If you’re searching for an oasis in the Arabian Peninsula, you’ll find one in Doha. The Qatari capital city’s futuristic skyscrapers and glittering malls might grab the most attention, but what sets Doha apart most is how deftly it mingles the old with the new.
From the historic Souq Waqif marketplace to the I.M. Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Art to the newly built Mina District, history comes to life here.
A city like this deserves hotels to match. Whether you’re after a striking Mughal-inspired resort or you fancy a former Ministry of Interior office reborn as a hotel and members’ club, this list has you covered.
To discover the best hotels in Doha, Forbes Travel Guide’s incognito inspectors posed as ordinary guests and stayed multiple nights at each property. The inspectors tested hundreds of exacting standards, with an emphasis on exceptional service, which accounts for 70% of a property’s rating. The remaining 30% comes from the quality and condition of the facilities. FTG does not require a business relationship from the properties it rates, and it does not earn a commission if you book one of the following hotels.
Five-Star Hotels in Doha
Four Seasons Hotel Doha
Wielding traditional luxury and an excellent hospitality pedigree, Four Seasons Hotel Doha is the grande dame of the city. With its own private beach and five pools catering to all ages, the hotel is a haven among the West Bay area’s towering buildings. See more.
Mandarin Oriental, Doha
The first hotel to open in Doha’s Msheireb district, Mandarin Oriental, Doha has already established itself as one of the city’s most sought-after luxury stays. The property is a cool and stylish sanctuary in this redeveloped, up-and-coming neighborhood. See more.
Raffles Doha
Occupying one arm of the dramatic, twin sword-like Katara Towers in Lusail, Raffles Doha takes Qatar’s love of luxurious hotels to another level. The crescent-shaped exterior design is based on the crossed curved blades of the Qatari national coat of arms. See more.
Rosewood Doha
From the stylishly attired door staff (complete with hats and swooping capes) to the art pieces sourced from local museums, Rosewood Doha has developed its sense of place within its twin towers in the thriving Qatari capital. See more.
Four-Star Hotels in Doha
Banyan Tree Doha
Standing out in the elliptical-shaped steel Doha Oasis complex, Banyan Tree Doha at La Cigale Mushaireb fuses Asian Zen with Middle Eastern glam. The soaring hotel offers stunning views across the city and its own garden with more than 130 trees, including its namesake banyan. See more.
The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort
At first glance, The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort looks almost otherworldly. The Mughal-inspired domes (known as chhatris) and white visage are juxtaposed against the backdrop of Doha’s gleaming modern skyline. See more.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences at The Pearl-Qatar
If location is everything, Four Seasons Resort and Residences at The Pearl-Qatar is perfection, providing a taste of resort living just 15 minutes from the heart of Doha. With first-rate facilities and services, this resort hotel makes an excellent choice for residential-style luxury. See more.
Mondrian Doha
From its dual lobbies featuring a “Staircase to Nowhere” (yes, you can climb it) and a “Frozen Forest” of white tree sculptures, Mondrian Doha is in equal turns an eccentric fantasy and a fully fledged opulent escape from the city. See more.
The Ned Doha
The Ned Doha’s building is a landmark. Formerly the Ministry of the Interior office, the 1970s brutalist structure was repurposed in a remarkable renovation and now houses the hotel’s 90 rooms and suites, seven restaurants, a members-only club and Ned’s spa. See more.
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha
Sitting on its own private island, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha makes you forget you’re in the city, with sandy shores and a meandering outdoor pool with a waterfall and swim-up bar. But should you want to dive into more, the bustling West Bay business district, The Pearl Qatar and the Lusail area are all nearby. See more.
Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel
For those wanting a true Arabian adventure with more than a touch of luxury, the sprawling and palatial Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel may be just the ticket — and you don’t even have to leave the city limits. See more.
The St. Regis Doha
With a prime position in the heart of Doha’s West Bay area, The St. Regis Doha is every bit as sumptuous as you would expect. From the tuxedoed, white-gloved doormen to the understated rooms appointed with Arabian accents, this is one of the region’s most sought-after getaways. See more.
Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail
Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail perfectly balances luxury and family friendliness. It features Lusail’s only private beach, a kid’s club, a waterpark and dedicated swimming facilities for families. But it also has a three-story spa, an adults-only pool and a beach club. See more.
Recommended Hotels in Doha
Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara
Just a 30-minute catamaran ride from Doha Port, Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara is unlike anything else in the country. Blending Anantara’s Asian vibes with renowned Qatari hospitality, this is a unique destination with Maldives-style overwater villas. See more.
Fairmont Doha
Located in the Arabian sword-shaped Katara Towers, Fairmont Doha is a stylish retreat for both business and leisure travelers seeking a personalized touch. The scene is set for something different the moment you step into the grand lobby, which houses the world’s tallest chandelier. See more.
InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa
With a sprawling location on Doha’s longest beach, approachable service and buzzing bars and restaurants, it’s easy to see why the 375-room InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa is one of the city’s most popular hotels with locals and visitors alike. See more.
Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl-Doha
Occupying its own purpose-built island, the palatial Marsa Malaz Kempinski offers the best of both worlds: a luxe hideaway within striking distance of the capital. Its restaurants are considered among some of the best in the city, making this a destination for foodies. See more.
The Plaza Doha, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Just a short drive from Hamad International Airport and the sparkling lights of West Bay, and an even shorter walk to museums and the iconic Corniche, The Plaza Doha, LXR Hotels & Resorts has an ideal location for both business and leisure travelers. See more.
W Doha
From the Instagrammable blue-lantern-strewn lobby to the pop-art-styled rooms, a stay at W Doha Hotel and Residences is an immersive experience from start to finish. Whimsical and fun, W Doha prides itself on its individual attention to detail. See more.
Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay
With its Art Deco-influenced interior and exterior design cues, the 44-story Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay pays homage to its Fifth Avenue New York City sister property, the original Waldorf Astoria. While it feels very “New York,” the 2024-opened hotel also flaunts Doha flair. See more.
