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When travelling through Qatar, there’s no need to wish your time away at the airport. Turn your transit into a phenomenal experience as you explore Doha by joining one of our Transit Tours.

If you are within 48 hours of arriving in Doha and you cannot see availability to book a tour, please come and see us in the Duty Free area of Hamad International Airport, where we can check live availability for you.  See map  for our location.

When travelling through Qatar, there’s no need to wish your time away at the airport. If your transit is 6 hours and more, you can turn your stop into an extended holiday by joining a city tour of Doha, the city where modernity meets Arabic tradition, or a desert adventure taking in the incredible Inland Sea. For transit times of 4 hours or more, we recommend that you Discover the Art of the Airport with our expert guide. 

We have made this as simple as possible for you, taking care of all arrangements for your transit and ensuring you are back in good time for your following flight so that you can make the most of your transit time and taking a break from your travels to discover Qatar and explore its unique Arabic heritage before connecting to your final destination.

Select any of the Transit Tours below to read more details.

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LAYOVER TOUR

Make the most of your transit through Doha Hamad International Airport, with an exceptional layover tour of the city. This 4 hour tour is designed to accommodate those with limited time, and yet who want to make the most of that time – both in Doha and as part of their overall travels. You’ll get to see historic quarters, as well as contemporary parts of Doha. So embrace the opportunity to do something less ordinary, with this must do layover tour!

DOHA TRANSIT TOUR - MAKE TIME COUNT

FROM DOHA AIRPORT: QATAR TRANSIT TOUR

Make the most of your transit through Doha Hamad International Airport, with an exceptional layover tour of the city. This 4 hour tour is designed to accommodate those with limited time, and yet who want to make the most of that time – both in Doha and as part of their overall travels. You’ll get to see historic quarters, as well as contemporary parts of Doha. So embrace the opportunity to do something less ordinary, with this absolute must do layover tour!

Grab the chance to see the beautiful city of Doha during a transit flight through Hamad International Airport. Visit both the old and modern areas of the beautiful city, including the traditional Souq Waqif bazaar.

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Doha Airport Transit Requirements And Procedure (2024 Guide)

Doha Guides Team regularly reviews this article to ensure the content is up-to-date and accurate. The last editorial review and update were on 02 February 2024.

Flying on a connecting flight and airport transfer can be quite a hassle for most travellers. Doha’s Hamad International Airport (HIA) is among the region’s busiest airports and sees millions of transit passengers annually.

This article will explain Doha Airport transit requirements and procedures to be followed. It will also brief the facilities available for passengers and the frequently asked questions about transfer through Hamad International Airport.

About Hamad International Airport

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Hamad International Airport (DOH), with an annual capacity of 35 million passengers, is the principal international airport in the State of Qatar. It is certified by Skytrax as a 5-star Airport for facilities, comfort, cleanliness, shopping, food & beverages, staff service, and security/immigration. The airport saw 7.14 million passengers in the first quarter of 2022.

During the last two years, HIA has been named the World’s Best Airport at the Skytrax World Airport Awards. It is also the first Middle Eastern airport awarded Skytrax’s World Best Airport.

Since 2014, HIA has been home to Qatar Airways, a 5-star Airline that has been voted six times as the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax. Qatar Airways connects more than 140 destinations worldwide, and a large number of its passengers are transit passengers.

One of the most common questions is whether you need a transit visa for connecting flights through Doha Airport. The answer is no, you do not need a transit visa if you are not planning on leaving the airport.

Here is a tweet from Qatar Airways on 18 July 2022 to confirm this:

Earlier Qatar Airways travellers could apply for a free 96-hour transit visa that would allow them to visit the city. However, this service is currently suspended; instead, eligible travellers from 90+ countries can use Qatar’s visa-on-arrival facility .

Doha Airport makes it easy and convenient to transfer to your connecting flight. There is only a single passenger terminal at HIA, which means you can arrive, transfer and depart in the same terminal. You do not have to worry about changing the terminal building,

The terminal building has three levels and five concourses: A, B, C, D, and E. Each of these has several passenger gates connected to jet bridges. The below map will give you a rough idea of the airport layout.

Below are the steps on how to transit at Doha Airport:

Step 1: Exit the aircraft

For most flights, you can access the terminal through jet bridges. During peak hours, you may be required to use a bus, which will be guided by staff.

On arrival, Al Maha customers, special assistance travellers, and unaccompanied minors are met by airport staff.

Step 2: Proceed to Transfer Halls

Upon exiting your aircraft, follow the “Transfer” signs. These signs will lead you to the Transfer Halls on the concourses.

Directional signs are available in English and Arabic; some even have estimated walking times.

Please follow the ‘Transfers’ sign for transit, not the ‘Arrivals’ sign. If you wish to exit the airport, please approach the transfer desk for assistance.

Step 3: Collect the Boarding Pass if required

Most airlines will issue you both boarding passes at the first check-in point (country of origin). If you already have the boarding pass for the next flight, you can proceed to the Departures Hall.

However, for some flights, you may be required to collect a new boarding pass from Doha. In that case, go to the transfer desk, and the staff will assist you.

The staff at the desks can answer any questions you may have. They can also help you reschedule or rebook flights, upgrade seats, obtain boarding passes, and exit the airport if you plan a stopover.

Step 4: Go through security screening

Before entering the Departures Hall, you must pass through a security screening. Your hand baggage will be screened for potentially dangerous items. Also, you will be required to pass through metal detectors.

Make sure your baggage does not contain any prohibited items.

Step 5: Check the gate number for your next flight

Several electronic screens with Flight Information can be seen in the Transfer and Departures Halls. Check the screens for your next flight number and the corresponding gate number.

You may not see your gate number if your flight is after a few hours. In that case, you can relax, dine or shop at the terminal. We will discuss those options later.

Step 6: Proceed to your gate

Once your gate information is available, proceed to the gate. You can use the shuttle train service inside the airport for some concourses. If you need help navigating around the airport, ask at the information desk or use the airport maps available throughout the airport.

Moving walkways are also available on most routes. Along the way, there are plenty of toilets to freshen up. Below is a video by HIA on how to transfer through Doha Airport .

Most passengers often wonder how much transit time you need for connecting flights at Doha Airport. There are several factors to consider here:

a) Boarding Pass: If the boarding pass for the second flight is issued from the first airport (point of origin), you can proceed to security check and move to your gate. If not, you will have to queue up at the transfer desk and wait for your turn to collect your boarding pass.

b) Distance Between Gates: Doha Airport is an integrated facility inside a single terminal building, but it is not a small airport. The walking distance between some gates can be up to 15 minutes.

c) Flight Arrival: You also need to consider the possibility of your first flight landing late. If you have a very short connection time, say 1 hour, even 15 15-minute delays in your flight can create havoc on your plans.

d) Disembarkation Time: Even if your flight arrives on time, you may not be able to leave the aircraft at the next moment. Usually, you have to wait 10-20 minutes to leave the aircraft through the jet bridge. It may be longer if you need to take a bus from the aircraft.

e) Gate Closing Time: Remember that gates close 20 minutes before departure time.

f) Seasonal Rush: During peak seasons like holidays, FIFA World Cup, etc., you can expect some delays in security screening.

Considering all these scenarios, a safe margin would be three hours . Shorter durations, like 1.5 to 2 hours, may be doable but can be a risky call. We wouldn’t advise anything below 1.5 hours.

Below are the estimated walking times from Transfers Hall to the gates in each Concourse.

In the unfortunate situation of having missed your connecting flight, please contact the transfer desk. The staff will assist you with re-booking a later flight.

You can visit one of the transfer desks if you need assistance with your onward flight, including boarding passes, rescheduling flights, or general inquiries.

The transfer desks can also assist you if you are on an extended stopover and wish to visit Qatar before boarding your onward flight. It is important to check visa and immigration requirements before beginning your journey to avoid disappointment and delays.

Hamad International Airport has some of the world’s best facilities for relaxing and refreshing during your transit journey.

There are several world-class travellers’ lounges at the terminal. They offer complimentary food, shower facilities, business rooms, and luggage lockers. Depending on your ticket or privilege club membership, you may be entitled to complimentary lounge access , or you can pay to access the lounge.

There are also quiet rooms offering recliners and soft lighting where you can relax.

Doha Airport Restaurants

The airport features a wide variety of restaurants and coffee shops to suit international travellers. There is a common food court area near departure (near the Giant Teddy), and coffee shops and restaurants spread all over the duty-free area. Below are some of the dining options available at Doha Airport.

• Azka Restaurant
• Burger King
• Brioche Doree
• Camden Food Co
• Coffeeshop Company
• Costa Coffee
• Del Monte F&B
• Emporio Armani Caffe
• Evergreen Organics
• Great Eastern Market
• Harrods Tea Room
• Harvest Market Restaurant
• Jamocha Cafe
• Le Grand Comptoir
• Red Restaurant
• Red Mango Yogurt & Smoothies
• The Burger Federation

Shopping At Doha Airport

The award-winning Qatar Duty-Free (QDF) shopping emporium is one of the largest in the world. It is home to around 100 retail outlets and restaurants across 40,000 square meters of combined retail, food, and beverage space. Among its many products are designer labels, electronics, gourmet foods, and much more.

The prominent luxury brands at QDF include Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Bulgari, Hermès, Hugo Boss, Moncler, Rolex, and Harrods. If you are in a hurry, express stores are also available.

Sleeping Options at Doha Airport

Sleep ‘n fly Sleep Lounge is located within the main duty-free area within HIA’s transit terminal and offers a selection of sleep pods and cabins that can accommodate up to 50 adults and four children. The sleep units provide a soundproof, air-conditioned space where you can relax before or between flights and pay by the hour.

You can choose from the following accommodations at Sleep’n Fly:

• FlexiSuite Sleep Pods (one person)
• YAWN Double Cabin (max. two persons)
• YAWN Double Cabin with kid’s pull-out bed (max. two adults and one child <115 cm)
• YAWN Bunk Cabin (max. two persons)

The average two-hour rates are USD 48 (one person) and USD 77 (two persons).

You can make online reservations at www.sleep-n-fly.com For assistance, call +974 4467 8993 or email [email protected]

Doha Airport Hotels

Doha’s Hamad International Airport (HIA) has two hotels for transit passengers:

Oryx Airport Hotel

Oryx Airport Hotel is conveniently located inside Hamad International Airport’s passenger terminal, offering guests a wonderful place to relax, unwind and recharge before their next flight. The hotel offers hourly rates, fitness facilities as well as spa services for the convenience of every guest.

Daily rates for Superior Rooms start at QR 1,290 (USD 350). To know more about hourly rates, contact the reservations team by email at [email protected] or call +974-40108100.

You can see the hotel reviews and book on TripAdvisor .

Oryx Garden Hotel

The Oryx Garden Hotel is HIA’s newly inaugurated airport hotel located in North Plaza. A total of 100 rooms are available, ranging from king beds to twin beds and suites. All rooms are conveniently located within the terminal, near boarding gates. Bookings can be made around the clock for a maximum of 24 hours.

A variety of retail and culinary options are conveniently located near the Oryx Garden Hotel, as well as complimentary new-generation wireless internet throughout the premises.

Luggage Storage at Doha Airport

Currently, the Hamad International Airport storage lockers are not in operation due to health and safety concerns. However, Tawfeeq Travel offers luggage storage at their Travel Hub inside the airport Metro station. You can find more details about luggage storage here .

Doha Airport Wifi

HIA provides complimentary wireless internet WiFi access throughout its passenger terminals. You can sign up for complimentary WiFi by searching for “HIAQatar Complimentary WiFi”.

There are also internet kiosks and desks with screens and keyboards that offer free web browsing. Kiosks are located throughout the passenger terminal (near the boarding gates).

Purchasing a prepaid calling card from Qatar Duty-Free lets you make international calls anywhere in the world. There are telephone booths throughout the passenger terminal (including at the boarding gates).

Other Facilities

The passenger terminal has smoking rooms, prayer rooms, and phone/laptop charging stations.

Six foreign exchange stores and multiple ATMs are located throughout the passenger terminal. Travelex offers currency conversion of over 40 currencies. There are play areas and activity nodes for children. Complimentary baby strollers and parents’ rooms are also available.

If your transit is more than 8 hours, you can join a city tour or adventure tour by Discover Qatar. There are three types of tours available. Below are the details:

For more details and booking, check Discover Qatar Transit Tours .

You can explore Qatar by booking a stopover holiday with Qatar Airways. Packages start from $14, including luxurious accommodation at 4-star and 5-star hotels. For more information, check the Qatar Airways Stop Over Package.

• A Transit Visa is NOT required for transit passengers who do not plan on leaving the airport terminal.
• Ehteraz pre-travel registration is NOT required anymore. Qatar has completely removed the Ehteraz pre-registration requirement from 1 November.
• A vaccination Certificate and COVID-19 PCR Tests are only required if your destination country requires these . If your country of arrival does not demand these, you do not have to present them for transit.

The above information is already available on the Qatar Airways website. Below is a tweet from QA on 07 August 2022 to confirm:

You can check your destination country’s requirements using this tool on Qatar Airways .

Covid Hygiene at HIA

HIA takes extreme care of hygiene, especially after the pandemic breakout. It is mandatory to wear masks and to maintain social distancing inside the airport. It is only permitted for staff members and passengers with valid flight reservations to enter the airport terminal.

265 hand sanitiser dispensers have been strategically placed throughout the terminal. Each passenger touch point is sanitized regularly, and all baggage trolleys and tubs are regularly disinfected. UV disinfection tunnels were installed to disinfect all luggage arriving at the airport.

Other security measures include mobile disinfection robots, plexiglass shields, thermal cameras, contactless elevators, and contactless payment methods. As a result of its efforts, HIA has become the first airport in Asia and the Middle East to receive a COVID-19 5-Star Airport Safety Rating from Skytrax.

READ NEXT: Qatar Visa on Arrival: Complete Guide

Is a Covid PCR test required for transit through Doha Airport?

Is it easy to transfer through doha airport, is 1-hour transit enough at doha airport, is alcohol allowed at doha airport transit areas, related articles:.

• Luggage Storage At Doha Airport: Location and Rates
• Qatar Customs Prohibited Items To Avoid
• Complete Guide To Visiting Qatar
• Guide On Carrying Medicines To Qatar
• Driving in Qatar: Guide For Visitors And Residents

Copyright © DohaGuides.com – Full or partial reproduction of this article in any language is prohibited.

Images and video courtesy: Hamad International Airport, Qatar Airways

140 thoughts on “Doha Airport Transit Requirements And Procedure (2024 Guide)”

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Hi there, amazing article! I am flying home to sweden and will transit in doha. Im going home to renew my passport that expires in august (I travel in june). I called Qatar airlines a while ago and she said it wont matter as i dont leave the airport but I went back down the rabbit whole and im now worried i wont be allowed to do transit without 6 months left on my passport… i am so stressed and full of anxiety, i have email and called Airports on both ends with no further respons… please help if you can, thanks you kindly

Hello, I will be flying to New York from Delhi via Doha with a short stopover. Can I carry alcohol while transiting through Doha? Thanks!

Hello. I am Mongolian citizen. i will flying from Azerbeijan to Istanbul pass through Qatar, with an 8 hour layover in Doha. I booked two differents ( Air arabia and Turkish airline) airline and we will collect checked in baggage from belts outside immigtlration. Can we get visa on arrival?

Hi Orgilmaa, Mongolian citizens are not eligible for visa on arrival. You will have to apply for Tourist Visa in advance.

Hi Dave, Please check directly with your airline.

Question: I am looking to travel with my two cats from Australia to Finland. I will be booking my first flight with Qatar through their website – flight arrives 6am and the only option for the cats us to travel as checked baggage.

my second flight I am booking with Finnair, Finnair flight leaves at 8am and I would like to transit my cats to carry on baggage as this is much cheaper.

questions: is 2 hours enough time to transit? if not, is there somewhere my cats can stay in the airport to avoid needing an import permit and having to adhere to Qatar additional vaccine requirements.

hope to hear from you soon,

Hi Jess, There are a few issues with this arrangement. Since you have booked with two different airlines, you will be required to pass through the immigration check, collect your checked-in baggage, exit the arrival area, and check in again through the departure area. If you are an Australian citizen you may get a visa on arrival, so immigration won’t be an issue. Two hours can be a bit tight because HIA is a big airport and you have to pass through immigration, baggage collection and check-in. Remember that normally gates close 45-60 minutes before departure. Secondly, your cats will need an import permit to enter the country. Qatar Airways may ask for that before you board the airline from Australia (because your journey with them ends in Doha). So please contact Qatar Airways as soon as possible and discuss the situation.

is there anywhere for my pets to stay in Doha Airport so that I do not require a import permit. my flight has a 2 hour lay over which isn’t long enough to transit the cats between flights from luggage to carry on.

Hi Jessica, Please check with your airline. They can help you with this.

I am in transit through Doha airport for a connecting flight to Cape Town. Will I be allowed to carry my vape in my hand luggage or will it be confiscated.Many Thanks Susan Lines

Hi Susan, E-cigarettes are not allowed inside the terminal. So carrying in hand baggage may not be a good idea. Please check with your airline.

Hi Doha Team Guides.

This is dangerous advice – vape devices almost always include batteries containing lithium, most carriers specifically advise these are not carried in checked-in baggage due to fire risk, and ask that they ARE brought in hand baggage. E-cigarettes are not permitted, nor is smoking, in the main terminal areas of Hamad airport (standard almost everywhere in the world) but there are smoking lounges in the airport. Whether vaping is permitted in these is unclear due to the blanket ban on vaping in Qatar – which I suspect is partially what Susan’s original question was actually about.

The blanket ban came in back in 2014 but I have been unable to find clear advice on this, as to whether transit through Doha Hamad airport (i.e., not actually leaving the airport, so not ‘entering the country’) has the same regulation around it, so whether the vape devices would be confiscated on the security check even for someone who is only transferring. Do you have any specific advice on this?

Hi Geff, Thanks for explaining this in detail. We have edited our earlier response. Apologies for the confusion. We have heard that usually they get confiscated during security checks. For those in transit, please confirm with your airline.

Hello, We plan to have a stop of 10 hours in Doha between 2 flights with Qatar airlines. We are from Switwerland. Can we have the transit Visa for going in the city by ourselves ? How can we do for having these visas ? Thank you in advance Stéphanie

Hi Stephanie, Swiss citizens are eligible for a visa on arrival. Just inform the immigration that you want to leave for a city tour. Since it is only for a few hours, you can get it without a hotel booking (show the next flight ticket if required). Here are the details: https://www.dohaguides.com/qatar-visa-on-arrival-requirements-eligibility/

Hi, I will be travelling from Amsterdam to Phuket with an 8,5 hour layover in doha. Ive booked the connecting flights on the qatarairways website. Am I understanding it correctly that I only need to check in my luggage once (in Amsterdam), and don’t need to collect them and re check them in doha, if I stay inside the airport in doha?

Since I have an 8,5 hour layover, I understand I can request transit accommodation to a hotel. Does this change anything regarding having to collect check-in luggage or not?

Hi Lisa, In most cases, you won’t be required to collect the check-in luggage since it is for a short duration. However, this will depend on your airline policy. Kindly discuss this with your airline.

Hi, Im booking flight from Chennai to Birmingham via Doha, first flight is Indigo from chennai to doha and a lay over of 2 hr 15 mins, later i have a qatar flight from Doha to birmingham. Is the lay over time enough between the flights?

Hi Bryan, If you have booked both flights with the same airline (code-sharing option), then you will not have to collect your baggage or do the check-in again. You will be within the transit area only. In that case 2.15 hours may be just enough (could be tight, but possible). If your book with different airlines, then you will have to exit the arrivals area, collect you baggage and check-in again through departure gates. In this case 2.15 hours may not be enough.

How do I handle a checked bag if I am only transiting through Doha and have 2 non-connecting flights in and out. Flying into Doha on Qatar airways and departing on Rwanda airways 4 hours later. Do i need a visa to get my luggage then check back in at Rwanda air or how would I do this?

Hi James, If you have booked separate flights you will need to collect your baggage on your own and re-check. This means you will need some kind of visa to exit the transit area.

Can I get aasisted help in the transit to my next flight because of my physical disabilities ?

Hi Graham, Please inform your airline in advance. They can help you. Most airlines have this option on their ticketing website.

Hallo, i will arrive in 2 days in Hamad airport from Istanbul with Pegasus airline, after 2h i want to transit witch Nepal Arlines flight to Kathmandu, i will not have check in bagage with me, do i need to make a visa in this case?

Hi Stan, If you have booked both airlines with the same booking, you won’t pass through immigration at Doha and hence you won’t need a visa. If you have booked separately, you will need a visa. You can check this article for more details: https://www.dohaguides.com/transit-visa-for-qatar/

With all respect, but are you sure? from this article it seems that to acces lugage i need to leave transit zone, but what if i will follow the sign “Transit” and enter security check? They will say that i have to leave the transit zone? They will not allow me to flight? I saw it on this video from aiport for example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFIqU2403gU

Hi Stan, Yes, if you need to collect you baggage you have have to leave transit zone and go to arrivals. In this case you will need a visa. However what you need to check is whether you should collect your baggage yourself or the airline will do that. (1) If you have booked a code-sharing flight (you paid only to Airline X but they scheduled a connecting flight with Airline Y), your airline X will transfer your baggage to Airline Y (this happens in 99.9% cases). (2) If you have booked two separate flights (paid Airline X and Airline Y separately), airline is not responsible for your baggage. You have to collect your baggage yourself, which means you need to leave transit zone and go to arrivals. In this case you will need a visa. Hope you are clear now. We cannot advise without knowing how you have booked the tickets. Hence we explained both cases. If you are still not sure, kindly contact your airline to check.

I am travelling to Perth via Doha on a BA codeshare flight (despite the intial booking being QATAR all the way) and transferring to a QATAR flight at Doha. If the BA flight is late who is responsible for re booking my Perth flight ?

Hi William, The airline from where you purchased your ticket will be responsible for your rebooking.

I’m planning to exit the airport as I have a 16 hours layover and head to an hotel outside (already booked through discoverqatar.qa) to catch a sleep and a quick tour in the morning before my next flight. Do I understand correctly I need to proceed to “Arrivals” and not to “Transfer” then? Thanks for clarifying

Hi Andy, Yes, you need to proceed to Arrivals. However please contact a transfer desk to double check about your checked-in baggage. You can see transfer desks before the Arrivals sign.

Thanks, brilliant information.

Thanks KevIW!

Very good information which I required .

Thanks Naderi, Good luck!

We are Travelling from Heathrow to Melbourne via Doha. We have 26 hours between arrival and departure times. The UK Govt website says you can’t stay ‘in transit’ for more than 24 hours in Doha airport. Does this mean we have to exit the airport and can’t stay in transit hotel?

Hi Andy, If your nationality is eligible for a visa on arrival (e.g., UK), you can leave the airport and stay anywhere in Doha.

Hi, About the same question as above: I am travelling as “standby” (staff). If there is no place in a flight I have to wait for the next one. That means I have then to wait more than 24 hours ‘in transit’ in the HIA airport. Maybe a few days. Could this be a problem ? thanks

Hi P.G. You need to discuss this with your airline. The standard rule is that you transit passengers cannot stay for more than 24 hours inside the airport. This may be relaxed in some cases.

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What To Do At Doha Airport: Tips For A Long Layover In Qatar

Jayne Gorman

February 27, 2020

I once spent just over 12 hours in transit at Doha Airport on the way to the Maldives and it wasn’t nearly as painful as I expected! There are quite a few things to do at Doha Airport that make a stopover here enjoyable.

While not the cheapest airport to spend a long layover (the showers in particular are more pricey than average and there are not nearly as many free things to do as there are at Singapore’s Changi Airport ) it can be a fun place to transit if you head to the pool or nab yourself a place on a Doha city tour.

Plus, if you fly with Qatar Airways you may be able to turn your stopover into a short holiday with one of their amazing Qatar Stopover deals.

So, for anyone about to transit through Doha or book a short stopover in Qatar, here’s my lowdown on the best things to do at Doha Airport during a long layover.

Disclosure: This post is not sponsored but contains some affiliate links. Read the disclosure policy for details. All prices and info correct when updated in February 2023.

Best things to do at Doha Airport

Connect to the free Wi-Fi

After working there for 7 hours straight I can confirm that the Wi-Fi at Hamad International Airport is free, fast and unlimited. Simply connect to ‘HIAQatar Complimentary WiFi’. I was asked to pop in my Qatar e-ticket number to log on – you’ll find this on the boarding pass if you don’t have your booking handy. There are also iMac computers near the gates if you didn’t bring your laptop.

Take a shower

If you don’t have access to a lounge with free showers, you can pay to use the Doha Airport shower facilities at the Vitality Wellbeing & Fitness Centre or the Be Relax Spa.

Use of the shower room at the Vitality Wellbeing & Fitness Centre costs 90 QAR (approx. £20 GBP or $25 USD), which is fairly expensive for airport showers, but they are sparkling new facilities with lockers, towels, Rituals Spa toiletries and use of hair dryers included. You have max 40 mins to use the facilities and they hold your boarding pass at the front desk until you leave.

For a cheaper option, you can shower at either of the Be Relax Spas (found on Concourse A and Concourse D/E) where a 10 minute shower costs 70 QAR or the price is 95 QAR for 25 mins. That price includes towel, shower gel and shampoo, plus an extra vanity or shaving kit if you go for the longer option.

You can also book a number of express beauty treatments and massages – find the full price list here .

(Note: They accept credit cards throughout the airport so there’s no need to take out local currency if you’re just in transit.)

Swim at The Vitality Pool

If you’ve got enough time you can shake off those airplane aches with a few laps in the swimming pool at Doha Airport. The Vitality Pool was temptingly empty on my visit, but sadly I hadn’t come prepared with a swimming costume.

Use of the 25-metre indoor swimming pool costs 175 QAR (approximately £38 GBP or $73 AUD) but that price includes use of all Vitality Wellbeing and Fitness Centre facilities, so you can also have a dip in the hot tub, use the gym and freshen up in the showers I mentioned earlier.

Sleep at The Oryx Airport Hotel

Depending on how long you’ve got to kill it might be worthwhile checking into The Oryx Airport Hotel , which has chic airside rooms and grants guests free access to the gym, pool and jacuzzi at the Vitality Wellness Centre.

As the hotel is airside you do not need to go through passport control but must have a valid onward ticket from Doha Airport to check in as this hotel is for transit passengers only.

Remember, you won’t have access to your checked luggage, so pack a change of clothes in your hand luggage if you plan to stay over.

You can book a room for day use (9am to 5pm) or by hourly packages starting from 8 hours.

Head to a designated family or quiet area

There are a number of interesting sculptures dotted around the airport, some of which children can climb on and one of which (I’m talking about you teddy) everyone seemed keen to get a selfie with. 

There are also quiet lounges for those looking to get some shut eye, and family lounges for those travelling with kids . I found a quiet spot in the eating area near Burger King that had a power socket under the table so spent a lot of time here.

Drink decent coffee

The coffee at Soho Coffee gets my rarely handed out seal of approval.

Food-wise you can get a number of sandwiches, snacks, curry and burgers in the food court. Soprafino by celebrity chef Massimo Capra does delicious pizza at a decent price. Find all dining options at Hamad International Airport here .

Shop for gold

My only criticism of Doha’s Hamad Airport is that the shopping doesn’t really appeal to me. There’s lots of designer labels but little in the way of affordable fashion. (Where’s a Zara when you need one?). Aside from your usual duty free items the only thing you can buy in abundance here is gold!

Join a Doha City Tour from 99 QAR

If you have a transit time of more than 6 hours you can book a Discover Qatar City Tour from 99 QAR. The guided tour is designed to be an introduction to Doha and includes stops at city highlights such as The Pearl-Qatar, Katara Cultural Village, Souq Waqif and the Museum of Islamic Art.

( Note : The free Doha city tours for transit passengers have been replaced with this option.)

Tours are bookable in advance online up to 48 hours prior to arrival. You can also book a tour upon arrival by heading to the Discover Qatar Transit Tour Desk. Full terms, details and booking forms can be found here .

Nationals from a total of 80 countries can now take advantage of visa free entry into Qatar so there’s no need to worry about applying for a tourist or transit visa if you are from one of these countries.

Want to explore independently? Find some tips for a Doha, Qatar stopover by Calculated Traveller.

Book a Doha Stopover

If you’re flying with Qatar Airways and have a minimum transit time of 12 hours you might want to take advantage of one of their Qatar Stopover deals. Through their website you can book a 4 or 5 star hotel from just 14 USD per night.

You’ll also receive a free transit visa (if necessary) and can add on a number of different tours and activities.

Qatar Airways make it really tempting to turn your Doha stopover into a luxury holiday. Find information and book your flight and hotel here .

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I’m Jayne, a travel blogger, content creator and mum to a 4-year-old son. I’ve been blogging since 2010, travelled to 65 countries and share travel guides and tips to help you plan stylish, stress-free trips.

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Best at home workout: yoga with adriene, 10 thoughts on “what to do at doha airport: tips for a long layover in qatar”.

Great advice Jayne. We transited through Doha a few times and were lucky enough to score the free hotel on our last trip. It was fantastic, 5 star, enormous rooms and came with a $50 food voucher we happily used on a 4 am breakfast in bed. I seriously think it’s worth going for the 18-hour layover for this option. My only extra tip is if you are doing the hotel transit/free city thing avoid a Friday as everything is closed until 2 pm so that really cuts into your sightseeing opportunities.

I’m wishing I had a longer layover now! I’m always looking for ways to break up the flight to Europe and even better if the hotel and meals are included 😀 Great tips re the timings on Friday, I hadn’t thought of that!

Paula, may I know how you were able to secure the free hotel at the ai[ot for yoru layover? I have a 20 hr layover and need to plan what will work best for me. Thanks

Hi did you figure out how to do it? I am also interesting in booking it. Thanks

Hi, as mentioned in the article you can either call Qatar Airlines directly or visit the transit desk at the airport upon arrival. You can also book a longer Doha stay from 29 USD. The link is also in the article. Hope this helps.

Just wondering if the showers are per person? I’m traveling with my 2 children, wondering if we could all go in together? Thanks in advance

I’m not 100% sure as I haven’t done it with my son yet but I have a feeling you pay per adult and the children can come in with you.

Hi have just checked with them and unfortunately, city tours are no longer free. They are charged at 20 USD per person.

Thanks for the update!

Hello, is Qatar still giving the transit visa on arrival? Or there are covid restrictions. Called the airlines but no response please let me know what is the best.

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Doha City Tour With Discover Qatar: An Honest Review

Would you like to learn more about the Doha City Tour with Discover Qatar? Then you have come to the right place!

If you travel east, chances are that you will use the Doha airport for your connecting flight. You might have a long layover in Doha , with plenty of time to kill before hopping on your next flight.

What better way to spend that time than by getting out of the airport to explore a new city that you wouldn’t visit otherwise?

Discover Qatar offers a 3-hour long city tour of Doha which will take you to the city’s main attractions. I took this tour to check out if it was worth it and the answer is YES !

Although Doha might not be a city that attracts many tourists, it does have some beautiful sights. I really enjoyed gazing at the skyscrapers one moment and visiting the traditional souqs the next.

You will find my experience, along with some useful information in case you want to do the Doha Transit Tour in this post.

Doha city tour with Discover Qatar

The places you will see.

After booking the tour and leaving the airport, I boarded the air-conditioned bus with a small group of people who had booked the same tour.

We met our guide, who told us about the country and explained we’d make four stops. These were the following:

The harbour

After about 15 minutes on the bus, we made our first stop at the Doha harbour, which is right next to the Museum of Islamic Art.

You won’t be able to really check this museum out though, as the bus only makes a 10-minute stop in order for you to snap some pictures of the panoramic skyline , which is the harbour’s highlight.

Katara Cultural Village

My favourite stop was the next one: Katara Cultural Village, which aims to promote cultural awareness in Qatar.

Although everything was closed due to Ramadan, the stunning Arabic-inspired architecture literally made my jaw drop. From its amphitheatre to the beautiful Katara Masjid mosque , the cultural village is definitely worth a visit!

We had some time to walk around and take some pictures here, but I wished we could have stayed a little longer. It’s a very beautiful and photogenic place that I would love to visit again one day.

Stop number three was The Pearl: an artificial island situated off the coast of Doha. It’s full of yachts and luxurious apartments, restaurants and hotels.

The name “The Pearl” was chosen because it was built on one of Qatar’s previous pearl diving sites. Before the oil boom, the country was one of the main pearl traders in Asia .

We walked around The Pearl for about 20 minutes, which was just enough for me. Then, we hopped on the bus to drive to our final stop.

Our last stop was the Soup Waqif, where we had an hour to explore the market. Unlike the souqs I have visited in North Africa, the vendors didn’t aggressively try to get you into their shops and sell you stuff, which was a very nice, refreshing experience.

They sell all kinds of things at Souq Waqif, from souvenirs to clothes, spices and even small animals.

The souq dates back at least a hundred years but it was renovated in 2006 after most of it was destroyed by a fire a few years before.

Here, we had the choice to either take the bus back to the airport or stay in the city and return by ourselves later. I didn’t have that much time left before catching my flight so this is when the Doha city tour stopped for me.

How to book Discover Qatar’s city tour of Doha

You can book the tour in advance on the Discover Qatar website or go to their counter at the Doha airport.

Follow the A gate and take the first flat escalator (I’m not sure what those things are called in English?). You will find the desk on the left side. This is also the place where the tour leaves.

The 3-hour tour of Doha that I took cost 99 QAR but there are other tours to choose from, depending on the time you have and your budget.

I didn’t have to pay a visa fee, but it depends on your citizenship. You can check if your country belongs to the visa-free countries here .

Tips for the Qatar City Tour

• Bring water and sunscreen.
• Always take your valuables with you when you leave the bus.
• Ask for your tour operator’s contact number if you’re taking the bus back after the last stop. You never know what might happen and the bus doesn’t wait in case you get delayed.

Discover Qatar City Tour: Final thoughts

All in all, I had a great time on the Discover Qatar City Tour!

It takes you to Doha’s highlights and gives you an idea of what the city is like. There were places where I would have loved to stay longer but I know this wasn’t possible due to the limited time you have on a layover.

I would recommend this tour and would do it again in a heartbeat! It’s a great way to make the most of your layover and see a little bit of Doha.

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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I will have an 8-hour layover in Doha next month and am considering this tour. Is there a place to store one’s carry-on bag at the airport? Or do you bring it on the tour with you?

Hi Nadia, I think there must probably be a place to store your carry-on somewhere at the airport, but I took it with me so I’m not sure. Enjoy Doha!

Hi… I have a long layover in Doha. Want to leave the airport. I have some questions about you leaving the airport.

Did you have to get recovid tested? Do you need a Qatar SIM card or does the airport Wi-Fi have a strong enough connection for the health app?

Hi Mark, I did this before Covid, so I don’t know about the test. The wifi at the airport was good though!

Hi Laura, would just like to ask if the Pokefi 5g lte will work on an iPhone 8 and a laptop or does it only work on the latest devices?

Hi Ami, I think it would work because you just need to connect the wifi to start using it. But I would ask the Pokefi client service if you want to be sure. 😉

Hi Laura. I took the city tour from Qatar Airways 2 weeks ago while my transit in Rwanda. The tour was great but unfortunately it ended with one of the worst experiences in my life. The last station was the market and the tour operator gave us 20 minutes to go around. I lost my way back and I delayed 8 minutes to reach the meeting point. After waiting for 15 minutes, I realized that they left without me with my bag in the bus and without any contact to communicate. All my things (passport, money, credit cards, laptop) were in the bus and with just 8 minutes delay they left without me, in the middle of nowhere. After 1 hour of stress trying to find someone to talk, to find my bag and get back to the airport, I realized that they don’t care about their customers safety and there are no ways to be justified. Moreover, the taxi driver instead of 7 usd, he charged me 20 usd to take me back to the airport. I was charged 100 usd for the calls to find my bag and my way back to the airport.

Hi Nicos, I’m so sorry for what has happened to you, I can imagine that must have been a horrible experience! 🙁 It’s true that there should be a way to contact them in case something like this happens. I know it’s not much, and it certainly doesn’t make anything better, but I’ve added some tips at the end of this post that will hopefully prevent things like this from happening again.

Hi Nicola, did you have to get COVID tested or download any app in order to travel on the transit tour?

Hi Laura, thank you for sharing your experience and great information. I have a 12 hour layover at night in DOHA, do I need a transit to do the Discover Doha tour?

Hi Mari, I’m happy it’s helpful! 🙂 I’m not sure I understand what you mean with a transit. If you have a 12-hour layover, you are in transit, so it should be fine (I hope this helps). Also, it depends on the tours, but I see that you’re arriving at night, and for this one, the last one leaves at 9:30 pm. Hope your flight will be there in time!

after reading your review i also want to book this tour. My flight will arrive at 14:40. How long does it take to get to the Discover Qatar desk? Do i have to go through some security checks first? Do you think, taking flight delays into consideration, i can catch the tour starting from 16:00?

Please let me know – Thank you in advance

Sorry, i meant the tour starting from 18:00 because nowadays they want you to show up 2h prior

Hi Thomas, I didn’t have to go through any checkpoints when I landed in Doha and got to the Discover Qatar desk pretty fast! So I think you will definitely have enough time to catch that tour. Enjoy! 🙂

I’ve been staying in Doha for sometime for now. I guess you need at least one full day to view major sights of Doha city,

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Doha Private Exclusive Transit City Tour From Hamad Airport

Doha, the vibrant capital of Qatar, offers a captivating transit experience for those passing through Hamad Airport . The Doha Private Exclusive Transit City Tour provides an opportunity to discover the city’s remarkable blend of modernity and heritage. From the picturesque Corniche promenade to the cultural hub of Katara Village , visitors can enjoy the local atmosphere, explore traditional handicrafts, and witness the architectural marvels that define this dynamic metropolis. With airport transfers and a coastal cruise included, this tour ensures a seamless and comprehensive exploration of Doha’s most notable sights, leaving travelers with a deeper understanding of Qatar’s unique charm.

• Explore Doha’s picturesque waterfront Corniche with its vibrant cafes and panoramic views of the skyline and Arabian Gulf.
• Visit the Katara Cultural Village to experience Qatar’s rich cultural heritage through art galleries, performance venues, and traditional architecture.
• Enjoy the lively atmosphere of a local souk, where you can haggle with vendors and sample fresh regional delicacies.
• Witness the centuries-old tradition of falconry and admire the handcrafted goods of local artisans.
• Enjoy a coastal cruise along Doha’s artificial Pearl Island, showcasing the city’s contemporary architecture and sustainable development.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• Doha Private Half Day Desert Safari All Inclusive Package
• Qatar Gold Dune Safari, Dune Bashing,Camel Ride,Sand Boarding,Inland Sea Desert
• Doha : Private Half Day Desert Safari | Camel Riding | Falcons | Sand Surfing
• Full Day Qatars North And West Private Tour

Doha’s Waterfront Corniche

The Doha Corniche , a picturesque waterfront promenade , stretches along the city’s vibrant coastline , offering visitors a breathtaking glimpse into the heart of Qatar’s capital.

Lined with lush palm trees and bustling cafes, the Corniche provides the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the glittering skyline , the sparkling Arabian Gulf, and the iconic Museum of Islamic Art .

Whether you’re admiring the architectural wonders or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, the Corniche is a must-visit destination that showcases Doha’s remarkable blend of modernity and tradition.

It’s an ideal starting point for exploring the city’s many attractions.

Katara Cultural Village

Nestled along Doha’s picturesque coastline, Katara Cultural Village stands as a captivating hub that celebrates Qatar’s rich cultural heritage. This expansive complex features a variety of architectural styles, from traditional Qatari structures to modern, avant-garde designs, creating a visually striking environment that invites visitors to enjoy the country’s diverse artistic and cultural offerings.

Within Katara, travelers can explore a range of cultural attractions, including art galleries, performance venues, and museums. The village also boasts an array of dining options, showcasing the flavors of Qatar and the broader Middle Eastern region. To help plan your visit, consider the following key facts about Katara Cultural Village:

Shopping at Local Souk

During the Doha private city tour, visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of a local souk, where they’ll find an array of traditional handicrafts , spices , and other regional specialties.

The souk is a bustling marketplace that offers a unique shopping experience , allowing travelers to browse stalls filled with intricate textiles, ornate jewelry , and traditional Qatari trinkets.

Visitors can haggle with friendly vendors, sampling fresh dates and aromatic teas as they explore the maze-like alleys. Whether they’re looking for souvenirs or simply soaking up the local culture, the souk provides an authentic taste of Doha’s rich heritage.

This stop on the tour offers a chance to connect with the city’s vibrant spirit and bring home a piece of its timeless charm.

Traditional Handicrafts and Falconry

Browsing traditional handicrafts and observing the intricate art of falconry provide visitors a unique glimpse into Qatar’s rich cultural heritage during the Doha private city tour .

The tour includes stops at shops offering an array of handcrafted goods , from delicate wood carvings to vibrant textiles and intricate metalwork. Visitors can marvel at the skill and artistry of local artisans as they create these timeless pieces.

The tour also showcases Qatar’s centuries-old tradition of falconry , with the opportunity to witness these magnificent birds of prey in action.

This immersive cultural experience allows travelers to truly appreciate the deep-rooted customs and craftsmanship that define Qatari identity.

The Artificial Pearl Island

Beyond the traditional handicrafts and falconry displays, the Doha private city tour takes visitors to the artificially constructed Pearl Island, where they can cruise along the picturesque coastline. This purpose-built island, a testament to Qatar’s ambitious urban development, offers a unique opportunity to explore the country’s modern architectural marvels and gain insights into its progressive vision for the future.

The Pearl Island features an impressive array of residential, commercial, and recreational facilities, all seamlessly integrated into a meticulously planned environment. Visitors can marvel at the sleek, contemporary designs of the high-rise buildings, luxury apartments, and upscale retail outlets that dot the island’s landscape. Plus, the island boasts a variety of waterfront activities, from yacht cruises to water sports, providing a refreshing respite from the bustling city.

Coastal Cruising Experience

The coastal cruising experience on the Pearl Island offers visitors a unique opportunity to admire Doha’s striking skyline and picturesque waterfront from a different vantage point.

Aboard the yacht, guests can leisurely glide along the island’s shores, taking in the sights of the luxurious residential developments , upscale retail outlets, and modern architectural marvels that dot the landscape.

As the boat weaves through the tranquil waters, guests can appreciate the seamless integration of land and sea, marveling at the harmony between the natural environment and the city’s ambitious urban planning.

This serene cruise provides a refreshing respite from the bustling city, allowing visitors to savor Doha’s coastal beauty at a more leisurely pace.

Airport Pickup and Drop-off

A key aspect of this Doha city tour is the convenient airport pickup and drop-off service, which ensures a seamless start and end to the experience. Guests are met at the exit gate number 4 upon arrival, where an air-conditioned vehicle and English-speaking guide await to whisk them away for a half-day exploration of the capital’s highlights. This hassle-free transportation is included in the tour package, with the return drop-off at the airport completing the tour.

Logistical Information and Policies

Along With the convenient airport transportation , this Doha city tour offers a range of other logistical details and policies for customers to consider.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Participants must adhere to a dress code , covering their knees and avoiding see-through clothing. However, the tour is stroller accessible and near public transportation, with infants required to sit on laps.

Most travelers can participate, though a minimum 8-hour transit time in Doha airport is required.

The Souq Waqif market is open from 10 am to 12 pm and 4 pm to 10 pm on Fridays only, so visitors should plan their schedule accordingly.

Changes less than 24 hours before the experience aren’t accepted, but full refunds are available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• Doha Safari: Bash The Dunes, Camel Ride and Sandboarding
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• North of Qatar | Al Khor | The Purple Island | Al Zubara Fort | Mangrove Forest

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i bring my own food and beverages on the tour.

The tour provider generally does not allow participants to bring their own food and beverages. They typically provide water, tea or coffee as part of the tour. Bringing outside items may not be permitted, so it’s best to check with the operator beforehand.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?

The tour guide is fluent in multiple languages, typically including English. This allows them to communicate effectively with a diverse range of participants and provide informative commentary throughout the tour in the languages most needed.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?

The tour is a private tour, so the group size is limited to the booking party only. The maximum group size is not explicitly stated, but it is a private, exclusive tour for the individual or group that books it.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour provider does not offer any discounts for students or seniors. Pricing is the same for all participants, regardless of age or student status. The tour is priced as a private exclusive experience.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?

Yes, you can typically extend the tour duration for an additional fee. Many tour operators offer flexible options to accommodate varying transit times and budgets. Check with the specific tour provider about extending the duration and associated costs.

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Qatar’s transit city tour offers a captivating exploration of Doha’s remarkable blend of modernity and heritage .

From the picturesque Corniche to the cultural hub of Katara Village and the artificial Pearl Island, travelers can enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere, discover traditional handicrafts, and enjoy a seamless transit experience with airport transfers.

This comprehensive tour showcases Doha’s architectural marvels and the authentic charm of the local souk.

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Qatar Transit Tour: Doha City

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Qatar is a tiny peninsular Arab nation in the Arabian Gulf bordering Saudi Arabia. Most of the country resides in the capital city of Doha. The economy is nearly 75% based on petrol and natural gas, making this small country the world’s richest nation (GDP per capita).

Over two million people call Qatar home, yet only 20% of the population are Qataris, with a huge population of foreign workers. Qatar has been selected to host the 2022 World Cup, the first in the Arab world. This has resulted in construction projects throughout Doha.

New Doha, known for exotic skyscrapers that rival Dubai, is an extremely modern city built entirely on reclaimed land in 2000. Doha is a regional hub and a common layover with Qatar Airlines. There is an excellent city tour available for those passing through offered by Discover Qatar. Read on to learn more about the Doha city tour.

Content and photographs provided by Yana Kogan and Timon .

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Important Things to Know When Visiting Doha

Visa to qatar.

Visa on arrival is available for countries in the E.U., the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and South Korea. All other countries are required to get a visa before arrival. See more visa information  here .

Best Time to Visit Doha

Visiting Qatar is best in the winter months between November and February. Days can still get hot with cool evenings, but the weather is very manageable. Temperatures in the summer average over 100° F (+40°C), making visits during this time very unpleasant.

The Qatari Riyal is the national currency in Qatar. It is pegged to the USD at $1 = 3.64 QR. ATMs are widely available at the airport and around Doha.

Doha City Tour

Are you flying with Qatar Airlines and have at least a six-hour layover in Doha? Take their Doha city tour! The tour lasts just under three hours and stops at the four below locations. There is a free one-day visa and the tour is first come, first serve, but you can also book your tour online up to 48 hours before your arrival time. There are six tours each day that leave at 8am, 10:30 am, 3pm, 6 pm, 8pm, and 9:30 pm.

Check-in starts two hours before the scheduled tour. The check-in location is at the Discover Qatar Transit Tours desk in Concourse A towards Gate A4. The city tour is on a 46-passenger bus and has short stops for a quick visit to Doha. At the time of writing, the Doha city tour was offered for free to promote Doha tourism. Nowadays, the tour costs 75 QR ($21 USD).

1. Museum of Islāmic Art

The first stop is next to the Museum of Islāmic Art. This building is an iconic building on the Doha corniche designed by the famous architect I. M. Pei. While there is not enough time to visit the museum, there is a photo opportunity of the building as well as a panoramic view of New Doha. This stop is for five minutes.

2. Katara Cultural Village

Opened in 2010, most cultural attractions for the city, such as open-air concerts, theatre, opera, or other events, occur in Katara. While this part of the city is becoming more popular, it is still mostly under construction until 2018. This stop is for 20 minutes.

3. The Pearl

The Pearl of Doha is a mini-Dubai-like pearl-shaped island with high-end shops, restaurants, and a marina. This is also the first place in Qatar that allows foreigners to own property. This stop is for 15 minutes.

4. Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif, the largest in Qatar, is a traditional market that is predominately a tourist destination. While it is not used by Qataris today, there remains an authentic feel and look to this market that is over 100 years old. This stop is for 45 minutes.

Tour Details

• A small bottle of water for each person
• Stops include an opportunity for a restroom breaks
• Timelines are strict to get everyone back to the airport
• English-speaking guides led the tour and offer historical context as well as information while riding on the bus between stops

That’s it – we hope you enjoy exploring the beautiful city of Doha!

Yana & Timon met at college in Boston, Massachusetts. After graduating, they started their professional careers. They moved to San Francisco in 2010, a city they loved living in for nearly six years. After working and saving up money for several years, they quit their jobs and set off on an adventure of a lifetime. They started living a nomadic lifestyle in December 2015 and have not looked back since.

3 thoughts on “Qatar Transit Tour: Doha City”

Do I really need to be there 2 hours early to check in? My flight lands at 5 and I would like to do the 6pm tour. What are your thoughts?

Did you need a COVID test to exit for transit tour

Hi do you need a covid test to enter for transit tour?

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Transit/Layover Tours From Doha Airport – Explore Doha City

As travelers find themselves in the bustling hub of Doha Airport, a unique opportunity awaits them – Transit/Layover Tours From Doha Airport offer a captivating glimpse into the heart of Doha City.

The chance to seamlessly transition from airport terminals to the vibrant streets of a new destination beckons, promising a blend of authenticity and exploration.

With a myriad of sights, sounds , and tastes waiting to be discovered, this experience teases the senses and opens doors to a world of cultural richness.

• Discover Doha’s history and modernity during layovers
• Experience iconic sites like Souq Waqif and Museum of Islamic Art
• Expert guides provide insights into Qatari culture
• Flexible booking process with affordable rates for exploration

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Qatar Desert Safari Half Day Tour
• Doha City Highlights Guided Tour With Dhow Cruise
• Doha Private Exclusive Transit City Tour From Hamad Airport
• Private Qatari Desert ATV Adventure From Doha

Tour Overview

Set out on an exciting exploration of Doha City with the Transit/Layover Tours from Doha Airport, offering travelers a unique opportunity to discover the vibrant culture and attractions of the city during their stopover.

The tour duration typically ranges from 4 to 6 hours, providing ample time to visit key landmarks and take in the local atmosphere. Travelers benefit from the guide’s expertise , gaining valuable insights into Doha’s history, traditions , and modern developments.

The guides are knowledgeable and passionate about showcasing the city, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for visitors. With expert guidance, visitors can explore the heart of Doha, exploring its architectural marvels, bustling markets , and scenic waterfront , making the most of their layover in this dynamic city.

Pricing Details

Discovering the vibrant culture and attractions of Doha City through the Transit/Layover Tours from Doha Airport also involves understanding the transparent pricing structure that starts from $105.00 and varies based on group size , ensuring competitive rates and flexible payment options for travelers. Group discounts are available for larger groups, making the tours more cost-effective. Travelers can choose from various payment options to suit their preferences, adding convenience to the booking process. Here is a breakdown of the pricing details:

Explore Doha City without worrying about your budget, thanks to the affordable rates and payment flexibility offered on these tours.

Tour Highlights

Enjoy the rich tapestry of Doha City by delving into its captivating Tour Highlights.

Doha offers a stack of exploration options , from the bustling Souq Waqif where you can experience traditional Qatari culture to the modern architectural marvels like the iconic Museum of Islamic Art.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the majestic Katara Cultural Village or take a stroll along the picturesque Corniche, offering stunning views of the city skyline.

Discover the historic Al Zubarah Fort or indulge in shopping at the luxurious Villaggio Mall.

These sightseeing attractions showcase the blend of tradition and modernity that defines Doha, making your layover tour a truly memorable experience.

Booking Process

Exploring the captivating Tour Highlights of Doha City naturally leads travelers to the seamless Booking Process for these transit/layover tours from Doha Airport. The Online reservation process through Viator ensures convenience for booking these exciting tours. Travelers can easily secure their spots by following a few simple steps online. Upon completion, confirmation details are provided promptly, giving peace of mind to those planning their layover adventures.

Plus, understanding the Cancellation policy is essential for flexibility in case of unexpected changes to travel plans. Knowing the guidelines regarding cancellations can help travelers make informed decisions and potentially avoid any cancellation fees.

Customer Support

Customer inquiries about the transit/layover tours from Doha Airport are promptly addressed through a dedicated support system that ensures a seamless booking experience. Travelers can access various support options to assist with their queries and booking details.

Whether customers need information on tour durations, itinerary highlights , inclusions , or exclusions , assistance is readily available. Service details , such as the availability of the Viator Help Center, aid in providing customers with the necessary support for a hassle-free booking process.

With transparent pricing structures and competitive rates, customers can expect clear communication regarding payment options and booking modifications. The customer support team ensures that all inquiries are handled efficiently, enhancing the overall experience for those looking to explore Doha City during their layover.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Qatar Museum Tour
• Private Desert Safari Tour in Doha
• Private Transfer From Qatar Doha Hamad Airport (Doh) to Doha City
• Private Zubara North Coast Tour
• Half Day Private Desert Safari in Doha
• Doha Sunset Safari: Camel Trek With Dune Bashing and Sandboarding

Common questions

Can the Tour Be Customized Based on Specific Interests or Requests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to cater to specific interests or requests. Travelers can enjoy personalized experiences with tailored itineraries that reflect their preferences. Customization options allow for a more engaging and fulfilling exploration of Doha City.

Are Airport Transfers Included in the Tour Package?

Airport transfers are included in the tour package. Travelers can enjoy seamless transportation to and from the airport, ensuring a stress-free experience. This service enhances convenience and allows visitors to make the most of their layover activities.

What Languages Are the Tours Available In?

Language options for the tours include English, Arabic , and other languages upon request. Travelers can enjoy the local culture with guides fluent in various languages, enhancing their Doha experience.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour to Proceed?

For the tour to proceed, a minimum group size is required. However, the tour offers flexibility and can accommodate individual preferences . Group size and tour customization options may vary based on the specific requirements of each traveler.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Expenses That May Not Be Included in the Initial Price Quote?

Additional fees or unexpected expenses are not included in the initial price quote. Hidden costs are not applicable. The pricing structure is transparent, with no surprise charges. Customers can expect competitive rates with clear inclusions .

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• Private 4-Hour Shore Excursion in Doha With Entrance to 1 Museum Included
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• Private Transfer From Doha City to Doha (Doh) Airport

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Doha city on a Transit/Layover Tour from Doha Airport. With top ratings and competitive pricing, this immersive experience offers a convenient and enriching way to discover the cultural tapestry of the vibrant city.

Book your tour today and embark on a journey filled with unforgettable experiences and insightful exploration of Doha’s highlights. Let the knowledgeable local experts guide you through this captivating city for a truly memorable stopover adventure.

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• About this activity

Doha Airport: Doha City Tour Day🌙 Night with Dhow Cruise 🛳

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Selective hotel pickup
• Multiple languages
• Savor the bright flavors of Doha
• DOHA as you stroll through the Colosseum Discover 40 works of art up close a
• The Pearl-Qatar
• Lusail Boulevard

Activity location

• Doha, Doha, Qatar

Meeting/Redemption Point

• Sun, Jun 30 $179
• Mon, Jul 1 $179
• Tue, Jul 2 $179
• Wed, Jul 3 $179
• Thu, Jul 4 $179
• Fri, Jul 5 $179
• Sat, Jul 6 $179
• Sun, Jul 7 $179
• Mon, Jul 8 $179
• Tue, Jul 9 $179
• Wed, Jul 10 $179
• Thu, Jul 11 $179
• Fri, Jul 12 $179
• Sat, Jul 13 $179
• Sun, Jul 14 $179

DOHA: Highlights City Tour

• Activity duration is 8 hours 8h 8h

Without Meal

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Hotel pickup and drop-off
• What's included What's included DOHA MAIN ATTRACTIONS , DOHA Palaces,
• What's included What's included Doha International Airport
• What's included What's included Hamad International Airport
• What's excluded What's excluded Hotel pickup and drop-off
• What's excluded What's excluded Unfortunately, no food will be served on this tour but there is a café where you can purchase it.

Know before you book

• Not suitable for: People over 70 years, People prone to seasickness, People with altitude sickness, People with animal allergies, People with back problems, People with diabetes, People with heart problems, People with kidney problems, People with mobility impairments, People with motion sickness, Pregnant women, Wheelchair users

What you can expect

We provide limousine services We pickup customer from doha international Airport and hamad international Airport to drop at hotal and we also explore some wonderful tourism destinations in qatar

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Home » Food & Fun » Activities » Free city tours during your layover at Doha airport

Free city tours during your layover at Doha airport

Qatar Airways and the Qatar Tourism Authority offer free tours of Doha for people with a long layover at the Doha airport. This is definitely not a peer-to-peer tour. But my post about free tours from the Narita airport is quite popular, so I think people appreciate information on free tours.

Obviously the tour is meant to give you a good impression of Doha. But I’m fine with a city putting its best foot forward. As the tour material explains, you visit:

• The Pearl-Qatar, for the finest quality shops and restaurants;
• Katara Cultural Village, a centre dedicated to celebrating arts and heritage;
• Souq Waqif, for traditional jewellery, spices and handicrafts;
• The Museum of Islamic Art, for its stunning architecture and beautiful seaside park.

There are four tour times daily: 7am, 10am, 3pm and 6:45pm. The tour runs for 2 hours and 45 minutes and they recommend a minimum of 5 hour layover to do the tour. I’ve heard that the guides have the flexibility to extend the tour if everyone’s schedule permits. Tours include a complementary visa, English speaking guide, and bottle of water.

To find the tours, after your flight arrives stay in the airport following signs for transfers. At the center of the Doha airport is a giant stuffed bear lamp. And just to the side of that is the B wing. The tour desk is just past that big yellow letter B in my picture above. It looks like this:

On my last Doha layover I arrived at the tour desk at 6:50pm (my flight was longer than scheduled due to airspace politics for Qatar). There were about 30 people hanging around waiting impatiently. The operators told me the tour was full. I’ll try again on my next transit through Doha. I’m expecting typical tourist stops, but never having visited Qatar outside of the airport, I’m excited about the opportunity for a free tour.

Doha Transit Tour Review – Is it worth the money?

The worst part of travelling is long layovers! Whether you want to save money or ok with shelling out, layovers are part and parcel of every traveller’s life. At nicer airports like Abu Dhabi and Amsterdam , you can walk around for a while shopping. But, it is irritating not to find a quiet spot to nap if you are tired. Qatar Airways has the most convenient and best way to make these long layovers at Doha Hamad International Airport by Transit tours.

We couldn’t ask for a cheaper and better way to see a city for a few hours that was getting all decked up for the 2022 FIFA world cup, So we don’t claim that we have seen the entire of Qatar, as we saw only Doha for the three to four hours. So this post is all about what you can see in a capital city in three hours! Let us take you on a mini adventure in the wealthiest country in the world on our way back home from Iran .

What to expect in Qatar Transit tours?

A short transit tour of the city takes off from the airport and arrives back at the airport. There are various tours for those with layovers between 7 to 24 hrs at Doha Airport. Yes, Doha airport is like a mall, where you can shop for luxury brands or even window shopping. How long can you do that when you have a 10hr layover? A quick outing is always good to get out of the airport and glimpse this tiny nation’s outlandish capital with modern skyscrapers surrounded by the Persian Gulf.

What you see in the Doha transit tour depends on what kind of tour you choose. One common thing is that you will be picked up and dropped back at the airport without worrying about missing your next flight.

Qatar is the wealthiest nation as of 2020. It has remained in the top 10 richest countries of the world for many years. So in the transit tours, you will be shown the more prosperous parts of Doha. 

We opted for a three-hour city tour in the afternoon. A big bus with around 40 tourists takes you around the beach-side capital with a few minutes stop at various locations. The city is modern, beautiful and spotless. You can easily make out that the country is rich. On the bus, the manager narrates the facts and histories of Qatar. Wherever any major landmarks come up, he neatly explains them in brief. The narration about climate, history, population, migrants, FIFA 2022, fishing villages and so on made the tour even more enjoyable.

Who can take Doha Transit Tours?

Anyone with a layover of at least five hours in Hamad International Airport can join the Doha Transit Tours. In recent days, the conditions have changed a bit and some of the nationalities who are eligible for Visa free entry to Qatar such as Indians need to pay extra and stay for two nights at least in Doha!

This information isn’t mentioned clearly anywhere on their website. I recommend writing to Discover Qatar before you take the layover tours.

Is everything perfect – Not precisely. Expect to see things on the surface level. You can’t go on exploring deep. Most of Doha, you see from your bus window. You are given specific timings at each spot – 10 minutes at Harbour, 30 minutes at the old market, and 20 minutes at the Marsa Arabia area. For that three hours in Doha and the money you pay – It is worth it. Roaming in a new place any day is better than sleeping on the airport lounge benches.

Is the Doha Transit tour Free?

HEADS UP  – I am not sure why a few websites/blogs call the transit tours “Free”. As Indians, we didn’t need a transit Visa; other than that, everything else was payable. So don’t consider the transit tours “Free of Cost” though you are travelling by Qatar airwfays as we did.

I felt, in Doha – there are more buildings than Humans. There are way too many men than women.

Once you book the tour, you can’t alter or try to get things customised. You can’t extend the duration or change the departure hours. The tours run on specific schedules throughout the day. If your layover is 24 hours or so, you can book two trips at different times.

What do I do with my luggage at Doha airport?

Though you have dumped your suitcase/trolley/rucksack as check-in luggage, you will have at least a day pack with you as cabin luggage. After booking the Discover Qatar tour, we searched for lockers to deposit our backpacks. Strangely, nobody knew if there was a place for a passenger locker or not! Even at the Discover Qatar desk, the person in charge said,” Check with others.”

We roamed for almost an hour. Ultimately, a coffee shop guy confirmed that there is no such locker facility. So saddened us; we thought we might have to roam around with our 10kg backpack while our trolley suitcase was already under transfer. Fortunately, the Discover Qatar buses allow tourists to store their bags under the tour bus.

So don’t search for a locker; keep it in the storage under the bus.

Multiple bloggers told us that Qatar is one of the safest, and petty crimes are nil. We believed the same until my Wallet was picked up. I had kept it safe and secure inside my smaller backpack. I am not sure when and how someone flicked it. We have travelled across the globe and all over India. Never have I lost my Wallet! Doha airport is one of the top 10 busiest airports in the world. So be super cautious about your luggage.

Things to know before you opt for any Qatar tours at airport.

You need to be at the Discover Qatar desk an hour before the departure of the tour. Then, you must go through the regular immigration process with your passport and carry-on luggage. It is one of the busiest airports globally; the immigration process may take time during rush hours.

Doha Airport is big! So you must know how to navigate inside the airport to reach the Discover Qatar desk near gate A4. 

Many shops in the airport accept Indian Rupees when you buy things. The unique thing is you can get the change back in either Qatari Riyal or Inr. If the change money amount is higher, they even give you Euros of the same value!

If it is your first time in Bazars and Souqs, Doha old Souq is sure to allure you with its carpets, jewels, dry fruits and other things. When I checked, most pieces were on the higher end but were of good quality. So carry Qatari Rial or International Credit/Debit cards.

Things to keep in mind before boarding your bus to Doha Transit Tour

Make sure you keep an extra pair of clothes in your carry-on luggage to change into before going on a Transit tour. The long flight hours might make you look tired. Also, you will be travelling on an AC bus. I am sure you don’t want to smell bad or cause trouble to others. We had a terrible experience sitting on a stinking bus during our trip. Everyone was covering their nose because of stinky socks or some smell. Fortunately, the smelly person must have noticed his co-passengers struggling (we don’t know who it is). After a few minutes, he/she must have removed their stinking socks and thrown them away (or kept them in a bag).  

Doha is modern in terms of its amenities and appearance. But still conservative when it comes to clothing. You will find foreign women in shorts and bralettes and men in sleeveless shirts and shorts only inside the airport. It is good to keep it in smart casuals when you step outside. Knee-length skirts, capris, skinny jeans, and leggings are all fine.

Avoid wearing crop tops, noodle straps and backless. Men – Wear full pants with a T-shirt. You hardly find anyone roaming in sleeveless T-Shirts in Doha city.

Be conscious when you click pictures, especially at Souq Wakif.

Even when we tried to click images of a carpet or the bird markets, Arab men in white robes often had problems. We are both super conscious; we always ensure we don’t kill someone’s privacy while clicking. But here, no matter where we were walking, there was always an Arab couple – a man in a white robe ( thoub/thobe, dishdasha or kandora) and a lady in a black Burqa.

It was super hard to click without them in the frame. You really need to wait for them to cross your frame. Even though we didn’t intend to click them, we were asked not to click them! I focused on the birds at the bird market; a man in a white robe came out of the shop and yelled at us to click his photo. Once we showed the bird photo on our phone, he nodded and returned without apologising.

Like any middle east country, Shisha is common in Souq Wakif. You will need at least 30 minutes to enjoy one course of Shisha. If you are on a three-hour Doha city tour, you will get 40 minutes to spend in the Souq. So suit yourself – you want to roam around the Souq or enjoy Shisha in that 40 minutes.

Probably Doha is one of the places where “Not so wealthy” people like us get to touch Rolls Royce. So without hesitation, enjoy feeling the windows of luxury shops outside at Versace and Hermes near Marsa Arabia.

Whatever may be your type of travelling – Transit tours are arranged, and they got fixed plans. So instead of judging or whining, sit back and relax, listen to the narration by your manager while the broad roads filled with glass skyscrapers pass by.

What are our thoughts on Doha?

At Doha Harbour, it is a fascinating view of the modern skyscrapers against these old boats used for fishing before. Realising how oil wealth can change a nation’s fortune in two decades is fascinating when you stand there and look around. 

As an architect, I don’t find imitated things fascinating. I always respect and love one’s genuine. The Katara village felt like a place built by borrowing different things from various nations like Mali, Iraq and ancient Persia. The theatres looked like Greek theatres there. The Spiral mosque in the city reminded me of Iraq’s spiral tower. So I am not sure if the Katara village is genuine or made for tourists to add “one more tourist spot.”

Any country in the world will have two faces – the nicer and not-so-nice ones.

As a tourist, we always want to see the nicer part. I am not saying I want to explore if there are any slums in Doha or the poor fishing villages of Qatar. But, within three to four hours, you can see only the touristy places. The places are “made to look good.” 

Katara Village

There are many exciting places in Doha besides the Versace or Rolls-Royce showroom. For example, “Museum of Islamic Art – The building that looks like a woman in Burqah.” When I checked their website, I regretted seeing the nice building only from the outside and not exploring the real museum. Check their website – you can easily spend only three hours in the museum. 

Qatar National Museum – The super contemporary building

The city was all about luxury, extravagance and wealth. Nowhere else, I don’t think, we can ever touch a Rolls Royce car. But here, we could touch it and even pose. It was truly entering Ms Miranda Priestly’s world in real life. As much as we travel on a budget, we love brands (all I have is a Jimmy Choo sunglass and Patola scarf). So be it a Versace gold theme jacket or diamonds of Harry Winston, you can see it all from outside.

Around 80% of the Qatar population are immigrants. So you saw many Asians – Indians, Pakistan, Nepal, Philippines. If you want to experience real Qatar Arab life, you have to get out of Doha and explore. Go to the desert, walk on the tall dunes, and wander in the old Fisherman’s Village. Spend five days in Qatar if you want to feel Qatar beyond seeing Doha. The country is compact. My home state Karnataka 16 times bigger than Qatar. So anything between 5 to 6 days must be good enough to see Qatar as a whole.

So our verdict is

Go with an open mind and don’t expect to experience Qatar – It is seeing Doha in a few hours and not experiencing Qatar as a whole. But, then you will love those four hours – So go head, and enjoy Doha for a few hours.

Would you take Doha Transit Tour after reading our review? Also, Where else have you been on a transit tour, and what are your opinions on it? Let us know in the comment section below.

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• Grand Rapids/Muskegon
• Saginaw/Bay City
• All Michigan

Want to ride a WWII-era B-29 bomber? A Michigan airport will host warplane tours.

• Updated: Jun. 24, 2024, 2:06 p.m. |
• Published: Jun. 24, 2024, 7:30 a.m.

The cockpit of a B-29 Superfortress World War II bomber parked at Syracuse Hancock International Airport on Monday, June 17, 2024. The plane came to Syracuse as part of the AirPower History Tour of the Commemorative Air Force, which will visit Michigan later this month. (Rick Moriarty | [email protected]) Rick Moriarty | [email protected]

• Justin Engel | [email protected]

TITTABWASSEE TOWNSHIP, MI — Ground-bound spectators will witness a throwback sky next week when a Dallas-based airborne “museum” will bring World War II-era military aircraft into mid-Michigan airspace.

The Commemorative Air Force AirPower History Tour is scheduled from Wednesday to Sunday, June 26-30, at MBS International Airport and the skies above it.

Organizers said the five-day event will involve ground-level tours as well as rides provided in a lineup of warbirds that includes a Boeing B-29 “superfortress,” a high-altitude, four-engine bomber the U.S. deployed during both World War II and the Korean War.

Other warplanes expected to arrive at the Tittabawassee Township airport this week: the P-51 Mustang, T-6 Texan, PT-13 Stearman and RC-45J Expeditor.

The B-29, nicknamed “Fifi,” will take flight at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 29-30, organizers said. Rides on the other aircraft will be available during the tour’s normal hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Attendees can book seats online in advance aboard the airborne flights.

A ride on “FiFi” costs from $725 to $1,375 while a seat inside the P-41 Mustang ranges from $2,500 to $4,000.

Rides aboard the other aircraft range from $150 to $750.

Ground-level access to the fleet — including tours of the cockpits — will cost $20 for adults, $10 for children aged 11 to 17, and free for children 10 and younger.

The warplanes will land at the Avflight hangar at MBS International Airport.

The Dallas-based Commemorative Air Force will visit Midwest locations across the summer months , including stops in Ohio, Indiana and Wisconsin in July.

Pilot Larry Lumpkin polishes a P-51D Mustang World War II fighter on Monday, June 17, 2024, at Syracuse Hancock International Airport. The plane is in Syracuse for the Commemorative Air Force's AirPower History Tour. (Rick Moriarty | [email protected]) Rick Moriarty | [email protected]

Want more Bay City- and Saginaw-area news? Bookmark the local Bay City and Saginaw news page or sign up for the free “ 3@3 ″ daily newsletter for Bay City and Saginaw.

Middle East GCC

• Iran English ایران فارسی
• Iraq English العراق العربيّة
• Jordan English الأردن العربيّة
• Kuwait English الكويت العربيّة
• Lebanon English لبنان العربيّة Liban Français
• Oman English عُمان العربيّة
• Qatar English قطر العربيّة
• Saudi Arabia English المملكة العربِيّة السعودية العربِيّة
• United Arab Emirates English الإمارات العربِيّة المتحدة العربِيّة
• Bahrain English البحرين العربية

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Complimentary Transit Accommodation

You can now benefit from a Qatar Airways complimentary transit accommodation package when you fly with the World’s Best Airline.

This service is for passengers who have a transit time of 8 to 24 hours, with no immediate connections. 

The package includes:

• This service may be available if all the following conditions apply -     There is no connection of less than eight hours available -     The transit time in Doha is between eight and 24 hours;
• For bookings made within 72 hours of departure, transit hotel accommodation cannot be pre-booked. In cases where your ticket is booked within 72 hours from your arrival in Doha, please proceed to the transfer desk when you arrive at Hamad International Airport to arrange your transit accommodation.
• Transit accommodation is at the discretion of Qatar Airways. Not all fares are eligible for this stopover service. 
• Confirmation of your hotel at Doha does not guarantee entry into the State of Qatar. This is entirely at the discretion of the Qatar Immigration Authority. Qatar Airways is not liable in the event entry is not permitted, in spite of a hotel booking.
• Please   contact us  to confirm whether this service is available for your journey. Charges may apply.

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