Tourists in Qatar are increasingly getting enamoured with the Bedouin way of life

Tourists in Qatar are increasingly getting enamoured with the Bedouin way of life

Santhosh Chandran Doha As winter sets in Qatar, wild-camping in the desert is getting popular again, and a newfound desire is driving up its appeal — a slice of the Bedouin lifestyle. One of the oldest inhabitants of the Arabian desert, the semi-nomadic Bedouin led a hard but intriguing life. According to some tour operators in Qatar, an increasing number of tourists are getting enamoured with the Bedouin way of life and are demanding tour packages that offer such an experience. However, professional tour operators do not have the permission to undertake such lifestyle tourism offerings, said Fal Travel Mart Director AP Manikantan. “The winter camps with traditional Arab hospitality do attract a large number of tourists to Qatar, but a number of tourists are also fascinated by the Bedouin life,” he said. “Many tourists are curious about the Bedouin culture and lifestyle because of their closeness to nature. We are getting a lot of queries about it. Tourists want to visit areas that were inhabited by Bedouins. But, professional tour operators have no permission to accompany guests to such areas,” Manikantan added. Shepherds leading their herds in the picturesque setting of a desert at the crack of dawn present an enchanting sight to the visitors. Tourists are also interested in their music and food. Tourists as well as environmentalists and wildlife photographers are curious about the tough life of herders who brave scorching summer and chilly winter to carry out their daily tasks. Nevertheless, the shepherds are better connected to water and food resources. Normally, shepherds have their own tents in deserts with minimum facilities such as water storage and proper food supply from nearby townships. Their tents are located close to the animal cages. Speaking to Qatar Tribune, a truck driver who supplies fodder for animals and food for shepherds said, “They use woollen clothes, bed sheets and campfire to keep themselves warm in winter. But, it may not be enough for people from the city.”Photo - A sight of Bedouins in deserts (Shiras Sithara)