Find out why Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha gets the family formula right
For longstanding Doha residents, Rixos Gulf Hotel occupies a very familiar spot. Many remember it as the old Marriott, and before that the Gulf Hotel. For us, it was the site of many happy memories. There is even a small plaque in the lobby paying homage to those predecessors.
Speaking of the lobby, it was grand and spacious, with lots of seating and a piano on an elevated section, hinting at live entertainment. Beyond it was a play area for young people, with soft play and snooker, an early indication of its well-deserved family credentials.
Sonia, who is exceptionally warm and friendly, checked us in. In fact, every member of staff seemed genuinely eager to help. There was also a real emphasis on safety, with security guards between the lobby and pool area, allowing families to let their kids move freely while parents relaxed.
Our room was on the 10th floor, with a prime view over the pool and sea and Stadium 974 right next door. A large bay window slid across to reveal a small balcony. We had a large queen-size bed and a bathroom with a rain shower and seat, large central sink, and separate toilet. I particularly liked the cabinetry. Everything was clean and discreet, with a door hiding the kettle and pull-out fridge. The room was also especially quiet, helped by heavy doors and carpeted hallways.
We ate both lunch and breakfast at Farmhouse, which was extremely well stocked. There were piles of fresh breads and pastries, including simit at breakfast, alongside fresh fruit, salads and a huge dessert selection.
The savoury selection covered pretty much everything: steak, chicken, fish, Italian dishes, pizza and pasta cooked to order, alongside Arabic and Asian options. Breakfast was equally extensive, from a Western-style cooked breakfast, pancakes, waffles, sausages and beef bacon through to Arabic fare and Asian influences.
A really nice touch was the table service for drinks. Teas, coffees, juices and other drinks were brought to the table, with enhanced beverages available after midday for those on the all-inclusive package.
After lunch, we headed outside. There was a pool beside the restaurant, with shaded seating, loungers built into the water and a separate jacuzzi. Beyond that, the grounds stepped down towards the beach and a second, much bigger pool overlooking the sea, with cabanas and food and drink outlets nearby.
What was particularly lovely was the organic feel of the grounds. Trees, grasses, shrubs and plants were spread across several levels leading down towards the sea, mixed with natural stone and wooden structures. Some rooms sat within the gardens just back from the beach, so you could literally walk out and head straight towards the water.
For families, there was an outdoor play area with a climbing wall and table tennis, while the watersports centre offered stand-up paddleboards, canoes, banana boats and what appeared to be jet skis. Accessibility had clearly been considered too, with gently sloping ramps throughout. We also witnessed a lovely scene where a lifeguard was blowing up armbands for a little girl. These thoughtful acts, often unseen, speak volumes about the quality of the staff. It made us reminisce about holidays we had spent with our now grown-up girls. We both agreed that had the hotel been around back then, our family would have absolutely adored it.
After being outdoors, we decided to cool off in Crust in the lobby. With pastries, coffees, teas and soft drinks included in the all-inclusive package and cakes available with a 50% discount, it proved the ideal spot to relax after a spot of sunbathing.
The fitness facilities were equally comprehensive. We used the weights area, which had dumbbells, Olympic weights, a cable machine and kettlebells, alongside a full cardio suite. There was also a Pilates or calisthenics studio, a dedicated section for women and classes such as Tabata and aquatic combat.
That evening we opted for Mr. Tailor Steakhouse, which was exceptional. On our all-inclusive package, we received a 50% discount on the food, while our enhanced beverages were still included. Those staying two nights also have the option to dine there as part of the inclusive package on their second night.
We went for the Low and Slow dish, which included ribeye steak, Asda and short rib, along with two sides per person. The quality was absolutely excellent and there was so much food that we couldn't possibly finish it.
Overall, what struck us most was the value for money. Sometimes with an all-inclusive family resort you feel you're sacrificing something, whether that's the quality of the accommodation, surroundings, food or facilities. Here, nothing really seemed to have suffered. They even offered what they called a midnight snack between midnight and 2am.
Some resorts can feel cramped, whereas this felt expansive. You could find somewhere quiet to relax or get involved in the party atmosphere around the pool with the DJ. You could sit in the lobby with your laptop and a coffee, head to the beach, use the gym or spa, or let the kids enjoy the outdoor activities and watersports.
The quality of the hotel and rooms was excellent, the staff were exceptionally friendly and the facilities catered extremely well for adults and children. Sonia even made a point of coming to say goodbye to us at the door when we left.
For us, they've got the mix really, really right.
