Leading hospitality in Doha since 1982

Leading hospitality in Doha since 1982

The Story of Sheraton Grand Doha - A Landmark in the Heart of Doha

A Timeless Piece of Architecture

During the 1970s, Qatar saw many new buildings and plans due to its independence, visionary leaders, and energy wealth. This period of growth, was driven by the Amir Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani with the support of Hisham Qaddumi, Qatar's chief urban planner. Together, they brought in famous international architects, including William Pereira from the United States, who designed the Sheraton Grand Doha with its unique pyramid shape. This design is so iconic that it appears on Doha's postcards, stamps, and advertisements

Aerial view of Sheraton Grand Doha, July 1978

The Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel was – and remains – a beacon of modernity. It was the first step in a grand plan for the new city center area, now known as West Bay. The hotel's grand opening on February 22, 1982, marked a significant milestone – the Amir's 10-year ruling anniversary. This landmark marked a turning point in Qatar's modern urban development.

View from Doha Port 1982

The Sheraton Grand Doha is not just a hotel but a masterpiece of architectural design and innovation. Its construction materials and methods, such as a steel frame and prefabricated concrete panels, were revolutionary for Qatar at the time. The pyramidal shape, often referred to as the 'Pyramid of the Gulf,' is a testament to Pereira's creative vision and love for science fiction. The design also seamlessly blends Islamic and Qatari architectural styles, incorporating patterns, symmetry, and light treatment

"Pyramid of the Gulf" 1982

The Sheraton Grand Doha's 371 rooms are spread across the three sides of the pyramid, each offering a unique view of the sea, the old city, or the desert. The building's sloping shape provides shade, keeping the interiors cool. The hotel's atrium, a central meeting place visible from all floors, follows the traditional Islamic and Qatari design of inward-facing and private.

Sheraton Grand Doha Room Balcony Resort View | Royal Suite, 1982

The Sheraton Grand Doha has a rich history. It has undergone two renovations since first opening its doors – one in 1987 and another in 2014. The latter in particular was a significant milestone in the hotel’s history, as it was led by Hisham Qaddumi and Gerhard Foltin, the hotel's first General Manager. Together with the team at Katara Hospitality, they painstakingly restored the hotel to its former glory, preserving its original features such as the lifts and staircases, built-in radios, artwork, and furniture.

Sheraton Grand Doha Lobby, 1982 | Gerhard Foltin, the hotel's first General Manager

Today, the Sheraton Grand Doha remains an architectural marvel and a symbol of Qatar's prosperous modern era. Its prime location overlooking Doha Bay makes it a standout landmark, even among the many new buildings in the city.

An old picture of Sheraton Grand Doha from a dhow

Book your stay at our iconic hotel and experience a journey back in time.


For inquiries, please contact us at +974 4485 4000 or email us at [email protected].


Eman Alami

Creator | Writer | Merging Creativity and Character Development

5 个月

This is the true icon of Qatar. This is exactly what comes to my mind when I hear Qatar. ????

MJ Mansuri

Associate Director - Sales & Marketing

6 个月

Home of so many people....

Asad khan

waiter in Rashid group of companies

6 个月

Love this

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