Doha - Top 1% Hotels
I traveled to Doha, Qatar this January to explore some of the city’s finest luxury accommodations, and was struck by how underrated it remains as a travel destination and how affordable said luxury hotels are. In the inevitable comparison to Dubai, Doha offers a calmer pace yet delivers the same hallmark of warm Arabian hospitality—while still preserving its deep-rooted culture and traditions. The city is exceptionally safe, welcoming families and solo travellers alike, and its collection of high-end hotels has grown significantly since Doha’s global debut during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Now that the crowds of football fans have dispersed, the stage is set for a quieter, more refined travel experience.
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Four Seasons Doha
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Sitting at the edge of Doha’s glittering skyline, the Four Seasons Doha greets you with a sophisticated blend of urban cool and resort charm. One moment, you’re surrounded by the buzz of city life; the next, you’re kicking back at the hotel’s private beach, watching gentle waves roll in. It’s a balance that’s hard to come by in a downtown setting, but this property manages to pull it off.
Atmosphere
I spent two nights here, and from the moment I walked into the spacious lobby—bathed in natural light and accented with subtle local design elements—I knew I’d found a Four Seasons. This isn’t the sprawling tropical escape some might imagine, especially in winter when the building casts a mid-day shadow across the sand, but it’s a city oasis. There’s a low-key elegance in the air: business travellers mingle with leisure guests, giving the atmosphere a refined but relaxed vibe.
Accommodations
The rooms themselves? Let’s just say, if there’s a hall of fame for hotel beds, Four Seasons would take top honours. Their famous mattress more than lived up to its reputation—I practically melted into it every night. The spacious bathroom also had heated floors, which was a small but crucial detail, especially when Doha’s January nights get cooler. The room felt bright, cozy and elegant with subtle nods to the Middle Eastern context. Regarding bath room products: I am definitely a fan of Diptyque that Four Seasons and other top hotels are using. The brand is also offered in Qatar Airways Business Class by the way.
One note: every now and then, I caught the faint rumble of planes landing on the older Doha airport. But this happened very rarely.
I received an upgrade to a Premier Sea-View Room. This room is the same size as city view rooms (Deluxe) with 44 m2 (474 sq.ft.). Let me know if you want to know more about the different room types.
I was also able to see one of the presidential suites on the upper levels. It has great views, a huge living room, a small private “movie theatre” and a generous master bedroom with ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet, see images below.
Unique Amenities
Service at the Four Seasons Doha is the kind of polished hospitality that sneaks up on you in the best way. Case in point: breakfast. Since I’m the type who likes to scope out every corner of the buffet before committing to my meal, the server waited until I finally stayed seated—after multiple trips to scout fruit, pastries, and eggs—before pouring my coffee. Thus it was piping hot precisely the moment I was ready for it. That level of attentiveness might seem small, but it really set the tone for my entire stay. Any small issues (like the weaker water pressure in my shower on the first day) were handled swiftly and courteously.
Spa, Wellness, and Beach
I must confess: I’m already excited about the upcoming spa renovation. While the current facilities were perfectly fine, they did show signs of aging here and there. But the Four Seasons team is keenly aware of this and has grand plans for an upgrade. Treatments remain top-quality.
The beach and outdoor pools are a nice feature for a city hotel and provide a resort feel next to skyscrapers. Compared to real beach resorts, the FS Doha is of course just a small slice of a proper resort in terms of size. But to enjoy perfect sand with Four Seasons-service, it’s perfectly fine.
Dining Options
Four Seasons Doha might just be one of the city’s best-kept culinary secrets—except it’s not so secret. With top-tier names like Nobu, Jean-Georges, and a touch of Joël Robuchon on the scene, it’s a major draw for food lovers. It’s also nice to be able to enjoy a very well made shisha by the beach after dinner.
The breakfast was on a high level with friendly and swift service with outdoor seating, if you so wish. On my last morning the place was full and I was placed in another room where I had to wait a little longer for things to arrive, but it was still reasonable.
Four Seasons Doha at The Pearl
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When I first heard about the Four Seasons Doha at The Pearl, I was told it offered luxury residences only, but then it was turned into a mixed model of the regular hotel stay and long term rentals.
Atmosphere
Set on the man-made island known as The Pearl-Qatar, this Four Seasons property pairs the serenity of waterfront living with easy access to the city’s buzzy hotspots. Compared to its sister hotel in downtown Doha, the vibe here is quieter and more residential—picture sleek condo towers, tree-lined promenades, and a gentle sense of exclusivity. Walking into the lobby, I felt like I’d stepped into a stylish apartment building rather than a traditional hotel. There’s an understated elegance here that feels both refined and personal.
Accommodations
Although I didn’t spend the night, the rooms I toured were nothing short of sprawling. Each one boasts a high-end kitchen fully equipped with Miele appliances and a generous balcony to soak up the sea views. It’s perfect for anyone planning a longer stay or simply wanting that “at home” comfort. Of course, extra space often comes with a higher price tag—rooms here can cost about double what you’d pay at the Four Seasons in the city center. But if you’re craving the luxe apartment vibe with all the trimmings (like a separate living and dining area), it might just be worth it.
Unique Amenities
I immediately noticed that the beach here was meticulously maintained; the sand here on the pearl was imported from the Maldives, lending it a powdery-soft feel that’s rare to find in urban enclaves. The pool area, while not massive, is elegant and well laid out, giving it a boutique resort atmosphere. You might catch the occasional hum of a plane overhead, but for the most part, the ambience remains calm and breezy.
The FS Doha at The Pearl is family-friendly (as is Qatar in general) and thus provides a very well-equipped outdoor and indoor area for the kids to play and be taken care of by specialised staff. I like that this area is not in a forgotten backside but in a nice corner not far from the pool and beach area.
Spa & Wellness
Four Seasons Doha at The Pearl keeps things relatively intimate in the spa department, but the facilities are brand-new and beautifully designed. I wouldn’t mind if the original FS Doha would take note when renovating. Even the smaller details, like modern fixtures and contemporary treatment rooms, make a difference when you’re seeking that oh-so-pampering experience. I didn’t get a chance to try a treatment, but the warm, welcoming staff seemed eager to offer a preview of what’s to come.
There is also a beautiful gym and indoor pool, which are spacious and bright.
Dining Options
My site inspection didn’t include a full culinary tour, but if the Four Seasons brand is any indication, top-notch dining is a given (e.g. a Robuchon outlet). Being on The Pearl also means you’re just steps away from a variety of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques that dot the marina. It’s a gorgeous place for an evening stroll—especially if you’re a fan of waterfront views and yacht-watching.
St. Regis Doha - West Bay
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Few hotels can pull off both grandiosity and warmth the way St. Regis Doha does. Walking through the property feels like stepping into a refined Middle Eastern palace—yet every staff member I encountered greeted me as though I were a longtime friend. During my one-night stay, I was continuously impressed by this balance of luxury and genuine hospitality.
Atmosphere
The moment I arrived, I was struck by the hotel’s lavish marble foyer and high ceilings (as you will find here in Doha more often than you would think) — complete with elegant chandeliers that hint at the grandeur ahead. Yet, despite all the opulence, there’s a disarming warmth here. Staff members greet you repeatedly and with such enthusiasm, you might wonder if you’ve become a local celebrity overnight. This could feel over-the-top for some, but for me, it made the experience all the more memorable.
Accommodations
My room at the St. Regis Doha was spacious, cozy, and beautifully lit. I loved having heated floors in the bathroom—especially refreshing when the desert mornings are a bit cooler than you’d expect. The bed matched the high standards I’ve come to expect from luxury hotels, but I did notice that some furniture pieces felt slightly out of sync with the property’s overall grandeur. Think designer couch in one corner, and what seemed like IKEA-level furniture in the entryway. It’s a minor quirk, but one worth noting if you’re all about cohesive design.
The bathroom products seem a little inconsistent with different brands.
As you can see on the photos, my view was a little tarnished by the huge parking and event space right in front of the hotel - while the skyline of Lusail and Katara Village in front with the traditional wooden boats called Dhow actually offer a great view.
Unique Amenities
The legendary St. Regis butler service ended up being more useful than I initially anticipated. I took advantage of the two complimentary garment pressings—my dinner outfit has never looked crisper—and discovered the daily champagne sabering ritual, a St. Regis staple, where staff ceremoniously pop open a bottle - and offer you a glass for free. It’s these little bits of pomp and circumstance that give the hotel its unique flair. Throw in an expansive pool and a sun-soaked beach that retains sunshine longer than other spots in town, and you’ve got a real mini-resort feel right in the city.
Spa, Wellness, and Beach
As someone who loves a good spa day, I couldn’t resist trying out the Guerlain Spa. Everything, from the design, scents (duh!) to the water pressure in the showers, was spot-on. My only slight hiccup was the persistent upselling by my masseuse—being nudged toward upgrades before I even settled onto the massage bed felt a bit counterproductive to relaxing. Still, the treatments themselves were top-notch, and I left feeling rejuvenated and ready for an evening out. Overall one of the best massage experiences I ever had - the coziness of all the materials used, the best water pressure I ever experienced in a shower combined with the luxurious Guerlain bath products, the amazing smells everywhere, and great skills by the masseuse - wow.
Shockingly I didn’t take any pictures - so I borrowed these two from their official website, I am sure they won’t mind as I can only recommend it!
The St. Regis offers a huge outdoor pool and quite sizeable beach area. One point of critique: the music around the pool was pretty loud for a relaxing stay - but this may not be every day. I would also think that the amazing staff would try to solve this problem. The advantage of this pool and beach is that the sun will stay much longer here compared to the FS Doha.
Dining Options
St. Regis Doha’s breakfast spread scored big points in my book—it was varied, fresh, and served with the same impeccable service I saw throughout the hotel. However, my lunch experience at Astor Grill was less thrilling. The brisket lacked flavor, and even a simple chicken toast at the beach club seemed underseasoned. It was a surprising contrast to the otherwise excellent quality I encountered everywhere else. Nonetheless, with so many dining venues in Doha, if Astor Grill doesn’t blow you away, there are plenty of other places to explore. For example, Huqqa (quite famous shisha bar) located across the street provides a great shisha and tea.
Mandarin Oriental Doha
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I’ve always been intrigued by Mandarin Oriental’s global reputation for understated luxury and top-tier service. During my site inspection (plus a lunch at their Chinese restaurant, Lin), I got a taste of how this world-class brand translates its signature charm to the heart of Doha. Spoiler alert: it’s a harmonious blend of modern Middle Eastern flair and gentle Asian touches—all wrapped in the stylish setting of Msheireb.
Atmosphere
Msheireb is Doha’s new urban district that seamlessly fuses heritage-inspired architecture with contemporary design. Walking up to the Mandarin Oriental Doha, I was greeted by a sleek exterior and a stylish lobby on the first floor. At first glance, it’s all about minimalist elegance. But a closer look reveals subtle nods to Qatari culture—think intricate patterns and warm hues. It’s a calm oasis amid the city’s bustle, and though it lacks direct beach access, the modern, walkable neighborhood makes up for it with its cafés, boutiques, and art installations.
Accommodations
I didn’t stay overnight, but the rooms I toured certainly lived up to the Mandarin Oriental name. Every detail, from the plush bedding to the tasteful artwork on the walls, seemed carefully chosen. All room types are generously sized including the bathrooms. Views are of city or even above the rooftops. A standout feature? The ingenious “service closet,” which allows staff to pick up your laundry or deliver freshly shined shoes from the hallway—no awkward knock on the door needed. It’s a small yet brilliant touch that underscores the hotel’s emphasis on privacy and convenience.
There is clearly an effort in sustainability in combination with sense of place. Many details in the room are a nod to the Qatari culture that I wouldn’t even notice if not for the explanation by my guide, like the metal bolts on the wall from the traditional boats, Dhows, and even the small bathroom garbage can is held in a container made of pearl-like material as a nod to the heritage of Qatari pearl divers.
Fitting to that, the bathroom products are MOs own brand and come in reusable or recyclable containers.
Unique Amenities
The focus here is on refined urban living rather than a resort vibe. On the rooftop, you’ll find a long outdoor pool that’s perfect for a morning swim or an evening dip under the city lights. Downstairs, Msheireb’s pedestrian-friendly streets beckon for a leisurely stroll, with plenty of pit stops for culture and cuisine. And despite being in a busy district, the overall atmosphere remains tranquil and exclusive—just enough buzz to remind you you’re in a city, but not so much that you can’t relax.
Spa & Wellness
Mandarin Oriental’s spa reputation precedes it, and the Doha property holds its own. While I only peeked in, I could see the brand’s signature Zen-inspired design. The indoor pool is compact but beautifully laid out for a moment of blissful seclusion. Add a menu of holistic treatments and a cozy relaxation lounge, and you have the makings of a perfect escape from Doha’s desert sun and city bustle.
Dining Options
I had lunch at Lin, the hotel’s Chinese restaurant, where authentic flavors and fresh ingredients took center stage. I was pleasantly surprised by the reasonable lunch set prices, given the luxurious surroundings. The rest of the 10 property’s dining options follow Mandarin Oriental’s commitment to global gastronomy, including IZU, which apparently is a hit with locals with it's French Mediterranean cuisine and Qaqaw, which is a chocolate cafe. And if you ever want more variety, Msheireb is just outside with its own mix of stylish eateries.
And just look at those masterfully crafted cakes on offer at the Mandarin Lounge (for afternoon tea for example)…wow…most likely made in the Mandarin Cake Shop downstairs which also includes a cafe.
The Chedi Katara
Tucked away near Katara Cultural Village, The Chedi Katara caught my eye for its promise of serene luxury and a boutique vibe. Although I only had time for a site inspection, I left with a strong impression of a hotel that’s distinctly different from Doha’s bigger, flashier properties. If intimate spaces and a calmer pace are what you’re after, The Chedi might just deserve a spot on your wish list.
Atmosphere
Unlike many sprawling resorts, The Chedi Katara offers a more intimate setting—fewer rooms mean there’s never a sense of the place being overcrowded. The vibe is refined yet understated; think sleek modern lines paired with subtle Middle Eastern design elements, all in a secluded corner right beside Katara Cultural Village. One quick stroll away, and you’ll find yourself exploring cultural exhibitions, performances, and even a Parisian-inspired shopping street (La Fayette). It’s an intriguing location that feels worlds away from Doha’s busier districts.
Accommodations
Since I didn’t stay overnight, I can’t speak to the bed quality or in-room amenities from firsthand experience. But I did peek into a room and a villa. They looked stylish—perfect for travelers who value privacy and tranquility. The rooms all have a balcony or terrace and sea view.
The villas are situated on the side of the resort toward a canal. They have two bedrooms, both with access to the terrace with pool and grass area, a large living room and a fully equipped kitchen. I think the views from here are not as good as from the main building because the very straight canal and the buildings behind are not extremely pretty - but see for yourself.
Unique Amenities
The Chedi’s boutique nature shines through in its facilities. The outdoor pool and lounge areas are downright beautiful, set against a backdrop of manicured landscaping that feels secluded and peaceful. There’s also a private beach, which is a lovely perk in a city that’s fast becoming an urban metropolis. However, don’t expect a super expansive shoreline—part of the charm here is that it’s all about smaller, more curated spaces. In comparison to the other beach hotels I toured, the Chedi’s beach doesn’t have huge house blocks behind or next to it, because Katara Village and the surrounding area doesn’t have them. This means longer evening sun and a less claustrophobic feeling.
Spa & Wellness
My visit was brief, so I didn’t have the chance to try any treatments. Still, judging by the property’s overall aesthetic, I’d guess the spa continues the hotel’s theme of tranquility. The facilities looked top-notch and there was a wonderful ambience in general.
Dining Options
It’s worth noting that The Chedi Katara is a “dry hotel,” meaning it doesn’t serve alcohol—a fact that might sway some travelers’ decisions. Despite that, the property’s focus on refined non-alcoholic beverages and quality cuisine could appeal to those seeking a more holistic or family-friendly atmosphere. And with Katara’s dining scene practically at your doorstep, you won’t run out of options if you crave something different.
Honorable Mentions
Following are a few top hotels that I want to mention here and may write about on another occasion in more detail.
Raffles Doha
I visited the public areas of this magnificent architectural achievement. This is surely one of the top 1% hotels in Doha and I will review it at a later time. I can provide VIP perks through HERA by Accor.
LXR Katara Hills
Located between Katara Village and the St. Regis, this LXR hotel (a Hilton luxury brand) consists of only 15 villas with an interesting design. Price-wise it is part of the 1% - I will have to tour it next time to report about its actual worth. I can provide VIP perks through Hilton for Luxury.
Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay or Lusail
I stayed for one night at the Waldorf Astoria West Bay, a skyscraper in the business district of Doha. I have not included it in the detailed review list, though, as I think it does not quite reach the top 1% here - the brand itself surely has a few of those top raters around the world (re-opening of the original NYC outlet will be exciting), the Waldorf in Doha West Bay felt a little sub-par, but is also lower priced. I was missing the full-on luxury feel of the facilities that often felt cold and less pampering than at the top 1%. The food on the other hand was exceptional and better than at St. Regis Astor Grill or Beach Club. So if you are in the area I can definitely recommend their restaurant Muru by Mauro Colagreco.
The Waldorf Astoria Lusail is a resort hotel with beach, but I have not visited it to provide feedback on it.
I can provide VIP perks through Hilton for Luxury.
Park Hyatt Doha
Affordable option near Mandarin Oriental. Very understated and well rated by public reviews. Is on my list for next time, but may not be part of top 1% in this city. If you are a budget conscious luxury traveller I would consider the Park Hyatt Doha - if you book via me, I can provide perks via Hyatt Privé.
Sharq Village and Spa
Between airport and city you will find this Marriott property that is part of their Ritz-Carlton brand. I have stayed here a few years back and I have liked their traditional Arabic design and decor. See my report: Review - Sharq Village and Spa - Doha
I can provide VIP perks through Marriott STARS.
Rosewood
The Rosewood has not opened yet, but it is expected by the end of 2025 or beginning of 2026. It’s located in another interestingly designed high-rise next to the Raffles/Fairmont in Lusail Future City.
I will be able provide VIP perks through Rosewood Elite.
The Rosewood under construction as seen from the Fairmont’s rooftop.
Summary
For first-time Doha visitors I would recommend:
Mandarin Oriental for a modern and authentic feel of the location - if you don’t need a beach - amazing hospitality - perfect location to discover the traditional city center in a modern interpretation (Msheireb), the Souk Waqif, the national museum, the Islamic museum and the corniche. Malls, beaches and the airport can be easily reached with an affordable Uber.
Slightly more affordable alternative in the same area: Park Hyatt (I can get you perks via Hyatt Privé).
The Chedi, equally authentic with a beach. I liked the intimate feel and overall quality of materials and design. The nearby Katara cultural village is a nice stroll and offers restaurants and cafes.
For business or returning travellers (depending on what you plan to do), I would recommend one of the Four Seasons or the St. Regis.
Staying at the Four Seasons Doha felt like dipping into a world where city bustle and beach relaxation coexist in perfect harmony. If you’re looking for a refined base in the heart of Doha—one that doesn’t skimp on a bit of coastal downtime—this might just be your ideal hideaway.
Especially for families: Four Seasons Doha at The Pearl feels like a sanctuary for those who want the comfort of a luxury home with the perks of a five-star hotel. If you’ve ever daydreamed about waking up in a chic, airy apartment overlooking the Arabian Gulf—and then heading down for a gourmet breakfast without lifting a finger—this might just be your dream come true.
Despite minor inconsistencies, my brief stay at St. Regis Doha left a strong impression. Between the personalized butler service, the grand yet welcoming atmosphere, and a sunlit beach that feels worlds away from city life, this hotel manages to deliver a mix of Qatari interpretation of luxury and old world style. If you’re after a hint of regal pomp balanced by heartfelt hospitality, you’ll likely find it here—just be sure to savor that complimentary pressing service and catch the daily champagne sabering if you can.
About Doha and Qatar
Why travel to Doha (or Qatar)
If you are looking for a more quiet version of Dubai without compromise on luxury and Arabian hospitality. It feels like there is more culture here and focus on conserving traditions. This doesn’t mean, you can’t get alcohol in the hotels (except if it’s a dry hotel) or that you have to dress a certain way (although it is recommended to not walk around in a bikini in the city center).
The Inland Sea is a natural wonder of Qatar (more: https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/things-to-do/adventure-sports/desert/khor-al-adaid) - it is highly recommended to book with a tour guide or group as there are no roads leading there (if you want to do it yourself, you need a 4x4 and deflate the tyres at one point). While there are desert hotels, they are not of the level in Dubai (Qasr al Sarab or Al Maha e.g.). You can have the same desert activities, though. Let me know if you need help with planning!
Very family-friendly everywhere you go - that doesn’t mean that adults won’t enjoy a solo or couple stay as it’s never overcrowded anywhere. It is a very safe place, I was told by women that they never feel unsafe walking around day or night. The number of security cameras in the public hotel areas was almost comical - I am not sure if they will ever be used to solve a crime, as there are none anyway. There is also a metal detector and xray at each hotel main entrance.
Conveniently reached by one of the best airlines in the world, Qatar Airways, from many destinations. See my review of the QSuite here: Qatar Airways Business Class (Qsuites) - DOH-ZRH - I took the new Business Class in their A350 this time, it was not Qsuite - but still very good. I might publish a review soon.
If you like shisha, it’s a paradise, as you get it basically everywhere and often in restaurants too
The luxury hotels here are significantly cheaper than in Dubai or other high-life places - with the same service-level
There are actually good golf courses here - I will start a golf series this year, so stay tuned for that.
When to go
Qatar enjoys sunny weather throughout the year - though the temperatures vary drastically per season. To escape the colder and rainier months in your region, I recommend April/May and October-December for Doha - then it’s warm enough for bathing and T-Shirt-Evenings.
Summer months are too hot to enjoy outside activities, although there are very beautiful malls. January/February are fine compared to the Northern parts of the world, but it gets chilly at night and swimming in the Gulf is not a thing then. March 2025 is Ramadan (check lunar calendar) and this means closed stores and restaurants (often open after sunset) and limited offers.
Connect with Me
If you’re planning a trip to Doha and need personalized recommendations or assistance with bookings, feel free to reach out. I’ve established wonderful connections with the sales teams at these hotels, and they’re as eager as I am to make your stay unforgettable.
