After its closure in November 2014, Al Bidda Park has made a great comeback since its reopening on National Sport Day 2018.
Throngs of residents have been frequenting the many different amenities of the 2mn sqm facility, formerly known as Al Rumailah Park.Aside from the well-manicured gardens and lush greenery, some of the amenities include several barbeque stations; basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts; jogging, walking, and bicycle paths; an amphitheater; and underground parking that can accommodate 6,000 vehicles.
The park also has several playgrounds equipped with brand new, commercial-grade play sets like slides, seesaw, merry-go-round, playhouses, spring rider, and even zip lines, among others.
“Because the park is situated at the heart of the city, it is accessible and there is ample parking space. The place is also well-lighted in the evenings making it an ideal spot for family gatherings and group activities, and since it is located along the Corniche, the skyline makes the place even more scenic," said Doha resident Mohamed.
A view of one of the park's many landscaped gardens
Dedicated bike path makes Al Bidda Park a great destination for health buffs
Some of the food courts participating in the Al Bidda Park Spring Bazaar
Another resident added: “It's been a while since we were able to hold barbeque parties within the city area. We used to go to the beach if we want to cook outdoors. These amenities will surely have residents coming back on a regular basis. It’s a great place to exercise, too because there are dedicated pathways for biking, walking, and jogging.”
The area has also been a favourite spot for many dog lovers, being Qatar’s very first pet-friendly park. Staff manning the area said pet owners are advised to bring poop scoopers and bags to clean after pets to maintain cleanliness.
“I am happy that the park was reopened on National Sport Day and since then, my family and I had been going to the park during the weekends,” said Miguel, who has been living in Qatar for the past two years.
“My children also enjoy the place because they can bring along their pet dog. It is also a good place to meet up with other pet owners. I wouldn’t be surprised if one day, a dog show will be organised here,” he added.
Al Bidda Park is also hosting a two-month spring bazaar, which will run until May 8. The event offers food courts, retail shops, and weekend festivals, as well as stage and live performances, according to QSports, the organisers of the event.
The spring bazaar is open Sundays to Wednesdays from 4pm – 10pm; Thursdays, 4pm – 11pm; Fridays, 2pm – 11pm; Saturdays, 12pm – 9pm.
