9 Of The Best Staycations in Qatar
Ahead of Qatar National Day, which falls on Monday, December 18, 2023, and the long weekend, Bazaar Arabia shares our best staycation spots in the country
On the hunt for the best staycations in Qatar: Bazaar Arabia shares 9 of our favourite destinations here.
Staycations are an exciting way to get reacquainted with your city; whether you are a Qatar resident or new to the country, nothing teaches you more about where you live than immersing yourself in a new part of your city, even for a weekend. The beauty of it is that you don’t need to venture far from home to return completely rejuvenated, feeling as if you’ve traversed a portal to a new land – not just driven to the other side of town.
With one more public holiday to look forward to before the end of the year, Bazaar Arabia shares some ideas for how to spend your long weekend in the city.
The Best Staycations In Qatar
Fairmont
The Fairmont is located in the landmark Iconic Towers and is the epitome of luxury and excellence that infuses the region’s cultural heritage with world-class hospitality. Indulge in a weekend of relaxation at the wellness spa or savour the blissful feeling of ordering club sandwiches by the pool.
Location: 6th street, Lusail Marina District Lusail City, Doha, Qatar
For more information, please contact +974 4030 7200
Four Seasons Resort and Residences At The Pearl
If spending time at the beach is your sole plan for the weekend, then The Pearl is the ideal hotel for you. This establishment embodies the luxury synonymous with Four Seasons Resorts, and Chef Joël Robuchon’s La Méditerranée stands out as a phenomenal seafood restaurant with a captivating terrace. This recent opening (and one of our top contenders for the best staycations in Qatar) introduces an exciting opportunity for the upcoming long weekend, providing you with the perfect anecdote to share with friends about the newest destination in the city.
Location: Porto Arabia Drive 127, The Pearl, Qatar, Doha
For more information, please contact +974 4144 3000
Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay
This hotel’s interiors will make you consider staying there forever. From enjoying tea in the pink and airy Ledoux to savouring drinks in the darker and moodier New York-inspired Cortland Bar, few reasons are compelling enough to prompt you to venture outside the confines of the hotel. The gym, situated in the sky, not only offers an inspiring workout space but also motivates you to exercise for the breathtaking view it provides. This luxurious haven is definitely one of the best staycations in Qatar.
Location: Al Shaghya Street Al Dafna, Doha, Qatar
For more information, please contact +974 4008 9000
Mondrian Doha
When searching for the best staycations in Qatar, Mondrian needs to be on top of your list. Located in the city’s shopping district, the Mondrian is a contemporary dreamscape where modernity meets Arabian nights. The black, white, and gold gilded lobby is just the beginning of your exploration of this hotel. The pool, one of the most beautiful in the city, is accompanied by jaw-droppingly beautiful spas that will make you want to order the entire service list and leave transformed.
Location: West Bay Lagoon, Doha, Qatar
For more information, please contact +974 4045 5555
Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som
When choosing a destination for a weekend (or longer) away, the Qatari Coast is always a good idea. Zulal Wellness Resort is an extraordinary holistic health destination for a trip that recharges on a cellular level on the Northern tip of Qatar – although more of a drive than the other locations on this list – it is more than worth it. When searching for the best staycations in Qatar, Zulal Wellness Resorts needs to be on top of your list.
Location: Zulal Wellness Resort, street 319, Zone 79, Al Ruwais, Qatar
For more information, please contact via zulal.com
Banana Island Resort
Searching for the best staycations in Qatar? Anantara’s island paradise is truly heavenly, featuring golden sands, open waters, lush gardens, and inviting lounge areas. Immerse yourself in the coastal pace of life. With numerous activities for children, including a bowling alley and mini-golf green, it’s the perfect family escape.
For more information, please contact +974 4040 5050
Msheireb Downtown Doha – Mandarin Oriental
When your ideal weekend calls for uber-luxury in the heart of a city you already love, then it’s time to head downtown. If only for the day’s rooftop pool and view, the famously excellent Mandarin Oriental hospitality and interiors fuse with Qatari influences, hosting you at Liang restaurant in the evenings. Or slow down with a Singing Sand Dunes treatment atop a gold quartz sand table (I’m a fan).
Location: Barahat Msheireb Street, Msheireb Downtown Doha
For more information, please contact +974 4008 8888
Hilton Salwa Beach Resorts
This hotel requires no introduction – it’s the perfect retreat for the entire family. The waterpark ensures a memorable weekend, catering extensively to children while offering enough for adults. Everyone departs feeling rejuvenated, perhaps with a sun-kissed glow, be that because you chose to spend your weekend lounging by the pool, playing tennis, or going on a dolphin cruise excursion. Hilton Salwa Beach Resorts is definitely one of the best staycations in Qatar.
For more information, please contact +974 4423 6666
Heenat Salma Farm
Sometimes, we want to escape the city together; Heenat Salma is an eco-farm and camp northwest of Doha. This holistic project integrates agriculture, architecture, and community development to create a space dedicated to meaningful change. You are welcome to join a community that is based around hospitality and education. Through farm activities, guests have initiatives to make a positive impact locally and globally. Treat yourself to a transformational weekend in nature, Heenat Salma Farm is definitely one of the best staycations in Qatar.
For more information, please visit heenatsalma.earth
After searching for the best staycations in Qatar, take a look at our Bazaar guide on visiting Doha. From top restaurants to the must-see sights, click here.
Lead Image: Photography: Vladimir Marti. Styling: Laura Jane Brown. Model: Julia Aida at Fashion League. Hair and Make-Up: Manuel Losada. Shot on location at Raffles Doha, Fairmont Doha, Katara Towers.
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s May 2023 issue.