Soaring 115 metres above Qatar's sea and desert landscape, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha is an impressive symbol of the nation's emergence as a destination for travellers to the Middle East.
The 374-room, 5-star resort fuses contemporary styling with classic Arabic and European design, creating a hotel with a promise of setting a new benchmark for luxury and sophistication in the region. "Doha is taking its place among the most influential nations in the Middle East. The number and calibre of visitors coming to the region makes this the ideal time to open a great hotel with surroundings and service to match the expectations of the clientele", said Darrell Sheaffer, general manager, an American hotelier with three decades of industry experience. Located in the West Bay Lagoon district with views overlooking the Arabian Gulf, the beachfront resort is secluded but easily accessible. Just 20 minutes from the airport, the 80,000 sq m glass, and chrome tower is an imposing structure. The oasis-like grounds are accented with tiered, Arabic eight point star fountains, reflecting pools, hidden grottos, clusters of date palms and flowering tropical shrubs. A 200-slip sailing marina, adjacent Doha Golf Club and a future, private island water park make The Ritz-Carlton stand out as a destination resort. The focal point of the diamond-shaped lobby is a 7.5 metre Viennese chandelier, whose 2,000-plus crystals illuminate an intricately patterned floor. Rooms and suites of the hotel reflect the Middle Eastern appreciation of bright colours and contemporary style. Restaurants at the hotel offer the flavours of the world's cuisine in their menus. The spa offers signature treatments inspired by ancient Arab secrets for health, wellness and beauty. Two swimming pools, Jacuzzis, indoor tennis courts, state-of-the-art fitness equipment and a host of recreational opportunities are available. On the beachfront, salling, deep-sea fishing and other water activities may be enjoyed. Over 2,000 sq m of meeting and function space makes the hotel an ideal place for conferences and special events.