Forget the 20th-century stereotype of a rich Arab Gulf state, of hastily thrown up tower blocks, chaotic streets and bafflingly tacky urban sculpture: Qatar - or at least the capital, Doha - has metamorphosed into a self-confident, elegant entrepôt that gives the UAE a run for its money.

Occupying a flat peninsula jutting into the oil-rich waters of The Gulf, Qatar is one of the richest per capita countries in the world - a wealth exhibited in high-profile projects, such as the new Museum of Islamic Art, built to house the largest such collection in the world.

With 50% of Qatar's population living in the capital, the country is a virtual city state.  But for those not content with jogging around Doha's fine corniche, a string of beaches beckon for rest and recuperation, and the magnificent dunes of Khor al-Adaid help even up the odds between God and Mammon.

Luxury Hotels in qatar:
InterContinental Doha
Doha, Qatar
Style: Classic Luxury
A grand landmark hotel, InterContinental Doha combines heritage and luxury with contemporary comfort. Located in the prestigious West Bay area


Ritz Carlton Doha
Doha, Qatar
Style: Classic Luxury
An Exquisite Beachfront Resort Overlooking The Arabian Gulf And The City Skyline, the Ritz-Carlton Doha Offers A Premier Location


Four Seasons Hotel Doha
Doha, Qatar
Style: Classic Luxury
Now open, Four Seasons offers supreme space and comfort in a resort-like waterfront setting, featuring an exclusive beach and 110-berth...


The Ritz Carlton Sharq Village and Spa
Doha, Qatar
Style: Classic Luxury
Fourteen individual courtyard houses, or beits, meander organically up from the one-thousand metres of private coastline around the ancient Arabic...