As a frequent traveler, I’ve endured my fair share of airport layovers. Meanwhile, as a longtime luxury traveler, I pride myself on my discerning eye. Trust me when I say that not every airport lounge impresses me. However, Qatar Airways’ Al Mourjan business lounge in Hamad International Airport always takes the sting of an eight-hour gap between flights.

Hamad International Airport 

I have mixed feelings about Hamad International Airport. On one hand, it’s spacious, modern and absolutely spotless. On the other, there’s not a lot of seating or a whole lot to do. I love its sleek, modern design but it doesn’t compare to airports like Dubai and Singapore in terms of things to do and places to eat. To me, that makes a visit to the Al Mourjan lounge all the more necessary, especially when I have a lot of time to kill. 

Entry to the Al Mourjan Business Lounge 

The Al Mourjan Lounge is located between the A and B gates. After passing through the security check, take the elevator to the third floor where you’ll find the welcome desk. 

The Lounge is for those traveling with a business or first class ticket with Qatar Airways, or another OneWorld member airline. A frequent flyer card won’t cut it for this lounge if you’re travelling economy. However, you can gain entry if you’re a platinum Amex holder, regardless of ticket class – yet another reason why it’s one of the best travel credit cards out there.

First Impressions of the Al Mourjan Business Lounge 

In keeping with the overall theme of Hamad International Airport, the lounge is glossy and contemporary, with a few creative twists here and there. 

The first thing that struck me about the Al Mourjan Business Lounge was its sheer size. In fact, the lounge is able to accommodate over 1,000 guests. The main floor alone is over 10,000 square feet. It’s absolutely huge, ensuring that you’ll have plenty of space and privacy to sleep, relax or work. 

The Main Floor

On the first level you’ll find the main floor. One of the first things you’ll notice is the enormous pond, which contains many small fountains. The gentle trickling sounds of water create a relaxing atmosphere, although they might make you need to pee, too. There are plenty of recliner chairs to chill out in and a smoking lounge. 

There’s also a business centre on the first floor where guests can catch up on work or even host virtual meetings. There’s even a meeting room, which is great for company trips. Although I prefer to just relax and enjoy the lounge experience, it’s always good to know that there is somewhere well-equipped to work from in the event of a crisis. 

There are showers on the first floor too, although try to book a shower slot when you first enter the lounge as they get booked up pretty quickly.

By far my favorite part of the main floor is the private and family rooms. You can curl up on the comfy couches or armchairs and get some much needed shut-eye if you’re on a long journey. On my most recent trip to The Maldives I had to take four flights to get home to Miami and had a ten hour layover in Qatar, so you better believe that I took full advantage of this. 

Business and first class travel really isn’t just for professionals anymore. There are great family facilities in the lounge, including games rooms for kids which boast the latest consoles and toys for all ages. I know that I’ll appreciate this one day! 

Dining 

One of my favorite things about the Al Mourjan Business Lounge is the spectacular staircase and chandelier. Best of all, it leads upstairs to delicious food! 

Under normal circumstances, the restaurant offers three different buffets but during the covid-19 pandemic this has been reduced to a smaller a la carte menu. You’ll still find plenty of delicious Western and Middle Eastern options, as well as a good wine selection. However, I tend to forgo the vino and opt for a healthy detox juice or hot tea to refresh and energise me between flights. 

In addition to this, there’s also a deli counter serving salads, sandwiches and sushi, amongst other small dishes. Last time I visited the lounge, I meant to grab a few small bites and then enjoy a Middle Eastern curry but I ended up eating my body weight in sushi instead!

Final Thoughts 

Qatar Airways is my favorite business class airline so it stands to reason that the Al Mourjan Business Lounge is my favorite lounge. It’s a seriously impressive area that makes a long layover a comfortable and actually enjoyable experience, and that’s no mean feat. 

If you enjoyed this article then don’t miss this list of my top business class lounges or my ultimate carry-on packing guide.