If you’re facing a long layover in Doha with kids, the Qatar Airways lounges are a game-changer—if you plan it right. There are two main lounge options for business travelers or those with the right access:
1. Al Mourjan Lounge (Gates A & B, Garden Lounge at C, D, E):
- Typically reserved for Qatar Airways business and first-class passengers
- Paid access available (depending on availability)
- Expansive buffet, à la carte dining, luxurious seating, and shower rooms
- Ideal for longer layovers and families needing space
- Bonus family-friendly amenities:
- Children’s playroom (perfect for toddlers)
- Family rooms for private downtime
- Game room with pool tables and comfy seating
The Al Mourjan Garden Business Lounge at Doha’s Hamad International Airport was a standout during our layover. The lounge is incredibly spacious, with plenty of seating, a variety of food options—including made-to-order sushi and light snacks—and a calm atmosphere to unwind. One bonus we didn’t expect: a game room with pool tables, which was a fun way to pass the time between flights. It was the perfect place to relax and recharge as a family.
2. Al Maha Lounge (Main Terminal):
- Accepts Priority Pass and select credit cards:
- Amex Platinum
- Chase Sapphire Reserve
- Capital One Venture X
- Smaller and quieter with solid basic amenities:
- Buffet snacks
- Showers
- Lounge chairs
- Accessible for travelers flying any airline
The Al Maha Lounge at Hamad International Airport's main terminal can be easily found by looking for this escalator. The kids were happy with its’ simple food options like pasta and chicken. The Al Maha Lounge serving Gates D and E offered a quieter space with plenty of seating. If you’re traveling with kids and looking for a low-key, family-friendly lounge, Al Maha is a solid option.
Our Experience:
- We visited the Al Mourjan Garden Lounge after arriving in Doha around 9:30 PM.
- There was plenty of space early on, but by midnight, it got crowded.
- Tip for families: Arrive early to secure a comfortable spot for the kids.
Booking Tip:
- We booked Business Light fares, which don’t include lounge access.
- Paying out of pocket at the airport still saved us over $2,000 per ticket compared to higher fare classes, while giving us luxury lounge access.
These before-and-after photos of the Al Mourjan Garden Lounge at Doha’s Hamad International Airport show just how much the space can fill up. While it was peaceful and nearly empty when we arrived in the early evening, the lounge became much busier late at night. With so many international flights transiting through Doha, peak hours at the lounge can get crowded quickly—something to keep in mind if you're planning to rest or dine during your layover.
Key Differences Between Lounges:
- Al Mourjan Lounge:
- More upscale
- Better food and more space
- More exclusive access
- More expansive
- More family friendly facilities
- Al Maha Lounge:
- More flexible access (Priority Pass, credit cards)
- Lower-key with simpler amenities
- Less food and drink options
Our Tip:
- Splurge for a long layover and pay for Al Mourjan access if possible—you’re on vacation, after all!
- If you have the right credit card, Al Maha is a great backup option if you prefer something simple and don’t want to spend extra.
No matter which lounge you choose, both offer a clean, calm place to unwind between flights—and when traveling with kids, that peace of mind is worth every penny.