Since 2004 a number of old buildings have been demolished to make way for the rapid construction of new housing developments.  This has caused a substantial increase in properties in Qatar.

Before the West Bay developments, the heart of the city was considered the most sought after of locations to rent or buy property.  However, as the population within Doha grew, there was a desire to migrate further afield from the centre, giving greater choices with better investment opportunities.

This continued growth in the housing market hasn’t been completely positive.  Construction and rental costs are having a direct impact on the countries inflation.  In some cases, many low income expatriates have chosen to leave Qatar because it is no longer financially viable to stay.
Government owned properties are generally unavailable for rent to expatriates however, there are privately owned housing options including individual (stand alone) villas, communal compounds and apartments.

It is essential that you always check your lease agreement/contract before signing and if the document is in Arabic, insist on a translation into English.  It is also advisable to have an English speaking lawyer review the lease agreement and inform you of your rights before signing any legal documents.  Ensure you verify what may happen should a maintenance/tenancy issue arise.  This is of the utmost importance, as you will most definitely encounter “household malfunctions” in your accommodation… some of you will no doubt encounter more than others, but you will all the same!  If you’ve just moved to Qatar it is advisable to go through a reputable Real Estate Agent and let them take care of all your loose ends rather than to try and deal with these issues yourself.

The majority of expatriate accommodation is covered primarily by their employers, which would include a down payment or deposit in advance with a separate payment for various utility bills.  Some companies may also offer a housing allowance to enable their employees to source their own premises.

Compound Villas
Compound Villas tend to be the most popular form of housing in Doha, but due to the huge demand outstripping the supply, you are likely to be put on a very long waiting list, as many are rented exclusively to companies for their staff.  Don’t despair, as corporations and companies will work with you to acquire rented accommodation. 

Most compound villas have a shared swimming pool; children’s play area and club house.  These club houses contain gymnasiums some of which have tennis and squash facilities.  Within some larger compounds, small supermarkets can be found selling a comprehensive selection of food items and household goods.

Individual Villas
Good quality stand alone villas are presently in short supply, and the ones which are available are extremely expensive.  Most will have their own pool, but do check with the landlord which party is responsible for the upkeep and servicing.   If you do decide to venture out on your own in the pursuit of obtaining your accommodation, it is advisable to go through a Real Estate Agent to avoid driving around aimlessly, and being misled.  You will seldom find the landlord ‘on site’ when you arrive, and in most cases will only meet the compound security guard who may not have all the information you require.

Apartments
Apartments of various sizes and quality are available across Doha, the more desirable ones are located in the West Bay area.  Although the upmarket apartments are preferred, they can be expensive and on par with a stand alone villa.  The low/medium priced accommodation may be a cheaper option, but on the other hand the finishing can sometimes be of a poor standard, and many will not have facilities such as a pool or gym.  The majority will however have security, and a maintenance team.