If you’re in Doha, i would suggest you talk first to your western colleagues at work, then visit the places, and make up your own decision. This is not a rush item or the agenda of a newcomer. However, this is what I think;

Al-Ghazal Rec. Club: it has ONLY one asset; and that is “absolutely clean & cheap� food, when you’re not in the mood for cooking. It is much better than any other eatery in town. You can have a “full� meal, for 20 to 25 QR. All the rest is clean, but the environment is pathetic when compared to western standards.

RAA Beach Club: it also has ONE asset; and that is “free� sailing, if you’re certified for dinghy (Laser 1) sailing. The environment is clean, but in a state of abandonment and a pathetic state of repair. The location is in the port of Doha, the waters are murky, the bottom is slimy, and you cannot see your toes in 4 feet of water.

Suggestion; do not visit these places after having Friday Brunch, at a 5-Star hotel. Joining a hotel Heath Club will cost you from 6K to 8K QR approx/year, sailing costs an extra 75 QR/hour. The 2 clubs combined will cost you 80QR/month and you can cancel the membership anytime after 3 months.

Do I use the facilities? yes, because the “only two assets� interest me.
The proposed new club(s) will be located in Lusail Energy City, ready for 2011.

Good luck!

Moudir