Exploring Qatar Airport: Activities And Attractions

what to do at qatar airport

Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar, is a major transit point for flights connecting several continents. The airport offers several amenities and facilities for passengers during layovers, including lounges, dining options, and shopping. Here are some ways to spend your time at the airport:

Characteristics Values
Airport Name Hamad International Airport
Airport Code DOH
Location Doha, Qatar
Facilities Lounges, dining options, shopping, gym, spa, squash court, golf simulator, indoor tropical garden, orchard, sleep 'n fly lounges, showers, etc.
Nearby Hotels Oryx Airport Hotel, Sleep n' Fly Cabins
Layover Activities Shopping, dining, visiting the indoor garden/orchard, art galleries, spa treatments, workouts, etc.

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Relax in the indoor tropical garden, Orchard, with 300 trees, 25,000 plants, and a water feature

If you're looking for a peaceful escape from the typical airport experience, look no further than the Orchard at Doha Hamad International Airport. This stunning indoor tropical garden, opened in late 2022, offers a calm and relaxing environment for travellers seeking a moment of tranquility amid the hustle and bustle of air travel.

The Orchard spans an impressive 10,000 square meters, boasting a vast collection of greenery, including 300 trees and 25,000 plants. The garden's centerpiece is a breathtaking 268-square-meter water feature, creating a soothing atmosphere that promotes a sense of well-being. The unique design of the garden includes a column-free, grid shell roof that filters natural light, supporting the growth of the plants and contributing to the airport's energy efficiency.

Take a leisurely stroll through the lush pathways and admire the diverse range of flora. Find your own tranquil spot to rest and recharge, surrounded by the beauty of nature. The Orchard is easily accessible to all international travellers and is just a 10-minute walk from any point within the airport. It's the perfect place to stretch your legs and refresh your mind before your next flight.

In addition to its natural wonders, the Orchard also offers a variety of modern conveniences. You'll find convenient food and beverage outlets, as well as shopping options, ensuring you can indulge in some retail therapy or grab a quick bite before boarding your flight. The garden is located near the airport's southern node, close to other amenities like the Sleep and Fly lounges and the Oryx Airport Hotel, providing a range of options to suit your needs during your layover.

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Visit the Vitality Wellbeing and Fitness Centre, which has a pool, gym, spa, golf simulator, and squash court

Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar, is a major hub for international travel, with flights to over 150 cities worldwide. The award-winning Vitality Wellbeing and Fitness Centre is located on the fourth floor of the Oryx Airport Hotel. It offers a relaxing escape for passengers with its state-of-the-art fitness facilities and rejuvenating spa services.

The centre is open daily from 6:00 am to 2:00 am and is accessible to all passengers. Hotel guests can enjoy complimentary access to the pool, gym, hydrotherapy tubs, and shower rooms. Passengers who are not staying at the hotel can also access these facilities at competitive rates.

The Vitality Wellbeing and Fitness Centre boasts an impressive range of amenities. It features a 25-metre indoor heated pool, a full-sized squash court, and a well-equipped gym. For those seeking relaxation, the spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages and beauty services. The hydrotherapy tubs provide an opportunity for rejuvenation, and there are also golf simulators available for a unique experience.

Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or simply looking to unwind during your journey, the Vitality Wellbeing and Fitness Centre has something for everyone. With its convenient location and comprehensive offerings, it is an ideal destination to refresh and revitalise while waiting for your flight.

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Explore the art displayed in collaboration with Qatar Museums by local and international artists

Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Doha, Qatar, offers a unique experience for travellers by showcasing art installations and sculptures by leading local and international artists in collaboration with Qatar Museums. This initiative, called 'Discover the Art of the Airport', transforms the airport into a vast and accessible art museum, with art placed throughout the airport for passengers to discover and interact with.

One of the most recognisable pieces in the airport is the 'Lamp Bear' by Swiss artist Urs Fischer. This 23-foot-tall, canary-yellow teddy bear sits inside a lamp and has become a landmark in Doha. It is located in the middle of the terminal, surrounded by the airport's duty-free stores. Another iconic sculpture is the 'Desert Horse' by Qatari artist Ali Hassan, which fuses classical techniques with abstraction and is positioned just outside the airport building.

Other notable artworks include 'Other Worlds' by American artist Tom Otterness, 'Small Lie' by American artist KAWS, and 'Cosmos' by French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel, a large and intricate globe installation inspired by the oldest Islamic astrolabe in the Museum of Islamic Art's collection. The airport also features 'A Message of Peace to the World' by Iraqi artist Ahmed Al Bahrani, based in Qatar, and 'Flying Man' by London-based Iraqi artist Dia Al Azzawi, which celebrates the story of Abu Firnas, an early pioneer in experimenting with flight in the Islamic world.

In addition to these renowned artists, HIA also showcases the work of local and regional talents such as Mohammed Aljaida, Amal Al Raban, Salman Al Malik, Mubarak Al Malik, Amal Alatham, and Yousif. These artworks add character and inspire dialogue and connections between people from different continents, turning travel into a captivating art experience.

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Shop at the duty-free stores for cosmetics, fragrances, electronics, fashion, spirits, and more

Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar, is a shopper's paradise, with an extensive selection of global and local brands and products to choose from. The airport's duty-free stores offer a wide range of items, including cosmetics, fragrances, electronics, fashion, spirits, and more. Here are some tips to make the most of your shopping experience:

First, if you're flying with Qatar Airways, take advantage of their in-flight duty-free shopping. Browse through their duty-free magazine, which features fragrances, skincare products, watches, jewellery, and more. You can fill out an in-flight sales request coupon for the items you wish to purchase and provide it to the cabin crew for delivery. This is a convenient way to shop, especially if you're short on time or prefer to browse at your seat.

When you're at the airport, make sure to visit the duty-free stores, which are usually open 24 hours. You'll find a vast array of products, including well-known brands and local specialties. Cosmetics, fragrances, and skincare products are popular duty-free purchases, and you may find exclusive sets or limited-edition items not available elsewhere. Keep an eye out for promotions and discounts, as duty-free shopping can offer significant savings compared to regular retail prices.

Electronics and gadgets are also a good buy at duty-free shops, with potential savings on items such as headphones, cameras, laptops, and more. If you're looking for a special gift or a treat for yourself, jewellery is another popular duty-free purchase, with a range of luxury brands and unique designs to choose from.

Lastly, don't forget to indulge in some spirits or liquor, which can be purchased duty-free at competitive prices. However, it's important to note that alcoholic beverages cannot be imported into Doha, Qatar, under any circumstances. So, if you plan to purchase alcohol, ensure you consume or carry it with you during your departure.

Remember to do your research before your trip to identify the brands and items available, and always keep track of your spending to stay within your budget and duty-free allowance. Happy shopping!

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Eat at one of the many dining options, including Middle Eastern, international, and Western cuisine

Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar, offers a plethora of dining options for travellers, showcasing the region's unique culture and hospitality. While the airport may not have a wide variety of food choices, it does offer a range of eateries featuring Middle Eastern, international, and Western cuisine to suit every palate.

For those seeking an upscale dining experience, Emporio Armani Ristorante and Gordon Ramsay Burger are excellent choices for a leisurely meal. These restaurants offer a sophisticated ambiance and a chance to indulge in exquisite dishes crafted by world-class chefs.

If you're looking for a quick bite or a taste of local Qatari cuisine, head to Baladna Express for a freshly grilled carved shawarma, a Middle Eastern classic. You can also find juicy burgers at Burger King and KFC, or enjoy a cup of coffee at Illy. For a unique Qatari dining experience, Chapati & Karak, located near the garden area, serves sweet, spiced, milky tea, giving you a true taste of Qatari culture.

In the mood for something international? Concourse C is home to Evergreen Organics, Qatar's first plant-based café, offering cold-pressed juices, turmeric lattes, and savoury delights like avocado and tomato toast with cashew cheese. For a truly international experience, the Harrod's Tea Room brings a taste of London to Doha, complete with scones and pots of curated tea.

Additionally, the airport houses various lounges, including the Qatar Air Lounges and the business class lounge, where you can relax, enjoy refreshments, and even purchase spa services for the ultimate pre-flight pampering experience.

Frequently asked questions

Hamad International Airport is a destination in itself, with plenty of options to keep you entertained during a layover. You can:

- Shop at the airport's duty-free stores, which offer a wide range of products, including cosmetics, fragrances, electronics, fashion items, liquor, confectionery, and more.

- Visit the Orchard, a 6,000 square meter indoor tropical garden with dining and retail experiences, water features, and natural lighting.

- Check out the art displays by local and international artists in collaboration with Qatar Museums.

- Grab a bite at eateries featuring Middle Eastern, international, and Western cuisine. Options include Emporio Armani Ristorante, Gordon Ramsay Burger, Chapati & Karak, Basta, and more.

- Relax in one of the many airport lounges, such as the Al Safwa First Lounge, Al Mourjan Business Lounge, or the Priority Pass lounges.

Yes, for long layovers, you can book a room at the Oryx Airport Hotel, located inside the transit zone. If you're travelling with Qatar Airways and have a layover longer than 12 hours, you may be entitled to overnight arrangements.

Doha Airport is known for its diverse range of relaxation and wellness offerings. The Vitality Wellbeing and Fitness Centre features a 25-metre swimming pool, gym, spa, golf simulator, and a squash court. Additionally, there are sleep 'n' fly lounges, showers, and other spa services available throughout the airport.

Yes, you can purchase a pass to access the business class lounges, which typically offer luggage storage facilities. Alternatively, you can leave your luggage at the Oryx Airport Hotel if you book a room there.

In the past, Doha Airport has offered city tours for passengers with long layovers. However, it's recommended to check with Qatar customer service or refer to the Visit Qatar App for the most up-to-date information on city tours and attractions during your layover.

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