Purple Island (Jazirat Bin Ghannam), Al Khor

Overview

Purple Island, also called Jazirat Bin Ghannam or Al Khor Island, sits in the sheltered bay at Al Khor on Qatar's north-east coast. It is linked to the mainland by a path and raised walkways, so you can walk over from the car park. Mangrove channels, salt flats and small rocky hills cover the island. There is no entry fee and no set opening time, but there are also no facilities on the island.

People come for easy nature walks, calm-water kayaking through the mangroves and birdwatching. In winter you may see flamingos and herons, and crabs are everywhere in the mud. The name comes from a dye industry that worked here more than 3,000 years ago. It is one of the most accessible green spaces outside Doha and a popular half-day trip for families.

History and background

Jazirat Bin Ghannam has traces of people going back to the 2nd millennium BC. Its main claim to fame dates from the Kassite period, roughly 1400–1100 BC. Archaeologists found around 3 million crushed sea-snail shells here, along with large pottery vats. They show that the island was a site for making red-purple dye from shellfish, one of the earliest known in the world. This is why it is known as Purple Island.

The island was never a permanent village, as it has no fresh water. Later finds show it was used as a pearling camp in the Sasanian period and as a fishing outpost in the late Islamic era. A French archaeological mission carried out the first systematic study in the 1970s. Today Qatar Museums lists it as a heritage site, while its mangroves are a key habitat for birds, fish and crabs.

What to see at Purple Island (Al Khor)

1. Mangrove kayaking

   Guided kayak tours paddle through narrow channels between the grey mangroves. It is the best way to see the island, and calm, shallow water makes it suitable for beginners. Tours are timed around high tide.

2. The walkways and island trails

   Raised walkways from the car park lead across the creeks to the island. From there, simple trails cross salt marsh and rocky hills. Allow 10–15 minutes to reach the main areas on foot.

3. Birdwatching

   Between November and February, migrating birds such as flamingos and herons feed in the shallows. Go early in the morning, bring binoculars and keep your distance so you do not disturb them.

4. Crabs and marine life

   At low tide the mudflats come alive with small crabs, snails and fish in the pools. It is an easy, hands-off nature lesson for children, so long as they stay off the mangrove roots.

5. Hilltop views

   Low limestone hills on the island give views across the mangroves, the bay and Al Khor town. They are a good spot for sunset photos.

6. An ancient dye site

   The island's archaeology is mostly below ground, but knowing about its Kassite-era purple-dye works adds meaning to a walk. It is one of the oldest known sites of its kind.

How to get to Purple Island (Al Khor)

Tips for your visit

• There are no toilets, shops or cafés on the island. Use facilities in Al Khor first.
• Shade is very limited. Bring water, a hat and sunscreen, even in winter.
• Wear shoes that can get wet or muddy; creeks can cross the paths depending on the tide.
• Check tide times: high tide suits kayaking, low tide is better for spotting crabs.
• Never walk on mangrove roots or break branches.
• Take all rubbish home with you.
• Avoid midday visits from May to September, when heat is intense.

Facilities

Frequently asked questions