The Pearl is a man-made island off the coast of Doha, a 4 sq km development of canals, marinas, residential towers, and a retail strip modelled loosely on Monaco and Porto Cervo. It is not attempting to be subtle about its aspirations. The resident population is largely expat, and the island's Qanat Quartier — a canal district with pale-coloured apartment buildings and waterside restaurants — is pleasant if slightly artificial.
The main draw is the marina boardwalk at Porto Arabia, ringed with restaurants and cafes and busy on cooler evenings. The beach club, Medina Centrale's squares, and the island's general air of expensive calm make it a popular escape from the dust and noise of central Doha. Getting there is quick by taxi; the metro doesn't reach it.