Doral’s origins trace back to the late 1950s when real estate pioneers Alfred and Doris Kaskel purchased 2,400 acres of swampland in western Miami-Dade County. They envisioned a premier golf course and hotel, leading to the opening of the Doral Country Club in 1962. The name “Doral” is a blend of Doris and Alfred’s names. The Doral Country Club quickly became a popular destination, and in 1962, the Kaskels hosted the first Doral Open Invitational, a major event on the PGA Tour.

In the early 1980s, Doral saw its first significant residential development. Alfred and Doris’s grandson, Bill, initiated the development of Doral Estates, followed by a joint venture with Lennar to create Doral Park. These developments marked the beginning of a trend where communities were named after the hotel. Despite this growth, Doral initially lacked essential amenities like stores, schools, and parks. The early homes were mostly investment properties, but full-time residents soon started forming a community.

By the late 1980s and early 1990s, Doral residents began pushing for incorporation due to dissatisfaction with high taxes and limited services. In 1995, the community elected its first community council. The incorporation effort culminated in 2003 when 85% of voters approved the move to become a city. This transition was driven by a desire for better control over local governance and resources.

Doral has grown into a thriving business hub, particularly attractive to companies with interests in Latin America. Its proximity to Miami International Airport makes it a strategic location for importers, exporters, and various other businesses. The city has been recognized for its excellent mix of business opportunities and quality of life, ranking 51st on Fortune Small Business and CNN Money’s list of best cities for business and lifestyle in 2008. Additionally, Money magazine named Doral one of the best places to live in 2018.

Today, Doral is known for its vibrant community and significant commercial activity. The city has numerous shops, financial institutions, and corporate offices, reflecting its growth from a golf-centric development into a dynamic urban center.