Qatar: Adventure lovers invited for Desert Caravan Challenge

Thepeninsularaqatar.com

January 23, 2015 - 4:18:33 am

DOHA: Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) is inviting adventure lovers to participate in the second edition of Desert Caravan Challenge aimed to revive the Arab tradition of camel riding.

QTA will arrange two camel caravans for a 12km endurance ride in Zekreet, west of Qatar for the challenge organised in partnership with Qatar Museums.

It is working to develop the tourism product by adding new creative elements every year. The caravan will be held in a different region each year. Last year’s challenge was held in Al Zubarah Fort.

Diversification of tourism products helps advance the National Tourism Sector Strategy 2030 which aims to develop a mature and sustainable tourism sector.

“Our strategy seeks to build a modern and sustainable tourism sector capable of attracting tourists from all over the world,” said Hassan Al Ibrahim, Chief Tourism Development Officer, QTA.

“The event contributes to the realisation of this vision as it diversifies offerings and sheds light on Qatar as a world tourism destination with deep cultural roots. It also promotes prehistoric landmarks and showcases the beauty of the Qatari desert and nature.”

Al Ibrahim said he expects enthusiastic response from the public, noting that QTA built on the success of last year’s challenge which attracted hundreds.

Open to Qatari citizens and residents above 18, the caravan will be held on February 6-7. It will from outside the antiquated mosque in Zekreet (House of the Imam) and pass through the scenic desert sand to Zekreet Fort.

The caravan will stop for breaks near Richard Serra sculptures in Ras Brouq and the ruins of Zekreet village.

QTA will select 15 candidates for the first day and as many for the second day. The journey takes between four and five hours and ends at the same location.

During the journey, the participants experience Qatari hospitality in tents in the middle of the desert.

The event is free but the ride will be a gruelling test of endurance that only adults in good physical condition should consider registering.

It open to male and female participants, including those who have little or no camel-riding experience, as qualified trainers will accompany the participants.

Aspiring adventurers can register on www.qatartourism.gov.qa/dcc

The Peninsula