This is what people think when they imagine opulent middle eastern hotels. The Al Sharq is certainly unique - designed as an Arabia village, it it marked contrast to the typical glass and concrete buildings most hotels are in. The whole place is drenched in marble and fresh flowers - an almighty waste in my opinion, especially as they are changed almost daily. The room was generally well appointed with added extras such as an espresso machine, Bose clock/radio, flat screen tv, fresh bowl of fruit. The bathroom had both a walk in shower as well as a double-ended bath and nice toiletries. However the room and associated service was lacking in certain areas - the fruit was replenished and the plate, cutlery and napkin accompanying them seems to rinsed rather than replaced; the room's air con ducts were directly opposite the bed, meaning that you would invariably wake up during the night freezing to death; there were two beds in most rooms, but these seem to be neither single nor double. The espresso machine was a nice touch, but there was no tea! and the tv had scores of channels but there was no hotel tv (ie to check the bill etc) nor any option of movies on demand. The hotel complex itself has a small beach, an extensive gym and a spa. There's a pool, but as it's an irregular shape, splashing around rather than doing lengths in probably in order. But other than wander the complex, there isn't a huge amount to do. Oh, did I forget to mention the hotel is located an the end of Doha International Airport's runway. This is no exageration - you cannot fail to hear the sound of aeroplanes! (I'm told a new airport is being constructed, though). If you're here on business, enjoy the experience, otherwise give it a miss - it's expensive and doesn't quite hit the target.

I was staying in Doha for a few days on business and cannot believe that I got to stay in this magnificent hotel. I was collected from the airport in chauffeur driven car; this is standard practice for the hotel airport transfer so that was an impressive start. Sharq Village can be seen from the motorway and is a huge complex made of sandstone coloured brick. Upon arrival at the main entrance, I was greet by lots of the staff and made to feel like a king! The entrance and lobby area are so impressive with some beautiful Arabic craftsmanship and marble floors. All the staff at check in were very friendly and courteous. This is something I found with every member of staff. There are plenty of hotels were you know the staff are not interested this is far from the case at Sharq Village. I was taken to my room, with a walk which took me through a small mall, past a cigar lounge and a bank. The room was in its own little building with about five other rooms. Even the inside of this building was impressive with marble flooring and some beautiful plants. Inside the room it kept getting better! The room was very large with a grand four poster bed, a flat screen TV with 50+ channels and a magnificent bathroom. The design was blend of old Arabic, with contemporary fittings very tasteful. During my stay I had access to the buffet restaurant. There are many restaurants around the complex. The buffet was three courses and the choice was fantastic, on an evening you can also ask the chefs to cook some kebabs, I recommend the lamb and chicken skewers delicious. Also there is a large choice for the desert and the cr?me Brule is outstanding! During my time in the restaurant I was really well looked after by all the waiting staff a real pleasure. My only point to warn you of here, lunch is about ?30 and dinner is around ?50 for a buffet! Also beer is ?6 a bottle so this place is very expensive. I also was lucky enough to use the gym, swimming pool and beach and again having nothing but praise. The gym is again in a fantastic setting with brand new high tech equipment, all clean and well maintained. The pool and Jacuzzi are outside behind the beach which overlooks Doha’s skyline, which is out of this world. The pool is ideal for a small swim and really pleasing. Some people have made points about the flight path from the airport and this is a valid point, a bit of noise but it never kept me awake at night. Overall this hotel is simply the best I’ve stayed at, it’s not cheap but for a few days of luxury I would certainly recommend this place!

if you love aircraft you will love this hotel ,19 hours a day of uninterrupted noise from the adjacent airport and a perfect opportunity to see all from a very close range by the pool.Yes ,staff are great and the hotel inside is magnificent ,but what is the point of a spa when you want peace and tranquility and you get boeing and airbus.Maybe the hotel will be better in 3 years when the airport moves but for now avoid it as the cost for the experience is frankly dishonest. AS CONCERNING WAS THE FAILURE TO GET ANY RESPONSE FROM RITZ CARLTON ON SENDING A COMPLAINT BY E MAIL