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How to survive a long layover in Doha´s Hamad airport in Qatar
Oryx airport hotel
Imagine this: you’re returning from a dream vacation in the Maldives, sun-kissed and relaxed. But before you can finally plop down on your couch at home, you have a long flight ahead of you with a 9-hour layover in Doha, Qatar. Oh, and with an 11-year-old daughter in tow. Panic sets in. Where will you sleep? What will you do?
We were in the same boat recently, and let me tell you, the prospect of spending the night at a bustling airport was daunting. We explored options like sleeping in the airport lounges (no guarantees on beds!), venturing out to a hotel close to the airport (precious sleep time lost! and passport and security check on the way back), until we stumbled upon a hidden gem: the Oryx Airport Hotel, conveniently located within Doha Airport.
Landing in Doha late at night, the airport hummed with activity. But within 45 minutes of touching down, we were already tucked into our luxurious Oryx Hotel room. Gone were the harsh airport lights and sterile smells, replaced by plush carpets, warm lighting, and an air of tranquility. Beautiful bathroom with Rituals toiletries and toothbrushes (in case you forgot yours) invites for a shower. Quickly the exhaustion was replaced by deep, restful sleep. Those 7 precious hours at the Oryx Hotel were truly transformative. we woke up feeling refreshed and ready to face the second leg of our journey, with our departure gate being just steps away.
Here’s the best part: the hotel’s location within the terminal meant bypassing passport control, and luggage reclaim.
The Oryx Hotel wasn’t just a place to sleep; it was a game-changer. It transformed our layover from a potential nightmare into a mini-vacation, proving that even airport stopovers can be positive and memorable.
So, fellow travellers facing long layovers in Doha airport, remember this:
book this hotel, pack pyjamas and toiletries in your hand luggage and enjoy the layover!
Hamad airport lounges
Before discovering the Oryx Hotel, we considered airport lounges as a potential solution for our layover. Here’s what I learned about them:
Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH) boasts a diverse range of lounges, catering to various passenger needs and travel classes. Whether you seek a quiet space to work, a luxurious haven to unwind, or family-friendly amenities, there’s likely a lounge waiting to welcome you. Here’s a breakdown of the different options:
Qatar Airways Lounges:
- Al Mourjan Business Lounge: This expansive lounge offers a premium experience with diverse seating options, a la carte dining, relaxation zones, business centers, children’s play areas, and family rooms. Access is available to Business Class passengers on Qatar Airways flights, Privilege Club Gold and Silver members traveling on Qatar Airways flights, oneworld Emerald and Sapphire members traveling on any oneworld flight, and passengers with eligible lounge access cards.
- Oryx Lounges: Spread across different concourses, these lounges offer a comfortable and stylish ambiance with dedicated areas for various passenger categories, including business travelers and families. Food and beverage options include hot and cold dishes, snacks, and beverages. Relaxation zones, business centers, children’s play areas, and shower facilities are also available. Access varies depending on travel class, airline status, and lounge membership.
Other Lounges:
- Al Maha Service Lounge: This exclusive lounge caters to Qatar Airways First Class passengers and offers unparalleled luxury and personalized service, including private dining rooms, a dedicated spa and wellness area, and butler service.
- Plaza Premium Lounge: Located in the South Terminal, this independent lounge offers comfortable seating, a variety of food and beverage options, and access to business facilities. Access can be purchased directly at the lounge or through various lounge membership programs.
Tips:
- Book your lounge access in advance, especially during peak season.
- Check if your airline or credit card offers complimentary lounge access.
- Consider purchasing a lounge membership for frequent travelers.
Additional Resources:
- Doha Hamad Airport Lounges website: https://dohahamadairport.com/relax/lounges
- LoungeBuddy: https://www.loungebuddy.com/
- Priority Pass: https://www.prioritypass.com/activate-your-account
Other options for surviving long layover in Hamad
Explore Doha.
If you have a long enough layover, you can even leave the airport and explore Doha. The city is home to a number of interesting attractions, such as the Museum of Islamic Art, the Souq Waqif, and the Katara Cultural Village.
Shop till you drop.
Doha Hamad boasts an extensive collection of duty-free and brand-name shops across the terminals. Explore trendy fashion, electronics, souvenirs, and more – a shopper’s paradise!
Take advantage of the airport’s amenities.
Doha Airport has a wide variety of amenities to keep you entertained during your layover, including shops, restaurants, cafes, and spas. There’s also a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a children’s play area.