The well of Ain Hleetan served an essential need for drinking water for the Al Mahanda tribe that settled along the Persian Gulf coast in an area that would become Al Khor. About 150 years ago, after stumbling across a spring while hunting, residents built the well. Visit Ain Hleetan well to see what was sometimes identified as “the Doctor” for its healthful properties.
Ain Hleetan is one of more than 100 wells and springs across Qatar that have been documented and are under various states of conservation as historic landmarks. Visit the area at any time it’s accessible 24 hours a day.
Adjacent to the well is the westernmost of three Al Khor Towers. Built around 1900 on a small hill, this tower provided a lookout for observing pearl divers and watching for pirates as well as guarding the well. Note that the tower is about 13 feet (4 meters) in diameter, with walls made of mud and stone that are nearly 2 feet (60 centimeters) thick. Watchmen accessed the 26-foot-tall (8-meter) tower using a rope.
Al Khor is one of the largest settlements north of Doha. In the city, tour the Al Khor Museum, which provides information on archaeological excavations in and near the town.
While in Al Khor, be sure to visit the pretty port, beach and Corniche walkway. The family-oriented beach has barbecue grills, showers, a picnic area and a spot nearby to enjoy sweet and spiced Karak tea. South of the city, view the giant tent-like structure of Al Bayt Stadium, with capacity for 60,000 soccer fans during games of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
From Doha, travel by car to Al Khor and the well of Ain Hleetan in about 45 minutes. The bus ride to Al Khor is fairly straightforward and takes just over 1 hour. Find Ain Hleetan Well about 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) north of the city center, overlooking the Persian Gulf.
