I also looked in a non-systematic way at some compounds in Gharaffa and areas surrounding Al Waab (Al Soudan, Abu Hamour). All of these areas had a more "authentic" Doha feel just outside the compound walls and prices were ~25% cheaper compared to a similar property in Al Waab. The biggest compounds tended to have the best clubhouse, pool and gym facilities, and the Al Waab area has the highest concentration of these larger compounds. My recommendation is to see as many as you possibly can with multiple agents to get the best feel for what's available. Good luck!
I also looked in a non-systematic way at some compounds in Gharaffa and areas surrounding Al Waab (Al Soudan, Abu Hamour). All of these areas had a more "authentic" Doha feel just outside the compound walls and prices were ~25% cheaper compared to a similar property in Al Waab. The biggest compounds tended to have the best clubhouse, pool and gym facilities, and the Al Waab area has the highest concentration of these larger compounds. My recommendation is to see as many as you possibly can with multiple agents to get the best feel for what's available. Good luck!