Where to Stay in Doha – The location of your accommodation is a strategic point when planning a trip. And even though it is a relatively small city, deciding where to stay in Doha can be a difficult task.
To help you choose your hotel, I have prepared a guide with the best neighborhoods to stay in Doha.
But first, we need to make one thing clear: accommodation in Doha is not cheap. There are no hostels and Airbnb is still quite limited in the country. But don’t be discouraged! In this post, I will give you some good tips to help you save money when booking your hotel.
Where to Stay in Doha: Best Neighborhoods and Hotels Tips
The best neighborhoods and areas to stay in Doha are:Souq Waqif,Msheireb,West Bay,The PearlandOld Airport. Simple and easy!
However, each of these areas has its own characteristics and is suitable for different profiles and budgets. Therefore, it is interesting to think about what you expect from your trip and how much you are willing to pay for it.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that the cost of living in Doha is high. And, as expected, this is reflected in the cost of accommodation in the Qatari capital. Therefore, even the most economical accommodation options are not the cheapest.
With these premises in mind, it’s time to decide which is the best choice for your trip. Below, we’ll talk more about the neighborhoods we recommend for staying in Doha and suggest good accommodation options for different budgets – from the most economical to the most comfortable. Let’s get started!
Souq Waqif
The area aroundSouq Waqifis considered by many to be the best area to stay in Doha. The main reason is that itis very central and well located. From here, it will be very easy to explore the rest of the city. You will be in the historic center of the capital of Qatar, which will guarantee a very authentic experience of the Middle Eastern landscapes.
Souq Waqif, which is the city’s large market, is surrounded by three smaller areas:Al Souq,Al SalataandAl Najada. All of these are good choices for your hotel. Not only is it within walking distance of the souq itself, but you’ll also be very close to other attractions. Some of these include theMuseum of Islamic Art, theNational Museum of Qatarand theCorniche, a pleasant seafront promenade.
To top it off, the market itself is served by ametro station(golden line), which is less than 30 minutes from Doha International Airport (with a transfer atMsheirebstation ).
Check out our suggestions for where to stay in the Souq Waqif area of Doha:
Economic
- Kingsgate Hotel: A standout in the budget category (by Doha standards), it has spacious rooms with kitchenettes in some accommodations. It is a short walk from the Souq metro station.
Good cost-benefit
- Ramada Old Town :This is a very traditional hotel, with somewhat dated but comfortable facilities. The rooms are very spacious and the hotel offers a good breakfast (included in some rates), as well as a restaurant. It is a short walk from the Souq and Corniche;
- Hampton By Hilton Doha Old Town: This business-class hotel is located 500 meters from the National Museum of Qatar. Its advantages include free private parking, breakfast included in the rates, 24-hour reception and an on-site restaurant.
Comfort
- Souq Waqif Boutique Tivoli: The sky’s the limit when it comes to luxury options in Doha, but this Tivoli chain unit is worth a mention. It follows the original architecture of the region with sophistication, offers 5-star service and is located in the Souq itself;
- Shaza Doha: Offers excellent value for money for a 5-star hotel. With spacious rooms and all the amenities expected of a hotel of this category, it also stands out for its excellent location, one block from the Souq and two blocks from the Corniche.
Msheireb Downtown
Msheireb Downtownwas an abandoned part of the city center that has been replaced by Doha’s newest neighborhood. It is close to Souq Waqif, so it is in a great location.
Furthermore,this neighborhood is where the city’s three metro lines meet(Msheirebstation ). Therefore, it is a strategic point for those who will use public transport – including to and from the airport.
The neighborhood was created to be Qatar’s major innovation and technology hub. Staying here is like being transported to the future. Sustainability is a key concept in the area, which has developed a natural air conditioning system among numerous initiatives. It keeps the streets cool regardless of the season.
Check out our hotel recommendations for staying in Msheireb Downtown:
Economic
- Royal Qatar Hotel: This is a simple but comfortable hotel located at the intersection of Msheireb Downtown and Souq Waqif. It is worth mentioning that some rooms have old carpeting, which can result in a slight cigarette smell.
Good cost-benefit
- Four Points by Sheraton: with moderate rates for “Qatar standards”, it has a restaurant, sauna and an outdoor pool on the top floor. Another advantage is its location across from the metro.
Comfort
- Alwadi Hotel: a 5-star hotel with a modern atmosphere, conveniently located between Msheireb and the Souq. Therooftopfeatures the lively Infinity bar with incredible views of Doha’s historic center;
- Mandarin Oriental: part of the renowned hotel chain synonymous with global luxury, this property is located in the main square of Msheireb Downtown, standing out for its local architecture on the outside. Inside, it offers guests a complete experience with 7 restaurants, a spa and gym, as well as a terrace with a pool and bar.
West Bay
The heart of Doha’s financial hub,West Bayattracts those who love modernity. This is where the city’s famousskylineis located , with its tall, mirrored buildings. Located at the far end of the Corniche, strolling along the pleasant promenade is a must-do on foot.
The neighborhood offers good shopping centers, such as theCity Center Mall. Thanks to the numerous hotels in the area, there is a significant number of bars that make for a lively nightlife. This is because the only establishments authorized to sell alcoholic beverages in the city are hotels.
West Bay is considered an upscale area of Doha, so having a comfortable budget is a prerequisite for staying here.
Check out our hotel tips for staying in West Bay, Doha:
Economic
- Centara West Bay: It doesn’t have the lowest rates in Doha, but it offers modern rooms with full kitchens that help keep your budget in check;
- Qabila Westbay Hotel by Marriott: Following the “economical for the area” standard, it offers accommodations with a kitchenette and a common area with a swimming pool, restaurant and free parking.
Good cost-benefit
- Dusit Doha: combines elegance with a good location in the neighborhood. It has five restaurants and rooms with panoramic views of the city;
- City Centre Rotana Doha: Connected to the City Centre Shopping Mall, this 47-story hotel offers a wide range of accommodations, from the most basic to the most luxurious. The highlight of the structure is the privileged views of the Gulf and easy access to several restaurants and shops nearby;
- Wyndham Grand Doha West Bay Beach: This 5-star hotel combines luxury and sea views, with rates commensurate with what it offers. With new and well-decorated facilities, it offers an outdoor pool, free private parking, a gym, a terrace and a restaurant.
Comfort
- Four Seasons: This hotel often tops the list of the best hotels in Qatar. It has five swimming pools, a private beach and a spa, as well as all the traditional sophistication of the chain.
- Sheraton Grand Doha Resort: with resort facilities, it offers a private beach, swimming pool, 7 restaurants, gym and all the comforts expected of a 5-star hotel.
The Pearl
Staying atThe Pearlwon’t be that different from West Bay in terms of budget, as we’re talking about another very luxurious area. But what’s different here is the scenery.
The Pearl is a planned mini city built on an artificial island. Its main attraction is theQanat Quartier, inspired by Venice.
The area is perfect for those who want to enjoy the sea during their stay in Doha. Many hotels in this area offer private beaches, giving guests complete freedom to wear swimwear such as bikinis and swim trunks (which are not permitted on public beaches).
In addition to the high prices, a negative point is the distance, since not only does the subway not reach the area, but The Pearl is further away from the city’s main tourist attractions. Therefore, consider taxi rides or car rentals in the bill.
Check out our suggestions for staying at The Pearl in Doha:
Good cost-benefit
- InterContinental Doha Beach & SPA: not exactly inside The Pearl, but close to it. It offers an excellent private beach area and resort facilities. A great option for those traveling with children.
Comfort
- Grand Hyatt: With the best private beach in Doha, this hotel offers a complete resort structure. Its facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, spa, gym, several restaurants, bar and dedicated spaces for the whole family;
- Marsa Malaz Kempinski: is a modern Arab-European palace located on an exclusive island, offering an impeccable structure with 11 restaurants, spa and rooms with views of the gulf.
Old Airport
While it may not be the best option for exploring the city, staying in theOld Airportneighborhood , close toHamad International Airport, can be a good way to save money or catch an early flight. Here you can find good hotels at more reasonable prices compared to other neighborhoods in Doha.
It’s true that the neighborhood isn’t within walking distance of the main tourist attractions. However, with the city’s modern subway system, including a station serving the area, nothing is too far away.
Additionally, Old Airport is a great option for those who will only be making a quick stopover in Doha.
It’s good to know that the area is predominantly residential, but on Old Airport Street you’ll find movement, shops, a shopping center and great places to eat.
Check out some good options for staying in the Old Airport neighborhood in Doha:
Economic
- Strato Hotel: This is an older option with a more basic structure compared to the city’s standards, but it is a good choice for those looking to save money. Its main highlight is its location, next to the metro station;
- Millennium Central Doha: another good deal in Old Airport, guarantees comfort and a good location, also close to the metro station.
Good cost-benefit
- Holiday Inn: with executive standard, it offers easy access to the subway and a modern structure, including a swimming pool, gym, restaurants and spacious rooms.
Comfort
- Hyatt Regency Oryx: comfortable and luxurious, it has 400 sumptuous rooms and a complete structure with restaurant and outdoor pool. It is the closest hotel to the airport, and can be reached in a few minutes by taxi or metro (whose station is also nearby).
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After all, where to stay in Doha?
Regardless of where you choose to stay in Doha, the excellent metro system will make getting around easy. No tourist attraction will be too far away or difficult to reach.
Furthermore, taxis are a convenient and inexpensive way to get around, ideal for those who don’t want to face the intense heat on the streets.
Therefore, the tip is to choose a region that meets your main interests and your travel budget.
If you want to save money or need accommodation closer to the airport, chooseOld Airport. To explore the city’s main tourist attractions, theSouq WaqifandMsheireb Downtownareas are excellent options. If you’re looking for exclusive accommodation and want to enjoy the sea of Doha, why not,West BayandThe Pearlhave everything to please.
