The Edge Business Travel Guide Qatar 2014

CONTENTSw w w.t h e e d ge . m e

publications director mohamed jaidah [email protected]

general manager joe [email protected]

managing editor miles [email protected]

senior business editor aparajita [email protected]

deputy editor farwa [email protected]

digital editor/editorial asst. shehan [email protected]

international sales director julia [email protected] | +974 66880228

head of business sales manu [email protected] | +974 33325038

sales manager adam kynnersley

[email protected] | +974 66079716

area sales manager UAEroger cousin

[email protected] | +971 508716076

distribution & subscriptions azqa haroon/joseph issac

[email protected]/ [email protected]

art director sarah jabari

production coordinator ron baron

photographer herbert villadelrey

printer ali bin ali printing press Doha, Qatar

firefly communicationsPO Box 11596, Doha , Qatar

Tel: +974 44340360 / Fax: +974 44340359www.firefly-me.com

50 business hotels 4The business traveller’s guide to hotels in Qatar offers details about transport arrangements, business facilities and entertainment options, among other features.

The Edge is printed monthly © 2014 Firefly Communications. All material strictly copyright and all rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part, without the prior written permission of Firefly Communications, is strictly forbidden. All content is believed to be factual at the time of publication. Views expressed by contributors are their own derived opinions and not necessarily endorsed by The

Edge or Firefly Communications. No responsibility or liability is accepted by the editorial staff or the publishers for any

loss occasioned to any individual or company, legal or physical, acting or refraining from action as a result of any statement, fact, figure, expression of opinion or belief contained in The Edge. The publisher (Firefly Communications) does not officially endorse any advertising or advertorial content for third party products. Photography/image credits and copyright, where not specifically stated, are that of Shutterstock and/or iStock Photo or Firefly Communications.

Business Travel Guide Qatar 2014

Know before you go 2If you are planning a trip to Qatar, here is a quick guide with a few essential facts that you might find useful. We have come up with a very short list of common problems you might encounter and how to get around them.

48 hours in Qatar 23For the businessperson visiting Qatar with spare time between meetings or conferences, The Edge Travel Guide offers a range of Doha’s tourist options.

Gastronomic guide to Doha 36Explore Doha’s finest culinary meeting places for the business travellers.

2 | The Edge

Getting around As soon as you exit the airport, there is a taxi stand from where you can take a cab to the hotel. Karwa taxis, the state-licensed operators, are the most economical way to get around Doha, though drivers are known to haggle on prices even though they are not supposed to. Make sure the metre is running, and if not, the ride is free. There are also many unofficial drivers who will offer rides at a much cheaper price, but they are illegal, and are not licensed to operate. The bus system in Doha is quite confusing to use and buses are not always on time. Alternatively there are many ‘limousine’ services that you can call for bookings. They are, however, more expensive than regular taxis; expect to pay a minimum of QAR30 for a journey.

When you drive in QatarIf you are planning to drive during your stay in Qatar, make sure you have a valid International Driver’s Licence. While the validity of an international licence in Qatar varies depending on the passport, with some being valid for the entire duration of the tourist visa, the minimum validity is seven days for all passports, starting from the date of entry into the country. If you need to

QATAR

2 | The Edge

drive for longer, a temporary licence can be obtained after an eye-test and a fee of QAR150.

If you have a road accidentThe first thing you should do is call 999, even if the accident is a minor one – the authorities need to be notified. Do not move your car even if you are on a busy road and think it is a minor accident. The police need to assess the situation to decide who is responsible for the accident. If it is a minor accident on a major road

THINGS TOIf you are planning a trip to Qatar, here is a quick guide with a few essential facts that you might find useful. We have come up with a very short list of common problems you might encounter and how to get around them. by Shehan Mashood

The Edge | 3The Edge | 3

and both parties can agree on who was in the wrong, inform the police of the situation and they might ask you to move your vehicles until they get there. Make sure you get a police report, which will probably happen the following day. Get the name and mobile number of the policeman in question to make for an easier follow-up. When you lose your passportIf you happen to lose your passport, make sure you first contact the police and file a formal report. You will be given a document stating your passport was either lost or stolen, which is what you will need to take to your embassy. Note that some embassies (such as the United States Embassy) require an English translation of the police document. Find contact details of foreign embassies in Qatar at Hukoomi’s website at www.goo.gl/yFM8Ns.

When you go to a meetingMeetings in Doha often do not happen on time – it is normal to find oneself waiting for around 10 to 15 minutes. However, always make sure that you arrive on time, and be prepared to wait. Sometimes, the delays can take much longer, so take your laptop with you, or a tablet to keep yourself occupied. Handshakes are a common greeting for people of the same gender. However, if you are a man meeting a woman, wait to see if she initiates the handshake.

When you aren’t feeling wellAlthough not implemented yet, all visitors to Qatar will eventually be required to purchase health insurance before their visit. A visit to a private hospital can be expensive, so it might be a good idea to purchase travel insurance. Pharmacies are common around Doha, and there is at least one in every mall in Qatar, with a few open for 24 hours. You might have trouble finding the brands you are used to for over-the-counter medication, but the pharmacist should be able to provide you with what you are looking for or a suitable alternative. In case of emergencies dial 999.

THINGS TO KNOW

QATAR BUSINESS

HOTEL LISTINGA to Z accommodation for

travelling businessmen

Location: Near Qatar National Museum

Transport: Airport pickup, private rental, limousine service

Business: Conference room

Entertainment: Restaurants

Location: Near HSBC Bank, Airport Road

Transport: Airport shuttle, limousine service

Business: Business centre, meeting room

Entertainment: Swimming pool, gym, sauna, steam room, two restaurants, cafe

Location: Near Airport arrivals terminal


Business: Business centre

Entertainment: Restaurant serving international cuisine, lobby lounge

Location: Msheireb

Transport: Limousine service

Business: Business centre, boardrooms

Entertainment: Spa, pool bar, restaurants, fitness centre, tour services

AL BUSTAN (BUDGET HOTEL)

AL LIWAN SUITES HOTEL

AL SEEF HOTEL (BUDGET HOTEL)

AMARI DOHA

Contact details:Tel: +974 4432 8888Email: [email protected] www.albustanhotel-qa.com

Contact details:Tel: +974 4424 2888Email: [email protected]


Contact details:Tel: +974 4433 8888 Email: [email protected]/doha/

hotel listing | travel guide

Amari Doha

Location: Old Salata

Transport: Taxi and limousine service, complimentary airport pick up and drop off

Business: Business centre, two banquet rooms that accommodate up to 120 persons

Entertainment: Health club, jacuzzi, gym, tea lounge, restaurant, spa, restaurants

Location: Airport Road


Business: Business centre, conference room for 100 persons, meeting room with 20-person capacity

Entertainment: Restaurants, swimming pool, sauna

Location: Near Grand Hamad Street

Hotel category: Five-star


Business: Business centre, meeting and conference facilities, three banquet halls. Ras Laffan hall can host 300 people, or be divided into three smaller meeting rooms, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, high speed WiFi. The hotel also provides a communication technician

Financial: Currency exchange

In-room amenities: Complimentary WiFi, mini bar, 24-hour room service, wake-up service, daily newspapers

Room choices: Executive suites and deluxe rooms

Entertainment: Olives Restaurant offering international cuisine opens to an open-air terrace adjoining the swimming pool. Trattoria Restaurant, Al Deyafa lobby lounge, health and fitness facilities, spa, steam room, Jacuzzi, sauna, open-air swimming pool, gym

CENTURY HOTEL

COPTHORNE HOTEL DOHA

CONCORDE HOTEL DOHA

Contact details:Tel: +974 4445 5111-112Email: [email protected]

Contact details:Tel: +974 4449 3333Email: [email protected]/copthornedoha

Contact details:Tel: +974 4407 3333Email: [email protected] www.concordedoha.com

6 | The Edge

travel guide | hotel listing

Torch_hotel.indd 1 1/27/14 3:27 PM

Torch_hotel.indd 1 1/27/14 3:27 PM

Location: Near Corniche

Transport: Car rental sevice

Business: Translation services, ballroom, six conference rooms to accommodate total capacity of 400 guests

Entertainment: Swimming pool, spa, gym, wellness centre

Location: Umm Ghuwalina

Transport: Airport service, limousine service

Business: Business centre, meeting room, four banquet halls

Entertainment: Gym, roof-top swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, restaurants, cafe

Location: Next to City Center, West Bay

Transport: Luxury airport transfer, limousine service

Business: 18 meeting rooms, business centre, messenger, secretarial and translation service

Entertainment: Fitness centre, spa, swimming pool, whirlpool, tour services

Location: Near Doha International Airport

Transport: Private limousine

Business: Business centre, executive floors, executive suites

Entertainment: Spa, pool, gym, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna

CORAL HOTEL

CORP EXECUTIVE HOTEL - DOHA SUITES

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT

CROWNE PLAZA




Contact details:Tel: +974 4408 7777Email: [email protected]/dohabp


8 | The Edge

Courtyard by Marriott

Location: Msheireb

Transport: Airport shuttle

Business: Business centre, meeting room

Entertainment: Two restaurants

Location: Near Old Airport


Business: Six meeting rooms with total capacity of 800

Entertainment: Restaurants, nightclub, spa, outdoor pool, private beach

Location: West Bay

Transport: Airport transfers, limousine service

Business: Meeting rooms, business centre, secretarial services

Entertainment: Indoor roof-top pool, gym, spa, restaurants

Location: Near Hamad Orthopedic Hospital


Business: Business centre, conference and meeting facilities, executive floor

Entertainment: Exercise facility, health club, two restaurants, lobby lounge

DOHA PALACE HOTEL (BUDGET HOTEL)

DOHA MARRIOTT

DUNES HOTEL

BESTWESTERN HOTEL


Contact details:Tel: +974 4429 8888, +974 4429 8801 Email: [email protected] [email protected] www.dohamarriott.com




The Edge | 9

Location: West Bay


Business: Convention centre, six fully-equipped boardrooms to accommodate up to 550 persons in total, business centre

Entertainment: Restaurants, health club, swimming pool, spa, free shuttle service to City Center mall

Location: West Bay

Transport: Rental cars, hotel limousine

Business: Business centre, conference planning, state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment

Entertainment: Spa and wellness centre, beachfront grotto pool, tennis and squash courts

Location: West Bay, opposite City Center

Transport: Limousine service, airport transfer

Business: Conference rooms, halls to accommodate up to 400 persons, translation services

Entertainment: Spa, two restaurants, pool bar

Location: Aspire Zone

Transport: Airport transfers, limousine service, car rental service

Business: Business centre, meeting and conference venues, professional events team

Entertainment: Restaurants, fitness facilities, spa, pool, sauna, steam room, whirlpool

EZDAN HOTEL AND SUITES

FOUR SEASONS

GOVERNOR WEST BAY SUITES

GRAND HERITAGE DOHA


Contact details:Tel: +974 4494 8888www.fourseasons.com/dohaEmail: [email protected]

Contact details:Tel: +974 4445 1555 Email: [email protected]



10 | The Edge

Grand Heritage Doha

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Untitled-8.pdf 1 1/27/14 10:51 AM

Location: Near Qatar National Library

Transport: Free airport transfers, limousine service

Business: Two fully-equipped meeting rooms, business centre

Entertainment: Health club, pub, restaurant

GRAND REGAL HOTELContact details:Tel: +974 4409 4444Email: [email protected]

Location: West Bay Lagoon, opposite Lagoona Mall

Transport: Airport limousine transfers, hotel transportation services

Business: 11 meeting rooms, over 2200 square metres of meeting and banquet facilities, staffed by qualified secretaries

Entertainment: Pool, spa, fitness centre, seven innovative restaurants and lounges, 400-metre beach and two outdoor pools and one indoor pool

GRAND HYATT DOHAContact details:Tel: + 974 4448 1234Email: [email protected]

12 | The Edge


Al Zubarah Fort

Location: West Bay


Business: Business centre, seven meeting rooms and ballroom for up to 750 guests

Entertainment: Private beach, spa, outdoor swimming pool, club, six restaurants, gift shop

Location: Al Muntazah

Transport: Limousine and airport shuttle

Business: Boardrooms, 13 meeting rooms, conference hall that can seat up to 300 persons

Entertainment: Spa, billiard and snooker centre, gym, fitness centre, swimming pool

Location: Near Coniche

Transport: Airport transfers

Business: Free wireless internet

Entertainment: Restaurant, gym, swimming pool

Location: West Bay Lagoon

Transport: Private limousine

Business: Business centre, five meeting rooms, courier service

Entertainment: Private beach, restaurants, bars, tennis courts, fitness centre, pool

HILTON

HOLIDAY VILLA

IMPERIAL SUITES

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA

Contact details:Tel: +974 4423 3333 Email: [email protected] www.doha.hilton.com

Contact details:Tel: +974 4408 4888Email: [email protected] www.holidayvilladoha.com


Contact details:Tel: +974 4484 4444Email: [email protected]/doha

The Edge | 13


14 | The Edge

sector name | banner heading

Souq Waqif

Location: West Bay


Business: Business centre, six meeting rooms, courier services, technical concierge, secretarial services

Entertainment: Recreation and sports club, outdoor pool, bars, spa, restaurants

Location: Near Qatar National Library

Transport: Limousine service, airport transfer

Business: Meeting and conference room (coming soon)

Entertainment: Free minibars, restaurant

Location: West Bay

Transport: Limousine service upon request

Business: Business centre, two boardrooms

Entertainment: Restaurants, wellness centre, two indoor pools, cardio and weights areas, two treatment rooms

INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA - THE CITY HOTEL

K108

KEMPINSKI RESIDENCES & SUITES DOHA

Contact details:Tel: +974 4015 8888Email: [email protected]/dohathecity

Contact details:Tel: +974 44 333 000Email: [email protected]

Contact details:Tel: +974 4405 3333Email: [email protected] www.kempinski.com/en/doha


The Edge | 15



Business: Five meeting rooms, two ballrooms, business centre, executive lounge

Entertainment: Gym, spa, indoor swimming pool, beauty salon

LA CIGALE HOTEL


Location: Near Souq Waqif

Transport: Airport transfer, limousine service

Business: Business centre, meeting room, boardroom and theatre with maximum capacity of 35 persons

Entertainment: Restaurant, swimming pool, gym, sauna

KINGSGATE HOTEL DOHAContact details:Tel: +974 4408 5555Email: [email protected]/kingsgatedoha


Location: Al Sadd, Jawaan Street, Next to Al Asmakh Shopping Center


Transport: Rent-a-car desk

Business: Simsima Ballroom can accommodate up to 300 persons, Al Zubara, Al Huwaila, Al Sadd and Lusail meeting rooms can cater for groups from 10 to 50 people

Financial: ATM machine, currency exchange available at the front desk

In-room amenities: Tea and coffee making facilities, direct dial telephone, voice mail, internet connectivity, data port, working desk, hair dryer, mini bar, clock, safe, air conditioning with separate climate control, 24-hour satellite television, daily newspaper, 24-hour room service, laundry and valet services

Room choices: Standard room, deluxe room, club room, junior suite, executive suite, diplomatic suite, presidential suite

Entertainment: Cosmo Restaurant, Zaman Restaurant, Atrium Café, Executive Lounge, Pure Spa

MILLENNIUM HOTEL


16 | The Edge

UDC Supp Feb14.pdf 1 1/9/14 10:42 AM

18 | The Edge


The Edge | 19


Transport: Airport counter

Business: Business centre, four meeting rooms with maximum capacity of 200

Entertainment: Restaurants, pool, bars, gym

MERCURE GRAND HOTELContact details:Tel: +974 4446 2222Email: [email protected]

The Edge | 19


Location: Al Sadd, near Corniche

Transport: Limousine service and airport transfer

Business: Business centre

Entertainment: Private bars, gym, restaurant

LE PARK HOTELContact details:Tel: +974 4425 5555 Email: [email protected]/[email protected]

Location: Near City Center Mall


Transport: Complimentary shuttle service, limousine

Business: Meeting rooms, business centre, pre-function area

In-room amenities: 24-hour room service, laundry services, controlled air-conditioning, satellite television, safe

Room choices: West Bay suite, executive suite, junior suite, executive room, deluxe room

Entertainment: Animato restaurant, Lime Café, Bay View 26 Wellness Centre

Special feature: All rooms and suites are spacious with fully furnished kitchenette

MÖVENPICK TOWER & SUITES DOHA

Contact details:Tel: +974 4496 6600Email: [email protected]/doha-tower-suites

20 | The Edge

Location: West Bay, next to City Center

Transport: Private car service

Business: 18 meeting rooms, business centre, overnight delivery/pickup, translation services

Entertainment: Spa, swimming pool, sauna, fitness centre, restaurants

RENAISSANCE DOHA CITY CENTER HOTELContact details:Tel: +974 4419 5000Email: [email protected]/dohbr


Transport: Limousine service, airport transfer by private car and rental car with driver

Business: Business room, two meeting rooms for up to 20 persons

Entertainment: Indoor pool, sauna, fitness centre

RAMADA ENCORE

Contact details:Tel: +974 4444 3444 Email: [email protected]

20 | The Edge


Location: Salwa Road

Transport: Airport shuttle service, limousine service

Business: 10 conference rooms, business centre

Entertainment: Swimming pool, splash pool, tennis/basketball/squash courts, gym, 11 restaurants

RADISSON BLU

Contact details:Tel: +974 4428 1428Email:[email protected]/hotel-doha

Location: Opposite Airport’s departure terminal

Transport: Car limousine rental

Business: Business centre, 11 meeting rooms with two ballrooms

Entertainment: Jazz club, restaurants, bar, gym

ORYX ROTANA

Contact details:Tel: +974 4402 3333 Email: [email protected]/oryxrotana

Concorde Supp Feb14.pdf 1 1/9/14 10:27 AM

QATAR ITINERARY:

48 HOURS IN QATAR

For the businessperson visiting Qatar with some spare time between meetings or conferences, Qatar has many options. Whether you are an amateur photographer, an art lover, passionate about sports or appreciate browsing for the finer things in life, there is enough for you to explore during your stay in Qatar. Featuring information on recreational getaways, The Edge Business Travel Guide offers a lowdown on Doha’s tourist options. by Farwa Zahra

24 | The Edge

Once the daylight starts to fade, Souq Waqif, the reincarnation of a traditional Arab market near the

banking district of Hamad Street in Old Doha, turns into a bustling place, featuring a collection of Arab restaurants across the length of its thoroughfare, chairs spread out on either side of the avenue. While you are here for dining or shisha, don’t miss a visit to the Doha Art Gallery where you can also get your sketch done. The colourful lamps suspended throughout the length of this rather quiet gallery and paintings hung across its walls are indeed a sight of beauty.

Closer to West Bay and The Pearl, as you walk through the alleys of Katara Cultural Village, relish the feel of old Arabia with water passages on either side of the narrow streets, fabric shades spread above and between buildings that look like clay houses.

On the Corniche, borrow a digital guide at the Museum of Islamic Art, housing a collection of Islamic artworks created between the seventh and 19th centuries in Syria, Iran and Egypt. Just type the item number and it will read out the details to you. The museum is closed on Tuesdays and has different hours on different days of the week. So plan your tour after checking its website.

Immerse yourself in contemporary art as you visit Mathaf – Arab Museum of

CULTURE VULTURE

24 | The Edge

Modern Art, also featuring a research library with free access to WiFi. Another museum you may want to visit is the Sheikh Faisal Museum.

In the north of Qatar, about two hours drive near the town of Shamal, explore Al Zubarah Fort, and relive the 18th and 19th century traditional pearl fishing and merchant town at this archaeological site, which was also named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.

travel guide | 48 hours

Qatar offers a number of cultural attractions from museums housing Islamic art to archaeological sites in Doha’s suburbs. (Image Corbis)


F rom gypsum handicrafts and snow globes to models of traditional Arab boats called dhows, stuffed camels

and metal swords, Souq Waqif features a complete range of Qatari souvenirs. Find gift ideas such as frankincense and perfumes in this market.

Close to Souq Waqif is Gold Souq, considered one of Qatar’s most authentic shopping areas with one of the country’s

CONNOISSEUR OF FINE THINGSlargest collections of gold jewellery. Precious metals, all come with the government’s stamp certifying the purity and authenticity, so you can be sure that you are buying the same quality advertised.

For more retail therapy in Doha, there are more than 10 malls to choose from, featuring the finest products from all over the world, including haute couture and hand-crafted watches. Find a collection of high-end brands from all over the world at Villaggio Mall while enjoying its interior inspired by Italian culture. If time allows, enjoy a gondola ride through the canals across the length of this mall.

For luxury brands, visit The Gate or Lagoona Mall, where you will also find a number of dining options, offering a variety of cuisines. A drive further into The Pearl from Lagoona will take you to the retail area of this man-made island where you can choose from luxury brands such as Jimmy Choo and Roberto Cavalli.

If your budget is limited, browse a more flexible range of brands at City Center in West Bay for everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and home decorations. Finding transport back to your hotel is not an issue with its dedicated drive-through for taxis picking up and dropping off customers.

Because of its location and wide price range, City Center attracts a large number of visitors every day. So if you want to avoid the crowds and explore a quieter place, Landmark Mall or the newly opened Ezdan Mall is the right place for you.

Most malls in Doha offer a variety of coffee shops and dining options from international fast food outlets to fine dining options.

48 hours | travel guide

The Gate is one of the high-end malls in Doha, featuring luxury brands from all over the world. Malls such as City Center offer a more flexible range of brands. (Image Arabian Eye)

26 | The Edge

A s you stroll past the luxury yachts at The Pearl during daytime, be sure to capture the multi-coloured

buildings on both sides of a water path, inspired by Venetian architecture. A drive further toward the centre of the city will lead you to Doha’s famous Corniche.

From here, Doha’s urban skyline gives a spectacular view whether in daylight or at nighttime. Conclude your visit with a cruise on traditional Arab boats called dhows, some of which also offer catering services.

While the skyscrapers showcase Doha’s transformation, one cannot underestimate the country’s historic treasures. For archaeology lovers, the walled coastal town of Al Zubarah in the north of the country is a must. While tour operators can arrange group visits to Al Zubarah and other historic sites such as Al Rakiyat Fort and Al Jassassiya Carvings located in Doha’s suburbs, you can always rent a car and go if on your own.

Explore the Arab world further with a walk across the narrow boulevards within Souq Waqif, which includes shops dedicated to the ancient hunting art of falconry with many of these majestic birds sitting on perches inside and outside.

Speaking of animals, a visit to Al Shaqab, near Education City will offer a look at world-

ADVENTUROUS SIGHTSEER

26 | The Edge

class Arabian horses. Do not forget to book an appointment, as this facility requires prior notice.

Also, close to Education City is Sidra Medical Centre and Research Center. If you follow modern artists, visit to see Damien Hirst’s ‘The Miraculous Journey’ which debuted in Qatar, showing a collection of 14 giant sculptures of human fetuses at different stages of development. The artwork is yet to officially open.

On your way back to the city centre, Katara Cultural Village can also save you some good photographic opportunities, particularly at the beach or perhaps around the amphitheatre or boulevards.

travel guide | 48 hours

The Inland Sea is one of the stopovers during desert safaris in Doha. The inlet surrounded by sand offers a great view around sunset. (Image Corbis)


N o visit to Qatar would be complete without a trip to the desert. Add deflated tyres and 4WD for thrills

and chills. Fasten your seatbelts, and let experienced drivers take you around the edges of enormous sand dunes. Depending on your schedule, choose from a variety of packages, ranging from half-day to overnight safari. You can further select the activities of your choice from dune bashing to sandboarding. Many tour operators also provide hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Also look out for football matches going on in town, and get your tickets from Virgin Stores or buy them online. Try the watersports at Katara beach, which offers water skiing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, parasailing, windsurfing, sailing, boat rides, banana rides, sea pedal boats and fishing trips. You can also visit The Pearl for

ACTIVE OUTDOORSwatersports and catered speedboat rides. The calm waters around Banana Island are perfect for snorkelling.

For the more adventurous, Qatar is known as a prime kitesurfing location, with steady winds from September to May and also features great scuba diving locations. Operators in both watersports offer lessons or tour packages for novices and the experienced alike.

In summer, beat the heat with ice-skating open for public at Gondolania Ice Arena in Villaggio Mall and at City Center Mall. Whether you like going for a walk or just sitting among greenery, visit Aspire Park. Al Bidda Park additionally hosts Heritage Village, reminiscent of a traditional village. Close your day with a visit to Doha Golf Club featuring an 18-hole championship course.

TOUR OPERATORS IN QATARDo not miss the chance to explore Qatar. A prior arrangement with tour operators offering the desert safaris to water sports here can make your visit to Doha a memory of a lifetime.

Arabian AdventuresTel: +974 4436 1461, +974 5556 5359 Email: [email protected]

Gulf Adventure TourismTel: +974 4422 1888Email: [email protected]

Qatar International AdventuresTel: +974 4455 3954Email: [email protected]

Qatar International ToursTel: +974 4455 1141Email: [email protected]

Qatar VenturesTel: +974 401 64750, +974 5577 6679Email: [email protected]://www.qatar-ventures.com

48 hours | travel guide

One of the most famous watersports in Qatar is kitesurfing, particularly in September to May when the winds here are steady.

28 | The Edge

Location: West Bay Lagoon, near Lagoona Mall

Transport: Airport shuttle service, taxi, rental cars

Business: Two ballrooms, six meeting, video-conferencing room

Entertainment: Indoor and outdoor swimming pools, bar, whirlpool, tennis courts, restaurants


Transport: Limousine service, airport service

Business: Business centre, conference room

Entertainment: Restaurant, coffee shop, gym, outdoor pool

RITZ-CARLTON DOHA

ROYAL QATAR HOTEL



28 | The Edge


Location: Al Dafna

Transport: Limousine service, meet and assist service at the airport

Business: Business centre, seven meeting rooms with capacity of up to 80 persons

Entertainment: Health club, outdoor swimming pool, restaurants

RETAJ AL RAYYAN

Contact details:Tel: +974 4420 4444Email: [email protected]/alrayyan/index.php

The Edge | 29


Transport: Hotel Mercedes Viano, limousine service

Business: Business centre, two ballrooms, executive boardroom, outdoor event facilities

Entertainment: Spa, fitness centre, restaurants, private coastline, swimming pools, boutique stores

Location: Corniche

Transport: Car rental service, airport transportation, limousine service

Business: 26 meeting rooms with the maximum capacity of 5000 persons

Entertainment: Restaurants, private beach, fitness facilities, basketball and badminton courts, watersports

Location: Najma, near Doha International Airport

Transport: Limousine service, airport shuttle, rental cars

Business: Meeting room with the maximum capacity of 30 persons, 10-person boardroom

Entertainment: Gym, spa, swimming pools, sports, health club, bar, restaurants

SHARQ VILLAGE AND SPA

SHERATON DOHA RESORT & CONVENTION HOTEL

SAFIR DOHA HOTEL

Contact details:Tel: +974 4425 6666Email: [email protected]/SharqVillage


Contact details:Tel: +974 4445 5333E-mail: [email protected]

The Edge | 29


Sheraton Doha Resort and Convention Hotel

Location: West Bay


Business: Eight meeting rooms, business centre

Entertainment: Private beach, restaurant, bars, spa, pool

ST. REGIS HOTEL



Location: Souq Waqif

Hotel category: Five-star boutique h otel

Transport: Airport limousine service

Business: Conference and meeting facilities, IT, audio-visual support, Al Rayyan Theatre is a 980-seat amphitheatre, WiFi

Financial: ATM, currency exchange

In-room amenities: Espresso machine, internet, data port, desk, hair dryers, safes, room service, direct dial telephone, voice mail, minibar, television, ipod docking station, kitchenette, laundry, valet

Room choices: Coral room, pearl room, coral suite and pearl suite. Some of the rooms interconnect to suit families

Entertainment: Dining choices for various cuisines, swimming pool, fitness centre, Moroccan hammam spa, sauna, jacuzzi, treatment rooms

Special feature: Collection of dhows offers dining with on-board chef

SOUQ WAQIF BOUTIQUE HOTELS(EIGHT HOTELS)

Contact details: Tel: +974 44336666Email: [email protected] www.swbh.com

30 | The Edge

32 | The Edge

Location: Near Museum of Islamic Art

Transport: Limousine service, airport transfer and pick-up service

Business: Business centre, meeting venues for up to 300 guests, secretarial services

Entertainment: Gym, swimming pool, sauna, health club, restaurants

SWISS-BELHOTEL


32 | The Edge


Location: Aspire Zone, Doha’s Sports City


Transport: Airport transfer service, limousine service

Business: Business centre, six meeting and conference rooms, audiovisual equipment, translation booths, smart television

Financial: ATM, currency exchange

In-room amenities: iPad based in-room control, mood lighting system, televisions, safe, hair dryer, complementary refreshments, fridge, WiFi

Room choices: Deluxe room, junior suites with living area and a bedroom, executive suites with living area and two bedrooms, Diplomatic Suites with reception area, private elevator.

Entertainment: Three Sixty (revolving restaurant), Flying Carpet restaurant, health club, pool, sauna, gym, jet showers, treatment rooms

Special features:Room rates from QAR900, Torch Tea Garden (opens this month)

THE TORCH DOHA

Contact details:Tel: +974 4446 5600/ 5800Email: [email protected] www.thetorchdoha.com


The Edge | 33

34 | The Edge

Location: West Bay

Transport: Limousine and town car service, airport transfer

Business: Wired business centre, ballrooms and meeting rooms for business events

Entertainment: Restaurants, bars, bliss spa, fitness centre, travel and tours assistance

W HOTEL


34 | The Edge


The Edge | 35

Location: Al Sadd

Transport: Airport transfer service

Business: Five meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 120 guests

Entertainment: Restaurant, spa, fitness centre, swimming pool

WYNDHAM GRAND REGENCYContact details:Tel: +974 4434 3333 Email: [email protected]

The Edge | 35


36 | The Edge

BUSINESSMAN’S GASTRONOMIC GUIDE TO DOHA Breakfast and lunch As the adage goes, one should breakfast like a king. The best business breakfast can be had at La Varenne, a French bistro located in Tornado Tower, the heart of Doha’s business centre. Surrounded by priceless artwork by Damien Hirst and with a stunning view of West Bay, the atmosphere swells with business swagger. A two-course breakfast will neither break the bank nor induce you into a coma – light, fresh and invariably Mediterranean, the eggs benedict

36 | The Edge

THE TRAVELLING

Laura Hamilton explores Doha’s finest culinary hotspots for the visitor to Qatar.

and the crepes, washed down with an espresso or two is a perfect way to begin your day.

For a caffeine hit or a light lunch, Australian deli Jones the grocer, located in The Gate Mall, has the best coffee in town which is sure to brush jetlag’s cobwebs away. This is an ideal place to have lunch between meetings; Jones offers fresh sandwiches, a variety of hearty staples like spicy tomato soup as well as the more exotic Thai beef salad. The deli is one of the few places in Qatar’s capital that has the atmosphere of a busy, urban city, where business types go to chew the fat, strike deals and swap trade secrets.

The most popular business lunch in town can be found at Market at the W Hotel. Bright and minimalist within, the menu boasts juicy burgers, sumptuous crab salads and truffle pizza. It boasts the ability to serve a three course meal in less than an hour. Busy and sophisticated, Market is the place to see and be seen, and the award-winning food is the cherry on top. The other restaurants in the W Hotel make up a culinary trinity - luring you upstairs to Spice Market is the best sushi and cocktails in town, while the newly

travel guide | gastronomy


opened La Spiga offers authentic Italian cuisine amid a setting reminiscent of the golden age of Hollywood.

For seafood lovers, Nusantao in the Four Seasons offers a business lunch with a difference. An Asian fusion restaurant, it encourages you to choose a wide variety of dishes from different countries and go on a culinary journey. Nusantao has excellent sushi and dim sum.

DinnerContinuing the seafood theme, as Qatar is a peninsula, you can expect some great fish restaurants in its capital. One of the largest and most popular is L’wzaar at Katara Cultural Village, a seafood market where you select your fish and choose how you want it to be cooked. Don’t be late for your booking, as they will give your table away! Another excellent restaurant is Al Sanbouk in Al Jasra, Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels; smaller and more upmarket, it also offers a selection of locally sourced

gastronomy | travel guide

As Qatar is a peninsula, you

can expect some great fish restaurants in its capital.

Hakkasan

fish and seafood. Hammour, a white fish similar to cod, is the most common fish on any menu in Doha, but Al Sanbouk offers a wide range of regionally sourced seafood. The Omani lobster in particular, is not to be missed.

One of the best and most exclusive restaurants in town is IDAM, at the top of the Museum of Islamic Art. Recently opened for lunch, this restaurant has an Alain Ducasse menu, with the decor designed by Philippe Starck himself. French skill married with Arabic ingredients creates a winning menu, with unusual dishes like camel, as well as more traditional dishes like foie gras pâté and octopus, and the best desserts France has to offer. With the option to book for a private party, IDAM will wow you with its Arabian modernity.

A unique Qatari restaurant is Yum Yum in K108. A charitable endeavour, all the profits go to various causes, making a trip to Yum Yum a double pleasure. Serving international cuisine with a touch of France, it is both light yet filling.

38 | The Edge


To impress clients, there

is nothing better than the classic elegance of a steakhouse.

IDAM

La Varenne

To impress clients, there is nothing better than the classic elegance of a steakhouse. The New York Steak House at Renaissance Doha City Center Hotel is pure opulence. Luxurious leather chairs in this small dining room create an atmosphere of a private gentleman’s club. Choose the soft, marbled Wagyu filet, foie gras and peanut butter ice cream to please your tastebuds.

Boasting the best view in Doha, Al Sayyad at the Diplomatic Club offers delicious Arabic cuisine and seafood, the hummus with meat and the grilled calamari is a must at this intimate and quiet venue. Best avoided in the summer months when the heat forces guests inside, the outside terrace affords a view of West Bay’s skyline from across the bay.

Jet-setters will recognise Hakkasan from London - the only Chinese restaurant with a Michelin star, ensconced in the St Regis hotel. The intimate atmosphere is perfect for a post-work aperitif, as well as a slap-up meal. The menu is filled with authentic Mandarin and Cantonese delights such as Peking Duck with Caviar, Hakka Steamed Dim Sum and Jasmine Tea Smoked Wagyu Beef Rib.

Off the beaten track, in popular pedestrian area Souq Waqif, is a plethora of restaurants to sate your appetite. If you’re feeling adventurous, choose Bandar Aden, a restaurant that serves authentic Yemeni cuisine, like salta and fahsa. Book ahead to have them roast a goat in your honour.

40 | The Edge


Laura Hamilton is the Deputy Editor of Sur la Terre Arabia, a lifestyle magazine. She can often be found sampling Doha’s gastronomic delights for research purposes.

Camanito, an Argentine restaurant in Zubarah Boutique Hotel is the hottest new restaurant in town. Offering the usual Argentine fare, like steak and empanados, the rooftop restaurant has a great atmosphere and the added bonus of an unusual location. While most restaurants of note are in West Bay, Camanito is in Msheireb, making it a great alternative to those working in the area.

Honourable mentionsIt would be remiss to visit the Gulf peninsula without taking advantage of it’s homegrown culinary delights - its street food. Although originally from India, chai or karak as the locals call it, is a sweet tea made from condensed milk. Karak and Chapati at Katara Cultural Village sells it for a song and you can sip it while wandering around the labyrinthine architecture. Shawarma is a Middle Eastern staple and can be purchased from various shops around Doha – try Petra, a brightly lit chain, or Royal Istanbul. Do not be fooled by the rustic charm of these joints, as they are making millions.

Souq Waqif

The Edge Business Travel Guide Qatar 2014

Documents

Transcript of The Edge Business Travel Guide Qatar 2014