While many of the historic sites in northwestern Qatar are in various early states of excavation and preservation, Al Thagab Fort has already been restored twice to the structural appearance it had when it was occupied. When you visit Al Thagab Fort notice the coral, limestone and mud materials and building techniques used in the 2003 reconstruction. These are similar to those used during the fort’s original creation hundreds of years ago.
The fort’s traditional style includes a nearly square layout with defensive towers at each of the four corners. Three of these towers are round and the fourth is rectangular. The inner courtyard is a large open space. Look for the deep well southwest of the fort.
Construction of the fort happened sometime between the 1600s and 1800s, probably to protect this well from marauders. In 1937 the fort was the site of an armed conflict. About 40 local Naim tribesmen who frequently camped inside the fort were surrounded by forces from Qatar’s emir, SheikhAbdullah Bin Jassim Al Thani. The sheikh’s forces arrived by car and on horses and camels and killed four of the tribesmen.
Al Thagab Fort is next to the farming village of Qalaat al Thaqab, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) south of the coastal town of Al Ruwais. Drive here in less than 2 hours from Doha. The site is generally open and does not have an admission fee. Rent a four-wheel drive vehicle to get here and follow dirt roads to other historic sites, such as nearby Al Zakayat Fort. Always have plenty of water when traveling away from Qatar’s bigger cities.
Find a shady spot for a picnic lunch near Al Thagab Fort. Bring chicken kebabs, cucumber and yogurt, with dates and sweet luqaimat fried dough balls for dessert. Alternatively, take a break during the day to have lunch in Al Ruwais and stroll past the Ruwais Port, where traditional dhows and modern container ships show how old and new coexist in Qatar today.
