The Pearl-Qatar
Ad Dawḩah
The Pearl-Qatar is a remarkable artificial island located in Doha, Qatar, spanning nearly 4 square kilometers and creating 32 kilometers of new coastline. It is the first land in Qatar available for freehold ownership by foreign nationals, making it a unique real estate destination. The island is divided into 12 distinct precincts, each featuring diverse architectural styles inspired by Arabic, Mediterranean, and European cultures. Notable areas include Porto Arabia with its 31 towers and 4,700 apartments, Viva Bahriya precinct with 29 towers, and Qanat Quartier, a Venice-like community known for its extensive canal system, pedestrian plazas, and a replica of Venice's Rialto Bridge. The Pearl also hosts six luxury hotels, including the Marsa Malaz Kempinski and The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, both located on private islets. Visitors and residents enjoy a variety of sports facilities such as tennis, padel, and squash courts, alongside numerous restaurants and retail outlets. The island features diverse transport options including golf carts, boat taxis, limousines, and bus routes connecting to Doha's metro system. The Pearl-Qatar is not only a residential and leisure hub but also a venue for events such as the 2023 Qatar Classic Cars contest and activities during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, making it a vibrant and prestigious destination in the Gulf region.
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Tip: The best time to visit The Pearl-Qatar is during the cooler months from October to April when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and exploring the waterfront precincts. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets or make reservations for events and hotels in advance, especially during peak seasons and major events like the FIFA World Cup. Exploring the island via boat taxis in Qanat Quartier offers a unique perspective of the canals and architecture. Discounts may be available for residents and visitors booking multiple services or accommodations. Utilize golf carts for easy transportation within precincts like Porto Arabia and Medina Centrale.
Interesting facts
- •The Pearl-Qatar created 32 kilometers of new coastline in Doha.
- •It was the first land in Qatar available for freehold ownership by foreign nationals.
- •Qanat Quartier features a replica of Venice's Rialto Bridge.
- •The island hosts six luxury hotels, including Marsa Malaz Kempinski and The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island on private islets.
- •The Pearl was a venue for events during the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2023 Qatar Classic Cars contest.
History
The Pearl-Qatar project was unveiled in 2004 as a major artificial island development in Doha, initially costing around $2.5 billion, with the final cost rising to approximately $15 billion upon completion.
It marked a milestone as the first area in Qatar offering freehold ownership to foreign nationals.
Over the years, the island developed into a vibrant residential and commercial hub, with the first residents moving into areas like Qanat Quartier by 2012.
The island has since expanded to include luxury hotels, sports facilities, and commercial services like The Central Authority Directorate, which opened in 2011.
The Pearl also played a role as a venue for sporting and cultural events, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Place Guide
Porto Arabia Towers
A precinct comprising 31 towers with a total of 4,700 residential apartments, known for its waterfront views and luxury living. It features golf cart transportation and offers a vibrant community atmosphere.
Qanat Quartier2012
A Venice-inspired precinct with an extensive canal system, pedestrian-friendly squares, 15 bridges including a replica of the Rialto Bridge, 977 apartments, 188 townhouses, and 200 retail units. It offers boat taxi transport and a unique waterfront lifestyle.
Abraj Quartier
Located at the entrance of The Pearl-Qatar, featuring seven towers including the tallest buildings planned for the development, rising up to 40 storeys high.
Luxury Hotels
The Pearl-Qatar hosts six luxury hotels such as Marsa Malaz Kempinski and The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island on private islets, along with Hilton Doha The Pearl, Four Seasons Resort and Residences, Retaj Baywalk Residence, and Sedra Arjaan by Rotana.
