Travelers who are planning to fly through Doha’s Hamad International Airport now have the luxury of experiencing the Al Safwa First Lounge. Offering unparalleled luxury, this one-of-a-kind lounge is inspired by the elegance of Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art, ultimately providing some much-needed tranquility amidst the usual hustle and bustle of the airport.
When you step into the Al Safwa First Lounge, one of the primary features that you will notice is its expansive open spaces adorned with flawless sandstone and intricate marble details, emitting a sense of grandeur. And its overall ambiance adds a touch of serenity to the place, which can be a lifesaver, especially if you have a flight to catch in the early hours of the morning or in the evening. It should be known that access to this lounge is limited to first-class passengers on Qatar Airways and select Oneworld airlines, as well as ‘Privilege Club Platinum’ members traveling on business-class flights with Qatar Airways.
If your upcoming journey demands a stop at the Hamad International Airport in Doha and you are looking to learn more about the Al Safwa First Lounge, then our comprehensive guide is all you need to get started.
Know the List of Cards Accepted
Before you decide to access the Al Safwa First Lounge, keep in mind that entry is very tightly regulated, as only a specific group of passengers can get in. For starters, you need to be a first-class traveler on Qatar Airways and Oneworld Partner Airlines. You can also access the lounge if you are transitioning from a first-class to a business-class flight on Qatar Airways.
Additionally, Qatar Airways Privilege Club Platinum members flying in business or business-lite classes will be allowed to access the lounge. Also, if you have upgraded your economy class flight (using Qcredits or Avios) to business or business-lite, you will be able to enjoy the lounge.
Remember that these above-mentioned rules and regulations are subject to change at any moment, and some international credit cards may offer complimentary access, so ensure you get in touch with the lounge’s customer support, and sort out any misconceptions before you begin your journey.
How to Pay and Access Without a Card
If you do not have straightforward access to the Al Safwa First Lounge, then you can go ahead and purchase your access from the lounge’s reception. The cost is 250 QAR (Qatari Riyal), and you will be granted a time limit of six hours (not strictly enforced) inside the lounge to use its facilities. To start the purchase process, follow the recommended steps below closely.
- Begin your journey by heading over to the Al Safwa First Lounge, located on level three of Hamad International Airport in Doha (after the Immigration and Security Check area).
- Once you are at the lounge, visit the reception area and proceed to purchase paid access to the lounge.
- Ensure you pay the required amount on the spot by swiping your international debit or credit card.
- After you successfully complete the transaction, you will be able to access the lounge without any restrictions.
Everything Else You Need to Know
Now that you have a thorough idea of the different ways you can access the Al Safwa First Lounge, it makes sense to discuss the various facilities and amenities you will be able to experience there. Starting with its spacious interiors with high ceilings and a minimalist design language, the lounge features an open-floor plan with scattered seating areas. This is to ensure that passengers do not feel claustrophobic.
Its sandstone walls and sleek design create a classy and airy feel, and the variety of seating configurations allow for different passenger needs. These include a mix of living room-style seating with armchairs combined with semi-private cubicles, especially for solo travelers. The dining areas inside the lounge are also adorned with multiple tables and chairs for individuals or groups of passengers. And you also have relaxation areas with beanbag chairs.
Talking about food and beverage at the Al Safwa First Lounge, you mostly get access to an a la carte dining experience with a specific focus on fresh and seasonal ingredients and international flavors. Starting with breakfast, which is served between 5AM and 10:30AM (local time) every day, you get access to usual options such as pastries and cereals with eggs (made to order). And then you have the lunch and dinner recipes that include Arabic specialties like ‘madrouba’ and ‘thareed’, along with a la carte options like grilled salmon, barley risotto, lamb rack, pasta, etc. The lounge also offers vegetarian food options, and you get afternoon tea between 3PM and 5PM (local time) with sides such as sandwiches, pastries, and other sweet treats.
For beverages, there is an extensive selection of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, fresh fruit juices, smoothies, and soft drinks. And if you want a notch higher, then you have access to beverages including wines and champagnes.
Some of the other amenities include a spa (additional fee to be paid), bathrooms, resting areas with beds, and special places for family and kids to spend time together. Additionally, you also get access to a super-fast internet connection inside the lounge, allowing you to complete online tasks seamlessly.
