Qatar · Pearl Diving Heritage
الوكرة (Zaha Hadid's Masterpiece)
Qatar
300,000+
17km from Doha
UTC+3 (AST)
Al Wakrah is one of Qatar's oldest settlements, located just 17 kilometers south of Doha on the Persian Gulf coast. Once a thriving pearl diving and fishing village, it has transformed into a modern municipality while carefully preserving its maritime heritage and traditional character.
The city gained global attention as a host venue for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, featuring the stunning Al Janoub Stadium designed by the late legendary architect Zaha Hadid. The stadium's flowing curves are inspired by the sails of traditional dhow boats, paying homage to Al Wakrah's seafaring past.
In 2025, Al Wakrah continues to grow as part of Qatar's tourism boom, attracting visitors to its renovated souq, beautiful beaches, and World Cup legacy infrastructure. The 585,000 square meter legacy precinct around Al Janoub Stadium includes sports facilities, pools, spas, and commercial spaces aligned with Qatar's National Vision 2030.
Zaha Hadid's dhow-inspired masterpiece, now home to Al-Wakrah SC. Stadium capacity reduced from 40,000 to 20,000 for regular matches; extra seats donated to developing nations.
Beautifully renovated traditional market blending old and new. Charming alleys, traditional shops, waterfront restaurants, and authentic Qatari atmosphere.
Family-friendly beach with soft sand, calm waters, and traditional dhow boats dotting the shore—perfect for swimming and picnics.
Maritime heritage museum in a traditional building, showcasing the city's pearl diving and fishing history through artifacts and exhibits.
Large urban park offering green spaces, playgrounds, walking paths, and recreational facilities for families and sports enthusiasts.
Working harbor where traditional wooden fishing boats still operate, offering a glimpse into Qatar's maritime traditions.
Al Wakrah's economy has transitioned from fishing and pearl diving to a mix of commerce, government services, and tourism. The World Cup investment brought modern infrastructure, hotels, and commercial developments. The legacy precinct around Al Janoub Stadium continues to drive economic activity with its sports and entertainment offerings.
The city proudly preserves its Qatari heritage while embracing modernization. Traditional dhow boats still sail from the harbor, and the restored souq maintains authentic market culture. Local families maintain ancestral homes in the old quarter, and traditional festivals celebrate the city's maritime history. This balance of old and new defines Al Wakrah's unique character.
Al Wakrah's history dates back centuries as a fishing and pearl diving settlement. Before the oil era, pearl diving was the backbone of Qatar's economy, and Al Wakrah was among the most important pearling centers. Traditional wooden dhows would venture into Gulf waters seeking valuable pearls.
The decline of the pearl trade after the 1930s gave way to oil-based development. Al Wakrah modernized while maintaining its heritage quarter. Selection as a World Cup venue brought global recognition and the iconic Al Janoub Stadium—the second venue completed for Qatar 2022 and the first stadium in Zaha Hadid's portfolio. Today, Al Wakrah honors its past while embracing its role in Qatar's future.
Bureau Chief 지원자는 물론, Alwakrah를 방문하시는 모든 분들을 위해
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