Meet the Giant Pandas at the Middle East’s First Panda Park
Panda House Qatar is one of the most heart-warming and unique attractions in the country, offering visitors the rare chance to meet giant pandas right here in the Middle East. Located in Al Khor, this extraordinary park blends conservation, culture, and family-friendly entertainment—making it a must-visit place for tourists and residents alike.
As the first panda park in the Middle East, Panda House Qatar represents a historic moment for wildlife conservation and cultural exchange, while creating unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages.
What Is Panda House Qatar?
Panda House Qatar is a purpose-built wildlife facility designed to house and care for giant pandas in an environment that closely resembles their natural habitat. The park is part of a larger recreational area and is directly connected to Al Khor Family Park, allowing visitors to enjoy a full day of leisure, nature, and fun.
Just 50 km north of Doha, Panda House Qatar is easily accessible for a day trip and is ideal for families, animal lovers, and anyone curious about Qatar’s newest wildlife residents.
Meet Qatar’s Giant Pandas: Suhail & Thuraya 🐼
Qatar is home to two adorable giant pandas who quickly became national favorites.
- Suhail (Male)
- Born: 19 September 2019
- Weight: Approx. 130 kg
- Named after one of the brightest stars visible in the Gulf region
- Thuraya (Female)
- Born: 26 July 2019
- Weight: Approx. 70 kg
- Named after the famous Pleiades star cluster
Both names hold deep significance in Qatari culture, beautifully symbolizing the connection between nature, heritage, and astronomy.
From Sichuan to Doha – A Historic Journey
The giant pandas were born in the Wolong Panda Reserve in China’s Sichuan Province—one of the world’s most important panda conservation centers. They traveled securely from China to Hamad International Airport in custom-built crates and arrived in Qatar on 18 October 2022.
Their arrival marked a historic milestone, as Qatar became the first Middle Eastern country to receive Chinese giant pandas. The pandas underwent a 21-day quarantine with their keepers before meeting the public. Their arrival also commemorated the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, symbolizing friendship and cooperation between Qatar and China.
Luxurious Custom-Built Panda Home
Panda House Qatar is one of the largest and most advanced panda enclosures in the world, carefully designed to replicate the Minshan Mountains of Sichuan.
Key features include:
- Air-conditioned indoor and outdoor areas
- Climate-controlled humidity levels
- Indoor exhibition hall and separate bedrooms
- Swimming ponds and play platforms
- Interactive landscapes and nursery facilities
- A fully equipped panda hospital
The facility meets international animal welfare standards, complying with regulations from Chinese authorities, Qatar, and WAZA (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums).
What Do the Pandas Eat?
Every week, 1,000 kg of fresh bamboo is airlifted from Sichuan to Qatar to meet the pandas’ dietary needs.
Their diet includes:
- Bamboo (99% of daily intake)
- Carrots and apples
- Traditional Chinese pancakes made from an ancient recipe
This carefully planned nutrition ensures the pandas remain healthy, active, and happy in their new home.
A Haven for Panda Lovers & Families
Panda House Qatar is designed as a complete visitor experience, not just an enclosure.
Inside the park you’ll find:
- Indoor viewing decks
- Sculptural gardens
- Bamboo forest trails
- Audio-visual towers
- Café and gift shop with panda souvenirs
- Prayer rooms and shaded seating areas
A connecting door leads directly to Al Khor Family Park and Zoo, making it easy to extend your visit.
Al Khor Family Park & Zoo – A Perfect Add-On Visit
Next door to Panda House is Al Khor Family Park and Zoo, offering even more attractions (separate tickets required).
Highlights include:
- Zoo animals and wildlife areas
- Waterfalls and museums
- Skating areas and mini-golf
- Basketball courts and children’s play zones
- Amphitheatre and picnic areas
- Food kiosks and ample parking (up to 300 spaces)
🕗 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
🚺 Tuesdays: Entry for women and children only
Visitor Information & Tickets 🎟️
- Location: Al Khor, Qatar
- Opening Hours (Panda House): 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Ticket Prices:
- Adults: QAR 50
- Children under 14: QAR 25
- Persons with Disabilities: Free
Park Size & Greenery
- Total Area: 120,000 sqm
- Trees: 464
- Bamboo Plants: 2,814
The landscape itself is a key part of the experience, offering calm, greenery, and immersive natural scenery.
Why Panda House Qatar Is a Must-Visit
- First panda park in the Middle East
- World-class animal care and conservation
- Deep cultural symbolism
- Ideal for families and children
- Combined experience with Al Khor Family Park
Whether you’re visiting Qatar for a short stay or living here long-term, Panda House Qatar is a place that combines education, emotion, and entertainment in a truly unique way.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Panda House Qatar
What is Panda House Qatar?
Panda House Qatar is the Middle East’s first-ever panda park, located in Al Khor. It is home to two giant pandas and offers a unique family-friendly experience focused on conservation, education, and nature.
Where is Panda House Qatar located?
Panda House Qatar is located in Al Khor, approximately 50 km north of Doha, and is directly connected to Al Khor Family Park and Zoo.
What are the opening hours of Panda House Qatar?
Panda House Qatar is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Timings may vary on public holidays, so it’s best to check before visiting.
How much are tickets for Panda House Qatar?
- Adults: QAR 50
- Children under 14: QAR 25
- Persons with Disabilities: Free
Tickets are usually purchased on-site or through official booking platforms.
Who are the pandas living in Panda House Qatar?
The two giant pandas are:
- Suhail (Male) – born in September 2019
- Thuraya (Female) – born in July 2019
Both were gifted by China to Qatar in 2022 and are named after stars significant in Qatari culture.
Where did the pandas come from?
The pandas were born in the Wolong Panda Reserve in Sichuan Province, China, a globally recognized panda conservation center.
What do the pandas eat?
The pandas eat a carefully managed diet consisting of:
- Fresh bamboo (99% of their diet)
- Carrots and apples
- Traditional Chinese pancakes
Around 1,000 kg of bamboo is flown in weekly from China to ensure proper nutrition.
Is Panda House Qatar suitable for children?
Yes, Panda House Qatar is very family-friendly. Children enjoy watching the pandas, exploring garden pathways, and visiting nearby Al Khor Family Park, which has play areas and attractions.
Can I visit Al Khor Family Park and Zoo on the same day?
Yes. Panda House Qatar has a direct connecting entrance to Al Khor Family Park and Zoo. Please note that separate tickets and opening hours apply.
Are there food and rest facilities inside Panda House Qatar?
Yes. The park includes:
- A café
- Gift shop with panda-themed souvenirs
- Prayer rooms
- Shaded seating and rest areas
Is Panda House Qatar air-conditioned?
Yes. The panda enclosure is fully climate-controlled, including indoor viewing areas, to ensure comfort for both the pandas and visitors, especially during summer.
Is photography allowed inside Panda House Qatar?
Photography is allowed for personal use. However, flash photography may be restricted to protect the pandas—follow staff instructions during your visit.
How long does a visit to Panda House Qatar usually take?
Most visitors spend 1 to 2 hours inside Panda House Qatar. If combined with Al Khor Family Park and Zoo, you can easily plan a half-day or full-day trip.
Why is Panda House Qatar important?
Panda House Qatar symbolizes:
- Wildlife conservation
- International cooperation between Qatar and China
- Education and biodiversity awareness
- Qatar’s commitment to world-class family attractions
Final Thoughts
Panda House Qatar is more than a zoo—it’s a symbol of friendship, conservation, and Qatar’s commitment to creating world-class family attractions. Watching Suhail and Thuraya play, eat bamboo, and explore their custom-built habitat is an experience that delights both children and adults.
If you’re planning to explore places to visit in Qatar, make sure Panda House Qatar is on your list.
👉 Have you visited Panda House Qatar yet? Share your experience and photos to inspire other travelers.
