Joanna James
Looking for a luxurious getaway with world-class service in the Arabian Gulf? A luxury island escape in Qatar is just what you need. Qatar’s islands are soon becoming one of the top travel destinations in the region. With private white-sand beaches to Michelin-star dining, here are seven must-try experiences when you treat yourself to a luxurious island retreat in Qatar.
Qatar’s luxury resorts, such as the lavish Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara, offer private yacht transfers or helicopter rides. Visitors can begin their journey by sailing across the waters or taking in the views of Doha’s skyline before arriving at their private getaway for a truly memorable experience.
Many luxury hotels in Doha have spas that offer hammam rituals, sound therapy and body scrubs. These use local ingredients like rose water, desert sand and frankincense. Visitors can stay in overwater villas and private spa suites, which are the perfect place to be pampered.
Qatar’s island resorts are culinary destinations in their own right. Eat barefoot on the beach or formal dinners under the stars, sampling Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and international cuisine. Many resorts have menus crafted by celebrity chefs and offer personalised dining experiences like private cabana dinners or interactive chef’s tables. Delicacies include freshly grilled hammour (grouper), aromatic majboos (spiced rice with meat) and Arabic desserts like saffron-laced mahalabia.
The Arabian Gulf is perfect for those who want to explore the ocean. You can swim around coral reefs, sunken wrecks and colourful fish species. Book guided scuba diving and snorkelling trips which are offered top island resorts. The clear waters around islands like Halul or Shrao offer amazing marine life and calm diving conditions. You can even try out underwater scooters or night snorkelling for some added fun.
If you’re looking for holistic healing, island resorts in Qatar offer features lik sunset yoga on the beach, detox retreats and personalised wellness programs. Stretch your body under the golden sky, breathe in the ocean air and let go of stress with practices rooted in mindfulness, and modern fitness science. You’ll also have private instructors and curated programmes, meaning that your wellness journey will be suited to your tastes.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous take on luxury, some experiences offer glamping on the islands. These include staying in stylish Bedouin tents with en-suite facilities. You can enjoy sitting around campfires under the stars and personal butlers at your service. These overnight escapes allow you to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature in privacy. Finally, wrap up the day with gourmet campfire meals and stargazing sessions to view the constellations over the Arabian Gulf.
Luxury doesn’t just mean lounging around. It also means exploring the ocean. You can book private catamaran cruises and sunset sailing, or clear-bottom kayak tours and paddleboarding on the islands. Many resorts have their own marinas and water sports centres, so you can rent equipment and take lessons or just relax in the sun in complete peace.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
