If you’re planning a long layover in Doha, Qatar with kids, Hamad International Airport is one of the best airports in the world to do it. With clean facilities, luxury lounges, indoor playgrounds, and even Louis Vuitton cocktails, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained (and sane) between flights.
Here are our top recommendations for things to do during a long layover in Doha with kids:
1. Relax in a Family-Friendly Lounge
There are two main Al Mourjan Lounges at Doha’s airport:
- Al Mourjan Business Lounge – South (near Gates A/B): The original flagship lounge, known for its elegant design, upscale buffet and à la carte dining, showers, and quiet workspaces.
- Al Mourjan Garden Lounge – North (near Gates C/D/E): A newer, more spacious version with the same premium amenities—but with more family features, like a dedicated children’s playroom, family rooms, and a game lounge for older kids.
Access to the Al Maha Lounge in the main terminal can be seen here by taking the escalator up on the left. Access to the Al Mourjan Business Garden Lounge can be found next to the Louis Vuitton past the C gates near D and E. Check in before heading up the elevators to access the lounge.
The Children’s Room at the Al Mourjan Garden Lounge in Doha’s Hamad International Airport offers a safe and enclosed play space ideal for toddlers. Featuring a variety of toys and activities, it’s a perfect spot for young travelers to burn off energy.
You’ll also find two Al Maha Lounges:
- Al Maha Lounge – Main Terminal: Smaller and quieter, open to Priority Pass holders and select credit card members. Includes a basic buffet, showers, and casual seating.
- Al Maha Lounge – North Node (near C Gates): Similar to the main lounge but less crowded; a hidden gem for travelers with access through cards or Priority Pass
If you’re traveling through Doha’s Hamad International Airport with kids, the indoor playgrounds near Terminals A, B, and C are a must-visit. These creative play structures let kids run, climb, and slide—perfect for burning off energy after a long-haul flight. Free, screen-free entertainment right inside the airport.
If you’re looking for a calmer, sensory-friendly play space at Hamad International Airport, head toward Gate C to the Muzn Lounge. Near the café located midway through the terminal, you’ll find access to a quieter area designed for kids who need a more peaceful environment to recharge between flights.
2. Let the Kids Burn Off Energy at Indoor Playgrounds
Hamad Airport has multiple indoor playgrounds sprinkled around major gates. These play structures are perfect for toddlers and young kids to climb, crawl, and play. Bonus: They’re free and open 24 hours.
Concourse A: Near Gate A3
Concourse B: Near Gate B4
Concourse C: Near Gates C1, C3, and C8
Access the Louis Vuitton Lounge by going upstairs towards the Al Mourjan Garden Lounge, its entrance is right across from the Al Mourjan counter—you can’t miss it.
3. Sip at the Louis Vuitton Lounge Café
Yes, it’s real—and it’s fabulous. Located between the Al Mourjan Lounge Garden, this luxury café serves beautiful drinks and pastries in an ultra-chic setting. Think of it as a grown-up treat for the parents. We had the kids with us as we had a quick cocktail.
From designer boutiques to specialty shops, Hamad International Airport’s luxury duty-free is the perfect place to stretch your legs between flights.
4. Explore Hamad’s High-End Duty-Free Shopping
Even if you’re not shopping, the airport’s high-end duty-free zone feels more like a luxury mall than a terminal. Browse global designer brands, explore perfumes and cosmetics, or just window-shop.
Harrods Tea Room at Hamad International Airport is the perfect spot to relax with a pastry or light snack in an elegant setting. And just steps away, Hamley’s Toy Store is a colorful escape for kids.
5. Grab a Treat at Ralph’s Coffee or Harrods Café
- Ralph’s Coffee is a cute stop to make on your way out of the Al Mourjan Garden Lounge to duty-free shopping and the E gates. It’s charming, Instagram-worthy, and serves quality coffee.
- Harrods Tea Room offers pastries and light fare in a refined British setting. Right across is Hamleys Toy Store, a must-stop for families with younger kids, a smart place for parents to pick up a few travel rewards or distractions for the next leg of the journey.
6. Watch the Kinetic Art & Giant Teddy Bear
There’s a giant yellow teddy bear sculpture in the middle of the terminal (you can’t miss it!). Around it, you’ll also find fascinating kinetic art installations and moving displays.
7. Take a Family Shower & Recharge
All major lounges (and even some pay-per-use lounges) offer family showers, which are a lifesaver during long travel days. Bring fresh clothes and toiletries so everyone can reset before the next leg.
Bonus Tip: Download the Hamad International Airport app before your trip to check gate locations, lounge access, and nearby amenities.
