Where to Stay in Doha: BEST Luxury & Budget Accommodations

Let's talk about a place in the Middle East that still flies a little under the radar when it comes to tourism: Doha in Qatar!

For those of you looking for a vibe similar to Dubai or Abu Dhabi but with a unique twist, Doha is the perfect destination. Situated in the Arabian Gulf, it boasts some of the most luxurious hotels and skyscrapers. It also has a beautiful and rich culture, not to mention exciting events like the Formula 1 race every year!

Now that Doha is gaining popularity, I figured it's the perfect time to put together a little guide on where to stay in Doha where I'll show you my favorite areas and hotels to make your trip to the Middle East a breeze.

Best areas to stay in Doha

Doha is actually an incredible city, smack in the middle of the desert. In a nutshell, it's massive and super wealthy, but what's even cooler is that it has some really unique and awesome areas that I personally love.

If you're visiting Doha for the first time, I think West Bay is the place to be. It's right in the heart of the city, with fantastic hotels and the absolute best restaurants you can find in Doha.

For all you fancy folks looking for a luxurious getaway, I've got just the thing for you – Pearl Island. It's a man-made island with some of the biggest and coolest resorts you can imagine.

For those of you who enjoy a nice stroll by the water, Corniche is where it's at. It's not too far from West Bay, but it's a bit quieter and still super convenient.

For all beach lovers, Katara Beach is a dream come true. Doha has its very own city beach, complete with white sandy shores, turquoise waters, and the perfect setting for a family vacation.

Last but not least, if you want to stay close to Hamad International Airport, downtown is the place to be. It's got that perfect mix of culture and convenience, making your airport transfers stress-free.

1. Where to stay in Doha for the first time: West Bay

I absolutely love West Bay, and it's no surprise that it's one of the most popular areas to stay in Doha for tourists.

The best thing about this area is that it has everything you need within walking distance – from shopping malls and restaurants to cultural sites and a beautiful promenade by the water.

If you're searching for a central location, then West Bay is my go-to! From here, it's super easy to join one of the desert safaris, hit the beach, catch the racetrack action, and enjoy some of the best restaurants just around the corner.

Best area for:

• First-timers

• Central location

• Foodies

• Luxury

Things to do in West Bay

Doha West Bay is such a cool place with loads of fun things to do. I absolutely love hanging out at West Bay Beach. It's basically like a beach club with lots of sun beds, white sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for soaking up the sun or taking a dip.

One of my absolute favorite things to do here is to watch a movie at Cinema by The Sea, an epic outdoor cinema experience on the beach during the winter season. They have comfy beanbags, delicious snacks, and an unbeatable view of the Arabian Gulf. It's not just a fantastic romantic experience for couples, but also great for families.

And don't forget to take some time to admire the stunning skyline views from West Bay. Trust me, it's especially beautiful at sunset or at night when all the lights are on.

If you're a foodie like me, then West Bay is pure paradise. You'll find some of the best restaurants in town here, including Nobu and Nusr-Et – both must-tries for their amazing food and stunning settings.

Best hotels to stay in West Bay

($$$) Four Seasons Hotel Doha

In my opinion, one of the best hotels in Doha is the Four Seasons Hotel Doha. It's a stunning property with incredible sea views, and it offers everything you need for a luxurious stay.

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($$) Hilton Doha

Another fantastic choice, which is a little more affordable for those seeking accommodation in West Bay, is the lovely Hilton Doha. It boasts beautiful and spacious hotel rooms, and to top it off, it even has its very own private beach.

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($) Wyndham Grand Doha

Still very luxurious but not quite as expensive as the Four Seasons, the Wyndham Grand Doha is another great option in West Bay. It is a fabulous business hotel with stunning views and top-notch service.

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2. Where to stay in Doha for resorts & luxury: The Pearl Island

For all luxury-seekers out there, The Pearl Island is where it's at. This man-made island is one of the most exclusive places to stay in Doha, with its unique and stunning resorts that offer everything from private beaches and infinity pools to fine dining experiences.

Not only are these resorts perfect for a romantic getaway or luxury vacation, but they're also great for families as they offer a range of activities and amenities to keep everyone entertained.

Even if you're not staying here, it's super cool to come and visit, see all the high-end resorts, and enjoy some of the beaches.

Best area for:

• Luxury

• Family vacation

Things to do in the Pear Island

Pear Island is like its own little city, with everything you need right here. Not only are there stunning resorts with top-notch amenities and activities, but there are also some amazing restaurants and cafes to explore.

One of my favorite spots for local cuisine is Yasmine Palace. Trust me, you don't want to miss their delicious Middle Eastern dishes in a beautiful setting. And for all you coffee lovers out there, Specialty Coffee is a must-visit. Their flat whites and lattes are simply amazing.

And if you're up for a movie night, Novo Cinemas is the place to be. They have a great selection of films and offer a very luxurious movie-watching experience.

($$$) The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island

For the ultimate luxury stay, The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island is the place to be. This 5-star resort offers private beach access, an infinity pool, and luxurious rooms with stunning views.

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($$) Marsa Malaz Kempinski

Another top choice for a luxurious stay on Pearl Island is the Marsa Malaz Kempinski. This 5-star hotel features its own private beach, nine restaurants and bars, and beautiful rooms with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

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($) Hilton Doha The Pearl

And the most affordable of my top picks for Pearl Island is the Hilton Doha The Pearl. Even though it's a little cheaper, this hotel still offers a luxurious experience with its private beach and stunning rooms.

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3. Where to stay in Doha for couples: Doha Corniche

If you're planning a romantic getaway with your significant other, then Doha Corniche is the perfect place to stay! This beautiful waterfront promenade offers stunning views of the city skyline and plenty of activities for couples to enjoy.

Corniche is located within the West Bay area, and many people would consider it the same. But, I absolutely love the whole Corniche area, so I definitely think it's worth mentioning.

It's this amazing waterfront promenade that stretches from West Bay to Downtown, and it's perfect if you want to stay somewhere that's not right in the middle of all the action.

It has this more relaxed and quiet vibe, which I personally love, especially if you're planning on staying for a little longer.

Best area for:

• Couples

• Romantic getaway

Things to do in Doha Corniche

One of the best things to do in Doha Corniche is simply take a walk along the promenade and enjoy the stunning views. But there are also plenty of other activities for couples to enjoy, such as renting a bike and exploring the area or going on a romantic Dhow Cruise. 

When it comes to dining, you have plenty of options with some great restaurants like The Lagoon and La Veranda at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, both offering amazing views and delicious food.

If you're interested in diving into the local history and culture, you should check out some of the best museums in Doha. The Museum of Islamic Art and the National Museum of Qatar are must-visits!

And if you head to the low end of the Corniche, you'll stumble upon the Souq Waqif, a traditional market where you can grab souvenirs and savor local delicacies. It's a great way to get a taste of the local life too!

Best hotels to stay in Doha Corniche

($$$) Wyndham Doha

My favorite hotel on Doha Corniche is the luxurious Wyndham Doha. It offers stunning rooms, top-notch amenities, and an incredible rooftop with a pool and lounge area that boasts amazing views of the city skyline.

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($$) Pullman Doha

For a slightly more affordable option, Pullman Doha offers a great stay for couples. With its infinity pool and stunning views from the rooms, it's perfect for a romantic getaway.

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($) The Bentley Luxury Hotel

The Bentley Luxury Hotel is the most affordable of my picks, yet still a very luxurious option on Doha Corniche. It offers a great stay with its rooftop pool and comfortable rooms, and the staff here is super helpful and friendly as well!

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4. Where to stay in Doha for families & beach lovers: Katara Beach

If you're traveling with your family or just want to spend some time at the beach, then Katara Beach is the perfect area for you. Located in West Bay, this area offers a range of kid-friendly activities and plenty of beautiful beaches to relax on.

Katara Beach, also known as the Cultural Village, is one of my favorite places in Doha. It's a beautiful area with a mix of traditional and modern architecture, and it's home to some great cultural events and activities throughout the year.

On top of that, there are plenty of fun things for kids to enjoy, like playgrounds, water parks, and even a trampoline park!

Best area for:

• Families

• Beach lovers

Things to do in Katara Beach

One of the best things to do at Katara Beach is to visit the cultural village. It's a fantastic place to learn about Qatari history and local culture, which can be a little strange but super fun for the kids. 

Another hit with the little ones is the OliOli Children's Museum. It's a must-visit! They have interactive exhibits that kids will absolutely love. 

When you start feeling hungry, I highly recommend heading to Mamig. It's a popular Armenian/Lebanese restaurant in Katara Beach that serves up some seriously delicious food. Plus, the chill atmosphere is just perfect, especially for bigger families. 

And of course, Katara Beach itself is an amazing spot to relax and soak up the sun. If you're feeling adventurous, why not try some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding?

Best hotels to stay in Katara Beach

($$$) 21 High Street Residence

If you want to stay right by the beach, then 21 High Street Residence is a great option. It's a luxury hotel with spacious rooms and an outdoor pool perfect for some family fun in the sun.

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($$) The Chedi Katara Hotel

For a more affordable option that still offers a beachfront location, The Chedi Katara Hotel is an excellent choice. It's a beautiful 5-star hotel with stunning rooms and top-notch facilities.

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($) InterContinental Doha Beach

For a more affordable option, the InterContinental Doha Beach is a fantastic choice. It offers comfortable rooms and great amenities, including beach access through its sister property, The Bay Club.

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5. Where to stay in Doha for convenience: Near Hamad International Airport

If you're only in Doha for a layover or need to catch an early flight, staying near Hamad International Airport is your best option. It's located just 15 minutes away from the city center and offers plenty of convenient accommodation options.

Staying close to the airport isn't as bad as you might think. You can stay right in Downtown Doha and still reach the airport in no time by car.

That way, you can enjoy a couple of days in Doha, visit museums, and try some good food without going out of your way.

Best area for:

• Layovers

• Early flights

Things to do near Hamad International Airport

Since you can easily stay in the city centre and still be close to the airport district, you'll have plenty of things to do nearby. 

You can visit some awesome museums like the Museum of Islamic Art and the National Museum of Qatar. Don't forget to explore the bustling streets and markets or enjoy traditional Qatari food at Souq Waqif. 

And if you only have a few hours to spare, I would suggest checking out the Corniche promenade for stunning views of the Doha skyline.

Best hotels to stay near Hamad International Airport

($$$) Alwadi Hotel Doha

Alwadi Hotel Doha is a beautiful 5-star hotel located just 10 minutes away from the airport. It offers luxurious rooms and top-notch amenities, including a spa and fitness center.

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($$) DoubleTree by Hilton Doha Old Town

For a great mid-range option, you can't go wrong with the DoubleTree by Hilton Doha Old Town! It's nestled right in the heart of downtown Doha, making it a perfect base to explore on foot if you prefer not to rent a car.

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($) Ramada by Wyndham Doha Old Town

For a budget-friendly option that's still close to the airport, check out Ramada by Wyndham Doha Old Town. It's in a great location within walking distance of all the cool restaurants and attractions.

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Where to Stay in Doha – Frequently Asked Questions

🌍 How many days should I spend in Doha?

If you're just here for a quick stopover, that's totally fine and can be a lot of fun! But if you can, I recommend staying for at least 3-4 days. And if you're planning on attending any events like Formula 1, then I'd say a minimum of a week would be great.

❓ What is there to do in Doha?

Doha is absolutely packed with things to do! From visiting iconic landmarks like the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif to trying delicious Middle Eastern cuisine and exploring the stunning desert landscape outside of the city with a desert safari, there's lots to see and experience. There's more than enough to keep you busy in Doha for at least a week.

💰 Is Doha expensive?

Doha is actually one of the most expensive cities in the world, but don't worry, it's not impossible to explore on a budget! With a little research and planning, you can find affordable options for accommodation, transportation, and food. Of course, luxury experiences come with a higher price tag, but you don't have to splurge on expensive hotels or Michelin-star restaurants. There are plenty of great and more affordable alternatives. However, it's worth noting that Doha might not be the best choice if you're on a shoestring budget.

🚗 Do I need a car in Doha?

I highly recommend renting a car in Doha, especially if you're planning to explore outside of the city. Public transportation is still developing and not as efficient as in other major cities. Don't get me wrong, there is Uber in Doha which I have definitely used quite a bit in the past. But if you're staying for more than 4 days, I reckon renting a car is the way to go as Uber rides can add up quickly.

Where to Stay in Doha – Final Words

There you have it! My top recommendations for where to stay in Doha, whether you're visiting the city for the first time or returning for another adventure.

From luxurious resorts and convenient locations to stunning beaches and areas perfect for families or couples, Doha can really be so much more than just a stopover on your next long-haul flight.

I hope that my guide has helped you decide on the best area for your stay and that you have an amazing time exploring all that Doha has to offer.