The world number one had looked short of his best in the build-up to the final, but he simply blew Monfils away during the opening set, which he took 6-1 after just 23 minutes.
But Frenchman Monfils bravely rallied in the second set, and led 3-0 at one point before edging a tie-breaker 7-5.
Taking a bite: Rafael Nadal poses with the trophy after winning the Qatar Open in Doha
A thrilling final set had been in prospect, but when Nadal broke early in the decider he ruthlessly marched away to take a 6-1 6-7 (5/7) 6-2 victory and claim his 61st career title.
Nadal said: 'I think I played my best match of the season - of the tournament. I was happy with how I played.
'It's very exciting to start the year with a title.
In control: Nadal hits a forehand during his three-set victory over Gael Monfils in the final in Doha
Thumbs up: Gael Monfils gestures after falling while trying to chase down a ball
'If I play like I did in the first set I'll be very competitive in Melbourne.'
Nadal's victory marks the first time the Spaniard has won the first tournament he has entered in a calendar year.
Stanislas Wawrinka reached Sunday's final of the Aircel Chennai Open in India after semi-final opponent Vasek Pospisil retired with a back injury 6-4, 5-5 down.
The Swiss world No 8 will take on Frenchman Edouard Roger-Vasselin, who beat Marcel Granollers 6-2, 4-6, 6-3.
Through: Stanislas Wawrinka raises his hand after semi-final opponent Vasek Pospisil retired in Chennai
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