Qatar capitalizes on its perfect tourist destination.

(To Quoc) - Sometimes, through the right and effective combination, residential areas have become tourist attractions.

According to CNN, the Pearl in Qatar is such a destination. Built 20 years ago, this artificial island, located off the northern coast of the capital Doha, is described as a surreal world , with its colorful buildings, stunning waterways, and marinas packed with expensive yachts. It's been likened to a miniature Venice in the desert.

The Pearl was built on land reclaimed from the sea. Photo: Derek Hudson/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

Although construction is still underway in other parts of the island and some apartments remain vacant, the area has already become a thriving center for international residents, with a variety of cafes, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.

For visitors to Qatar, this place is well worth exploring for its absolute architectural luxury; the opportunity to enjoy the fresh and sophisticated atmosphere in which many of its residents live.

The bustling center

About three years after beginning construction on the Palm Jumeirah archipelago off the coast of Dubai, Qatar decided to build its own artificial island. This small nation is no stranger to reclamation projects, having previously renovated the crescent-shaped Corniche River, the West Bay shopping center, and built Hamad International Airport, which is situated on land reclaimed 60% from the Arabian Gulf.

The selection of a shallow offshore site on the east coast, on a former pearl mining site, for reclamation proved more cost-effective and manageable than other island projects, such as those in deeper waters.

Built like a string of pearls, with two bays surrounded by apartment towers, The Pearl's unique shape is easily visible from space.

The parks and remote coastlines surrounding this area often attract various bird species, including flamingos.

Local beach cleanups will raise community awareness on a regular basis. A recycling plant is in place to prevent littering. Electric vehicle charging stations are also available on the island, along with electric security patrol vehicles, local taxi services, and bus connections to the nearby metro.

In addition, each neighborhood has its own unique identity and architecture, such as Porto Arabia, where the first residents of The Pearl moved in in 2009, situated around a large marina. Or Viva Bahriya, located around a bay with a coastline, offering numerous water sports facilities.

Along Porto Arabia Street are restaurants and cafes. In the cooler months, the center becomes lively, where people sit outdoors, exercise, or simply stroll along the marina. In the warmer months, a covered, air-conditioned walkway runs along the buildings, allowing residents to walk to local establishments instead of taking a car.

Insaf Benazaid, from Algeria, who has lived in Porto Arabia for two years, said she chose The Pearl because of its community and accessibility to family-friendly entertainment venues.

"I absolutely believe that the community at The Pearl is a wonderful experience for us, along with the safety and living conditions," she shared.

The highlight is the Qanat Quarter, a Venetian-inspired neighborhood with pastel-colored townhouses lining numerous canals. It even has its own Rialto Bridge. This is a somewhat unusual sight in a country known for its desolate deserts.

It feels like being in a miniature town.

Visitor Mirna Saayfan from Lebanon recently moved to Floresta Gardens, a lush green area with buildings suitable for family living. She really enjoys the convenience of the area.

"The Pearl is a modern, clean, and comfortable place to live. We appreciate the views and its proximity to the beach the most," said Mirna Saayfan.

Madinat Central is the island's "town center." It features a plaza with restaurants, cafes, a supermarket, specialty shops, and amenities such as a cinema and a new hospital.

Further along the pearl chain are an international school, a supermarket, a church, and amenities ranging from hair salons to pharmacies and gas stations.

It feels like living in a small town, very different from most of Qatar's other modern, urban cities.

Overall, The Pearl's success lies in its combination of architecture and numerous amenities, with all daily necessities easily accessible.

Source: https://toquoc.vn/qatar-khai-thac-diem-den-hoan-hao-thu-hut-khach-du-lich-20250319103329048.htm