Best Luxury Hotels in Qatar: Exclusive 5-Star Escapes You’ll Love
Updated November 2025
If you’re dreaming of a lavish stay in Qatar, you’re in the right place. Over the last 8 years, I’ve stayed in some of the country’s most luxurious hotels—from the sparkling skyline of Doha to serene beachfront resorts—and I know firsthand what makes a hotel truly unforgettable. Whether you’re after breathtaking views, impeccable service, or a mix of modern luxury and cultural charm, this guide to the best luxury hotels in Qatar will help you plan your perfect high-end escape. I’ll share my personal favorites, plus insider tips on what to expect in each property and the neighborhoods around them, so you can make the most of your stay.

My favourite best luxury hotels in qatar
It’s not a secret that Qatar is one of the richest countries in the world and brings curiosity out from many people around the world. Undoubtedly, Qatar is a place to experience everyday luxury. Wearing a fancy dress and high heels for lunch or dinner is a normal-day occurrence in Doha. All thanks to a great selection of luxurious hotels and restaurants.
Sheraton Grant Doha
Sheraton is the oldest luxury hotel in Qatar, opened in the 80s, and somehow it still feels timeless. The pyramid design is iconic, if you’ve seen Doha photos from any decade, you’ve probably seen Sheraton in the background. What I love most is the beachfront area: wide, peaceful, and perfect for a lazy afternoon. The hotel also has a big pool, tennis and padel courts, and some really great restaurants. Also, the location is great.
If you’re a meat lover, don’t miss Nusr-Et, famous for its gold-covered steaks (yes, actual gold). It’s definitely on the pricey side, but it’s an experience that many locals swear by.
Mondrian
Mondrian is one of the most visually striking hotels in Doha. If you spend any time on Instagram, you’ve probably seen its dreamy staircase or the photogenic indoor pool, both are practically social-media landmarks. The interiors are whimsical, artistic, and unlike anything else in the country.
This is the place to stay if you want bold design, great restaurants, and an atmosphere that feels trendy without trying too hard.

Intercontinental Hotel in Katara
Intercontinental Katara is one of my favorite weekend escapes in Doha. It has tennis and squash courts, a lovely beach, and a relaxed outdoor pool area that makes it easy to spend an entire day without thinking twice about leaving. The hotel is also very popular among residents, especially for its fine dining options and the easy access to Katara Beach and the cultural village.
I always find the service here warm and attentive, it has that “resort” feel while still being right in the city.

Anantara- Banana Island
Banana Island feels like Qatar’s private slice of the Maldives. The moment you hop on the boat (about 30 minutes from Doha), you know you’re going somewhere special. Water villas open directly over turquoise water, beaches are calm and clean, and everything is designed to feel exclusive.
It’s no surprise that big names like David Beckham, Justin Bieber, and the PSG team have stayed here. If you’re looking for a true luxury island escape without leaving Qatar, this is it.
To be honest with you, the place is beautiful, but somehow I am not really drawn to it.

St Regis
St. Regis is one of my go-to hotels for amazing restaurants and a fun night out. If you’ve heard of Hakkasan, you already know this place is special. The hotel has a beautiful outdoor pool area, and thanks to its location next to the Intercontinental and close to Katara, you’re never far from something exciting.
Locals love St. Regis for staycations — so expect weekends to be lively.
Kempinski Marsa Malaz
A luxury hotel list in Qatar wouldn’t be complete without Marsa Malaz. Located on The Pearl, it’s close to the charming Qanat Quartier and the island’s best restaurants and cafés. Inside, the hotel is beautifully designed and feels very grand.
If you’re into fine dining, don’t miss Lobito de Mar and Bibo, a Dani García restaurants known for its incredible seafood and relaxed but refined vibe.
Hilton Salwa Road
Although this hotel is an hour away from Doha, it has become one of the most popular staycation spots for residents and tourists alike. What I love about Hilton Salwa is the blend of sea views, lush gardens, and beautiful beach bungalows. It really feels like an oasis far from the city — the kind of place where you instantly switch into slow-down mode.
The resort also has its own waterpark, making it a great choice for families.

Katara Hills
Katara Hills is definitely one of the most unique luxury stays in Qatar. It’s located right in the heart of Doha, yet it feels hidden away in greenery with stunning skyline views. The villas feel secluded and private, and the atmosphere is peaceful, especially compared to the city below.
It’s on the higher end price-wise, but the tranquility, the design, and the calm spa make it one of my personal favourites.

View from Katara Hills
Fairmont
Fairmont Doha is pure elegance — sophisticated interiors, a dramatic lobby, and gorgeous views over Lusail’s waterfront. The location is also perfect if you want to explore Lusail on foot, visit Al Maha Island (full of restaurants), or shop at Place Vendôme, which has a fountain show that looks straight out of Europe.
Fairmont blends modern luxury with a calm, polished atmosphere.

The Ned
The Ned is one of the newer luxury hotels in Doha, and I fell in love with it the first time I saw the rooms. They have this gorgeous Art Deco style, elegant but warm. The hotel is close to so many attractions: Souq Waqif, MIA Museum, and Msheireb. It’s perfect if you want a stylish base in the most walkable part of Doha.

Fuwairit Kite Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
I love this hotel because it’s luxurious but also very chilled. It’s right by one of Qatar’s best kitesurfing spots, and the whole place feels relaxed and natural. The bungalows have hammocks and terraces, and in the mornings you can hear the sound of the waves — it’s bliss.
If you’re into kitesurfing (or even if you’re not!), the vibe here is amazing.

Mandarin Oriental
Mandarin Oriental is in the heart of Msheireb, which is one of my favourite areas in Doha. The hotel itself is stunning, modern, stylish, and extremely comfortable. I love the calm interiors and how everything feels curated and thoughtful.
It’s perfect if you want to be in a cultural, walkable area with great cafés and restaurants around.

Al Mesila Resort and Spa
Al Mesila is still one of my favourite hotels in Qatar, even without beach access. The gardens are beautiful, the spa is huge and peaceful, and the overall atmosphere is quiet and very relaxing. Once I stayed here for a full week and genuinely forgot I lived just 15 minutes away.
It’s perfect if you want a slower, more peaceful luxury experience.
DISCOVER AL MESILA RESPORT AND SPA


How to get to Qatar
The most convenient way to reach Qatar is with Qatar Airways, known for its top-tier service and great connections. Other airlines fly here too, of course, you can easily compare options and find the best prices using Skyscanner.
Use my favourite travel resources to plan your dream trips
- Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
- AirHelp helps to get compensation for cancelled or delayed flights.
- Travel Payouts is my favourite platform for monetizing the blog.
- Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
- Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
- World Nomads and EKTA travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
- WeGoTrip sends you audio guides to your mobile, so you can visit places while learning history and interesting facts easily and for little money.
- Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money. You can even save 50%.
- Trip Advisor– amazing for good quality recommendations.
- Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.
- Airalo is my eSim choice for alternative data abroad.

See also:
- A quick guide to museums in Qatar
- My first impressions of living in Qatar and a few ideas why you should put it on your travel list.
- Layover in Dubai: what to see and do in 48 hours.
- 10 days in Oman. How to plan a perfect road trip guide and itinerary.
- How to Get Around Doha: Complete Guide to Metro, Taxis, Uber & Renting a Car (with insider tips from an expat living in Qatar)
- 50 amazing things to do in Qatar (2024 guide)
- What to do in Doha in 1 day: perfect itinerary from an expat living in Qatar.
- Doha in 3 days: a traveler’s ultimate guide with top things to do and hidden gems (in 2025).

Please note that this post included affiliate links, when you decide to purchase anything through these links I get a small commission at NO extra cost to you, it helps me to keep running this blog! I only promote products and services I use or would use myself. All images are the property of Postcards from the World and cannot be used without permission.
FAQ — Best Luxury Hotels in Qatar
What is the most luxurious hotel in Qatar?
Qatar has many luxury hotels, but the absolute top tier usually includes The Ritz-Carlton Doha, The St. Regis, Mandarin Oriental, Banana Island Resort, and Katara Hills. These are the properties where the service is exceptional, the facilities are world-class, and everything feels polished. If your idea of luxury includes private pools, butler service, or Maldives-style water villas, Banana Island is hard to beat according to many people (although it’s not my favourite). If you prefer refined city luxury, Mandarin Oriental or Al Mesilla have that understated elegance I personally love.
What is the best area to stay in Doha for first-time visitors?
West Bay and Corniche areas are the most convenient for first-timers. You’re close to malls, beaches, museums, and some of the best restaurants. If you want a more cultural atmosphere, Msheireb is ideal — it’s the most walkable part of Doha, and you can explore Souq Waqif, MIA, and the new museums easily.
If you prefer beachfront resorts, Katara and The Pearl are perfect — calm, safe, and beautiful.
Which luxury hotels in Qatar have a beach?
Several luxury hotels in Doha offer direct beach access, including:
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Sheraton Grand Doha
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Intercontinental Doha (Katara)
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Four Seasons Doha (not on your list but top-tier)
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Banana Island Resort
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St. Regis Doha
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Hilton Salwa Beach Resort
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Kempinski Marsa Malaz
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Fuwairit Kite Beach Hilton
If you’re coming specifically for a beach holiday, I’d pick Salwa (but it’s an hour away from Doha), Banana Island (also isolated), or St. Regis (would be my top pick).
What is the best luxury hotel in Qatar for couples?
Banana Island, Katara Hills, and Fuwairit Kite Beach are perfect for couples because of the privacy and romantic setting.
If you prefer a city stay, Mandarin Oriental and The Ned have that boutique feel that works really well for romantic getaways.
Where do celebrities stay in Qatar?
Banana Island is the most famous one — David Beckham, Justin Bieber, and several football teams stayed there during major events.
St. Regis, Four Seasons, and Mondrian also host many VIP guests due to their restaurants and privacy.
Are luxury hotels in Qatar worth the price?
In my personal experience — yes, especially if you’re choosing older, established hotels like Sheraton, St. Regis, or Intercontinental.
Service tends to be excellent and amenities are exceptional — beach access, beautiful pools, restaurants, spas, tennis courts, boat transfers, etc.
And compared to Dubai or Europe, you often get more value for the same level of luxury. If you really want to try top luxury in Qatar at an affordable price, I would recommend you booking Qatar stopover option, which allows you to stay in Qatar up to 4 days and choose 5-star hotels for under $100 per night.
What is the best luxury hotel in Qatar for food lovers?
St. Regis is unbeatable for dining — Hakkasan alone is worth a visit, but there are several other excellent restaurants.
Mondrian and Mandarin Oriental also have great dining options, and Marsa Malaz has Lobito de Mar, which is one of my personal favourites.
Do luxury hotels in Qatar serve alcohol?
Yes, almost all major luxury hotels in Qatar serve alcohol in their bars and restaurants.
Exceptions may apply to some family-oriented or resort-style hotels, but the ones listed in your post all do.
Which hotel has the best pool in Doha?
Sheraton and St. Regis have beautiful, spacious pool areas.
For something unique, Mondrian’s indoor pool is one of the most Instagrammed pools in the country.
If you want a resort feel with water slides, Hilton Salwa is unbeatable.
Which hotel is closest to the airport?
Hotels on the Corniche or in Msheireb are the closest to Hamad International Airport, such as:
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The Ned
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Mandarin Oriental
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Sheraton (a bit farther, but still quick)
Driving time is usually between 15–25 minutes depending on traffic.
Do any luxury hotels in Qatar offer villas?
Yes!
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Banana Island has spectacular Maldives-style water villas.
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Katara Hills offers private villas surrounded by greenery.
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Al Mesila also has stunning private villas with pools and gardens.
These are perfect for families or anyone wanting privacy.
What is the best luxury hotel in Qatar for families?
Hilton Salwa is the top choice because of the massive waterpark and wide beaches.
Kempinski Marsa Malaz also works well thanks to family rooms, beach access, and kids’ activities.
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