Visiting Purple Island, Al Khor, Qatar

How to Reach Purple Island

Purple Island, or Bin Ghannam Island, is located near the town of Al Khor on the northeast coast of Qatar. The island is named for the dye which comes from the sea snails found on the island. Below are the ways to reach this beautiful natural wonder:

By Car

• Rental Car/Taxi: If you are coming from Doha, you can rent a car or hire a taxi. The journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. It's a straightforward route via Al Khor Coastal Road. To reach the island, you must drive to the northern outskirts of Al Khor, and follow the signs for Purple Island.
• Driving Directions: Heading north from Doha via Lusail Expressway (Q1), continue on the Al Khor Coastal Road (Q6). Take the exit to Al Dhakira and keep left, following the signs toward Purple Island.

By Public Transport

• Bus Services: Qatar's public transport provider, Mowasalat, offers services that can take you towards Al Khor. However, reaching Purple Island itself by public transport can be challenging, as it may require a long walk or a taxi from Al Khor.

By Bicycle

• For the adventurous, cycling from Al Khor to Purple Island is an option. The distance is relatively short, and the path offers scenic views.

Visiting Information

• Make sure to check weather and tide conditions before you plan your trip as the island can become inaccessible during high tides.
• There are no facilities such as cafes or restrooms on the island, so visitors need to bring their own supplies and leave no trace.
• It is also advised to wear suitable footwear for walking through mangroves and potentially muddy areas.

Additional Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The cooler months between November and early April are the best time to visit Purple Island.
• Activities: The island offers opportunities for bird watching, fishing, kayaking, and photography.