Doha, Qatar, 20 May 2008 – The introduction of the Royal Villa – currently the most expensive in the Middle East - at the award-winning Sharq Village and Spa is a celebration of the regal lifestyle that is only known to a select few. Bestowed the Arabic name Beit Al Shyoukh which translates to House of Royalty, this new incarnation promises an experience that is simultaneously authentic and contemporary while blending modern luxury with traditional architecture and design elements.

 “This exquisite villa is the culmination of an extensive design process to create the perfect retreat for our guests,” says General Manager Hossein Vetry.  “No detail was spared in crafting this ultimate haven with the most luxurious of furnishings and facilities that was painstakingly sourced from around the world.  With the Royal Villa, we aim to combine The Ritz-Carlton’s renowned hospitality with the site’s romantic history and architectural tributes, to create a jewel in Doha’s crown.”

Ornately modelled after a sheikh’s palace, the 2.099-square meter Royal Villa is divided into two distinct wings.  Guest accommodation includes the royal suite, guest suite, a pair of two-bedroom suites and a pair of king suites, along with majlis seating areas, study and dining room. The majestic villa houses exquisite furnishings and treasures from the orient, which are steeped detail and tradition. All aspects of detailing refer back to authentic Qatari designs-handrails, stone carvings, and inlaid mosaics create a sense of continuity and refinement that reinforces the rich history of the local culture.

The inner majlis or sitting room, and private dining room of the Royal Villa are separated by double wooden sliding doors which allowing for intimate seating, groupings and moments of reflection and interest.  An elegantly appointed study with majestic hand carved wooden desk inlaid with marble with outdoor patio complements the Qatari themed royal villa, while offering state-of-the-art technology that is integrated into the décor of the space.

The large iron studded wood door of the Royal Suite is the first indication that what lies ahead is a unique palatial experience.  An imperial four-poster, canopied bed sitting atop a polished marble platform and hand-woven Arabian carpets are all part of this magnificent environment. Bed linens are amongst the finest in the world with 1050- thread count sheets by the Italian house of Frette. 

Completing the exquisite suite is the en-suite walk in wardrobe and bath which is tiled by prized Brazilian blue marble.  The Jacuzzi tub, studded with indigo hued mosaic tiles veined with 18-karat gold to add the regal touch, is complemented by bath amenities from Acqua di Parma and lotions with 23-karat golf leaf by Linden Leaves. 

Adjacent to accommodation wing of the Royal Villa is the luxurious annex area that is connected via overhead walkway.  This separate building is designed to reveal a secret sanctuary of indulgence and well being, for the exclusive use of guests of the Royal Villa. A two-storey high cascading waterfall and meandering corridors lead to a strikingly designed indoor temperature controlled swimming pool and Jacuzzi, an exercise gymnasium with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, multipurpose bar area and a fully equipped professional chef’s kitchen.  Other amenities include rain forest showers, an oversized locker room, sauna, a steam and a luxurious wet treatment room equipped with a heated stone massage bed, the treatment room opens onto an outdoor veranda outfitted with a hand made bathtub and outdoor shower facilities. 

The design team focused on detail, texture and colour throughout the entire creative process, which incorporated textural elements that are reminiscent of the natural beauty of the area. The villa offers a luxurious yet traditional environment that inspires leisurely experiences while capturing the true essence of Qatari lifestyle.

Service offerings include Rolls Royce transfers for the head of the villa, a chauffeur driven BMW on standby, personal butlers including one specifically for the female guests, five culinary and beverage presentations with frequent replenishment of fruit and beverage, an open bar of house pours, as well as a personal chef and trainer.  Upon sunset, the shisha or water pipe, with a selection of over 25 tobacco varietals, Arabic sweets, dates and nut platter will be available at the exterior majlis which overlooks the sea.

Operated by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, B.V., Sharq Village and Spa is a luxury beachfront property situated on the Persian Gulf, 15 minutes from the city centre.  Modelled after a traditional Qatari village, the 174-room resort blends authentic Arabian architecture with the very latest in modern comforts and amenities.  Services and facilities include restaurants and lounges serving Middle Eastern and Western cuisine with outdoor dining options, a cigar lounge and rooftop shisha terrace; a 6,500 square meter Six Senses Spa with 23 treatment rooms, private ladies’ areas, and two outdoor pools; and over 1,130 square meters of conference space that includes two magnificent ballrooms, a boardroom and a grand reception foyer.  For more information or reservations, please visit www.sharqvillage.com / www.ritzcarlton.com or call +974 425 6666.