Best New Hotels 2008:Sharq Village & Spa, Doha

Part sheikh’s palace, part traditional fishing village, this Ritz-Carlton-operated seafront resort is a vision straight out of The Arabian Nights. Meticulously recreated architecture and décor provide an authentic Qatari backdrop for five-star indulgence. The 174 rooms and suites are clustered in 14 stately villas. The design of the Six Senses-run spa pays tribute to the fishermen’s homes that once stood on this site. One major but temporary drawback – it’s under the flight path until Doha’s new airport opens next year.

We love The Qatari character, and the seriously good restaurants, ranging from the contemporary Middle Eastern to fresh seafood at Al Dana by Sydney boy Sharham de Contades.

Rooms from about $315, www.sharqvillage.com.