By John Bryja – Walking Tour with Sarah Lord
Photos courtesy Romantsova/GKA
Quick Facts
Best Months: November to June
Conditions: Flat Water 15-30 knots
Airport: HIA
Hotel: Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection By Hilton
Local School: FKB
Cost Factor: Moderate-High
Basking under the sun, Fuwairit, Qatar unveils itself as a prime kitesurfing destination with its sun-kissed sands, consistent winds, and the mesmerizing blue expanse of the Persian Gulf. Nestled on its immaculate coastline is the FKB Kite Center, a Hilton resort crafted exclusively for kitesurfing enthusiasts. Conveniently accessible with direct flights from 177 cities worldwide, and being a major hub for Qatar Airways, Doha makes FKB an unparalleled kitesurfing layover for any international business traveler connecting through Qatar.
Yet, beyond this natural charm, it’s Sarah Lord’s unwavering dedication that truly resonates. As a pioneer in Qatar’s evolving kitesurfing scene, she dreamt and brought to life the nation’s premier kitesurfing facility. During the 2023 GKA World Cup’s opening event, John Bryja, Kitesurfing Magazine’s publisher, was treated to an insightful tour of this resort led by Sarah herself. Located merely an hour away from Doha and Hamad International Airport, FKB (Fuwairit Kite Beach) proudly overlooks the Arabian Sea. With its tranquil lagoon, mild waters, and optimal wind conditions, it promises an unparalleled experience. Envisioned as part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, FKB is rapidly becoming the go-to holiday retreat for kitesurfing beginners, aficionados, and business travelers alike.
Having been in Qatar for most of her life, Sarah witnessed the evolution and potential of kitesurfing in the region. This guide delves deep into the heart of Fuwairit’s kitesurfing scene, its unmatched conditions, state-of-the-art facilities, and why the FKB Kite Center has become a must-visit destination for both novice and seasoned kitesurfers.
Fuwairit Kitesurfing
The lagoon at Fuwairit is renowned for its steady winds, and shallow waters positioning it as one of the world’s hidden gems for kite surfing. Its shallow sandy bottom bay, ranging in depth from six inches to a little over waist-deep, provides the ideal conditions for instructing beginners. With the tide rising up to one and a half meter during high tide, there’s approximately five hours of perfect tide for riding each day. This unique blend of conditions welcomes both professionals and novices, ensuring a safe and effortless kitesurfing learning experience.
Safety & Hazards
There are minimal hazards to be concerned about, particularly outside of low tide periods. The seabed is primarily sandy, interspersed with grassy patches, and is free from large rocks or boulders. For the more advanced riders, the open ocean beckons just a short distance away, offering enticing kickers and patches of coral. Additionally, the prevailing side onshore wind ensures a safe direction for kitesurfing, further enhancing the overall safety of the spot.
Conditions (Gear to Bring)
FKB boasts one of the world’s most extended kitesurfing seasons, spanning from November to July, accompanied by side-onshore winds ranging between 15-30 knots. Its distinctive natural environment combined with a shallow water lagoon is ideal for riders of all proficiencies, accommodating twin-tip riders. Those interested in swell have great conditions offshore ideal for bump and jump wave riding, foiling, and wingfoiling. Foiling even happens in the lagoon at high tide. Local experts rave about the wave conditions they sometimes experience to the north of the centre as well. For twin tipping 9 & 12 meter will likely be your most used kite sizes.
Gear & Rentals
The FKB rental center is well-equipped with everything needed for kite surfing. Fully stocked with Duotone equipment, boasting a total of 100 kites, with 35 for the school and the rest for rentals. Foils, twin-tips, surfboards, Foils, Wingsurfers. FKB has it all! Rentals can be booked alongside hotel stay packages for convenience.
Wetsuit Recommendations:
Summer temperatures soar, while winter brings a milder coolness. During the competition last January, professionals opted for 4/3 or 3/2 wetsuits, although I wouldn’t label the conditions as chilly. They even had a day where board shorts sufficed. Given the desert’s tendency for cooler nights, I included a Nano puff jacket, long trousers, and a hoodie in my travel essentials, and they proved beneficial.
Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Never before has there been a Hilton so singularly dedicated to the spirit of kitesurfing. As guests arrive, they are greeted by a grand shaka hand statue. The atmosphere within is unparalleled. The hotel radiates an authentic surf vibe, from its VW-inspired front desk to the captivating artwork adorning the buildings. The brightly repurposed turtle sculpture adds a touch of whimsy, while the impressive handle pass sculpture spanning the pathway is truly a masterpiece in its own right.
Dining Options
Besides their casual dining area, they boast a cafe, a bar, and a gourmet restaurant that serves both local and international delicacies. They’ve taken care to ensure that their menu caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. After an intense day of kite surfing, their in-house restaurant serves as the ideal spot for guests to recharge. The kitchen kept up with the very hungry GKA pro riders, GKA staff, and multitude of spectators that took advantage of the massive buffet.
Activities and Facilities
A locker room ensures that kitesurfers have all the conveniences they need for a comfortable kitesurfing session. Being the first dedicated kitesurfing facility in Qatar, it offers everything you could dream of. The facility offers a yoga studio with a view, a gym designed for kite surfers, beach volleyball, beach football or soccer, paddle courts, an outdoor cinema, and a laundry room.
Rooms & Accommodation
The hotel offers King adjoining Queen rooms ideal for families or groups. Additionally, there are kite rooms with twin beds, presenting a budget-friendly option. The family rooms cater well to those journeying with children or a cluster of friends. These rooms are generously spaced with interconnecting doors, allowing guests to stay proximate to their companions while maintaining personal space. Every family room comes with a handy kitchenette and its own balcony or patio. In contrast, the suites represent the pinnacle of luxury. Their expansive living areas, opulent bathrooms, and premium amenities ensure a truly indulgent stay for guests.
Check Pricing and Availability
Eco-friendly Initiatives
As visitors might observe from the ocean soul sculptures, the resort places a high emphasis on sustainability. They are continually seeking ways to minimize their carbon footprint and advocate for eco-friendly practices. Their commitment goes beyond mere sculptures. From the organic products in their spa to the locally-sourced ingredients in the restaurant, they make every effort to be environmentally conscious. There are areas near the resort where turtles lay their eggs, which are protected to ensure the turtles aren’t disturbed.
Kitesurfing and More: Unveiling Qatar’s Hidden Gems
Beyond the exhilarating kitesurfing experiences in Qatar lies a treasure trove of attractions awaiting exploration. Situated just an hour away via a modern highway from the kitesurfing center is Doha, the pulsating capital that beautifully juxtaposes historical richness with contemporary wonders. For convenience, the resort’s front desk can organize transportation or suggest must-visit spots. After spending a memorable night in Doha, a return trip is certainly on the cards for me. Here are three standout destinations from my unforgettable visit.
Souq Waqif: A visit to this centuries-old marketplace is akin to stepping back in time. Wander through the labyrinthine alleys, where the scents of spices mingle with the aromas of traditional Qatari dishes. It’s a haven for those who love handicrafts, garments, and unique souvenirs. It’s a delightful cultural market, which like the rest of Qatar feels unbelievably safe. And extraordinarily clean for a public space.
Parisa Souq Waqif: During my Doha tour with the GKA event judges, we stumbled upon Parisa Souq Waqif. The bustling crowd of locals inside hinted at its popularity, assuring us that we’d made a delightful discovery. The intricate mosaics and ceiling, which reportedly took over three years to craft, were stunning. Moreover, the food was delicious, the service commendable, and the prices reasonable!
For those intrigued by Doha’s culinary scene, I came across this list of must-visit restaurants. Attention, food enthusiasts!
https://www.timeoutdoha.com/food-drink/doha-most-instagrammable-restaurants
National Museum of Qatar: Shaped like a desert rose crystal, this museum tells the story of Qatar, from its ancient past to its ambitious future, through immersive exhibits and stunning architecture. I was captivated by this Museum, the Bedouin culture, the transformation of Qatars economy from the early pearling days, to today where it has the highest GDP per capita in the world!
The FKB Kite Center in Fuwairit, Qatar is a gem for kitesurfing enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, it offers ideal conditions, state-of-the-art facilities, and the promise of an unforgettable experience in Qatar.
Need to know (quick facts)
Airport Code: HIA
Best Time of Year: November to June
Average wind strength: 15-30 knots
Cost Factor: Moderate-High
Hotel: Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection By Hilton
High standard of living: Qatar’s GDP per capita is the highest in the world!
Crime: The crime rate is 20 times lower than in the USA.
Alcohol: Alcohol is available in some 5-star hotels and select clubs. However, bars and nightclubs in Qatar operate mainly in the luxury hotels. FKB does have an alcohol license.
Population: Expatriates make up 90% of the workforce
Getting There:
Direct flights to Qatar are available from over 177 cities including: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Montreal, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington. I flew first class from Montreal to Doha courtesy of Qatar Airways. Six course meal, fully stretched out in a bed, breakfast. Just like that… teleported to Qatar! Be sure to check out the video.
For more information on the resort, kitesurf centre and accommodation, visit: Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection By Hilton
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