Can I leave the airport during a short layover without the stopover program?

Yes, but you'll need the transit visa ($27) and must arrange your own transportation and accommodation. The free stopover program only applies to layovers of 5+ hours.

What if my layover is less than 8 hours?

5-8 hour layovers qualify for 4-star hotels (like Oryx Airport Hotel) instead of 5-star properties. Under 5 hours, you can still get the transit visa but must pay for your own hotel.

Are there any restrictions on the complimentary city tour?

Tours require minimum 4 participants to run and may be cancelled in extreme weather. They don't include meals or shopping time, and you cannot customize the route.

Can I extend my stopover beyond what Qatar Airways offers?

Yes, you can modify your booking to create a longer layover (up to 96 hours with the transit visa) but you'll pay the fare difference and lose the free hotel benefit for the extended portion.

How to Plan a Luxury Stopover in Doha

Qatar Airways offers free luxury hotel stays for layovers over 8 hours, plus complimentary city tours. Book through their stopover program, choose from 5-star hotels like the St. Regis or W Doha, and use the 96-hour transit visa to explore the city without additional costs.

Check your layover eligibility. You need a layover of 8+ hours to qualify for Qatar Airways' free hotel program. Layovers of 5-8 hours get you a 4-star hotel, while 8+ hours gets you 5-star accommodations. Your connecting flight must be on Qatar Airways.
Apply for the transit visa online. Submit your 96-hour transit visa application through the Qatar eVisa portal 4-7 days before travel. Upload your passport, onward ticket, and hotel confirmation. Processing takes 24-48 hours and costs $27 USD.
Book the stopover package. Log into your Qatar Airways booking and add the Doha City Break package. Choose from hotels like St. Regis Doha ($0 for qualified layovers), W Doha, or Mondrian Doha. The package includes airport transfers and hotel breakfast.
Plan your itinerary based on arrival time. For morning arrivals: Check in early, explore Souq Waqif, then afternoon at Museum of Islamic Art. For evening arrivals: Rest at hotel, early morning Corniche walk, then museum before departure. Keep 3 hours for airport return and security.
Use the complimentary city tour. Qatar Airways includes a 4-6 hour guided city tour for qualifying stopovers. Tours run twice daily (9 AM and 2 PM) and cover Souq Waqif, Corniche, Pearl Qatar, and photo stops at major landmarks. Book when you add the hotel package.
Pack strategically for quick access. Keep essentials in carry-on: change of clothes, toiletries, comfortable walking shoes. Your checked bags stay with Qatar Airways. Bring a power adapter (Type G, UK-style) and light jacket for air conditioning.

Can I leave the airport during a short layover without the stopover program?: Yes, but you'll need the transit visa ($27) and must arrange your own transportation and accommodation. The free stopover program only applies to layovers of 5+ hours.
What if my layover is less than 8 hours?: 5-8 hour layovers qualify for 4-star hotels (like Oryx Airport Hotel) instead of 5-star properties. Under 5 hours, you can still get the transit visa but must pay for your own hotel.
Are there any restrictions on the complimentary city tour?: Tours require minimum 4 participants to run and may be cancelled in extreme weather. They don't include meals or shopping time, and you cannot customize the route.
Can I extend my stopover beyond what Qatar Airways offers?: Yes, you can modify your booking to create a longer layover (up to 96 hours with the transit visa) but you'll pay the fare difference and lose the free hotel benefit for the extended portion.