A considerable number of Qataris prefer the open desert to beaches, as well as using tents instead of caravans, during the winter camping season, it is learnt.
As the weather improves, many locals have been busy preparing their winter camping sites over the past few days, local Arabic daily Arrayah has reported.
The desert is their destination of choice as it allows them to escape the busy modern city life and experience some serenity and a simple way of life, it is found.
As some of them point out, the weather is highly enjoyable and pleasant in the desert during this time of the year. It helps them relax and allows the children to play and run around. It also helps keep children away from electronic gadgets and makes them spend time and play together in a more traditional manner, they add.
Salim Ali, a Qatari, said this is the first time that he is taking part in winter camping. “I feel highly satisfied when I see my children enjoy the traditional way of life in the open desert. They always remain busy playing with their tablets and other gadgets; but now, they are enjoying traditional games and seem to have forgotten their gadgets. This is very healthy and more childlike, in my opinion,” he explained.
Another national, Salem al-Marri, said the camping season is a time to enjoy the beauty of nature and the desert landscape. It is also a good opportunity to “unleash the potential energy” of children by letting them play freely with their peers in safe and open surroundings.