By Peter TownsonAhead of this week’s Arabian Travel Market exhibition in Dubai, Al Gassar Resort officials have released more details about the iconic development set to open in Doha later this year.Work on the ambitious luxury waterfront project has been ongoing over the past three years, during which time the development next to the InterContinental Hotel has begun to take shape, offering another unique and interesting addition to the architectural landscape of Qatar.The Al Gassar Resort will offer luxury living that combines a mixture of modern style with Qatari traditions, with expertise being brought in from across the world to staff the various parts of the resort.“The residences of Al Gassar Resort have been designed to exceed the expectations of guests and residents,” said a spokesperson for the project, adding “comfort, convenience and a fantastic location are available whether you are just visiting Doha or making your home in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.”The St Regis Doha will be the centrepiece hotel for the resort, and the luxury brand, famous for providing a personal and top quality service catering to each guest’s personal needs, will be offering a butler service when it opens in the fourth quarter of this year.The St Regis brand, founded by John Jacob Astor IV in New York over 100 years ago, is known for elegance, sophistication and customised service worldwide. “Alongside the magnificent St Regis Doha, is the residential element of the Al Gassar Resort consisting of three grand towers, offering a unique living experience to residents that reflects the luxury services offered by the famous St Regis Hotel,” explained the spokesperson. Assistant chief operation officer for Resorts Development Company who are developing the resort, Mohamed Sleiman commented: “With the Al Gassar Resort, we are building an entirely new luxury destination for Qatar, which will bring together the unique hospitality traditions of St Regis Hotels with the luxury hotel-like service that will be offered in the Al Gassar Resort Residences.”“We’ve invested a huge amount of time and energy in refining the exterior and facilities of this incredible resort, and we believe it will be an iconic destination when the development opens its doors in late 2011,” he added. Demand for residential space in Qatar has grown significantly as a result of the successful 2022 World Cup bid, and this demand is set to rise between now and the competition.Al Gassar’s residences will provide high-end supply to match some of this demand, and capitalise upon the ongoing economic boom in Qatar.“Situated in Doha’s premium real estate area, directly at the waterfront with breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf, the development of Al Gassar Resort enjoys close proximity to the key business hubs of Qatar, including the West Bay Business District and Doha Exhibition Centre, and is equally close to a number of premier leisure areas such as the Katara Cultural Village, The Pearl Qatar and Doha City Centre,” said the spokesperson.However, the developers believe that the real attraction of the resort will be “the enviable lifestyle supported by the facilities and unparalleled services provided for residents and guests.”“The Al Gassar Resort has been designed to become a major social hub in Qatar, and the preferred choice for residents looking for a hotel-style living experience and customised service in their own home,” she added.She explained that the resort residences will offer business bachelor quarters, as well as family spaces with as many as five bedrooms.“The Al Gassar Resort will provide choice and value as well as unmatched luxury,” she noted.The resort will feature a large swimming pool and sunbathing area, tennis courts, landscaped gardens, children’s area and a fully-equipped gym. Fine dining will be available at a selection of restaurants, which will also provide room service, whilst the resort will also provide a range of shops and service counters to residents and guests.There are currently no St Regis properties in the Gulf or Middle East regions, but the brand is also set to launch two properties in Abu Dhabi in the near future.