Must-Try Foods In Qatar National Camel Race Track (Al Shahaniya) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Qatar National Camel Race Track, Al Shahaniya, Qatar

The Qatar National Camel Race Track in Al Shahaniya is a prominent hub for the traditional sport of camel racing, a sport deeply interwoven with Qatar's culture and heritage. Although the track itself does not have a specific cuisine, the surrounding area echoes the rich gastronomic history of the entire nation. The country's cuisine is a blend of Arabian, Indian, and North African influences, reflecting the various civilizations that have interacted with Qatar through centuries of trade and travel.

Historically, the diet in Qatar relied heavily on the sea and the desert. Fish and seafood were staples, along with dates, which provided nutrition and energy in the harsh desert climate. With the camels being an integral part of Bedouin life, dairy products such as camel milk were common but out of respect for these majestic creatures, camel meat is traditionally consumed less frequently.

In recent times, as Qatar has modernized and its society has become more cosmopolitan, food from all around the world has been embraced. Nonetheless, the nation proudly preserves and continues to celebrate its culinary traditions, particularly during national festivals and at cultural gatherings like camel races.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Al Shahaniya, Qatar

1. Matchbous (non-veg) - A flavorful lamb dish slow-cooked with rice, spices, and tomatoes.
2. Thareed (non-veg) - A traditional stew made with meat and vegetables, layered with crispy flatbread known as 'regoag'.
3. Machboos (non-veg) - Considered the national dish, it is similar to biryani and typically made with chicken, fish, or lamb.
4. Madrouba (non-veg) - A rice and chicken or fish porridge-like dish that is seasoned with a variety of spices for a hearty texture and flavor.
5. Waraq Enab (veg) - This dish consists of grape leaves stuffed with rice and flavored with herbs, resembling dolma.
6. Qatari Salad (veg) - A fresh salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a variety of greens, dressed with lemon and olive oil.
7. Samboosa (veg/non-veg) - These are savory pastries which can be either vegetarian or filled with minced meat and spices.
8. Balaleet (veg) - A sweet-savory dish with fried vermicelli noodles and eggs, often eaten for breakfast.
9. Luqaimat (veg) - Small deep-fried dumplings that are crispy on the outside and soft inside, usually drizzled with date syrup or honey.
10. Harees (non-veg) - A dish made of wheat and meat, typically cooked for hours until it reaches a smooth consistency.

Many of these dishes reflect the country's past, where spices and herbs played a significant role in preserving food and enhancing flavor, while rice, fish, and meat were core sustenance ingredients.

Top Famous Restaurants in Qatar National Camel Race Track, Al Shahaniya, Qatar

• Al Saffar Restaurant
  Al Shahaniya, Qatar

  Famous Food: Machboos (non-veg)

• Al Majles Diyafa Restaurant
  Dukhan Rd, Al Shahaniya, Qatar

  Famous Food: Thareed (non-veg)

• Desert Bistro
  Al Shahaniya, near Camel Race Track, Qatar

  Famous Food: Waraq Enab (veg)

Please note that as of my last update, some of the restaurants near the camel race track may serve traditional food on a seasonal or event-driven basis. Before visiting, it might be helpful to call ahead or check online for current offerings and business hours. In addition, visitors interested in specific culinary experiences may find that larger cities such as Doha offer a wider range of options, including more vegetarian and international choices.