Event Planning
in Qatar
ISSUE
94
CHOOSING THE IDEAL LOCATION CRAFTING A MEMORABLE EVENT WITH ALL FUNCTION AND CATERING OPTIONS
guide
WINTER 2025/26
The Westin, Doha
EGUIDE COVER LAYOUT M94.indd 5
29/11/2025 2:43 PM
Celebrations at The Ned Doha From an intimate gathering to a milestone celebration or outside catering, our dedicated team is committed to ensuring every experience is uniquely tailored for you.
theneddoha
MORE INFO
+974 5117 6568
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 THE NED EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:04 AM
UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS CELEBRATE YOUR EVENT WITH A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE
BARAHAT MSHEIREB STREET, MSHEIREB DOWNTOWN DOHA, DOHA, QATAR +974 4008 8888 modoh-catering@mohg.com
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 MANDARIN ORIENTAL DOHA EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:04 AM
Founder & Managing Editor Hilary Bainbridge Editorial Sarah Palmer (Editor) Ola Diab (Deputy Editor) Terry Sutcliffe Advertising Howard Bainbridge Marrian Magtira Retail Sales Ayen Molina Online/Digital Weslee Dizon Patrisha Manzon Charlotte Wright Juggy Gill Khaled Emad Design and Artwork Dick Tamayo Mar Principe
000
Marhaba endeavours to quote accurate information and updates each of its sections every issue. However, the company accepts no responsibility or liability for any false, inaccurate, inappropriate or incomplete information presented, whether in print, on the website, or on social media channels. © 2025/26 Marhaba Information Guide. All Rights Reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without written permission of the publishers.
Dana Public Relations PO Box 3797, Doha, Qatar Tel (+974) 4465 0083, 4465 5533 General Information marhaba@marhaba.com.qa
Follow us
000 IMPRESSUM M94 HALF LAYOUT.indd 1
29/11/2025 3:07 PM
The Parisian Suite is an iconic stage for unforgettable intimate celebrations. With panoramic Arabian Gulf views, a private terrace, opulent dining room, the suite transforms into an exceptional setting for weddings, engagements, or private events. Upto 30 guests
For Reservations: M: +974 4030 7100 | W: +974 5993 4597 | E: reservations.doha@raffles.com www.raffles.com/doha/
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 RAFFLES EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:05 AM
Raffles Doha
Qabila Westbay Hotel by Marriott
Dusit Doha Hotel
Qabila Westbay Hotel by Marriott
Steigenberger Hotel Doha
Doha Dusit Hotel
Steigenberger Hotel Doha
BANQUETTING INTRO M88.indd 2
Steigenberger Hotel Doha
Four Seasons Doha
06/12/2023 9:59 AM
Catering to Your Event Qatar is the perfect place for dedicated foodlovers, where you can linger over a five-star meal or pop into a simple roadside eatery for a snack. Wherever your tastes fall on the gastronomic spectrum, you’re sure to find something to enjoy.
tel by Marriott
And this is also true for your special event, whether this be a formal business function, a birthday get-together, or inviting friends and family to help you celebrate your wedding. Location and atmosphere always add that extra touch to any dining experience and Qatar offers an exciting range of venues. Many of the hotels have dedicated function rooms, banqueting halls or private dining areas in their restaurants. As well as these indoor venues, some hotels offer open-air spaces, allowing for guests to enjoy themselves while overlooking the Arabian Gulf or beautiful landscaping.
tel by Marriott
a
Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas
Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha
Don’t forget that you can also have your gatherings fully catered in the comfort of your own home! Sit back and relax, as the outside catering team will provide all the necessary food and beverages, tables, chairs, chinaware, stemware, audiovisual equipment, and anything else you require to make your event just the very best. See our list of preferred hotels for details about guest capacities, cuisines on offer, equipment availability, and much more.
Fairmont Doha
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha
BANQUETTING INTRO M88.indd 3
06/12/2023 10:01 AM
TO BOOK YOUR DREAM WEDDING, PLEASE CALL +97466826315.
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY CENTER EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:06 AM
The Perfect Stage for YouR oCCASIoN Celebrate your most meaningful moments at The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island. our exquisite ballroom, complete with a refined foyer and a private VIP majlis, provides the perfect backdrop for elegant weddings, engagement celebrations, and premium corporate events. Whether you’re saying “I do” or hosting an executive gathering, our dedicated event specialists ensure every detail is flawlessly orchestrated. The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl Qatar +974 4020 4444 events.marsa@stregis.com www.stregismarsaarabia.com
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 ST REGIS MARSA ARABIA EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:07 AM
Banqueting, Conference, Catering HOTELS
TELEPHONE
WEBSITE
Aleph Doha Residences – Curio Collection by Hilton
4004 7400
alephdoharesidences.curiocollection.com
Al Najada Doha Hotel
4470 4444
tivolihotels.com/en/al-najada-tivoli
Alwadi Hotel Doha - MGallery Collection
4009 9999
mgallery.accor.com
Andaz Doha by Hyatt
4452 1234
hyatt.com/andaz/dohaz-andaz-doha2
Banana island Resort Doha
5594 1827
anantara.com/banana–island–doha
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Doha – Al Sadd
4004 7400
dohaalsadd.doubletreebyhilton.com
Dusit Doha Hotel
4004 4316
dusit.com
Dusit Hotel & Suites - Doha
4004 4316
dusit.com
Fairmont Doha
4030 7200
fairmont.com/doha
Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas
4423 6666
salwabeachresort.qa
InterContinental Doha The City
4015 8888
dohawestbay.intercontinental.com
JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha
4429 5000
marriott.com
Le Méridien City Center, Doha
4041 3341
marriott.com
Le Royal Méridien Place Vendome Lusail
4141 6000
leroyalmeridiendoha.com
Mandarin Oriental, Doha
4008 8888
mandarinoriental.com/doha/en/doha/msheireb/celebrate#
Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel
4419 5015
marriott.com
Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha
4035 5555
kempinski.com/marsamalaz
Mondrian Doha
4045 5555
mondriandoha.com
Al Fasl Meeting Room, Fairmont Doha
Berlin Ballroom at Steigenberger Hotel Doha
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 10 Banqueting, Conference, Catering M94.indd 2
12/2/25 9:27 AM
CUISINE
BANQUETING CONFERENCE
WEDDINGS
OFFSITE CATERING
EQUIPMENT PROVIDED
STAFF PROVIDED
m
International, Arabic
60
120
✘
✔
✔
✔
li
International
150
300
✔
✔
✔
✔
International, Arabic
250
250
✔
✔
✔
✔
ha2
International, Oriental
450
350
✘
✔
✔
ha
International
Up to 200
Up to 200
✔
✔
✔
✔
m
International
200
140
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
500
500
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
100
60
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
700
800
✔
✘
✔
✔
International
Up to 775
Up to 620
✔
✘
✔
✔
International
150
60
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
420
Up to 600
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
180
80
✔
✘
✔
✔
International
600
600
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
20 to 350
50 to 400
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
700
400
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
Up to 1100
Up to 1100
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
Up to 800
40
✔
✔
✔
✔
m
/msheireb/celebrate#/
Catering by Mandarin Oriental, Doha
Katara Hall at Raffles Doha
M WINTER 2025/26 © 11 Banqueting, Conference, Catering M94.indd 3
12/2/25 9:27 AM
ALL SUCCESSFUL PATH COMES FROM COMFORT BOOK NOW +974 4496 6600 Diplomatic Street, West Bay - Doha, Qatar
Marriott.com/dohkw
Qabila Westbay Hotel by Marriott
@qabilawestbay
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 QABILA WEST BAY EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:08 AM
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS CITY EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:09 AM
YOUR EVENTS DESERVE AN ICONIC CELEBRATION Host your special occasions in one of Doha’s most versatile event destinations - featuring 12 dynamic meeting spaces, a grand ballroom, flexible group packages, and state-of-the-art audiovisual technology.
CONNECT WITH US
Terms & Conditions Apply +974 4492 1513 Events.Doha@Westin.com M2025-WESTIN-MARHABA-FW-Artworks.indd EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 3
17/07/2025 4:23 PM
000 WESTIN EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:10 AM
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 DUSIT DOHA HOTEL EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:10 AM
Banqueting, Conference, Catering HOTELS
TELEPHONE
WEBSITE
Park Hyatt Doha
4009 1234
parkhyattdoha.com
Qabila Westbay Hotel
3100 6466
qabilawestbayhotel.com
Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha
4428 1636
radissonblu.com/hotel-doha
Raffles Doha
4030 7100
raffles.com/doha
Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha
4429 8666
www.rixos.com/doha
Rosewood Doha
4030 3333
rosewoodhotel.com
Sealine Beach, A Murwab Resort
4021 4000
sealinebeachqatar.coma
Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels
4433 6661
tivolihotels.com/en/souq-waqif-doha
Steigenberger Hotel Doha
4020 1666
steigenberger.com
The Ned Doha
4406 1111
thened.com/doha
The Plaza Doha, LXR Hotels & Resorts
4040 2222
hilton.com
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha
4484 8321
ritzcarlton.com/doha
The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl - Qatar
4420 4444
marriott.com/dohxp
The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa
4492 1555
westindoha.com
W Doha Hotel & Residences
4453 5000
wdoha.com
Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail
5999 8673
waldorfastorialusaildoha.com
Waldorf Astoria West Bay Doha
4008 9000
hilton.com
Al Bidda, Al Jasra, Al Jomrok, Al Mirqab, Al Najada, Arumaila, Bismillah, Musheireb, Najd
Pearl Ballroom at Dusit Doha Hotel
Venus Room at Radisson Blu Hotel, Doha
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 16 Banqueting, Conference, Catering M94.indd 4
12/2/25 9:28 AM
ha
CUISINE
BANQUETING CONFERENCE
WEDDINGS
OFFSITE CATERING
EQUIPMENT PROVIDED
STAFF PROVIDED
International
200
250
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
160
200
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
60
18
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
1350
1800
✔
✘
✔
✔
300
✔
✔
✔
✔
International International
Up to 600
Up to 1034
✘
✔
✔
✔
International
1000
45
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
50
100
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
150
Up to 200
✔
✘
✔
✔
Arabic, International
270
150
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
Up to 1200
Up to 800
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
550
480
✘
✔
✔
✔
International
300
300
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
1000
Up to 850
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
500
1000
✔
✔
✔
✔
International
✔
✘
✔
✔
International
✔
✘
✔
✔
300
189
Westbay 2 at Qabila Westbay Hotel by Marriott
The Ned Doha
M WINTER 2025/26 © 17 Banqueting, Conference, Catering M94.indd 5
12/2/25 9:28 AM
CELEBRATE THE SEASON IN STYLE Whether it’s an end-of-year corporate dinner or a family gathering, InterContinental Doha The City sets the stage for unforgettable moments. Our elegant venues, curated menus, and thoughtful service come together to reflect the spirit of the season, allowing you to relax, connect, and savour every detail.
BUFFET | FAMILY STYLE | SEATED MENU
For more information and inquiries : +974 4015 8888 | +974 5575 9206 sales.icdohatc@ihg.com www.intercontinental.com
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 INTERCONTINENTAL DOHA THE CITY EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:11 AM
Bespoke Events, Unforgettable Memories Whether you are planning an intimate engagement, an elegant henna night, a private event at Sora, or a memorable birthday celebration, our team will craft a personalized experience for you at Park Hyatt Doha.
+974 31587931 |
dohph.rfp@hyatt.com M WINTER 2025/26 © 000
PARK HYATT DOHA EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:12 AM
Festive Events Qatar’s hotels provide the perfect venue to celebrate any occasion. With a flash of colour, music, culture and, of course, delicious food, they bring a festive ambience to Qatar National Day (18 December), Christmas and New Year, and Ramadan and Eid. Contact one of the hotels in our exclusive listings for more details, visit marhaba.qa for news and events calendars, and follow us on our social media channels. Qatar National Day cakes and hampers
Festive brunches and events for all ages!
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 Festive events M94.indd 2
02/12/2025 10:31 AM
Take it easy over the festive season and have your special day fully catered at home! There are turkey packages ‘to go’, as well as wait staff, tables, chairs, silverware, glassware, and much more readily available – see our listings!
Ring in the New Year in style!
Celebrate Ramadan and Eid, with a variety of options from corporate gatherings to sumptuous tents to enjoy with friends and family.
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 Festive events M94.indd 3
02/12/2025 10:32 AM
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 STEIGENBERGER EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94 JAN.indd 1
31/12/2025 8:18 AM
ELEGANCE C AT E R E D T O YO U Transform your chosen location into an unforgettable setting for celebration. Bring our signature culinary excellence and impeccable service to your next meeting, private gathering, or grand event. +974 4035 5555 reservation.marsamalaz@kempinski.com K E M P I N S K I .COM /M A R SAM A L AZ
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:13 AM
Special Gifts for the Event Sweet treats In Qatar, people traditionally give out sweets to relatives and friends to celebrate a joyful occasion, such as the birth of a child. While these sweet creations have now become pieces of art, they were originally quite simple concoctions, including mulabis (sugared chickpeas) and boiled sweets. Wealthier families might buy sugared almonds, or halkoum. Many shops now design speciality confections for births and weddings. The idea is not just to give a sweet treat, but also a permanent memento. The chocolates are beautifully decorated and wrapped in delicate tulle and they lie in containers as varied as their confections. Like births, weddings are celebrated with an equal amount of joy and chocolates. Wedding favours, traditionally just sugared almonds, are given to female guests during the bride’s celebrations. Many will have the name of the couple incorporated in the design and are sure to match the colour scheme of the wedding decorations and flowers. During Eid celebrations, every visitor is given something sweet – not just chocolates but also dates and dried fruit – and since one is required to pay respects to all family members and friends, this can be a daunting task even for the most ardent sweet tooth!
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 Special gifts for the event M94.indd 2
02/12/2025 10:35 AM
Feel-good gifts
Walk in to any Qatari home and you will be greeted with burning incense, a traditional sign of welcome. Mabkhara (incense burners) are passed from guest to guest so that they can waft the smoke through their headdresses and clothes. The design of the mabkhara has evolved from a simple, clay, goblet-like dish to an often elaborate and expensive item – even electrically heated mabkharas are now available alongside charcoal ones. Bakoor (incense) comes in a variety of fragrances from an assortment of prized plants, and is often a mixture of gums and resins combined with aromatic spices, traditionally burnt over hot charcoal. Popular incense in Qatar are frankincense, myrrh, sandalwood and oud, favoured by the women of the Gulf and obtained from the Agar tree. The scent is similar to sandalwood and is long-lasting, although it can break easily. Due to its widespread use in Arabia, the price for one kilogramme of oud in the form of oil or wood has risen as high as USD10,000 and is therefore a prized gift. Incense and its accessories can be found in modern shopping malls as well as traditional souqs, like the Omani Souq at Al Sailiya Central Market. Freshly laundered clothes are still aired on small wooden racks that are placed over burning oud to catch its fragrance. In the Gulf region, there is little distinction between men’s and women’s fragrances, with most traditional fragrances being used equally by both. Fragrances are oil-based and can be individually blended by the traditional perfume sellers found in the souqs. Qatari ladies are skilled at mixing western perfumes with oils to create their own unique blend. Trays of perfumes including rose attar, sandalwood, jasmine and ambergris are passed around among female guests in Qatari homes at the end of a gathering, together with long-necked brass or silver sprinklers (marash) filled with rosewater. As well as sweet treats at weddings and Eid, guests may also be given incense and perfume to take home, and equally are a wonderful item to give your host. Hotels offer a range of services to clients looking to optimise their special day, whether this is a birthday celebration, business event or wedding. Their planners will be able to walk you through every step of the way, easing your stress levels! Those guests looking for last-minute gifts will find a wonderful selection from stores around town – or why not see what is on offer at the hotel itself? Many have their own gift shop, florist, bakery, chocolatier, and even the spa offering pre-packaged items suitable for the occasion, and may even gift wrap it for you.
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 Special gifts for the event M94.indd 3
02/12/2025 10:35 AM
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 RADISSON BLU EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:14 AM
Celebrate AT WALDORF ASTORIA DOHA LUSAIL
A three-course plated set menu, or a silver service menu Complimentary day use of luxurious bridal suite One complimentary night in a deluxe suite with breakfast Complimentary menu tasting Dedicated event manager Soft beverage service throughout the evening Personalized menu cards and signage Complimentary valet parking service for all guests Complimentary abaya service WALDORF ASTORIA DOHA LUSAIL CONTACT US AT +974 3304 6503 | +974 6624 6931
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 WALDORF ASTORIA EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:14 AM
Crafting Weddings
Beyond Imagination
Eminently positioned to shape lasting memories, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha is the address for enchanting wedding celebrations defined by timeless elegance and impeccable service. Combining flawless hospitality and culinary expertise with innovative vision, the hotel is a natural host for indoor and outdoor ceremonies, bringing guests together for once-in-a-lifetime magical moments. Connect with us to start planning your dream wedding. For more information, visit www.ritzcarlton.com/doha or call +974 4484 8000
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 THE RITZ CARLTON EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:15 AM
Begins here FOREVER
Celebrate your special day at Alwaha Ballroom. WHERE YOUR WEDDING BECOMES A TIMELESS MEMORY.
FOR BOOKING AND INFORMATION
CALL OR WHATSAPP AT: +974 3077 7227 Corner Of Wadi Musheireb, And Jassim Bin Mohammed St, Doha M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 ALWADI EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
04/01/2026 9:17 AM
Fabulous Folds
Dining at a special event is always a feast for the eye as well as the palate. Glasses and silverware shine, floral arrangements are spectacular and what is now a rather rare item for daily dining, the table napkin, can be found in many graceful shapes adorning the overall setting. It is fortunate that your host is not an ancient Spartan otherwise you would be wiping your hands on a piece of dough or bread instead of the finest linen: you have the Romans to thank for this innovation. A small handkerchief-sized napkin was provided by the host to wipe the brow in the warm climate, but guests took their own mappa, a larger piece of fabric spread over their clothes on the edge of the couch as they reclined to dine. It was also used to blot the lips and had the added function of being an early ‘doggy bag’ as guests took favourite left-overs home within its folds. After an absence of several hundred years, the Middle Ages saw a return to the table napkin in Europe. The city of Rheims, noted for its fine cloth, presented King Charles VII with a set at his coronation in 1422. Napkins were either on the table or, accompanied with a finger bowl, offered to highly esteemed guests by a servant. The maitre d’hotel in charge of the feasts draped a napkin from his left shoulder as a symbol of office, while lesser servants folded a napkin over their left arms. Napkins in Europe are today placed on the right of the cover and in the US on the left. The use of a napkin as an essential accompaniment for dining was widespread in the 16th century, and various sizes to suit different occasions were common. The serviette was a large napkin used at the table. By the 17th century the standard napkin was almost one metre by one and a quarter metres, its size reflecting the uncertainty of eating by hand.
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 FABULOUS FOLDS M94.indd 2
02/12/2025 10:34 AM
The introduction of the fork at the courts of Europe changed the napkin’s fortunes again, as people endeavoured to eat as neatly as possible without it. However, the discovery that there was still ‘many a slip between the cup and the lip’ allowed napkins to regain their status, and towards the end of the century napkins were safely tied around men’s necks to protect their large ruffled collars. When shirts with lace fronts came into vogue, napkins were tucked into the neck or buttonhole. Table-cloths and napkins became a common sight in the 18th century and table decoration continued to become more elaborate and coordinated until the First World War. Sizes were then reduced, and today a standard dinner napkin is between 56 and 70 cm square. Earlier table covers were made of linen and later the use of cotton and silk became popular. Napkins were often decorated with fine embroidery or drawn-thread work and as early as the Renaissance expensive materials such as damask were used. The development of wash-proof chemical dyes in the latter half of the 19th century provided the perfect medium for a new form of decoration. Matching cloths and napkins in a whole range of new prints and colours quickly became popular and by the 1930s paper napkins were being produced in America. Printing and paper have allowed napkins and table-cloths to take on a life of their own, following the changes in fashion on a yearly basis. Cartoons, birthdays and sports have all made their mark, not to mention enormous advertising potential of this simple square of paper. Folded napkins have long been admired and with shapes such as fans, water lilies, fleur de lis, peacocks and even ships, there is something to grace every occasion and every level of dexterity. From the finest linens and damasks to bright and bold paper, napkins add a touch of something special to any table as this most utilitarian commodity is magically transformed into a work of art.
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 FABULOUS FOLDS M94.indd 3
02/12/2025 10:34 AM
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 MONDRIAN EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:16 AM
At Fairmont Doha, our wedding packages are specially crafted to reflect your personal taste and style. The bride can customize her package by choosing from a wide selection of benefits and menu options. Discounted rates applicable for private sector testahel or government entities. QAR 550 per person for minimum 250 guests
For Reservations: M: +974 4030 7200 | W: +974 5993 4549 E: reservations.doha@fairmont.com www.fairmont.com/en/hotels/doha/fairmont-doha.html
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 FAIRMONT EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:17 AM
Exquisite Luxury Weddings at Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel
Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, offers a luxurious wedding experience with stunning venues along the Arabian Gulf. Choose from beachside ceremonies, lush gardens, or grand ballrooms, all with exceptional service and dining for an unforgettable celebration. Scan the QR Code to Discover More | +974 4425 6666
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 SHARQ VILLAGE AND SPA EVENTS PLANNING QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:18 AM
SAY ’I DO’ IN FAIRYTALE SURROUNDINGS Step into a world of enchantment at The Plaza Doha, where timeless elegance and romance come together to create the wedding of your dreams. Our exquisite ballrooms and dedicated wedding specialists will craft an unforgettable celebration, tailored to your every desire. From intimate vows to grand, dazzling celebrations, we bring your vision to life. Let us turn your love story into a breathtaking fairytale. Call our wedding specialists to arrange your tour: +974 4040 2222
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 THE PLAZA LXR EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:18 AM
Hospitality and Etiquette
Arab hospitality
First-time visitors to the Middle East are often overwhelmed by the friendly and generous welcome of the Arabs, for whom hospitality lies at the very core of their identity. Among the most highly admired of virtues, hospitality is a trait necessitated to a certain extent by the harshness of the desert landscape; to refuse a man refreshment in such a place was to let him die and hospitality became a necessity enshrined in religion. Menus are carefully planned by the hostess and tradition plays an important role in the selection of food. Meals usually consist of some foods that have been prepared and stored well in advance to help increase the variety on offer for unexpected guests. The fine lamb and mutton raised in the Middle East is a traditional favourite meal. Many varieties of fish are also available along with beef and chicken. Milk from cows or goats is usually converted into yogurt or made into cream cheese. Olives, nuts, raisins, salted chickpeas and toasted pumpkin seeds are among the many items on hand as appetisers. Eating habits vary with the lifestyle and the nature of the occasion. Informally, Gulf Arabs traditionally eat sitting on the floor using their right hand to fold food into khubz (the local flat bread). At the hotels, you will find sumptuous furniture and cushions, ambient lighting, and soft music. During festive occasions such as Qatar National Day and Ramadan, the hotels will furnish elegant tents and provide a vast array of Arabic foods and beverages to delight all palates.
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 HOSPITALITY ETIQUETTE M94.indd 2
02/12/2025 10:36 AM
Etiquette
It takes more than spices to conjure up Middle Eastern cuisine – add in good manners, wit, hospitality and a very specific type of etiquette. The presentation of particular dishes expresses subtle social distinctions and the amount of food offered is both a compliment to the guest and an indication of his importance. Traditionally, a whole lamb is cooked for invited guests and the specific portion and in what order it is served is directly related to status. At the table the host puts himself fully at the disposal of his guests and it is considered uncouth to ask whether they would like food or drink. Refreshments come automatically and refusals are usually met with repeated entreaties. In addition to the meal, the host is traditionally required to provide entertainment, conversation and music. Only when the guest has stopped eating will the plate no longer be refilled. A platter of fresh fruits usually signals the end of a sumptuous meal followed by the traditional Arabic coffee, qahwa, and tea. Tradition also determines how long or short a visit should be and it is considered normal for Arabs to leave almost as soon as their meal is finished. A guest should leave blessing the host, thanking the host and his family for their hospitality, and keep in mind he is now under obligation to speak well of him to others. Many functions and events in the Middle East will have no definite start or end time, and no itinerary or set plans, as this is considered rude to guests. You can expect to party on late into the night at weddings and other special occasions! And of course, the hotel staff will find be on hand to tend to everyone’s needs, freeing up the hosts to mingle with their guests.
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 HOSPITALITY ETIQUETTE M94.indd 3
02/12/2025 10:36 AM
Your Dream Wedding at Maysan Doha
Where every detail is tailored to your story. The ultimate wedding buyout experience awaits. For reservations and more information, call +974 4144 6666 Maysan Doha, LXR Hotels And Resorts, Al Furosiya Street, Doha Qatar
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 MAYSAN DOHA EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:19 AM
YOUR DREAM WEDDING AT RIXOS PREMIUM QETAIFAN ISLAND NORTH Say "I do" in an enchanting setting of luxury and elegance. Our breathtaking ballroom, spanning 1106m², offers a grand indoor space perfect for hosting unforgettable celebrations. With a capacity of up to 400 guests, state-of-the-art amenities, and seamless world-class catering, your special day will be nothing short of extraordinary.
+974 4144 4444 allinclusive-collection.com
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 RIXOS PREMIUM QETAIFAN EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
02/12/2025 10:19 AM
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 THE CHEDI KATARA EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
22/12/2025 8:48 AM
CHERISHED MEMORIES, CRAFTED AT ANDAZ DOHA, BY HYATT Celebrate your love with an unforgettable wedding experience From a beautifully designed venue to exquisite culinary creations, our bespoke wedding packages ensure every detail is thoughtfully curated to reflect your unique story because your forever deserves nothing less than perfection.
Starts at QAR 450 per person For inquiries and reservations, please contact Events Sales. E events@andaz.com T +974 4452 1234
Andaz Doha, 23 Diplomatic Street, Zone 61 Westbay, Doha, State of Qatar
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 ANDAZ EVENTS PLANNING IN QATAR M94.indd 1
31/12/2025 8:12 AM
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 BLOOM BAKW DISCOVERING QATAR M94.indd 2
23/12/2025 9:49 AM
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 BLOOM BAKW DISCOVERING QATAR M94.indd 3
23/12/2025 9:49 AM
magazine.pdf
1
05/03/2026
15:28
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
M EVENT PLANNING IN QATAR E-GUIDE © 000 MSHEIREB DISCOVERING QATAR M94.indd 2
11/03/2026 8:23 AM
M WINTER 2025/26 © 000 MSHEIREB DISCOVERING QATAR M94.indd 3
11/03/2026 8:23 AM