Barzan Towers Qatar: History, Architecture & Travel Guide

The Barzan Towers are two historic watchtowers found near the village of Umm Salal Mohammed, north of Doha in Qatar. Likely constructed in the early 20th century and renovated in 1910, these towers were originally used to watch the coast for any trouble. Tourists and those interested in history now visit Barzan Towers to see the stunning sights and learn about Qatar’s cultural background.

Discover the historic Barzan Towers in Qatar

Overview of Barzan Towers

The Barzan Towers are historic watchtowers in Qatar, offering insight into the nation's past, architecture, and strategic coastal defense.

Location

You’ll find Barzan Towers in Umm Salal Mohammed, 15 to 20 kilometers north of Doha, Qatar. It was Sheikh Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani who developed the area in 1910.

In the late 19th century, the fort towers were built and some years later, in 1910, they were renovated and reopened. Because they are placed on a strategic high ground which “Barzan” means in Arabic, they stand 16 meters each.

Open hours and entrance fee

Opening hours of Barzan Towers:

• Saturday to Thursday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
• Friday: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Admission to Barzan Towers is completely free. No tickets are required, making it an accessible destination for tourists and locals interested in exploring Qatar’s historical landmarks.

History of Barzan Towers

The Towers of Barzan in Umm Salal Mohammed showcase Qatar’s architectural past and the country’s key concerns in the early 20th century. Between 1910 and 1916, Sheikh Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani constructed the western tower which is called the Barzan (or High) Tower. It was included in the wall that once protected the village and its gardens. The wall stands in part at a park nearby.

Barzan Tower reaches a height of approximately 16 meters (52 feet) and includes three floors. The T-shaped design gives it a special look in the region. Because the climate is hard, the stones, coral, limestone and mud mortar used to form the walls were strengthened with plastering of gypsum. The top frame is built with wooden poles, bamboo mats, hardened soil and pieces of mangrove for cooling in heat.

While the Barzan Tower has a rectangular shape, the Eastern Tower was built in the same traditional style, likely around the same period, reflecting the design of the original structure.

Though local stories speak of Barzan Tower guarding the sea for pearling ships, historians believe it was used to check on the wells, survey property and look at the moon to plan Islamic celebrations. Work on restoring the towers, mosque and madrasa concluded in 2014.

Uncovering the past of Barzan Towers

Discover the stunning architecture of Barzan Towers

Barzan Towers form a great example of traditional Qatari architecture, yet also come with a unique feature. Shaped like a rectangle with a T on its top, the towers also have external stairways—a rare feature in Gulf architecture. Erected in the late 1800s and then renovated by Sheikh Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani in 1910, the towers are 16 meters or 52 feet high.

Made from coral rock and limestone, the walls are more than one meter thick, held together with mud mortar and finished with a plaster made from gypsum. Expert craftspeople used poles, bamboo mats and compressed mud along with mangrove branches to cover the roof and help with heat.

The towers are set among a mix of apartments, houses and simple shelters, not far from where the Qatari Emir has built his fortified residence. The area has historical charm and is surrounded by date palms and desert vegetation, creating a tranquil atmosphere amidst the arid landscape. Barzan Towers are now among the most recognizable cultural sights in northern Qatar.

Experience the remarkable architecture of Barzan Towers

Top highlights of a visit to Barzan Towers

Visiting Barzan Towers offers a rich cultural and historical experience. Here are the top highlights you can expect:

• Eye catching architecture: See for yourself the tower’s unique T shape, walls made of gypsum plaster and the classic construction using coral rock, limestone and mud.
• While you're up there, enjoy the remarkable view of the village, farmlands and desert you’ll find around the towers.
• History: Discover why the towers were used in the early 1900s to view the moon, secure wells and check on fields.
• You can also see the restored mosque and madrasa near you, so you can learn about the area’s religious and educational background.
• Surrounded by nature: The buildings are located among abundant nature, including palm trees and plants which helps set a calm mood.
• It’s easy to find good photo subjects here, with traditional towns blending against blue sky backgrounds and desert types of scenery.

What to look out for at Barzan Towers

Traveler reviews of Barzan Towers

Visitors to Barzan Towers share their experiences, highlighting the site’s cultural value, architecture, and peaceful surroundings.

Pros

Many visitors have shared positive feedback about their experience at Barzan Towers. Here are the most commonly praised aspects:

• The fact that admission is free to enter makes it a fantastic choice for anyone on a budget.
• The tranquil mood at the site lets visitors escape the busy streets of Doha.
• Preserved site: The cleanup makes the towers and nearby areas more enjoyable to explore.
• The ideal place for photography fans is at sunset, as the mix of light and shadows makes the area quite beautiful.
• Equally, these towers remind visitors of traditional Qatar designs and help support this history and culture.

Cons

While Barzan Towers offer a unique cultural experience, some travelers have noted a few drawbacks during their visits:

• Planned closures: Sometimes, the towers are closed during maintenance, so check whether you can go before you travel.
• Not all areas can be seen: Many of the sections such as the top floors, are usually off-limits.
• Difficult to reach: Thanks to unclear directions and roads, the site is hard to get to for some people.
• Barzan Towers are quite small which means they are unlikely to be a reason for a single day trip.
• Not many details: Because signage is limited, it’s best to study the site ahead of your visit.

How to get there

Barzan Towers are located in Umm Salal Mohammed, approximately 15–20 kilometers north of Doha. Here's how to reach them:

• By car: The most convenient way is by private car or taxi. Use GPS to navigate to “Barzan Towers, Umm Salal Mohammed.”
• From Doha: Take Al Shamal Road (Route 1) north, then exit toward Umm Salal Mohammed. Follow local signs or GPS guidance.
• No direct public transport: Currently, there are no direct bus or metro lines to the site, so personal transport is recommended.
• Parking: Limited parking is available near the towers.

How to get to Barzan Towers

Ideal time to visit

To make the most of your visit to Barzan Towers, consider the following ideal times:

• The best time to go: Come from November through March since it’s the coolest and best time for spending time outside.
• Great moments for taking pictures are usually early in the morning or late in the afternoon since it’s cooler and lighting is better then.
• Skip the heat at midday: Qatar’s intense midday sun in summer can make it too warm to appreciate the site.
• You can capture stunning photos at sunset when the towers are illuminated.

Essential advice for touring Barzan Towers

Before visiting Barzan Towers, keep these important tips in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

• Check opening hours: Confirm the towers are open, as they may close temporarily for maintenance or renovations.
• Dress modestly: Respect local customs by wearing modest clothing suitable for a cultural and historical site.
• Bring water: Especially during warmer months, bring bottled water to stay hydrated during your visit.
• Use GPS navigation: Due to limited signage, use a reliable GPS app to locate the site accurately.
• Combine with other attractions: Since the visit may be short, consider combining it with nearby cultural or natural sites.

Top recommendations for a Barzan Towers visit

FAQs about Barzan Towers

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you learn more about the history, architecture, and visiting tips for Barzan Towers.

How tall are the Barzan Towers?

The Barzan Towers are approximately 16 meters (52 feet) tall. Believed to have been built in the late 19th or early 20th century and given a makeover in 1910, the towers were built to monitor nearby areas and natural resources, watch over it and be used for astronomy. Because they were so tall, they gave clear views so watchers could spot approaching enemies and watch the moon. The towers represent the talents of Qatari architects in the past.

What are the facts about the Barzan Towers?

Sheikh Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani had the Barzan Towers in Umm Salal Mohammed, Qatar, built in the late 1800s and renewed them in 1910. Since they were 16 meters high, the towers kept an eye on expansion, tracked the phases of the moon and helped guard the water source. Featuring coral rock, limestone and typical Qatari materials, the towers form a heritage landmark that reflects both the country’s historical architecture and form of planning.

What role did the towers play in astronomical observations?

People relied on the Barzan Towers for observing the stars and identifying days for observing Islam’s holy month of Ramadan using the sight of the moon. Being 16 meters tall allowed the astronomers an excellent view of the night sky for lunar viewing. In the late 19th century, the towers were built to help local observers find the new moon needed for religious use in Qatar.

In conclusion

Barzan Towers offer a fine example of the traditional buildings and culture found in Qatar. This is the perfect place for history and culture fans to see how the country grew. Before visiting, it is easy for travelers to apply for a Qatar e-visa to discover The Barzan Towers and other landmarks by using the official Qatar Immigration Service website.