Qatar has had its criticism ever since they were awarded the World Cup, but it cannot be doubted that they have some of the most stunning skylines and hotels on the planet.
The Fairmont hotel, situated in the landmark Katara Towers, has hit the headlines in recent weeks due to its fascinating infrastructure and how the building is shaped. The hotel overlooks the Arabian Gulf and is near to the Lusail Stadium, which is set to host the World Cup final on December 18.
However, it is currently unavailable for the public to book during the World Cup as it is one of the official bases for FIFA and its VIP delegation. Only ex-footballers and VIPs can stay in the facility at the moment, with ex-Brazil duo Roberto Carlos and Ronaldo among those at the complex right now.
The hotel boasts 362 rooms and a number of different lounges to watch the matches, while there are seven restaurants on the complex and a couple of eye-watering spas. It is owned by Katara hospitality, whose portfolio includes 42 managed hotels across several markets including Egypt, Morocco, the UK and France.
Upon the opening of the Qatar hotel in August, managing director of both Raffles and Fairmont Christian Hirt said, via Business Traveller : "Raffles and Fairmont are for sure the most prestigious and important opening that Accor has this year in Doha.
"There are some fantastic hospitality brands coming to market here, and we work closely with Qatar Tourism to promote the destination which serves as a great stopover destination for leisure travellers as well as a great MICE location. The vision that the country has of six million visitors [annually] by 2030 is definitely something achievable."
Once the World Cup is over, public can stay in the hotel but it boasts astronomical prices, with the rate at £1,000 per-room for Monday, December 19. Most of the rooms have walk-in showers, a large doubled bed, a huge sofa, a walk-in bar and a state-of-the-art technology-based system that allows food to be delivered up to the room.
Although the hotel was notably made for the World Cup, hotel manager Bernd Knaier has admitted that it will be the destination for "individuals and travellers" who are looking for top-tier hospitality.
"We intend to ensure that Raffles Doha will be the destination of choice for individuals and travellers who are looking for ultra-luxury hospitality. We will be able to cater to this market with three theme suites and one Royal Duplex suite, some of which will offer private barber and make-up studios, cinemas, saunas, beverage cellars, virtual reality experiences, steam rooms, and private fitness and wellness facilities," Knaier told Business Traveller.
Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold decided to take a stroll to the Fairmont hotel on Wednesday evening following England's 3-0 win over Wales. The Liverpool man tweeted: "Stroll in the City with Bro @BellinghamJude." The caption was accompanied by a photo of the duo standing in front of the building.
Gareth Southgate's side secured a much-needed win over Wales at the Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium thanks to a Marcus Rashford brace and Phil Foden's strike. The Three Lions topped Group B and will now face Senegal in the last 16 on Sunday evening.
