In Qatar, staying in a luxury resort can mean anything from a barefoot stroll down a private beach to personalised butler service, drinks on a breezy terrace or fine dining in a world-class restaurant. Most of the best luxury stays can be found in Doha, where the compact size of the capital means beach days, glamorous nights out and cultural experiences can often be had at the same resort.
Increasingly high-end resorts are opening up in other parts of the country too, including desert retreats and activities-focused destinations. Wherever you go, impeccable service is the norm.Prices can be high for rooms at the most luxurious places, but given Qatar’s high standards across dining, facilities and service, visitors are often surprised at the value for money offered. These are our top picks for the best luxury resorts in Qatar.
1. Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som
Located in the northern tip of Qatar, Zulal is a full immersion desert resort, set far from the noise and lights of Qatar’s cities. Set along a private beach and surrounded by calming desert landscapes, the resort offers guests wellness experiences that incorporate Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM).
Zulal is the sister destination of the famous Chiva-Som wellness resort in Thailand, and offers a range of well-being packages such as ‘Transform and Glow,’ which promises a journey to radiant skin and a sculpted body, and ‘Burnout Recovery,’ aimed at helping guests find balance and renewed energy. The resort is split into two zones: Zulal Serenity (adults only) and Zulal Discovery (family-friendly).
2. Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort
One of the best luxury family resorts in Qatar, Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park at Hilton Salwa Beach Resort is a fun-filled, action-packed destination. Located in southern Qatar, it houses one of the largest theme parks in the Middle East. Families will love the lazy river and water slides, as well as the clean and beautiful private beach. Sports facilities for grown-ups are top-notch too, with football, tennis and basketball courts open to guests, along with beach yoga and watersports along the coast. When it’s time to relax, the resort’s spa provides a welcome break from all the activity with thermal baths, hammam and treatments available.
3. Raffles Doha
Wondering where the richest folk stay in Qatar? It’s very likely to be Raffles Doha, one of the most expensive and luxurious resorts in the country. This ultra-luxury, all-suite property is housed in the iconic, crescent-shaped Katara Towers development and showcases some of the most dramatic Arabian Gulf views imaginable. The hotel is renowned for its next-level, personalised butler service, exquisite private spa suites (each with their own swimming pool) and designer interiors. Guests can while away the hours on the chic orange loungers by the swimming pool or in any of the resort’s glamorous bars, restaurants and lounges. If money was no object, you’d never leave.
4. Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha
Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha is one of Qatar’s best all-inclusive resorts, delivering luxury, action, convenience and family fun in equal measure. As part of the all-inclusive packages, guests have access to no less than six restaurants, ranging from casual pool and beach bars to steakhouses, international buffets and upscale Indian restaurants. This is definitely a resort for holidaymakers who love having plenty to do, with nightly entertainment in the form of live bands, DJs, as well as plenty of sports facilities on offer. Families travelling with children will enjoy the pool games, play areas and organised cultural activities.
5. The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort
A top pick for couples looking for a romantic stay, The Chedi Katara is a perfect urban retreat. Traditional Qatari architecture is celebrated in this beautiful resort, with its ornamental gardens, elegant courtyards and arched walkways. The atmosphere is grown-up and sophisticated, and the resort is set in the heart of Katara Cultural Village, meaning guests are just steps away from exhibitions, performance hubs, museums and galleries. But if you don’t feel like leaving this urban sanctuary, stay and enjoy the infinity pool, Asian-inspired spa and fine dining restaurant with sea views.
6. Marsa Malaz Kempinski
There are endless top beach resorts to choose from in Qatar, but Marsa Malaz Kempinski is definitely among the most magnificent. Perched on its own private island within the The Pearl-Qatar area, the glamorous beach area is one of its biggest draws. Here you can unwind on chic, shaded loungers, take part in any number of beach sports, or go for a dip in the sparkling sea – whatever takes your fancy. And by evening, don’t forget to head up to the roof, where the lush Secret Garden terrace offers drinks, snacks, fresh sea breezes and an unforgettable panorama of the Arabian Gulf.
7. Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara
Just a short boat ride away from Doha’s towering skyscrapers, guests of Anantara’s Banana Island Resort will feel like they’ve arrived in paradise. This relaxed resort is all about the tropical island vibes, with its spacious overwater villas, lush, landscaped gardens, and tranquil private beach. A family favourite, there’s plenty to do here, from swimming in the lagoon pool to hitting the bowling alley, taking in a movie at the on-site cinema or making the most of the diving centre. The resort is alcohol-free and the atmosphere relaxed and wholesome.
8. Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa
Located on the edge of Doha, Al Messila is a spacious and peaceful resort, offering quiet luxury in a beautiful setting. A wander through the grounds takes you past elegant courtyards, swaying palms, well-tended lawns, and immaculate villas with private pools. A holiday highlight could be hosting a fully-catered barbecue in your own back garden, (arranged by your dedicated butler, of course) or whiling away the hours in the resort’s signature spa, enjoying a facial, massage or body treatment. It’s considered one of the best five-star hotels in Qatar for good reason.
