Compounds in Gharrafa area

damasian
By damasian

We are planning to move to Doha in September and are looking for housing in a compound in the al-Gharrafa area, as close as possible to the Compass School. Can any one advice on good compounds close to this school, preferably on walking distance

Thanks

By anonymous• 1 Mar 2008 13:42
Rating: 5/5
anonymous

I live in the area Squarepeg mentioned (in al-Garrafa and west of North Road).  Compass isn't actually in al-Garaffa but just south of it.  My villa's rent is QR15000 per month but it may go up as the landlord is always threatening to increase the rent.  My villa is a 3-bedroom (one master (ensuite toilet) and 2 smaller for the kids and housemaid).  No problems.  If the white compound across from mine is similar in price, QR15000 may be enough.  You'll have to check the local real estate agents.

 

You may be OK with your 8-yr-old dd (darling daughters) into Compass b/c the big squeeze is at my dd's age (4-year-old).  Hence, getting your 4-year-old may be more problematic.  Compass is one of the most expensive but it has many extra things for kids that cheapre schools don't have.  I've met the director of COmpass and she said its a small school of 100 or so students.  They don't believe in screening test so there isn't one when in admitting students.  MOst other schools have screening tests).

 

 

By Squarepeg• 28 Feb 2008 16:56
Rating: 5/5
Squarepeg

Forget about walking.  "Walking distance" is not a concept which exists in Doha.  For most of the year it's too hot and even when it's cool enough it isn't safe to cross the main roads.  Housing in Al Gharrafa and to the west of  the North Road is a bit cheaper because it's further out of town but still handy for Compass.  West Bay is also convenient but probably more expensive.  There are also school buses.

By damasian• 28 Feb 2008 13:23
damasian

Thanks for the information. The housing budget is about 15000qr. Do you think that would be sufficient for a villa in this compound you mentioned?

 

Regarding the prices and waiting lists of Compass, that's indeed another issue. But we have to wait for a place there for our 2 daughters (8 & 4) because, as far as I know, it is the only school in Doha with Dutch in their corriculum?

 

By anonymous• 28 Feb 2008 13:17
Rating: 5/5
anonymous

I live in a compound in al-Garaffa area but it is a 10 minute drive to Compass.  The white-coloured al-Zukoura compound is a nice, (what I would call) a mid-level compound...not as luxurious as Riveria Gardens or al-Jazi but not as scary looking as some compounds I've seen near the airport.  These compounds look like the owner hasn't cleaned the streets in months and there's piles of bricks/dirt laying around for months on end.  Compass School isn't actually in al-Garaffa but it is on the border with Luqta or al-Qadeem.  Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

 

I've driven through the area around Compass.  It looks pricey but nice.  A lot of houses and private villas but there may some compounds tucked away there somewhere. 

 

dd (darling daughter) is on waiting list to enter the 4-year-old class in September but I doubt she'll get in.  It's quite a pricey school but has tons of extra-curricular and other perks that Newton, Chouifelt, or Qatar Academy don't have.

By damasian• 28 Feb 2008 13:05
damasian

Neither in the winter, but I understand what you mean.

By Piet• 28 Feb 2008 12:44
Piet

Walking distance?  Obviously you haven't been in Qatar during summer time!!  Good luck...

Log in or register to post comments

More from Qatar Living

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Let's dive into the best beaches in Qatar, where you can have a blast with water activities, sports and all around fun times.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

This guide brings you the top apps that will simplify the use of government services in Qatar.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

this guide presents the top must-have Qatar-based apps to help you navigate, dine, explore, access government services, and more in the country.
Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Qatar's winter months are brimming with unmissable experiences, from the AFC Asian Cup 2023 to the World Aquatics Championships Doha 2024 and a variety of outdoor adventures and cultural delights.
7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

Stuck with a week-long holiday and bored kids? We've got a one week activity plan for fun, learning, and lasting memories.
Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a sweet escape into the world of budget-friendly Mango Sticky Rice that's sure to satisfy both your cravings and your budget!
Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in  high-end elegance

Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in high-end elegance

Delve into a world of culinary luxury as we explore the upmarket hotels and fine dining restaurants serving exquisite Mango Sticky Rice.
Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Celebrate World Vegan Day with our list of vegan food outlets offering an array of delectable options, spanning from colorful salads to savory shawarma and indulgent desserts.