Doha, the dynamic capital of Qatar, emerges as a gleaming metropolis on the shores of the Arabian Gulf, offering a compelling blend of futuristic architecture and cultural heritage. As a city that has rapidly transformed into a global hub, Doha captures the essence of modernity while preserving its Arabian identity. Skyscrapers pierce the skyline, reflecting the ambition of this burgeoning urban centre, while at its core, traditional souks and ancient mosques echo the rich history of the region. From the ultramodern wonders of the Doha Corniche to the timeless charm of the Souq Waqif, Doha invites visitors to explore a juxtaposition of old and new. With its world-class museums, luxurious resorts, and a commitment to hosting international events, Doha is not just a destination; it is a gateway to a cultural crossroads where tradition and innovation harmoniously converge. Here are our favourite 5-star and luxury hotels to stay at in the city.
Four Seasons The Pearl-Qatar
One to three-bedroom self-catering apartments with either sea or city views can be booked for your stay in Doha. The largest of these has a balcony furnished with a dining table for eight and lounge seating, a media zone, a laundry room and a study. The Four Seasons Resort is perched on a private beach, with manicured grounds and multiple pools. Chef Joël Robuchon (whose restaurants hold a staggering number of Michelin stars) heads up the food and beverage offer, which includes a French patisserie, Italian and seafood restaurants, a steakhouse, a healthy poolside cafe and an afternoon tea/mocktail lounge.
Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara
The name of this private island gives a clue as to its shape, which you’ll first set eyes on as you take your boat transfer from Doha City, to this five-star retreat. The surrounding coral reefs are a draw for many, while others come to take advantage of the spa, with its Turkish hammam, indoor pool, jacuzzi and ice well. You may be separated from the mainland, but there’s much to keep all the family occupied onsite, with amenities including a cinema, surf pool, bowling alley, tennis court, kids’ club, watersports, seven restaurants/bars and a 9-hole putting course.
The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort
Perched on the Arabian Gulf with mountains to its rear, this resort from GHM envelopes its guests in privacy, indulgence and authentic Qatari hospitality. It takes many cues from the area’s heritage and adopts a modern outlook. The hotel has a private, fully-serviced beach, a seaside pool area, a spa (with male and female areas), and several dining options providing top-class meals from morning till night. Check into a room, a suite, or your own villa with a garden and a private pool. It may be conveniently close to the city centre attractions, but it feels like you’re a world away – an ideal combination of seclusion and access to amenities.
Le Royal Méridien Doha
Found in the up and coming city of Lusail, this sparkling new hotel from Marriott opened its doors in 2022. It has a direct connection to the Place Vendôme Qatar, a luxury mall with shops, theatres and restaurants. Le Royal Méridien is 15 minutes from Doha’s downtown, housing 377 bedrooms and suites, with 137 studios and apartments. The 11-storey building also has several drinking and dining establishments: Adrift Anda by David Myers, alfresco restaurant Yedi, Loleya Patisserie by Chef Aziz, and The G.O.A.T Sports Lounge, as well as swimming pools for adults and families.
Banyan Tree Doha
The striking architecture and interior design by Jacques Garcia are inspired by the elements of earth, fire, water and air. A tree of life greets guests in the hotel’s lobby before they’re shown to one of 126 guest rooms or 215 private residences. And a rainforest-themed spa includes male and female areas each with treatment rooms (couples pamper experiences are also provided), heated beds, a vitality pool, jacuzzi, relaxation areas, a brine steam room, herbal sauna and a rain walk. The various restaurants – between the 24th and 28th floors – provide panoramic views of Musheireb, serving Italian, Thai, Asian and Indian cuisines.
Mandarin Oriental Doha
In the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha, overlooking the square, Doha’s Mandarin Oriental is the epitome of understated luxury. Swim in two rooftop pools, drink and dine in nine restaurants and bars (including one dedicated entirely to sweet treats) and soak in your room’s oversized marble tub. 249 modern rooms display Qatari accents, and include a decadent Royal Suite, with its own lift and plunge pool.
Four Seasons Hotel Doha
The spa and wellness centre at this Four Seasons property is spread across not one, but three levels. Rooms offer superb views across the Arabian Gulf and there’s the exclusive Palm Jumeirah beach right outside. Ideal for families – a kids’ club ensures little ones are entertained and your (small) dogs are made welcome too.
Mondrian Doha
With interior design by Marcel Wanders, each area in this SBE-operated five-star hotel tells its own story. Grand, modern and very artistic, the decor bears much Arabic influence, both old and new. Stained glass, falcon video art, indoor trees, gilt creatures and giant ornate columns create an installation-like effect in many of the spaces. Rooms have river or city views and include VIP penthouses.
Marsa Malaz Kempinski
The offer at the Kempinski hotel includes seven restaurants, an award-winning Clarins Spa, a private beach, outdoor pools, a tennis court, a fitness centre, all-age round the clock activities and water sports. Found on the Pearl-Qatar, a man-made island, this hotel has a white-glove standard of service.
Sharq Village – Ritz Carlton
Stay in the closest hotel you’ll find to a sheikh’s palace, at this 174-room village resort. Try one of 250 treatments at the spa, wander the palm-lined courtyards, sunbathe on the private bayside beach, dine on Levantine and Middle Eastern food. The hotel is furnished with glittering chandeliers, exotic antiques, marble hardware and fine linens.
The Ritz Carlton Doha
East meets West at this high-end Ritz-Carlton property, home to the largest chandelier in the Middle East. An American-style steakhouse, Asian fusion restaurant, French Brasserie and regal lobby lounge serving afternoon tea all blend seamlessly in this 374-roomed marina-side hotel.
The St Regis Doha
Situated on the West Bay, St Regis provides 24-hour butler service, epicurean adventures in 12 destination restaurants and a heated Olympic-size swimming pool. Its world-class Remède Spa leads directly onto the beach and provides divine massages, facial and body treatments.
Al Messila – A Luxury Collection Doha
This Marriott hotel is the first Luxury Collection resort in Doha, sandwiched between the desert and the city. Guests can opt to stay in private pool villas, surrounded by scented gardens, or rooms in the main ‘palace’ building. Take a tailor-made water and treatment journey in the spa, led by a retreat specialist, dine on Michelin Star Chef Pino Lavarra’s cuisine in the restaurants and let the children enjoy themselves at the largest hotel kids club in Doha.
