The Inland Sea (Khor Al Udaid) in Qatar has been recognized as one of the top 100 beaches in the world for 2024, ranking at the 89th spot. This unique beach, located in the southeast part of Qatar, offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by desert dunes and ocean waves, the Inland Sea is described as a remarkable ecosystem that provides visitors with a peek into the past through fossils found along its shores. Visitors can witness a rare meeting of sand dunes and the sea, creating a picturesque setting where the sea recedes in the evening and the dunes change colors under golden sunsets.
The criteria for selecting the top beaches this year were expanded beyond visual allure to include factors like natural diversity, local community value, cultural significance, and DEI. The Inland Sea’s recognition highlights the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of this beach, making it a fascinating destination for travelers. Visitors to the Inland Sea can enjoy the pristine waters, ever-changing sands, and a variety of wildlife, including fish, crustaceans, turtles, flamingos, and Arabian Oryx.
Despite its ranking as the 89th best beach in the world, the Inland Sea is the third best beach in the Middle East and the Arab region. Other top beaches in the region include UAE’s JBR Beach and Saudi Arabia’s Umluj Beach. The top spot on this year’s list was claimed by Bora Bora in French Polynesia, followed by Boulders in South Africa, Waikiki in the USA, and Copacabana in Brazil. The Inland Sea’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage sets it apart as a must-visit destination in the Middle East.
In addition to the Inland Sea, other beaches in the Middle East that made it to the top 100 list include JBR Beach in the United Arab Emirates and Umluj Beach in Saudi Arabia. BeachAtlas’ Top 100 Beaches in the World 2024 also features beaches from around the globe, including Thailand’s Maya Bay, Black Sand Beach in Iceland, Glass Beach in the USA, and Skeleton Coast in Namibia. Asia is well-represented on the list, with beaches from Thailand, Indonesia, India, Japan, the Philippines, South Korea, and Singapore making the cut.
Overall, the Inland Sea in Qatar offers a unique and unforgettable beach experience, blending natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the stunning ecosystem created by the meeting of desert dunes and ocean waves, providing a glimpse into the past through fossils and a variety of wildlife. The Inland Sea’s recognition as one of the top beaches in the world highlights its appeal to travelers seeking a truly remarkable and enriching beach destination.
