Whether you’re visiting Doha for its cultural treasures or indulging in its luxurious lifestyle, choosing the right accommodation can make or break your trip. From budget-friendly options in the city center to opulent stays in Lusail, this guide covers the best hotels in Doha to suit every traveler. Here’s a breakdown of the best places to stay in Doha for first-time visitors.
- Accommodation Options & Essential Apps
- Affordable Options in Central Doha: Shaza Doha, Central Inn Souq Waqif & Royal Qatar Hotel
- Luxury Stays in Lusail: Waldorf Astoria Lusail & Le Royal Méridien
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Accommodation Options
Choosing your accommodation can significantly impact your travel experience. To help you make the best decision, here’s a breakdown of the two main types of accommodations, with recommendations from my past trip and essential apps that will make booking these stays easier for you!
*Unfortunately, as of December 2024, there are no hostels open in Doha yet.*
Types of Accommodations
- Villas: Renting a villa is by far the most visually stunning option, offering unique and original stays that can be truly memorable. Villas are usually equipped like apartments, complete with a kitchen and fridge, allowing you to prepare your own meals. While villas tend to be pricier, you can save money by cooking rather than dining out every day. This option is especially ideal for families or large groups, as splitting the cost can make it more affordable and enjoyable than staying in separate hotel rooms.
- Hotels: Hotels are a classic choice with a wide range of options to suit different budgets. Staying in a hotel offers you the comfort of daily housekeeping, room service, and access to various amenities that you won’t find in a villa, such as spas, yoga classes, and more. If you value security and convenience, hotels are a great option, especially for those who prefer having staff available around the clock to assist with any needs.
Essential Apps
- Booking.com: This app offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and villas, all in one place.
- Airbnb: Perfect for finding unique and original villas or apartments that offer a home-like experience.
Extra Recommendation: Once you’ve found a place you like, especially with hotels and hostels, be sure to visit their official website. Often, you can find exclusive discounts when booking directly through them.
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Affordable Options in Central Doha
1. Shaza Doha
Shaza Doha is a five-star hotel offering a blend of modern elegance and Arabic charm. It’s located near Souq Waqif, making it perfect for exploring Doha’s cultural highlights. Don’t have a lot of time in the city? This is where to stay in Doha for one night.
- Price: Starting at 110$ CAD per night
- Google Rating: 4.6 (786 reviews)
- Location: Al Aaliya St, Doha
Pros:
- Centrally located, just a 10-minute walk from Souq Waqif and 15 minutes from the Corniche, making it perfect for exploring Doha’s top attractions.
- Spacious rooms with luxurious amenities at a price that’s surprisingly affordable.
- On-site restaurants offering a variety of international and Middle Eastern dishes.
Cons:
- Limited parking availability, which can be a hassle if you’re driving.
- Can get busy during the peak season due to its prime location, so it’s wise to book in advance as the hotel tends to sell out quickly.
- No alcohol is served at the hotel, which may be a consideration for some travelers.
My Experience: We originally stayed at Central Inn Souq Waqif but decided to switch to Shaza Doha for its rooftop pool and more spacious accommodations. The rooms were incredibly comfortable, with large bathrooms, high quality plush beds, and a modern, clean design that felt luxurious despite the reasonable price.
However, the rooftop experience was a bit underwhelming. While the pool was great for relaxing, the space lacked energy during the day as the restaurant was closed, and there was no option to order food or drinks while lounging.
Despite this, Shaza Doha was my favorite stay among the three places I tried in Central Doha. The overall ambiance, comfort, and location make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a touch of luxury without breaking the bank.
2. Central Inn Souq Waqif
A four-star hotel offering great value for money, Central Inn is ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking to stay close to the vibrant Souq Waqif area.
- Price: Starting at 70$ CAD per night
- Google Rating: 4.2 (1,047 reviews)
- Location: Building No.29, Zone, Ibn Malik street, 6 Street 948, Doha
Pros:
- Conveniently located near public transportation, including Souq Waqif Metro Station.
- Just a 10-minute walk from the vibrant Souq Waqif and 15 minutes from the scenic Corniche.
- Clean and comfortable rooms, perfect for a relaxing stay.
- Friendly and attentive staff who are always ready to assist.
Cons:
- Basic amenities compared to higher-end options.
- Limited breakfast and restaurant selection.
My Experience: To be honest, this was the most disappointing stay during my time in Doha. Despite requesting a queen bed, we were given a room with two single beds. While I knew the pool was indoors, I expected at least some seating along the sides and a pleasant atmosphere. Unfortunately, the pool was small and crowded with kids playing and yelling, while the chairs were located outside, wedged between three brick walls with no sunlight and constant construction noise.
The rooftop restaurant was another letdown. We ordered hummus, which was overpriced and underwhelming—it tasted store-bought (a first during my time in Doha), and the naan was hard and unappealing.
Overall, this stay didn’t live up to expectations. However, if you’re traveling with kids and looking for an affordable option or a short stay, this hotel might suit your needs.
Tip: Check if this hotel is available to book through Airbnb. That’s how I booked my stay, and it ended up being cheaper than the hotel’s official website. The check-in process was seamless, just like a regular hotel stay!
3. Royal Qatar Hotel
This affordable yet comfortable hotel is a great choice for travelers seeking convenience in the heart of Doha.
- Price: Starting at 65$ CAD per night
- Google Rating: 4.1 (331 reviews)
- Location: Al Asmakh St, Doha
Pros:
- Excellent location close to shopping and dining options. Just a 10-minute walk from the vibrant Souq Waqif.
- Rooftop pool with lounge chairs.
- Spacious rooms for families and groups.
Cons:
- Outdated décor in some areas.
- Noise levels can be high due to central location.
My Experience: For the price, location, and the spaciousness of the rooms, this hotel is definitely worth your money. While it’s true that the rooms have an outdated look and lack the modern aesthetic you might find in most hotels in Qatar, the generous size of the rooms makes up for it.
The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating. After a 15-hour journey from Canada, I was exhausted, but my night’s sleep was excellent thanks to the comfortable beds. Even though I checked in around 1 a.m., the staff was patient, helpful with my bags, and made me feel welcome.
The only downside was the noise from a nearby construction site, which started early in the morning. However, if you’re not a light sleeper, this shouldn’t be a major issue. Overall, this hotel offers great value for money, especially if you prioritize room size and friendly service!
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Luxury Stays in Lusail
4. Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha
Step into a world of elegance at Waldorf Astoria, a luxurious five-star resort in Lusail. With its pristine beachfront and state-of-the-art facilities, this is the ultimate escape.
- Price: Starting at 350$ CAD per night
- Google Rating: 4.7 (2,633 reviews)
- Location: Damsa Boulevard Entertainment City, Lusail, Qatar
Pros:
- Stunning beachfront location with private access.
- World-class dining options, including fine-dining restaurants like Sushi Samba.
- Luxurious spa and wellness facilities, including a fully equipped gym.
Cons:
- On the higher end of the price spectrum.
- Located 20–30 minutes from the city center, which can add to transportation costs if you plan on exploring Doha frequently.
My Experience: This is hands down the best hotel I’ve ever stayed at. My time at the Waldorf Astoria Lusail was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment I arrived, the kind and attentive staff went above and beyond to ensure I had everything I needed, always ready with helpful recommendations.
What truly sets this hotel apart from others I’ve visited is its private beach access, stunning pools, and the fantastic water park that’s perfect for families with kids. The morning buffet was absolutely delicious, offering a wide variety of options to start your day right.
Another highlight was the fully equipped gym—the best I’ve seen in any hotel—complete with top-of-the-line machines, a sauna, and an incredible spa. It was a treat to have such extensive wellness facilities on-site.
Yes, the nightly rate is on the higher side, but when you consider the impeccable service, luxurious amenities, and overall experience, I’d say it’s worth every penny.
The only slight drawback is the location. Lusail, the district where the hotel is situated, is a 20–30 minute drive from central attractions like Souq Waqif, which is a must-visit in Doha. If you’re planning to explore the city daily, transportation costs can add up. However, if you’re not on a tight budget and have a bit of time to spare, this shouldn’t be a dealbreaker.
In summary, if you’re looking for a luxurious escape with exceptional service and amenities, the Waldorf Astoria Lusail is an experience you won’t forget. Highly recommended!
5. Le Royal Méridien Doha
Le Royal Méridien blends luxury with modern sophistication, offering spacious rooms and impeccable service in Lusail’s entertainment hub.
- Price: Starting at 175$ CAD per night
- Google Rating: 4.5 (966 reviews)
Pros:
- Proximity to Lusail’s top attractions, including Place Vendôme Mall.
- Elegant design with comfortable, high-end rooms.
- Excellent on-site facilities, including a pool and fitness center.
Cons:
- Limited dining options on-site compared to other luxury hotels.
- Traffic congestion in the area during peak hours.
My Experience: I didn’t stay at this hotel, but I attended a week-long conference there, so here’s what I gathered during my time:
The hotel is directly connected to the Place Vendôme Mall, which can be a plus or a minus depending on your preferences. The convenience of having the mall right there is great for shopping or dining, but it also means the hotel is often bustling with people.
The cleanliness of the hotel was impressive—everything from the floors to the bathrooms and the pool was spotless. The staff, despite my not being an overnight guest, were incredibly friendly and attentive.
The breakfast, which was included as part of my conference package, was a highlight. It was delicious, with a wide variety of options catering to all types of eaters.
One thing I noticed immediately when comparing Le Royal Méridien to the Waldorf Astoria Lusail is the difference in ambiance and amenities:
- Le Royal Méridien has a lively, business-oriented atmosphere due to its connection to the mall and its role as a conference hub.
- On the other hand, the Waldorf Astoria Lusail feels more serene and relaxing, with the added bonus of beach access.
Speaking of beach access, that’s the one big thing missing at Le Royal Méridien. If having a private beach is a priority for your stay, you might want to consider the Waldorf instead.
Overall, Le Royal Méridien offers a luxurious experience at a more affordable price point, making it a great option for those looking for a premium stay without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Doha has something for every type of traveler, whether you’re looking to save or splurge. For budget-friendly stays close to cultural hotspots, Shaza Doha and Royal Qatar Hotel are excellent picks. If luxury is what you seek, Lusail’s Waldorf Astoria and Le Royal Méridien offer unparalleled experiences.
Wherever you choose to stay, Doha’s warmth and hospitality will make your visit unforgettable.
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