Qatar: Camel racetrack & Al Samriya Estate tour with guide

Summary

Watch camels train, wander a leaning mosque, and meet Qatar’s wild side

You’ll see camels training at Al Shahaniya racetrack (with those famous robot jockeys), explore rare artifacts at Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Museum inside Al Samriya Estate, spot oryxes and peacocks roaming free, and step inside Qatar’s only leaning mosque. With pickup, private transport, drinks, and a local guide sharing stories along the way — it’s an experience you’ll remember long after you leave Doha.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I didn’t expect the first thing I’d hear in Qatar to be the low, almost grumbling sound of camels waking up. We’d just arrived at Al Shahaniya Camel Racetrack, and our guide, Khalid, waved us over to the edge of the sand. It was early but already warm, and there was this faint smell of hay and something sweet in the air (dates maybe?). The camels were getting ready for training, their trainers calling out in Arabic while these little robot jockeys — yes, actual robots — got strapped on. I tried to ask one of the trainers about it; he just grinned and pointed at his phone, showing how he controls the robot from there. Wild.

After that, we drove out to Al Samriya Estate. The Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Museum is inside this big fort-looking building — honestly, it feels like you’re stepping into someone’s personal treasure chest. There are old coins, swords, even vintage cars lined up like they’re waiting for a parade. Khalid told us stories about some of the artifacts — apparently one belonged to a pearl diver from way back when. My favorite part was wandering outside though. Peacocks strutted around like they owned the place (maybe they do), and we spotted a couple of Arabian oryxes standing perfectly still under a tree. The light was so harsh it made everything look sharper than usual.

The Leaning Mosque is right there too — it really does lean, not by accident either. I tried to get a photo but couldn’t quite fit it all in; Khalid laughed and said everyone tries that. There’s colored glass in the windows that throws these weird patterns on your shoes if you stand in just the right spot. We had tea under some shade before heading back — honestly, I could’ve sat there all afternoon listening to nothing but peacock calls and wind through dry grass.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Al Samriya Estate and Camel Racing

• Visit Al Samriya Estate and Museum
• Watch camels training at Al Shahaniya Racetrack

Top questions

Can I watch live camel races on this tour?

You can watch camel training year-round; live races happen during racing season from October to April.

Is entry to Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Museum included?

Museum entry requires an additional fee not included in the tour price.

Are animals visible at Al Samriya Estate?

Yes, you can see Arabian oryxes, peacocks, ostriches, gazelles and more in the open reserve area.

Is hotel pickup provided?

The tour includes private transportation with pickup arranged for your group.

What languages does the guide speak?

The local guide speaks English during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, all ages are welcome; infants must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

What should I wear for this experience?

Dress appropriately for warm weather; comfortable shoes are recommended as you’ll walk outdoors.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with pickup by a professional driver-guide, bottled water plus tea or soft drinks along the way, and travel insurance for peace of mind as you explore both Al Shahaniya Camel Racetrack and Al Samriya Estate together.