Evaluate: Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha

The Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha, a new property from Hilton’s most luxurious brand, opened its doors in December 2022. It’s one of the many brand-new hotels in Qatar that made a debut in time for the FIFA World Cup 2022.

I first laid eyes on this property when I had attended the World Cup during my stay at the nearby Agora Doha; however, it was full and prohibitively expensive at the time, so I opted to wait until another opportunity came by.

Therefore, I was quite pleased when I had a chance to book the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha on a recent layover in Doha en route to South East Asia.

Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha – Booking

As a highly sought-after property, a stay at the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha commands an average nightly rate of 1,000 QAR ($375 CAD), with some variability depending on the time of year and other factors.

I was fortunate enough to secure my stay at the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha through the Hilton Honors program at a discounted member’s rate of approximately 950 QAR ($360 CAD).

If redeeming points, the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha costs 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night, corresponding to ~$490 (CAD) as per our Points Valuations.

To squeeze further value out of your points, you can book this hotel for four nights using points and get the fifth night free, lowering the cost to 56,000 points per night. You can also redeem Hilton Free Night Rewards for a stay here, if you happen to have one available.

Keep in mind that this property participates in Hilton Impresario, a preferred partner program. By booking your stay through an authorized travel advisor, you’ll enjoy a suite of extra perks, such as free breakfast, a $100 (USD) hotel credit, and more, all while paying the same as the best available flexible rate.

Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha – Location

The Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha rests in the idyllic setting of the new city of Lusail on the northeast coast of Qatar, whilst also just a short 15-minute drive from the Doha’s city centre.

The property is nestled among a few luxury hotels, such as Le Royal Méridien Doha and the Agora Doha, the latter of which I had the privilege of staying on a prior trip to Doha.

Conveniently, it’s a quick three-minute walk to the brand-new Place Vendôme shopping mall in Lusail, where you can find a wide range of upscale retailers. 

The Lusail Stadium was the venue for the final of the 2022 FIFA World Cup and is just a five-minute drive from the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha. Also nearby is the recently opened Crescent Park, which is an easy 10-minute drive away.

Other major sights and sounds of Doha are about a 20–30-minute drive from the hotel, such as the Souq Waqif, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the National Museum of Qatar. Keep in mind that visiting these attractions may require additional planning if you’re staying at the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha or elsewhere in Lusail. 

Lastly, the Waldorf Astoria is situated about 30 minutes away from Hamad International Airport (DOH) by car. 

Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha – Check-in

Approaching the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha, I admired the hotel’s façade, which was formed of a series of layered curves that evoked a nautical theme.

The entrance is framed by white stone pillars, marble accents and a centre water feature, creating a stately arrival that blends well with its surroundings.

As I entered the hotel, I was greeted by a lobby bathed in a warm, soft white light that filtered in through sheer white curtains.

Immediately at the centre of the lobby is the hotel’s Peacock Alley, with ample dining tables among comfortable armchairs. Large expansive windows allow for a view of the stunning hotel grounds out back.

There are two check-in desks that are elegantly lit and off to the side of the lobby.

As I approached the front desk, I was warmly welcomed and given a brief introduction to the hotel and its facilities.

To my delight, I was informed that I had been upgraded from a base-level room to a luxurious Two Queen One-Bedroom Suite as a result of my Hilton Diamond status (the two queen beds, as I was with a travel companion on this stay).

Furthermore, I was informed that breakfast for two would be included on account of my Diamond status as well.

With that, we made our way over a striking elevator lobby and up to the room. The elevator doors were adorned with gold embellishments and the design had a touch of old-world charm.

Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha – Two Queen One-Bedroom Suite

The guest room hallways are characterized by a rich, dark blue carpet and dark wooden panelling. This sophisticated aesthetic provides a stark contrast to the bright and airy ambiance of the hotel’s public areas.

Upon entering the Two Queen One-Bedroom Suite, I was greeted by a pristine space with white interiors. However, dark wooden floors and tasteful gold accents lent depth and richness to the space.

At the forefront of the suite is a dining table with seating for four.

Continuing deeper into the suite is an elegant seating area, comprised of a plush sofa and armchair.

Opposite the seating area is the living room’s focal point, a sizeable entertainment centre, boasting a large flat-screen TV and decorative elements.

Adjacent is a modern desk with a minimalist design that provides a functional workspace.

At the front of the living area is where the minibar, replete with a Nespresso coffee maker and glassware cabinet, is situated.

Heading through the door on the right-hand side, you’ll find a large bedroom, equipped with two queen beds. The room is complete with an armchair in the left-hand corner and a large flat-screen TV mounted on the opposite wall.

(It’s my understanding that the King One-Bedroom Suite comes with a similar layout, just with a king-sized bed in place of two queen beds.)

Heading towards the bathroom is an expansive walk-in closet featuring a vanity, ample storage space, and a full-body mirror. A plush robe was thoughtfully provided for added comfort.

A true marvel of the One-Bedroom Suite is the bathroom, decked out in an opulent marble finish that adorns every surface from the floor right up to the ceiling.

In the room, there’s a double vanity and an adjacent walk-in shower concealed behind glass doors.

(It was here that I discovered the only downside to the room: the water pressure in the shower, which could use a little boost.)

On the other side, a bidet and regular toilet are arranged behind a separate glass door.

You’ll also have access to your own well-appointed private balcony, which offers breathtaking views of the sea and the resort’s grounds and pools. The views can be taken in as you make use of the elegant beach-style patio furniture.

The One-Bedroom Suites here at the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha exude a sense of tasteful elegance, just as I would’ve expected.

The marble-clad bathrooms are a highlight of the room, but the real showstopper here has to be the breathtaking sea views from the balcony.

Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha – King Deluxe Room with Sea View

I also had the opportunity to tour some of the other room types available at this hotel.

The King Deluxe Room with Sea View is the second tier of guest rooms, above the base-level King Deluxe Room, which is identical in layout but faces away from the sea.

With its spacious single bedroom featuring a king bed, armchair, desk, and flat-screen TV, the King Deluxe Room offers a simple but comfortable option at this property. 

The bathroom features an alcove bathtub, double vanity, and walk-in shower.

In this room, you’ll also enjoy a private furnished balcony with stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf.

The King Deluxe Room and similar room types would be a good option for guests who don’t require too much extra space, but who are also seeking out a more affordable rate. 

Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha – King Residence

The Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha also plays host to a series of residence units, which essentially offer you a fully furnished apartment on the property. Hotel guests also have the option of booking these residences to stay on a short-term basis.

The King Residence is an impressive space with ample natural light and a similarly airy and bright interior. The residence features a separate living area, complete with an L-shaped sofa and two armchairs positioned in front of a flat-screen TV.

The bedroom is also spacious and minimalist, and it’s equipped with a king bed, armchair, and secondary flat-screen TV.

The bathroom here is also elegantly designed with marble, although not quite as lavish as that of the rooms and suites. Here you’ll find a large bathtub, dual vanity, and walk-in shower.

Both the living area and bedroom have access to a private balcony, offering stunning views and fresh air.

The King Residence includes a fully equipped kitchen with an oven, stovetop, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer.

Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha – King Sky Villa

Also situated on the residences side, the King Sky Villa at the Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha is an epitome of opulence and luxury.

The spacious living room features breathtaking curved floor-to-ceiling windows, complete with two full-sized sofas and two armchairs, which face a flat-screen TV.

The dining table, capable of seating eight people, is discreetly placed in the right-hand corner.

The bathroom is fitted with a dual vanity and a walk-in shower-tub combination, also adorned with marble.

The crown jewel of this villa is the stunning rooftop balcony, which offers multiple seating areas, lounge chairs with umbrellas, and your own private jacuzzi. All of this comes with panoramic views of the resort grounds, pools, and the sea in the distance.

Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha – Breakfast

Breakfast is hosted at Bywater, the hotel’s chic and sophisticated all-day dining venue that draws inspiration from the iconic French Quarter of New Orleans.

I enjoyed breakfast here the following morning, and there was a great range of options. You can select from a varied buffet spread or the à la carte menu.

The buffet features several traditional Middle Eastern options, such as falafel with tahini, Arabic lentil soup and foul medames. Popular local specialties also include shakshouka, manakish, and khanfaroosh.

Western breakfast staples were available, including pancakes, scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, and chicken chipolatas.

In addition to the hot dishes, the breakfast buffet features a range of cold options, such as fresh fruit, a yogurt station, and a selection of cured meats, fish, and cheese.

There’s also a variety of breads, pastries, and sweets available for those who have a sweet tooth.

I decided to try the à la carte selection, choosing an Asian-inspired dish in the form of the miso ramen. While I wouldn’t describe it as exceptional, it was a nice addition to the menu, and I appreciated that it was there as an option.

I also sampled some of the other à la carte breakfast options, like the short rib croissant and the lamb meatballs with eggs, which were definitely tastier. 

Notably, the service at Bywater was wonderful. Whether it was refilling drinks, offering recommendations, or simply checking in to make sure everything was to our liking, the staff was always available and helpful.

Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha – Dining

The hotel boasts an array of dining options, all conveniently located just off the lobby on the ground level. Each venue appears to be quite strong with what it has to offer.

As you navigate through the hotel, you’ll pass under beautiful white illuminated arches that eventually give way to golden arches, leading you to Sushisamba.

Having now opened in Doha in addition to its existing locations in Las Vegas, London, and Dubai, this popular global restaurant chain blends Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisines, prepared in an open kitchen.

The bar at Sushisamba is a perfect display of the exceptional architecture that can be found at most Waldorf Astoria properties around the world, featuring an abstracted tree canopy as its centrepiece.

Another new addition to Qatar’s dining scene is Scarpetta. This venue takes classic Italian dishes and updates them for modern tastes, in a beautiful setting.

Accessible via a sleek set of staircases from the ground level, The Highmore is a stylish two-floor rooftop lounge that provides a great spot for a drink and to take in the views. In addition to a stunning terrace and live music, there’s a dedicated games room if playing pool is your thing.

Then there’s Wyld Erth, a café that promotes rejuvenation and self-care, situated by the hotel’s spa. The menu is crafted by a dedicated chef and offers wholesome meals and juices made with organic ingredients.

Finally, at the beach you can find a selection of beverages and snacks at Praia, where the Persian Gulf provides a breathtaking backdrop.

Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha – Beach & Pools

Heading down a level from the ground floor, you can head outside to the Beach Club.

The hotel’s landscape draws inspiration from the curves and lines of its façade, starting with lounging areas that then blend into the hotel’s private beachfront. This stretch of beach happens to be the only private beach in Lusail.

There are three swimming pools, including one for adults, one for families, and one for children. Additionally, the Aloha Surf Club features a surf pool if you’re keen to try your hand at surfing.

The property is filled with numerous lounge chairs, including some that are partially submerged in water. Cabanas are also available for those seeking shade, both by the pools and on the beach.

A likely draw for families to the hotel is the on-site Wadi Lusail Waterpark, featuring waterslides and interactive play zones. It also features a vibrant outdoor playground and a separate club for kids and teens.

Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha – Other Facilities

The ESPA Spa at the hotel is a magnificent three-storey facility, offering a wide range of thermal experiences, signature treatment rooms, and traditional hammams.

One unique feature of the spa is the inclusion of a snow room, aimed at promoting improved blood circulation.

This was my first time seeing a snow room anywhere, and I thought this was a truly unique and creative offering – something that I might well be tempted to book a spa treatment just to experience!

The fitness centre appeared to be well-equipped with a notable selection of cardio machines including treadmills and bikes. 

Moreover, large floor-to-ceiling windows allow for plenty of natural light in the room.

In addition to the fitness centre and spa, the hotel offers several other noteworthy amenities.

Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a game of padel or tennis on the hotel’s private courts, while an in-house luxury boutique offers some retail therapy. 

Finally, the Jean-Marie Auboine chocolatier has a tempting selection of artisanal chocolates and confections.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for luxury accommodations in Doha, the Waldorf Astoria Lusail is a top-notch hotel that’s sure to become a hotspot in Lusail as the newly built city develops over time. 

During my short stay, I was impressed by breathtaking views from my One-Bedroom Suite, the grandiose public spaces, and the impeccable food and service at breakfast in the morning.

Additionally, the hotel’s style and design did not disappoint – Waldorf Astoria hotels are known for their remarkable style, and the Lusail property was no exception. In particular, I appreciated the contrast between the bright and pristine lobby areas and the touches of dark wood and classical designs in the hallways.

Overall, the Waldorf Astoria Lusail is an exceptional hotel that delivers on all fronts. I’d be happy to return in the future one day – although I’m just as keen to checking out the new Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay located in the city centre once it opens later this year.