the summer season, plus an official holiday, people can host pool parties and enjoy time with friends and families.
Not more than 30 vaccinated people or 10 unvaccinated or mixed groups can gather outdoors with the current rules. Those who are not vaccinated can still gather, with only 15 people allowed outdoors and five indoors. Also, private boats can operate at 50% capacity, and boat rentals and tourist boats at 30% capacity. This includes up to 20 people, of which up to three can be unvaccinated.
Across major water activities hotbed like Katara, Lusail, Fuwarit beach, Al Thakira, and others, families engaged in kite surfing, parasailing, wakeboarding, kayaking, sailing, and diving.
“People have booked more for water sports and activities during this Eid,” said a founder of a tourism promotion agency in Qatar.
“So many have rented yachts to celebrate special occasions which coincides with the Eid, especially around Lusail and Fuwairat beach.”
For some citizens and residents, getting back to regular activities and getting the kids out of the house is a much-needed distraction from the COVID-19 realities.
“I got fully vaccinated last month, and I have been looking forward to this (visiting the water areas) since the lockdown,” said a parent at Katara.
“The kids have been indoors, and they need this as much as adults. It has been fun seeing them on the boats and, you know, seeing other kids playing also. The preventive measures against the virus are strictly followed so far. Our Ehteraz was checked, and they ensured it showed our vaccination status before allowing us in.”
A resident who enjoys parasailing said: “All thanks to Qatar’s vaccination programme, we can be out here again. I haven’t done this since before the pandemic began, and it took me several tries to find my balance.”
However, the increase in water adventure seekers has benefited beachside hotels and resorts. Several beachside facilities have been booked through July 24, with most guests being Qatari citizens or residents. Many people would prefer to take the staycation packages offered by these service providers than those a bit farther away from the beach.
“Our property is quite affected due to location away from the beach and not designed as overly family-friendly,” a hotelier said.
“Everyone is hoping that the fourth quarter of the year will bring a turnaround.”
