Purple Island

Qatar

The azirat Bin Ghanam, also known as Al-Khor Island or Purple Island, is located off the east coast in Shaqiq Bay. Some people think that the island was named after the purple flower that grows in the area swamps, but the truth is, the island was home to a species of sea snail which was used to produce purple dye about three thousand years ago. The island was subsequently used as a trading port, a fishing and pearl-diving spot. The main attraction of the island is its abundance of wildlife and its greenery. Mangroves forest serve as playground for migratory birds like flamingos and herons. To get there, take the Shamal Highway, drive north to Al Khor, go past the turning for Al Khor Hospital and drive past a big water tank tower and look out for a small sign for the Flower Each Spring camp and after reaching this sign, drive one mile onto the dirt track. UTM coordinates N 25°41'34" E 51°32'56"E.

More Recommendations

Where Mangroves Meet History

The azirat Bin Ghanam, also known as Al-Khor Island or Purple Island, is located off the east coast in Shaqiq Bay. Some people think that the island was named after the purple flower that grows in the area swamps, but the truth is, the island was home to a species of sea snail which was used to produce purple dye about three thousand years ago. The island was subsequently used as a trading port, a fishing and pearl-diving spot. The main attraction of the island is its abundance of wildlife and its greenery. Mangroves forest serve as playground for migratory birds like flamingos and herons. To get there, take the Shamal Highway, drive north to Al Khor, go past the turning for Al Khor Hospital and drive past a big water tank tower and look out for a small sign for the Flower Each Spring camp and after reaching this sign, drive one mile onto the dirt track. UTM coordinates N 25°41'34" E 51°32'56"E.

Information on this page, including website, location, and opening hours, is subject to have changed since this page was last published. If you would like to report anything that’s inaccurate, let us know at notification@afar.com.

Nearby highlights
Sign up for our newsletter
Join more than a million of the world’s best travelers. Subscribe to the Daily Wander newsletter.
More From AFAR