Doha Luxury Homes

With the booming economy in Doha, there is by no means a shortage of luxury accommodation on the market. Although not as developed as Dubai or Bahrain, it is fast become the latest property hot spot in the Middle East.

Boasting unrivalled natural beauty and steeped in rich history, Doha is fast becoming a popular destination for holiday makers and property investors alike. With crystal clear waters and endless sandy beaches, it’s hard not to fall in love with this cosmopolitan city.

The city also attracts a lot of people to the large range of sporting and cultural events that are hosted there. The 15th Asian Games were held in Doha in 2006 and this attracted a lot of attention to the area, and tourism has rapidly increased ever since. Many holidaymakers have now decided to buy properties in Doha either for investment or as holiday homes.

The Qatari’s know how to do luxury, and no expense is spared on the numerous billion dollar developments that are constantly being constructed, and despite the million dollar price tag on a large proportion of properties, most are snapped up even before they have been completed.

For foreigners interested in purchasing property in Doha, there are strict limitations on what areas you can buy in. Although this is an improvement from pre-2004 when only Qatari’s were allowed to own any land or property in the city.

One of the largest and most famous developments in Doha is ‘The Pearl’. There are a range of accommodation options, from studio apartments to villas. Over 32 countries have invested in properties at The Pearl even before it has been completed, and once it’s completion in 2011 it is expected to have over 41,000 residents. Any foreign purchases of a property here automatically receive residential status in Qatar for themselves and their immediate families until the home is resold. Beachfront villas at The Pearl are priced up to US $12 million.

For those interested in a property at The Pearl and to whom money is no object, the new Bilal Pearl Suites due for completion at the end of 2009 are a fantastic option. You have the choice of one, two, three or four bedroom suits or a beachfront villa. They are all fully furnished and overlooking the Arabian Gulf, and are catered for high-end clients. There is 24 hour security, swimming pool, restaurants, spas, and a whole host of first-class facilities available to their residents. Recently gone into construction is another luxury apartment tower in The Pearl complex - Viva Bahriya. All of these apartments have a beach and ocean view and have the same facilities as the Bilal Pearl Suites. A two-bedroom beach front apartment in the Viva Bahriyah complex costs approximately US $1.36 million. Completion is expected in 2010.

Lusail is another large up-market development built not far from The Pearl, on the outskirts of Doha city. The finest address in the Lusail development is The Piazza. The Piazza is a popular choice for investors. With uncompromising quality on all aspects of the one, two, and three bedroom apartments, you can easily live the high life in this fantastic location on the Arabian Gulf. With opulent interiors ranging from marble bathroom surfaces to stylish settings along with a 24 hour concierge, you will be treated like royalty every day.

Outside of the new developments there are hundreds of luxury accommodation options. Apartments are the most popular choice as investment properties, and areas such as Al Muntazah and Al Mansoora in Doha are renowned for having a variety of luxury apartment buildings, most of which are fully furnished and serviced. These are not available for purchase by foreigners, but can be rented out by expatriates living in Doha.

For those looking for a larger property may head to West Bay where the new West Bay Lagoon development offers a host of some of the most luxurious villas available in Doha. To rent a 5 bedroom unfurnished luxury villa with private swimming pool, beach access, 24 hour security and a range of other facilities, costs approximately 25,000 Qatari Riyals per month. Foreigners can also purchase properties in this development. The development is built around a man-made marina.

The West Bay area also offers a range of luxury apartments. The West Bay Lagoon Plaza Towers are a new oceanfront construction 8km north of Doha that are the tallest and highest zigzag / leaning towers in the world, and offer first class properties with luxurious facilities such as a designer shopping mall, swimming pools, restaurants and many other facilities. The apartments start at 2,650 million Qatari Riyals (approximately US $800,000).