Old Doha Port with Kids: Activities and Places to Visit
Old Doha Port is a waterfront destination in Qatar where families can enjoy a change of scenery, explore colourful streets, watch boats at the marina and discover places to visit with children. From walking around Mina District and exploring Box Park to enjoying a dhow boat ride or checking out seasonal events, there are different ways to spend time together by the waterfront. Whether planning a short outing or a family visit, here are some things to see and do with kids at Old Doha Port.
Things to do with Kids at Old Doha Port at a Glance
Cocoville - Indoor Play Area and Café
Cocoville at Old Doha Port is a family-friendly indoor play space where children can enjoy active play in a fun environment. The play area features slides, climbing structures, soft play equipment and a ball pit, giving kids plenty of opportunities to play and explore. Parents can relax at the café while the children enjoy their playtime, making it a convenient option for families visiting Mina District.
- Timing
Weekdays: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Thursday & Saturday: 12:00PM – 11:00PM
Friday: 1:00PM – 11:00PM
Aquarium at The City Gallery
The aquarium at The City Gallery in the Grand Cruise Terminal at Old Doha Port is an interesting stop for families visiting Doha with children. The large aquarium display gives visitors an opportunity to observe marine life swimming through the water, making it an engaging experience for children who enjoy discovering the underwater world. Families can admire the fish and other marine creatures while exploring the terminal, adding an indoor attraction to a visit that might also include a walk around Mina District, a look at the boats in the marina and a stop at one of the nearby cafés or restaurants. The aquarium is particularly useful to include in a family itinerary because it offers something different from the outdoor waterfront attractions.
- Location
Grand Cruise Terminal
Mina Park - Outdoor Family Time
Mina Parks offer families an outdoor space to include in a visit to Old Doha Port. The parks and recreational areas provide a change of pace from shopping and dining in Mina District, allowing families to enjoy the surroundings and spend time outdoors. Children can explore the open spaces with their parents, while families can combine a park visit with a walk along the waterfront or a stop at a nearby café.
Mina Link Scenic Boat Ride
Mina Link is a scenic boat experience at Old Doha Port that offers visitors a different way to enjoy the waterfront and explore the Mina District surroundings. Families can enjoy being on the water while taking in views of the colourful buildings, marina and Doha’s waterfront. For children, the experience can add something different to a family outing, especially for those who enjoy boats and watching the activity around the harbour.
- Location
Old Doha Port, Box Park – Mina District
- Timing
4:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Price
QAR 25 per person
Free for Kids under 5 years
Wave Surfer
Wave Surfer Doha is a mobile surf-simulator attraction at Box Park, Old Doha Port, where visitors can ride a continuous artificial wave on a bodyboard or flowboard. It welcomes beginners learning the basics as well as more confident riders practising turns, spins, and tricks, with VDWS-certified training and equipment provided. Everyone is welcome kids (4+ years) and adults at any skill level! Set among Box Park’s colourful waterfront containers, it is a fun family or group activity that pairs well with shopping, street food, and views of the Arabian Gulf.
- Location
Box Park
- Website
- Phone
Visit Chabrat Al Mina Fish Market
Chabrat Al Mina Fish Market is an interesting stop for families exploring Old Doha Port, offering a chance to see the variety of seafood available in Qatar. Children can look at the fish and seafood displays and learn about different types of marine life commonly sold for cooking. The visit can also introduce younger visitors to Qatar’s fishing and maritime traditions in a simple, everyday setting. Families can combine the market visit with a meal at the seafood restaurant, or continue exploring the colourful streets of Mina District and the nearby marina.
- Location
Mina District
Enjoy a Dhow Boat Ride
A dhow boat ride at Old Doha Port is a memorable experience for families looking to enjoy Doha from the water. Children can experience a ride on a traditional wooden boat while taking in views of the city’s skyline, waterfront and marina. These boats are part of Qatar’s maritime heritage, making the trip an opportunity for families to enjoy the sea while learning about the country’s traditional boats. Depending on the operator and trip selected, families may be able to choose a short sightseeing cruise or another available boat excursion.
- Location
Old Doha Port
Mina District - Shops, Cafés and Family Walks
Mina District at Old Doha Port is a lovely place for families to explore with kids, thanks to its colourful pastel buildings, charming streets and waterfront views. Families can enjoy a leisurely walk through the neighbourhood, admire the distinctive architecture, take photographs and watch the boats around the marina. Children can enjoy spotting the different colours and buildings along the way, while parents browse the shops and stop at one of the nearby cafés or restaurants for a snack or meal.
- Location
Mina District
Explore Box Park and Containers Yard
Box Park and the Containers Yard at Old Doha Port provide an unusual setting for a family walk, with colourful container-inspired buildings and a distinctive maritime atmosphere. Families can explore the area, take photographs and enjoy views of the boats and surrounding waterfront. Children may enjoy looking at the different structures and watching activity around the harbour, while parents can explore the businesses located nearby. The Containers Yard is also home to marine-related operators, so families can check whether any boat experiences are available during their visit.
- Location
Containers Yard, Old Doha Port
Seasonal Events and Marine Activities at Old Doha Port
Old Doha Port hosts seasonal events and marine activities throughout the year, giving families opportunities to experience more than the destination’s usual waterfront attractions. Depending on the programme, visitors may find cultural celebrations, community events, sporting activities, marine experiences and other entertainment. These events can be a good option for families looking to add something special to a visit, particularly during holiday periods or major celebrations in Qatar. However, activities, dates and age suitability vary from one event to another, so parents should check the official calendar before making plans. Details such as admission fees, registration requirements and children’s activities should be confirmed for each individual event.