WHERE TO STAY IN DOHA: Best Areas & Hotel Offers
Whether you're headed to Doha for the FIFA World Cup 2022 or just planning on visiting Qatar's capital on your vacation - make sure you stay in a safe area. Choosing the area is one of the toughest yet most important decisions because the city has various neighborhoods. Below you'll find a list of the top 3 areas to stay in Doha. And we have also added hotel suggestions, places to eat, and things to do.
By Kamilė
Published: November 22, 2022
#1 Souq Waqif - the most traditional area to stay in Doha
The Souq Waqif area is where the old souk of the city was located. This market dates back to the 19th century. Although it was renovated a few years ago, it still maintains the traditional architecture of the time. You can find various restaurants, shops, and traditional markets scattered throughout its streets in Souq Waqif.
The area is full of life at night and during the day. We recommend visiting Al Koot Fort, Gold Souq, Souq Waqif Art Center, the old well, and the main square.
Places to visit in Souq Waqif:
- Go shopping in the streets of Souq Waqif.
- Stroll through Falcon Souq and the horse stables.
- Visit Al Fanar mosque, where you will find a cultural center where you can learn about Islam.
- Visit The Pearl Monument.
- Stroll along the Doha corniche (promenade).
- Visit the Museum of Islamic Art.
- Take a walk (or take the metro) to the National Museum of Qatar.
- Al Shouyoukh and Msheireb mosques.
Best hotels in Souq Waqif - Low Budget
Kingsgate Hotel Doha
Qatar, Doha
Just 15 minutes drive to Doha International Airport, Kingsgate Hotel offers spacious rooms with a kitchenette and free Wi-Fi. It has a 24-hour front desk and a breakfast buffet restaurant.
Each room has a 32-inch satellite TV and a kitchenette with a microwave and an electric kettle. Some rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows or a balcony with views of Doha.
Selection Restaurant serves a rich buffet-style breakfast daily and a 'Eat and Drink' Fridge as you go. After breakfast, guests can relax in the sauna or work out in the gym. There is also an indoor pool.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- Airport shuttle
- Non-smoking rooms
- superb fitness center
- Family rooms
- Spa and wellness center
- Restaurant
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Good breakfast
Horizon Manor Hotel
Qatar, Doha
The Horizon Manor hotel is situated right across the street from the iconic Museum of Islamic Arts in the city's heart, offering an unrivaled view of the Arabian gulf on corniche road and the vibrant skyline of the West Bay.
All rooms at the hotel feature a city or sea view and in-room amenities, including a flat-screen TV, seating area with desk, coffee/ tea maker, minibar, direct international dialing, and 24-hour room service. Suites are 60+ square meters with separate living rooms and TV. Guests can make avail of the rooftop swimming pool that is temperature regulated or the well-equipped gym. All our guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and turn-down services. Free valet parking, city tours, and airport shuttles are available on request.
Middle-Eastern, European and Indian cuisines are served at the restaurants. The British pub and the nightclub featuring a live band are popular spots amongst the residents. Within 5 minutes of walking distance from the hotel is Souq Waqif, reminiscent of the historic architecture, and hosts several traditional gift shops. Hamad International Airport is a 10-minute drive from the premises.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- Airport shuttle
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Fitness center
- Spa and wellness center
- Restaurant
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Bar
- Good breakfast
Best hotels in Souq Waqif - Average Budget
Saraya Corniche Hotel
Qatar, Doha
Strategically situated in Old Doha City, allowing you access and proximity to local attractions and sights. Don't leave before paying a visit to the famous Souq Waqif. Rated with 5 stars, this high-quality property provides guests with access to massage, restaurant, and fitness center on-site.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- Airport shuttle
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Fitness center
- Spa and wellness center
- Restaurant
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Bar
- Good breakfast
DoubleTree by Hilton Doha Old Town
Qatar, Doha
Situated in the heart of Doha, DoubleTree by Hilton Doha Old Town is 1.2 km from Souq Waqif. The hotel features a sauna and a fitness center. Free WiFi is available in all areas of the property.
The bright modern accommodations all feature a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Certain rooms include a seating area to relax in after a busy day. You will find a kettle in the room. All rooms come with a private bathroom fitted with a bath or shower. For your comfort, you will find complimentary toiletries and a hair dryer.
Most popular facilities:
- Airport shuttle
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- superb fitness centre
- Spa and wellness centre
- Restaurant
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Bar
- Delicious breakfast
Best hotels in Souq Waqif - High Budget
Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli
Qatar, Doha
Situated within 800 m of Souq Waqif and 1.4 km of Amiri Diwan, Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli in Doha provides an outdoor swimming pool and rooms with free WiFi. The property is set 1.9 km from the National Museum of Qatar and 4.5 km from the Al Arabi Sports Club. The hotel has a fitness center and a 24-hour front desk.
At the hotel, each room is fitted with a desk and a flat-screen TV. In addition, rooms are equipped with a private bathroom. Furthermore, guest rooms at Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli have a seating area.
A buffet breakfast is available daily at the property. In addition, guests can grab a bite in the on-site restaurant, which specializes in International cuisine.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- Non-smoking rooms
- very good fitness center
- Family rooms
- Restaurant
- Free Parking
- WiFi available in all areas
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Very good breakfast
Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels - Tivoli
Qatar, Doha
Nestled in the heart of the historic Souq Waqif and just 15 minutes from Doha International Airport, Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels is a collection of 9 historic buildings featuring intricate décor and architecture to ensure the finest in Qatari hospitality for your stay in Doha.
All rooms at the Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels feature fresh and contemporary interiors. Each room includes a flat-screen TV, a seating area, and a desk.
Enjoy an eclectic dining experience at any of the hotel's 8 restaurants and retreat to the spa by choosing from a range of carefully crafted treatments to fuse the ancient traditions of Arabia with cutting-edge skincare.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- Airport shuttle
- Non-smoking rooms
- superb fitness center
- Family rooms
- Spa and wellness center
Best hotels in Souq Waqif - Not-So-Luxury Budget
Park Hyatt Doha
Qatar, Doha
Located in Doha, 1.4 km from Souq Waqif, Park Hyatt Doha provides accommodation with 3 restaurants, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. This 5-star hotel offers a concierge service and valet parking. In addition, the accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, room service, and currency exchange for guests.
All units are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, a bidet, a hairdryer, and a desk. Featuring a private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries, rooms at the hotel also provide guests with free WiFi. In addition, guest rooms will provide guests with a wardrobe and a coffee machine.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- Non-smoking rooms
- Fitness center
- Family rooms
- Spa and wellness center
- Restaurant
- Free parking
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Bar
Mandarin Oriental, Doha
Qatar, Doha
We are featuring an outdoor swimming pool and fitness center, Mandarin Oriental, Doha, located in the center of Msheireb Downtown Doha. With a terrace, the property also has a bar. The in-house restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine.
The rooms have air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a coffee machine, a bath, complimentary toiletries, and a desk. The rooms are fitted with a kettle and a private bathroom with a shower and a hair dryer, while certain rooms include a kitchen. In addition, the units feature a seating area.
Most popular facilities:
- 2 swimming pools
- Non-smoking rooms
- superb fitness center
- Family rooms
- Spa and wellness center
- Restaurant
- Free parking
- Bar
#2 The Pearl - luxurious area in Doha
The first word that comes to mind when thinking of Doha is luxury. Although a few areas of the city are not luxurious, The Pearl differs. Instead, this area is an artificial island home to many of the city's wealthiest individuals.
Apart from lavish homes and endless yachts lines, in The Pearl, you will find shopping malls, fine restaurants, luxury hotels, designer shops, artificial beaches, etc. If your wallet lets you, we recommend staying in The Pearl area for at least a night.
On the other hand, The Pearl is still a must-visit place in Doha if you are traveling on a budget. There are many ways to enjoy and wander around the upper-class's neighborhood. Don't hesitate to take a walk and explore the most luxurious side of Doha. It's beautiful!
Things to do and to see in The Pearl:
- Stroll through Qanat Quartier, a neighborhood inspired by Venice.
- Visit Lido Venezia Community Beach. There is a beach club called Talia Mare.
- Have a drink at Volume Cafe.
- Stroll and go shopping in Medina Centrale.
Best hotels in The Pearl - Average Budget
Sedra Arjaan by Rotana
Qatar, Doha
Sedra Arjaan by Rotana is situated in the heart of Pearl island in Doha, across Medina Central, and close to Qanat Quartier. The neighborhood offers stunning outdoor shopping areas, cinemas, cafés, and restaurants. Also, the aparthotel is surrounded by great panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and the Marina, with its outdoor and indoor restaurants and shopping mall.
The property consists of 250 spacious apartments varying from studios to 3 bedrooms and penthouses. The hotel apartments offer outdoor swimming pools for adults and kids, separate ladies' and gents' fitness rooms, and parking spaces for all residents and guests.
Hamilton’s gastropub is open daily; guests enjoy live sports on the large screens and refreshing beverages. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- Non-smoking rooms
- good fitness center
- Family rooms
- Restaurant
- Free parking
- WiFi available in all areas
Best hotels in The Pearl - High Budget
Hilton Doha The Pearl Hotel & Residences
Qatar, Doha
Set in Doha, 2.4 km from Lagoona Mall, Hilton Doha The Pearl Hotel & Residences offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. With free WiFi, this 5-star resort has a bar and a shared lounge. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, room service, and currency exchange for guests.
The units at the resort come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box, and a private bathroom with a shower, bathrobes, and slippers. Rooms have a kettle, while selected rooms will provide you with a balcony and others also have pool views. At Hilton Doha The Pearl Hotel & Residences, all rooms are fitted with bed linen and towels.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- fabulous fitness center
- Non-smoking rooms
- Spa and wellness center
- Family rooms
- Restaurant
- Free parking
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Bar
Mondrian Doha
Qatar, Doha
Located in the West Bay Lagoon area, next to the Zig Zag Towers, Mondrian Doha has easy access to the Pearl, Lusail City, West Bay, and Al Dafna, Doha’s financial and commercial center. Guests can chill out in the indoor pool.
Mondrian Doha consists of 211 bedrooms and 59 suites over 24 floors, all with custom-designed furniture & fixtures by Marcel Wanders, including bathroom fixtures, bedroom murals, crystal chandelier & bathtub, and step-in Rain shower. In addition, the rooms offer separate sitting and work desk areas, intelligent multimedia, a telecommunications and entertainment hub, and 40-inch LED televisions with full cable access.
Morimoto boasts a stunning design, artwork by Japanese artist Hiroshi Senju, and Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s acclaimed menu. Michelin Star Chef Wolfgang Puck’s signature steakhouse CUT makes its debut in Qatar, bringing the finest quality beef and an extensive menu with Californian and Mediterranean culinary influences. Walima boasts the best in Qatari and Middle Eastern cuisine, while guests can enjoy New York-style burgers in Hudson Tavern. EllaMia is the newest contemporary addition to Mondrian Doha, where guests can enjoy their coffee. Rise, located high on the 27th floor, is the perfect place to enjoy after-office drinks as the sun sets.
ESPA at Mondrian Doha features separate spas for men and women, 12 treatment rooms, a private couples treatment room, a heated experience garden, relaxation rooms with heated daybeds, and a traditional Turkish Hammam. In addition, there’s a 24-hour fitness center, complete with a comprehensive range of equipment and personal trainers on request.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- Airport shuttle
- Non-smoking rooms
- good fitness center
- Family rooms
- Spa and wellness center
- Restaurant
- Bar
Best hotels in The Pearl - Not-So-Luxury Budget
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha
Qatar, Doha
Nestled on the shores of the Arabian Sea, the Ritz-Carlton resort features a world-class spa, a modern fitness center, and elegant restaurants and bars. The property also features indoor and outdoor swimming pools and lush landscaped gardens.
The scenic views from the guest rooms take in sea views of the Arabian Gulf and Doha’s skyline. Each room and suite is elegantly appointed in a contemporary style and features a cozy balcony, abundant natural lighting, and marble bathrooms with separate tubs & showers.
This 5-star resort offers 7 award-winning restaurants, including a poolside bar, cigar lounge, and sea view dining. Guests can also dine at STK Doha, a steakhouse on the 23rd floor, or Sel & Miel, French Brasserie. Afternoon tea can be enjoyed in the Lobby Lounge, while B-Lounge offers theatrical Asian fusion cuisine.
The Ritz-Carlton Spa blends the elements of the sea and desert to create a range of signature spa treatments.
The hotel specializes in pairing ideal meeting venues with impeccable service and extensive MICE facilities with a dedicated entrance. All facilities include break-out rooms on the same floor on the lobby level. A dedicated Conference Concierge and professional meeting coordinators work tirelessly to ensure groups will be refreshed, inspired, and energized by gathering here.
Most popular facilities:
- 3 swimming pools
- Non-smoking rooms
- very good fitness center
- Family rooms
- Spa and wellness center
- Restaurant
- Free parking
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Bar
- Good breakfast
- Beachfront
- Private beach area
Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl
Qatar, Doha
Located on an island at The Pearl- Qatar, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha offers a private beach, outdoor pools, and a Spa by Clarins. This five-star seaside spa and resort feature palatial corridors and free WiFi. It also provides a tennis court and two padel courts on the property.
All 281 rooms and suites feature fine European architecture blended with traditional Arabian elements. Each includes a balcony or a terrace overlooking the Arabian Gulf, The Pearl, or the property surroundings. Featuring a bath, the private bathroom also comes with a hairdryer and bathrobes.
At Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha, you will find 11 fine restaurants and lounges serving diverse global, authentic cuisines to suit all tastes. In addition, it houses a cigar lounge and a jazz house.
The waterfront destination features meeting facilities, including Palazzo Ballroom, the Venezia Ballroom, and six meeting rooms with separate entrances. In addition, the resort offers a Kids Club, watersport activities, and a health club.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- Non-smoking rooms
- very good fitness center
- Spa and wellness center
- Restaurant
- Free parking
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Bar
- Good breakfast
- Beachfront
- Private beach area
#3 West Bay - a great & safe option to stay in Doha
West Bay is one of the most exclusive areas of the city. Its many skyscrapers make up one of Doha's most famous and memorable views. Moreover, it's a convenient area to stay at because you will find numerous hotels, attractions, restaurants, and City Center Mall Doha shopping malls.
West Bay is not one of travelers' favorites, but it is still a good place to stay in Doha due to the location, which is between several points of interest in Doha.
The West Bay area is very well connected to the rest of the city, thanks to the subway. The subway station is called DECC.
Things to do in West Bay:
- Stroll through I Park.
- Visit the shopping malls in the area, City Center Mall Doha, and OnlyRoses – The Gate Mall.
Best hotels in West Bay - Low Budget
Ezdan Hotel Doha
Qatar, Doha
Ezdan Hotel, West Bay, is not just a place that provides affordable accommodation; it is a community of people from around the globe.
Accommodation ranges from a single room for a single night to apartments with three bedrooms. While it is the largest hotel in Qatar, our staff is passionate about providing individualized service to our guests.
Guests can spend extended periods without even going out of the building. In addition, ample parking inside removes the burden of securing your vehicle Overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Ezdan Community enjoys 3,000 rooms of unparalleled luxury units and hotel rooms, Olympic size swimming pool, a Health club with all equipment, International restaurants, A supermarket for your convenience, a fully equipped conference center, and a wedding venue.
Most popular facilities:
- 2 swimming pools
- good fitness center
- Spa and wellness center
- Non-smoking rooms
- Restaurant
- Family rooms
- Facilities for disabled guests
Best hotels in West Bay - Average Budget
Mövenpick Hotel West Bay Doha
Qatar, Doha
With an ideal location on the Corniche in the prestigious West Bay area, this 5-star deluxe hotel offers spacious rooms, inspired dining options, and a luxury spa. The contemporary rooms have flat-screen TVs. Hamad International Airport is 20 minute drive away from the hotel.
All spacious rooms at Mövenpick Hotel West Bay Doha have a seating area and a kitchenette with tea and coffee-making facilities. In addition, each bathroom is equipped with modern bathroom amenities. The Mövenpick Hotel West bay Doha is operated using the Green Globe sustainability program, preserving natural energy sources as a role in helping the environment.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- Non-smoking rooms
- good fitness center
- Family rooms
- Spa and wellness center
- Restaurant
- Free parking
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
Best hotels in West Bay - High Budget
voco Doha West Bay Suites, an IHG Hotel
Qatar, Doha
The property offers a selection of deluxe studios, one, two, and three-bedroom fully-serviced suites spread over 46 floors with custom-made furniture and fixtures from Italy. All deluxe rooms and suites are well appointed, with separate living and dining areas and an accompanying fully equipped kitchen.
All suites have complimentary Wi-Fi access, 24/7 reception and concierge services, and recreational facilities such as a health club, kids club, game room, and conference facilities.
The signature restaurant, The Social, features an indoor and outdoor dining concept and brings authentic West, East, and Middle Eastern cuisine to Doha with an à la carte menu and a unique breakfast offering.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- Airport shuttle
- exceptional fitness center
- Non-smoking rooms
- Spa and wellness center
- Family rooms
- Restaurant
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Good breakfast
Dusit Doha Hotel
Qatar, Doha
Set within a 5-mins walk from Doha City Centre and 2.1 km from the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, Dusit Doha Hotel is set within the Diplomatic area in West Bay, Doha. The property features a temperature-controlled rooftop swimming pool.
Dusit Doha Hotel offers air-conditioned rooms, suites, and apartments. In addition, every guest room boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, a work desk, flat-screen TV, and a large bathroom.
The property boasts five dining options, a fully-equipped gym, and a spa with separate male and female treatment rooms. Other facilities include conference rooms and a grand ballroom.
Most popular facilities:
- One swimming pool
- Airport shuttle
- Non-smoking rooms
- superb fitness center
- Family rooms
- Spa and wellness center
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Very good breakfast
Best hotels in West Bay - Not-So-Luxury Budget
W Doha
Qatar, Doha
Just 200 m from Corniche Promenade and City Center Shopping Mall, this design hotel offers stylish rooms with satellite TV. It features an outdoor pool, spa center, and on-site restaurants.
The air-conditioned rooms at W Doha are equipped with an iPod docking station, minibar, hairdryer, and tea/coffee-making facilities. In addition, each has a work desk and a private bathroom with a bathtub.
W Doha offers several dining options, covering both regional and international cuisine. Guests can relax at the poolside bar or enjoy a cocktail at the Crystal Lounge.
Most popular facilities:
- 1 swimming pool
- exceptional fitness center
- Non-smoking rooms
- Spa and wellness center
- Family rooms
- Restaurant
- Free parking
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Bar
- Fabulous breakfast
Four Seasons Hotel Doha
Qatar, Doha
Located in the heart of a dynamic capital, Four Seasons Hotel Doha offers luxurious accommodations with its private beach and exclusive marina. It also features 5 different pools, including grotto pools and an award-winning Spa & Wellness Center. Four Seasons Hotel Doha is a haven for business travelers and pleasure seekers to Qatar.
The hotel boasts contemporary and stylishly-designed rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf or the city of Doha.
Guests have an exciting collection of dining offerings, such as the world's largest Nobu: serving new-style Japanese cuisines. In addition, the Pool Grill set on the water's edge offers a panoramic view of the Gulf. At the same time, the Shisha Terrace overlooks the marina and provides authentic Arabic food and a wide selection of Shisha flavors.
Most popular facilities:
- Swimming pools
- Airport shuttle
- good fitness center
- Spa and wellness center
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Good breakfast
- Beachfront
- Private beach area
We hope this short blog post about where to stay in Doha was or will be helpful to you. Also, check out this post for more things to do in the capital of Qatar.
And last but not least - make sure you're always booking the cheapest hotel rate (even if you're staying in The Pearl 😏).
November 22, 2022