The Qatar Airport, Hamad International Airport offers by far one of the most exclusive travel services in the world. It’s no wonder they have won Skytrax’s ‘Best Airline’ 7 years in a row. Today, I have curated an extensive list of essential and must-stop destinations (Qatar Duty Free) for you whenever you find yourself having a layover at the Hammad International Airport, Qatar. This list is carefully categorized into individual tastes and preferences. That is, into Food, Leisure, Shopping (Qatar Duty Free) and even Sight-seeing.
Let’s begin the list with the least expensive category.
NB: All vertical photos with high brilliance were taken by me, and all slim, horizontal ones are courtesy of Doha Hamad Airport.
SIGHTSEEING
This includes a list of landmarks that are worth stopping by at the Hamad International Airport that cost absolutely nothing as well as give you the thrill of being in the renowned airport.
1. The Orchard
This indoor tropical garden is a beauty to behold for the passengers who have a layover at the Hamad International Airport in Doha. It has a 575 sqm water feature and places to relax. It also features a shopping and dining extravaganza, having 65 retail and dining outlets (e.g Dior, IWC, Louis Vuitton etc), 20 cafes and restaurants (e.g Fendi Cafe, Oreo Cafe etc) with a scrumptious array of local and global cuisines
LOCATION: The Orchard is located at the end of Terminal C, specifically C50-C57. You should look for the terminal Gates C D E, take the train to Gate C (if you see Oreo Cafe around you, you’re on the right track). Then take a short walk down to the Orchard.
2. The Lamp Bear
Ever heard the saying ‘If it’s not on Instagram, it didn’t happen’? Same goes with, If you haven’t taken a selfie next to the Lamp Bear at Hamad International Airport, were you really there? The 23 feet structure weighing about 18-20 tons has a very rich history behind it. Below are a few fun facts about it.
- It is a world famous structure created by Urs Fischer produced in 2005/2006.
- The piece is the largest of 3 created, 2 of which are privately owned.
- It was reported to have been bought by a member of the Qatar Royal Family for over $6.8 million from a 2011 auction.
- Interestingly enough, it is not made out of fur and foam but from cast bronze and metal.
- Our seemingly fuzzy not so little friend has a baby blue brother which is displayed in Brown University in the United States.
LOCATION: Untitled Lamp Bear is located at the South Node of the terminal, just after departures security and passport control.
3. Qatar Museums
When traveling through Qatar Airport, Don’t forget to explore the beauty of art while traveling. Make sure to visit the beautiful and heritage Museum. The Qatar Museum has provided a first for transit travelers, a walking tour of famous artworks by local, regional and international artists. Below are the list of 10 famous artworks in HIA Museum.
• Adel Abdessemed – Mappemondes
LOCATION: Mappemondes is located in Concourse A, near gate A7.
• Tom Otterness – The Playground
LOCATION: The Playground series is located through concourse C at Hamad International Airport, near gates C2, C3, and C8.
• Tom Claassen – 8 Oryxes
LOCATION: 8 Oryxes artwork is located in the Arrivals Meet and Greet Hall, towards the taxi pavilion in the East.
• Marc Quinn – Arctic Nurseries of El Dorado
LOCATION: Quinn’s Arctic Nurseries of El Dorado is located at the departures hall, just before passport control.
• KAWS – Small Lie
LOCATION: Small Lie is located in the North node of Hamad airport, near the Concourse.
• Jean-Michel Othoniel – Cosmos
LOCATION: Cosmos is located in the airport’s North Node, near concourses D and E.
• Dia Al-Azzawi – Flying Man
LOCATION: This Sculpture is located in the Arrivals Meet and Greet Hall, on the East and West ends.
• Ali Hasan – Desert Horse
LOCATION: Desert Horse is located outside the arrivals meet and greet hall, gate number 3.
• Ahmed Al Bahrani – A Message of Peace to the World
LOCATION: A Message of Peace to the World is located at the Passenger Train’s South Node station.
4. The Falcon Statue
Popularly known as the Lamp Bear’s competition, this new art piece “Falcon” is an artistic portrayal of Qatar’s national bird by the renowned artist Tom Claassen. The inspiration came from the falcon’s plumage and the radiant lines represent a fusion of the flight paths that connects Qatar to the world, Arabic calligraphy and the folds that occur in traditional draped garment. The falcon sits along a ledge bidding farewell to departing passengers.
LOCATION: Outside Departures Hall of Hamad International Airport.
5. Discover Qatar
Discover Qatar offer a range of tours for those with a longer layover. For layovers over 8 hours we offer
- Our popular City Tour which introduces you to Katara and the world famous Souq Waqif, along with views of the Corniche, The Pearl of Qatar and the Museum of Islamic Art;
- A desert tour to the Inland Sea, one of the few places in the world where the sea meets the desert to produce spectacular and unique landscapes.
- A round of golf at one of the cities immaculate golf courses.
We guarantee to get you there and back comfortably in time for your next flight.
If your layover is 4-8 hours then we have a choice of airport based tours and activities where you can Discover the Art of HIA, play simulated golf, or even have a game of squash;
For more information, please come and see us in the QatarDuty Free area to make your booking, or visit here.
FOOD
After walking and sightseeing, you would have certainly worked up an appetite. Below are the list of spots to have a hearty meal while in Transit. This category is further separated into whatever you’re in the mood for, whether Appetizers/Coffee, Main Courses and Desserts.
APPETIZERS/ CAFES
Craving a snack or coffee to boost the good mood around Hamad International Airport? Below are the best spots to check out.
Starbucks Coffee
The Starbucks Experience is more than a cup of coffee. It’s the happy smiles of our baristas whenever we see you in our coffee shops, the aroma of fresh coffee with your name on it and a variety of products for you to enjoy whether in-store, on route to your flight, or at home. Located Opposite B1 Gate, Airport Concourse B.
Le Grand Comptoir is a brasserie-style restaurant that is a breakfast venue in the morning and becomes a relaxed evening destination with low lighting and a pianist providing entertainment. Located at Air Traffic Control Tower, Along Concourse C/D.
Costa Coffee
Costa Coffee is one of the most popular coffee chains globally, serving a range of coffee offers, cold beverages, teas, snacks, sandwiches, cakes, and freshly baked pastries. Located at Doha International Airport, specifically at the Arrival Hall on the ground floor.
Fendi Cafe
The Fendi Bar, inspired by the world-renowned Italian fashion house Fendi; features a wide selection of coffee and tea, juices, sandwiches and pastries. Located on the Terrace of the Orchard.
The Eat Street offering include: 1. Camden Food, offering organic sandwiches, a fresh salad bar and dried fruits, 2. Negroni, an Italian concept with a variety of pastas and pizzas, 3. Azka, offering Indian and Arabic cuisine, Red Mango, offering frozen yogurts, coffees and juices, 4. Soho Coffee, offering organic food and beverage, 5. Burger King, offering flame-grilled burgers, including the signature original WHOPPER® and other items. Located at Departure Area.
Emporio Armani Caffe
This café is perfect for quick light lunches and pastries all day long. Located as a round bar at the Viale Del Lusso Luxury Avenue. Opposite the Emporio Armani Boutique.
EVERGREEN ORGANICS
Evergreen Organics. Evergreen. EG. Organics. It doesn’t matter what you call us, we’re still the same place that we were when we first opened our doors in 2016. We are Qatar’s first and only completely plant-based café. Located in Concourse C.
FLO cafe
Flo Café, the famous Greek coffee chain, offers coffee, fresh sandwiches, pastries, and refreshments. Enjoy an stress-free coffee break before boarding. Located at Concourse B at Flo Café!
La Vita Cafe (vegan options available)
Welcome to La Vita Café, a space where you can find the best on-the-go snacks and bites, with a variety of vegan, keto, gluten free, and healthy items.
Oreo Cafe
Oreo Café at Hamad International Airport is the first permanent OREO Café outside the USA and the first in an airport. The 116sqm café in the new North Node is delighting travelers with a delicious selection of sweet inventions, including OREO milkshakes, muffins, cheesecakes, and a comprehensive savory food and beverage menu. Located in the North Node Area, very near to Concourse B (trust me, you can’t miss its vibrant blue branding).
Illy Cafe
An international chain of contemporary bar, where the unique espresso is accompanied by the full range of product and selection of specialty of Italian food. Located along concourse D.
Ralph’s Coffee represents the timeless American spirit of the Ralph Lauren brand. The first Ralph’s Coffee in travel retail features beautifully crafted blends and coffee accessories like cups, jam pot, & more. Located in the Airport’s North Plaza expansion, in the Orchard area.
MAIN COURSES
Here are the top spots to indulge your taste buds in fine dining/gourmet options, also including indigenous Qatari Cuisine.
Customers can choose from a variety of gastronomic flavours collected from across the world – from the all-American Red Big Breakfast, to a selection of delicious sandwiches, Australian Burgers and the special ‘Fat Boy Soup’, there is something for everyone. Located in Concourse D, Level 0, Hamad International Airport.
Comptoir Libanais creates delicious, freshly prepared, Lebanese food in a vibrant and colourful enviroment. Located near Gate C1.
Gordon Ramsay Burger/ Gordon Ramsay Street Pizza
Chef, media sensation, and king of off-color remarks, Gordon Ramsay touches down at the airport with two outlets, Gordon Ramsay Burger and Gordon Ramsay Street Pizza, both making their airport debut as part of the terminal extension. Located at The Orchard rest area.
Wok to Walk serves Thai street food, where customers can choose their own ingredients and sauce and have the restaurant cook it for them.
Usta Doner brings the best of Turkish cuisine. The restaurant offers delicious Turkish food, using only fresh and premium ingredients, prepared by experienced Turkish chefs.
VIT is your stop for a quick and healthy meal, prepared with fresh ingredients. Passengers can grab a nutritional salad bowl or choose one of the famous fruit juices before taking off.
The restaurant serves a delicious selection of dishes including curries, rice bowls, noodles & shareable sides. Passengers can also choose from a nourishing breakfast menu including Full Vegan and roti wraps.
A great variety of Asian food is offered, from delicious noodles through sushi, made by fresh Asian ingredients.
The Burger Federation is the concept offering the unique “International assortment with typical and taylor made recipes”.
DESSERTS
Quell your sweet tooth at the Qatar International Airport with some of the finest options available in the dessert world.
Snowflakes Ice Cream takes an artisan approach to its gelato, making it with 100% natural ingredients using organic Jersey milk and cream from Somerset. Located in the North mode of Hamad Airport, near Comcourse E.
Venchi
Venchi at Hamad International Airport offers a wide range of fine chocolates and artisan gelato flavours.
Snacking sweets on-the-go with a quality coffee is go with a quality coffee is a key feature of airport passenger eating a key feature of airport passenger eating preferences.
Farggi Barcelona
With a menu of waffles, cakes and creamy dreamy concoctions, this is the place to indulge or chill out with a coffee. Located at HIA, Gate 1, arrivals, Doha, Qatar
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SHOPPING
Let the splendor begin. Qatar Duty Free offers a variety of services and glamorous destinations that WILL involve your credit card. Let the list begin;
Apple Store
The QDF Apple Shop, located at the heart of the airport terminal, offers the full Apple product range, including iPhones, iPads, Apple Watch, Mac, and Apple TV, plus an impressive selection of Apple accessories. Located behind the iconic Lamp Bear in the South node Retail Plaza.
Bazaar
Bazaar Souvenirs is a rich and colorful market where passengers can discover an original and eclectic range of souvenirs, including arts and crafts. Located in Concourse C.
Bottega Veneta
Bottega Veneta showcases a trendy collection of traditional Italian leather crafts with an innovative modern twist. Qatar Duty Free Hamad International Airport, Departure Level, Concourse B, South Node.
Burberry
The Burberry Boutique at HIA offers a stunning selection of ready-to-wear and outwear pieces, bags, accessories, and footwear. South Node, located at the luxury boulevard in HIA alongside an impressive portfolio of other high-end brands at Qatar Duty Free.
Bulgari
Bvlgari was founded in Rome in 1884 as a jewellery shop and quickly established a reputation for Italian excellence with exquisite craftsmanship and magnificent creations. Located in the South Node. Directions found here.
Coach New York
New York’s iconic designer bags, outerwear, shoes and accessories. Located on Concourse A of the terminal.
Chloe
Chloe, the French fashion house at the luxury avenue Viale Del Lusoo showcases a high end collection of the latest signature designer bags, shoes and accessories, all created in Paris. Located at Viale Del Lusso, beneath the Al Safwa Lounge.
The internationally renowned French fashion house is Located at HIA, Central Concourse, Units CC129, Doha. Within this luxurious space, the Dior Boutique at HIA represents a complete range of Dior’s iconic and bestselling collections.
Dolce & Gabbana
The Dolce & Gabbana boutique in Viale Del Lusso is the first in travel Retail in the Middle East. The boutique offers a high-end collection of Ladies’ Handbags, wallets, ready-to-wear, and shoes. Located at the South Node Luxury area of the airport. Now open at Viale del Lusso (beneath the Al Safwa lounge)
Pucci at the Viale Del Lusso luxury avenue showcases an impressive collection of high-end Ladies’ Handbags, wallets, ready-to-wear, and shoes. Located at Level 01 Main Terminal South Node – Viale di Lusso Doha.
The Emporio Armani boutique at Viale Del Lusso showcases its latest casual luxury lines which complements the high-class restaurant and café that sits adjacent. The boutique offers a high end collection of Men & Ladies Handbags, wallets, ready to wear and shoes. Located at Viale del Lusso.
Explore Qatar
Discover a wide range of authentic Qatar-inspired gifts, souvenirs, and Qatar Airways Branded products at the Explore Qatar Gift Shop in the North node.
Fendi
The Emporio Armani boutique at Viale Del Lusso showcases its latest casual luxury lines which complements the high-class restaurant and café that sits adjacent. The boutique offers a high end collection of Men & Ladies Handbags, wallets, ready to wear and shoes. The two-storey Fendi Plaza is facing the HIA Orchard. (Refer to the earlier part of this post to see the location of The Orchard.)
FIFA
The first FIFA store in the world and a home for all things football, represents a selection of officially licensed national team kits, 2022 World Cup football shirts and an impressive collection of FIFA branded products. It is located at the luxury shopping plaza along with other brands like Fendi Cafe, Fifa, etc.
Gold
It is located in the Grand Hall, behind the iconic Urs Fischer Lamp Bear, making it easily visible and accessible to all passengers travelling through the airport.
Gucci
Gucci is one of the world’s leading luxury fashion brands, with a renowned reputation for creativity, innovation and Italian craftsmanship. The brand boutique at Qatar Duty Free features a high end collection of Men’s and Ladies Handbags, wallets, silks and shoes. Located at South Node, facing HIA Orchard.
Hamleys
The world-famous British toys store Hamleys at Qatar Duty Free features a wide range of exclusive merchandise, toys and a selection of items from world-renowned brands and family favourites.
Harrods
The only two Harrods Signature store in the Middle East,one adjacent to the iconic Lamp Bear and the other closer to the travel gates, featuring a a range of carefully selected items, including timeless favourites such as Harrods bags, wallets, accessories and food gifting.
Hermes
The French luxury brand boutique is located adjacent to a line-up of luxury shops and features a selection of best-selling collections of Hermès, fashion accessories, scarves and ties, belts and ready-to-wear, perfumes, watches and jewelry. Located at the South node Plaza.
Hublot
The boutique is located at the heart of HIA in a boulevard of luxury brands. It is conveniently accessible to all passengers in the Plaza South duty free en route to the departures gates.
Hugo Boss
The Hugo Boss boutique features a collection of the iconic brand’s casual and athleisure products tailored to the needs of shoppers on the go. The outlet is located in Concourse A of Hamad International Airport.
Jimmy Choo
The Jimmy Choo boutique at the luxury avenue Viale Del Lusso offers a high end collection of Ladies Handbags, wallets and shoes. It is at the luxury avenue Viale Del Lusso (beneath Al Safwa lounge)
Kashka
Kashkha offers a stunning range of Hijabs and Jalabiyas for travellers to explore. Kashkha, meaning ”Beautiful” in Arabic, has long been recognized as a leading retail brand offering affordable, stylish, modest fashion to self-confident women. Unit #SN1003, Qatar duty free area , Departure, Doha, Qatar.
Loro Piana
The Loro Piana boutique at HIA offers some of the brand’s bestselling pieces, such as the Pouch L19 bag, the Summer Walk, the Summer Charm, and Open Walk shoes, which are highly popular worldwide in the Qatari market. HIA, VIP Terminal. . It is located in the heart of HIA’s ‘boulevard of luxury brands’ in the Qatar Duty Free Plaza South en route to the departure gates.
Louis Vuitton
The alluring and elegant Louis Vuitton Boutique at Hamad International Airport is located alongside the renowned Lamp Bear at the South Node Plaza.
Michael Kors
Michael Kors is a world-renowned designer of luxury accessories and ready-to-wear, offering a lifestyle for the consummate jet-setter that is as sophisticated as it is indulgent and as glamorous as it is modern. See directions here.
Mont Blanc
The iconic Montblanc boutique at HIA is the pinnacle of luxury writing instruments, timepieces, leather, accessories, fragrances, and sunglasses. Montblanc has embraced the traditions of lasting value and exquisite craftsmanship. Located at Concourse A and Concourse B, HIA.
Pandora
The Pandora boutique, which is located near the food court in the airport’s the South Retail Plaza, is the latest addition to the airport.
Pharmacy
The Pharmacy at Qatar Duty Free offers a range of self-care and medical products and last-minute essentials for your onward journey. Located at Qatar Duty Free Plaza South, located near currency exchange.
Polo Ralph Lauren
Polo Ralph Lauren is the synonym to casual clothing. It represents the epitome of classic and iconic American style with a modern twist. Located at the South Node Qatar Duty Free Plaza.
Ray Ban
The largest Ray-Ban store in travel retail is located at the new Hamad International Airport Central Concourse Terminal.
Saffron & Caviar
A luxury boutique offering rare and precious delicacies, from hand-picked saffron to natural honey harvested from the mountains, as well as fresh wild caviar imported from the Caspian Sea. This is located at Departure Gate B, Hamad International Airport.
Samsonite
Samsonite boutique at HIA is the first-ever Duty-Free store in the Middle East.
Samsung
A luxury boutique offering rare and precious delicacies, from hand-picked saffron to natural honey harvested from the mountains, as well as fresh wild caviar imported from the Caspian Sea. The pop-up store is located in the heart of HIA, on Concourse C.
Swarovski
Swarovski is synonymous with craftsmanship, precision and innovation. Its unique know-how has made the company shine as the worldwide cut crystal reference, delighting consumers with desirable and sparkling creations. It is located in the heart of HIA, in the Duty Free South Plaza.
Thom Browne
The first Thom Brown Boutique in an airport worldwide, showcases a unique collection of ready-to-wear, shoes, and accessories for both men and women. Thom Browne is widely recognized for redefining modern tailoring. The brand conveys a true American sensibility through its collections for men and women. It is located around the orchard area, in the boulevard of luxury stores.
The Watch Room
The Watch Room is a brand new luxury travel-retail concept housing the finest collection of watches and art pieces from globally renowned brands. The boutique houses a prestigious selection of brands including Panerai, Zenith, IWC, Breitling, Baume & Mercier and Mont Blanc; featuring their best-selling pieces such as the Blast Tourbillon from Ulysee Nardin and the Riviera Baumatic from Baume & Mercier. It is located at the HIA South node. It sits opposite the Viale Del Lusso.
Tiffany & Co
Conveniently located in the heart of HIA on Concourse B between the Burberry and Rolex boutiques, the Tiffany & Co. boutique is easily accessible to all passengers travelling through the departure terminal.
Time Vallée
TimeVallée, a luxury and innovative multi-brand destination granting clients access to the most prestigious watch Maisons, offers the most exclusive watchmaking and jewelry pieces from brands such as Baume & Mercier, Buccellati, Bvlgari, Cartier, Chanel, and many more. Hamad International Airport, Qatar Central Concourse (next to the orchard), Doha.
Valentino
The Valentino boutique at QDF offers a high end collection of Ladies Handbags, wallets and shoes. The fashion house Valentino at HIA makes its airport boutique debut in the Middle East with this elegant store. It is located at the Viale Del Luso, QDF, Hamad international Airport.
Victoria’s Secret
The Victoria’s Secret store at HIA offers a wide assortment of the brand’s popular underwear, beauty, sleep, and accessories. It is located at the Viale Del Luso.
Related: Discover how to make the best of your trip with a guideline to Qatar Airport and Qatar Duty Free here
Leisure
Qatar Airways has taken rest and rejuvenate to a whole new level. Release your pent up stress in suave opulence and maximalist comfort.
1. Louis Vuitton Lounge
Photo Credit – Benoit Florencon | eu.LouisVuitton
Located directly above the Louis Vuitton store, this luxurious retreat is accessible from the Al Mourjan Business Lounge – The Garden. Entrance is exclusive to Privilege Club Gold and Platinum members and their guests.
…The French fashion house opened the “Louis Vuitton Lounge by Yannick Alléno.” Helmed by the three-Michelin-starred French chef, the space caters to first or business class guests traveling Qatar Airways (or Louis Vuitton clientele) in a fantastical manner: at breakfast and brunch, there are Parisian viennoiseries and smoked fish platters with caviar. At lunch, there are tea sandwiches stamped with Vuitton’s famous fleurmonogram. During dinner, travelers can dine on langoustine carpaccio with geranium essence, confit lamb shoulder flavored with yuzu, and pilaf rice with dried fruit and spices. (Or both: the lounge offers an a la carte and a tasting menu.)
CREDIT – Vogue
2. Platinum Lounge South
The Qatar Airways Platinum Lounge South, located on concourse A, can accommodate up to 140 passengers, and has a bar, restaurant and showers, plus both à la carte or buffet dining. When facing the front of famous teddy bear in the middle of the terminal, just turn around. There, you’ll see Gates A1-A13, and just before you get to gate A1, you’ll see the entrance to the Platinum & Gold Lounge South on the right.
NB: If you’re a oneworld Emerald member, you can access the Qatar Airways Platinum Lounge South
3. Gold Lounge South
Also on concourse A, the Qatar Airways Gold Lounge South is available and can host up to 85 passengers, and has a bar, a dining area, showers and a full buffet dining experience.
NB: If you’re a oneworld Sapphire member, you can access the Qatar Airways Gold Lounge South
4. Silver Lounge South
The Qatar Airways Silver Lounge South on concourse B will accommodate up to 195 passengers, with a family area, a quiet area, buffet dining and baggage storage facilities.
5. Al Safwa First Class Lounge
First, head to the center part of the terminal (where the large teddy bear is), then when facing the teddy bear, turn right, and follow the signage in the direction of the Al Safwa Lounge. You can buy access to the lounge when flying in Qatar Airways business class on a ticket eligible for Al Mourjan Lounge access, as long as the ticket is issued by Qatar Airways; the cost is 600 QAR (~$165)
6. Al Mourjan Garden Lounge
The Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Garden Lounge is located in the airport’s north terminal expansion, near the airport’s tropical garden. For better or worse, this lounge is basically hidden, and you probably won’t stumble upon it unless you’re specifically looking for it. I could see that being a good thing, because I’m confident this lounge will never get as many visitors as the Al Mourjan Lounge South, which is in the middle of the terminal.
To find the Al Mourjan Garden Business Lounge, just follow the signage in the direction of the C, D, and E gates. When you’re in the center of the terminal, this is behind the airport’s famous teddy bear. You’ll have to go quite a ways from there, and you can either take the airport’s train system one stop, or you can walk. If you’re easily able to walk I’d recommend doing that, because it’s probably faster, given the moving sidewalks. When you’re at the far train station (or just walk far enough in the terminal), you’ll see a large circular area. Just keep walking straight, and you’ll then see signage for the Al Mourjan Garden Lounge.
NB: The Al Mourjan Lounge isn’t available to Qatar Airways business class passengers who upgraded, or who are traveling on “Lite” fares, which is Qatar Airways’ “basic” business class offering (you need to be traveling on an Elite, Comfort, or Classic ticket — award tickets are eligible for lounge access, regardless of which airline they’re issued by)
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