Thanks for that great review. I currently have a reservation at the new Hampton next door (yet to open) for the World Cup period, but was interested in perhaps trying to get into the Doubletree if the FIFA accommodation portal ever opened up hotel space (and depending on price, since I got a good rate at the Hampton). I'm not sure I'd even get Diamond benefits since I'd have to book through the accommodation portal, but the larger rooms/bathrooms (going with my dad) may be worth it. Definitely good info on the top floors (I usually like top floors for quiet) but disappointing about the cigarette smell. Hopefully that's not common.

Was it really a "messy" location or is that purely from construction? It seems like the walkability to the metro/museums/souq/fanfest area could be a benefit, especially compared to other options in the Hilton portfolio.