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Nestled in between the Persian Gulf and Saudi Arabia, the tiny country of Qatar is home to thriving world banking operations and oil reserves, but as a tourist destination, it is often forgotten about.
However, it’s also a country with some of the oldest history in the world, and with all-year-round hot weather, it is the ultimate destination if you’re looking for winter sun.
Qatar is also home to plenty of things to do whether you want a day full of adventure on a desert safari or fancy exploring the capital city’s art and culture scene.
Despite the vast majority of the hotels and accommodation options being centrally located in Doha, finding where to stay in Qatar can be difficult.
It’s a relatively small country, much of which is made up of desert, but don’t let that turn you off. The country’s capital has neighbourhoods teeming with bustling souks, futuristic skyscrapers, and pristine beaches. And if you’re able to explore a bit further out, the desert is anything but inhospitable here, as long as you go to the right place. And that’s where I come in, with the ultimate guide to where to stay in Qatar:
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Where is the Best Place to Stay in Qatar?
With its national airline dominating the skies, Qatar has made a name for itself as a bit of a layover destination. But if you’ve had the chance to leave the airport in Doha and explore the country a bit, you’ll know all too well what a treasure trove this place really is and how much there is to do in Qatar.
Want a quick summary, conclusive gist of this article? These are my favourite accommodations in the country:
Katara Hills Doha, Doha West Bay
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live like royalty, Katara Hills is your answer. Hidden in the green heart of the Katara Cultural Village, these private villas are the epitome of understated elegance.
Think spacious rooms, personalised service, and the best city views. Mornings are spent watching the city wake up from the balcony, while evenings are all about moonlit strolls through the surrounding neighbourhood.
Heenat Salma Farm, Ash Shahaniyah
There’s peaceful, and then there’s Heenat Salma Farm peaceful. This sustainable farm retreat is like an oasis in the heart of the desert. Put your devices down and immerse yourself in the Bedouin way of life. Sound baths, yoga, and communal dinners around the fireplace are the norm here.
The accommodation is surrounded by herb and vegetable gardens, and lines of palm trees. There is a memory to be made in every little detail here, from the tented suites to the antique furniture.
One-Bed Apartment with City Views, Lusail
Right across the street from one of the biggest malls in Lusail, you’ll find this hidden paradise that feels like a home-away-from-home in Qatar. It’s a little urban oasis with a balcony that is stylish but unfussy. It’s warm and modern, with a spacious open-concept layout and a well-equipped kitchen – perfect for couples or digital nomads on a budget who still want a bit of a wow factor.
Qatar Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Qatar
Doha West Bay
West Bay is Doha’s glamorous high-rise district and business hub. It’s popular with locals, particularly white collar employees, corporates, and expats who work in the city. I always recommend first-time visitors stay here because of its close proximity to museums
Lusail
Lusail is one of the newer cities in the country, but it feels more like a Qatar neighbourhood of Doha than anything else. It is a surprisingly affordable place to base yourself, especially if you’re into the modern skyscraper vibes
The Pearl Qatar
The Pearl Qatar is the city’s version of Dubai’s The Palm. It’s a collection of man-made islands home to the country’s wealthiest residents, and naturally, the most luxurious hotels, spas, and resorts.
Ash Shahaniyah
This area is in the heart of the Qatar desert, yet it takes less than an hour to get to from the capital. It’s known for its camels, sand dunes, and 4×4 dune adventures. It’s sparsely populated, with a few local villages.
So I must start by mentioning that Qatar is a small country, especially considering some of the Middle Eastern giants that surround it. Because of this, most of the top places to stay in Qatar are located in or around Doha, the country’s capital.
In some cases, some of these areas would be considered extended neighbourhoods of Doha. The good news? You won’t have to travel too far to get anywhere, it’s one of the many reasons I think Qatar is better than Dubai.
Let’s start with Doha’s West Bay, the sleek, skyscraper-dominated business district of the capital where you should base yourself for a first-time visit. Everything is walkable (considering the heat isn’t too much to bear) or a short cab ride away, with plenty of museums, malls, and some seriously good restaurants in the area. Accommodations here range from beachfront hotels to private villas.
Lusail, on the other hand, might surprise you. It’s ultra-modern and has a luxurious side, but also a budget-friendly one. It’s technically its own city, but being just a few miles from Doha, it feels a bit like an extended neighbourhood of the city. Comparatively, Lusail is home to a bunch of new hotels, cafes, and has a more relaxed vibe. I like to think of it as Qatar’s trendy and young neighbourhood. While by no means ‘cheap’, it is much easier on the wallet than other areas.
And by other areas, I mean The Pearl Qatar, the country’s premier luxury destination. Located on a series of man-made islands, this area is scattered with designer shops, superyachts, waterfront dining, and private beaches. It’s a local area, but also has a ton of five-star hotels and resorts for tourists with deep pockets.
Then there’s Ash Shahaniya, technically the only place to stay in Qatar on this list that isn’t in the Doha vicinity. The city lights feel like a distant memory here, where instead, you’ll be treated to never-ending sand dunes and desert 4×4 excursions. It might not be for everyone, but whether roughing it or splurging on a top hotel, it’s an unforgettable place for a desert adventure.
Qatar’s Four Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
These four locations stand out as the top places to stay in this Middle Eastern powerhouse country:
1. Doha West Bay – Where to Stay in Qatar for Your First Time
West Bay is Doha’s glamorous high-rise district and business hub. It’s popular with locals, particularly white collar employees, corporates, and expats who work in the city. I always recommend first-time visitors stay here because of its close proximity to museums and attractions like the Museum of Islamic Art and the National Museum, as well as its abundance of malls and restaurants.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
By Doha standards, it’s a relatively walkable area, and at the very least, you’ll have to grab a short taxi ride to some nearby beaches and malls. It overlooks The Pearl Qatar, the luxurious man-made islands with their own spot on this list.
Katara Hills Doha | Most extravagant Private Villas in Doha West Bay
Qatar’s accommodation scene is no stranger to luxury, and these private bungalows are the most lavish. Consider them ultra-modern city bungalows, kind of like the ones you’d find in the Maldives, but overlooking the skyline instead of the sea. Plus, each suite has a private pool and self-catering facilities.
Each villa is its own little sanctuary, blending contemporary design with the calm natural surroundings of a garden. If you’ve got the budget for it, this place to stay in Qatar is the ideal escape from the busy city.
The St Regis Doha | Best Beachfront Hotel in Doha West Bay
For more of a classic luxury hotel experience, the St Regis Doha is one of the city’s quintessential beach resorts. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be enveloped in an atmosphere of refined sophistication. The hotel’s grand architecture and meticulous attention to detail, from the colour palettes to the ingenious moody lighting, put it miles above the rest of the places to stay in Doha.
Plus, the amenities, including thirteen restaurants, tennis courts, a private beach, and a spa, are out of this world.
One-Bed Apartment with Pool Access | Best Apartment in Doha West Bay
Staying in this one-bedroom apartment feels like having a chic city pad of your own, with resort-style amenities. It features an open plan layout with modern furnishings that create a welcoming vibe. Some might say it feels a bit like a traditional business hotel room, with a dedicated workspace.
It’s in the heart of West Bay, which means it’s well located for shopping, dining, and exploring the city’s most famous attractions.
Things to See and Do in Doha West Bay
- Walk along the waterfront at the Al Dafna Park
- Join a jet ski adventure and check out the skyscrapers from a different point of view
- Shop till you drop at the City Centre Doha Mall
- Wander the labyrinthine alleyways of the Souq Waqif on a guided tour
- Spend an afternoon admiring the exhibitions at the Museum of Islamic Art
- Learn about the incredible architecture behind the National Museum of Qatar
- Explore the colourful homes around the Mina District Corniche at Doha Port
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View on Osprey2. Lusail – Best Place to Stay in Qatar on a Budget
Lusail is one of the newer cities in the country, but it feels more like a Qatar neighbourhood of Doha than anything else. It is a surprisingly affordable place to base yourself, especially if you’re into the modern skyscraper vibes without the luxury price tag. It was built as a futuristic city, and is less crowded than Doha, but still has a fair share of parks, marinas, and malls. This is also where you’ll find the Lusail Stadium.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
It’s especially popular with young professionals and families who want to live in secure villa compounds. And for tourists, it’s got a bunch of independent villas and high-end apartments on the rental market.
Le Royal Méridien Place Vendôme Lusail | Most Extravagant Resort in Lusail
Le Royal Meridien is a bit like a palace in the centre of Lusail. It’s massive, but even so, it is so well orchestrated that the staff will make you feel like you’re the only guests in the hotel. From the high ceilings, the multiple lobby lounges, dramatic lighting, and exceptional amenities, there are few hotels that offer this level of luxury.
The OQ | Best Hotel in Lusail
One of the most stylish places to stay in Qatar’s Lusail, The OQ is one of those places that will make you feel immediately at ease. It’s a good blend of modern elegance with tones and textures influenced by the desert.
The suites are beautifully decorated and most have gorgeous sea views. But it’s the common amenities that really put this spot in a league of its own, especially the spa and wellness centre, with a series of indoor and outdoor pools and jacuzzis.
One-Bed Apartment with City Views | Best Apartment in Lusail
If you’re visiting for the shopping, you won’t find a place closer to the central mall in Lusail. This self-catering apartment is spacious and flooded with natural light, with a balcony that overlooks the entrance to the Place Vendôme Mall.
It’s beautifully decorated with neutral tones and comfy furniture, and feels like a real home-away-from-home in the heart of the city.
Things to See and Do in Lusail
- Experience life in the area at the Katara Cultural Village with a guided tour
- Take a trip into the nearby desert and sandboard on the golden sand dunes
- Watch a live sporting event at the famous Lusail Sports Arena
- Explore the city waterfront on a traditional dhow tour
- Stroll along the coastline by the Lusail Marina Promenade, admiring the iconic Crescent Tower
- Shop your heart out at the Place Vendôme Mall
3. The Pearl Qatar – Best Area in Qatar For Luxury Seekers
The Pearl Qatar is the city’s version of Dubai’s The Palm. It’s a collection of man-made islands home to the country’s wealthiest residents, and naturally, the most luxurious hotels, spas, and resorts. If you like to live large, this spot is full of yachts, designer shops, supercars, and glamorous residential towers.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
The area is split into districts, such as Porto Arabia and the Qanat Quartier, each offering a unique vibe that complements the high-end charm. When it comes to finding a place to stay in Qatar’s premier neighbourhood, your options range from luxury resorts to serviced apartments. It’s also a spot you’ll find a lot of expats living in, like those teaching English in Qatar.
Marsa Malaz Kempinski | Best Resort with Private Beach in The Pearl Qatar
As you enter the main lobby of the Marsa Malaz Kempinski, you’ll feel like royalty arriving in your Arabian palace. The hotel, which is set on its own private island within The Pearl, exudes palatial architecture with domed ceilings, intricate details, and arched doorways.
Every inch of this hotel, from the enormous windows to the high tea to the delicate architectural details, has been carefully curated to ensure the most lavish guest experience.
One-Bed Apartment with European-Inspired Interiors | Best Apartment in The Pearl Qatar
If I were to live in Qatar, I would search for an apartment just like this one. While modern, it has a stylish European flair, featuring an open-concept living area and elegant decorative details. The fully equipped kitchen is perfect for preparing your own meals, which can be enjoyed in the living room and dining room.
The space is flooded with natural light and has its own little balcony overlooking the Palm Marina.
One-Bed Condo with Pool and Gym | Beautiful Apartment in The Pearl Qatar
If you want to be impressed by the sleek, homey design and thoughtful amenities of an apartment, you’ll be blown away by this one-bed condo. It’s all in the little details, from the art on the walls to the touches of daily comforts like flowers and flourishing greenery.
It’s designed with warm interiors that feel more homey than sterile, an issue many have with the big hotel chains in the area. Plus, guests can access a communal gym, pool, and indoor kids’ playground at this place to stay in Qatar.
Things to See and Do in The Pearl Qatar
- Hop on a traditional dhow and cruise around the Corniche and The Pearl Qatar
- Explore the man-made islands on a guided night tour of The Pearl Qatar
- Spend a day on one of the beaches, like Bahriya Beach
- Visit Megapolis – an indoor amusement park with bowling and karaoke
- Wander around the shops and boutiques at Medina Centrale, the heart of the islands
- Splurge on a spa day at one of the five-star hotels in the area
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Grab an eSIM!4. Ash Shahaniyah – Best Area in Qatar for a Desert Experience
As you drive west from Doha into Ash Shahaniya, the blurring lights of the city turn to dust – literally. This area is in the heart of the Qatar desert, yet it takes less than an hour to get to from the capital. It’s known for its camels, sand dunes, and 4×4 dune adventures. It’s sparsely populated, with a few local villages.
And while you won’t find the high-rise malls and apartments of the city here, you will get a front row seat to the Milky Way, with some of the best stargazing in the area. Plus, you will find some of the most exquisite desert camps and luxurious hotels. I’m talking next level luxury – take a look…
Al Samriya Hotel, Doha, Autograph Collection | Best Hotel in Ash Shahaniyah
Rising from the dusty desert like a palace that has been standing for centuries, Al Samriya Hotel is just as it looks – fit for royalty. The stone structure pays homage to Qatari heritage, but with a modern twist. Your room will likely overlook the desert landscape or the lush pool. Hidden in a remote part of the desert, you’ll have the perfect excuse to spend all day at the property, enjoying the spa and wellness centre and hotel amenities.
Heenat Salma Farm | Most Unique Desert Accommodation in Ash Shahaniyah
If you’re wondering where to stay in Qatar for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this would be it. Set in what feels like a quiet oasis of the Qatari desert, surrounded by palm trees and a thriving vegetable garden, Heenat Salma is a traditional temporary Bedouin setup with luxurious tented rooms.
The accommodations feel rustic by nature, but superiorly luxurious, where every little detail has been carefully thought of.
Things to See and Do in Ash Shahaniyah
- Discover the culture of Qatar at the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum
- Visit the town of Zekreet to see the Fort ruins and the traditional limestone architecture
- Marvel at the Mushroom Rock Formation outside the town of Zekreet
- Visit the enormous East-West / West-East Sculpture by Richard Serra
- Venture north to the ancient capital city of Al Shamal
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Qatar
Need a bit more info, well there fellow world traveller, you’re in luck because I’m feeling in the mood to give it to you!
What To Pack For Qatar
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Qatar
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Qatar
Qatar might be small in size, but being home to one of the most modern metropolises in the world, it sure does offer diversity. One day, you’re living the high life in a skyscraper towering over man-made islands. Next, you’re surrounded by nothing but sand dunes in the middle of the desert. Figuring out where to stay in Qatar is just the first step of a wild adventure.
Whether you’re looking for a classic desert experience by staying at a unique tented camp like Heenat Salma Farm, or splurging on a luxurious place to stay in Qatar like The St Regis Doha, you’re guaranteed good vibes, great views, and even better accommodation.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Qatar to plan your trip.
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