Business Class - A Journey Round The World On Qatar Airways

“Have you ever dreamed of turning a grueling long-haul flight into a luxurious retreat at 30,000 feet? For me, that dream became a reality with Qatar Airways."

Over the course of my travel life, I have flown on hundreds of flights. Most of the time I would fly in economy class. I have flown on world class airlines like Delta, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Emirates and Turkish Airlines. I’ll be honest, despite only going in economy class, my experience with Cathay Pacific had been my the most incredible in-flight experience of my travels. Until I discovered Qatar Airways, the world’s most premium first-class airline.

Qatar Airways:

It had been a dream to fly on Qatar Airways. It is a prestigious airline and a primary partner of Formula 1 and FC Barcelona. They provide stopover benefits when visiting Qatar for a few nights. And most of all, the airline has the world’s most luxurious first-class service. 

My dream became reality when I made the decision to book a one-way ticket on Qatar Airways from Tbilisi to Miami (via Doha). It was a long-trip and would be a 16 hour 30 minute flight across the world. My longest flight was 15 hours and 30 minutes from Toronto to Hong Kong. I wanted to challenge myself and break that mark.

Sitting for that long in economy class would be tedious and put strain on my glutes. Fortunately, I was able to find a lucrative deal from Tbilisi in business class for over $2465 USD. 

My Experience With Qatar Airways:

I had a three hour flight on Qatar Airways’ sister carrier, OneWorld, to Doha for a two hour layover. I had a window seat with lots of space, watched a movie, had a snack and ended up on a business class bus that took 20 minutes to get to the airport. Having been to Hamid International Airport a few weeks earlier, I was familiar with the setting, but unprepared for the stimuli of how busy it was.

Qatar Airways passenger jets on the tarmac at Hamid International Airport in Doha. Considered the world’s most premium airline, I was excited for the experience.

Pre-flight Lounge Experience

As a business class client, I had access to the Al Mourjan Business Lounge, which was the nicest lounge I had ever visited. Due to limited time and amount of people in the lounge, I was disappointed I couldn’t stay longer to enjoy the refreshments and rest up as I had to catch my flight to Miami. This is where my dream had become reality.

Note: Please refer to the link above on how to gain access to the Al Mourjan Business Lounge.

Al Mourjan Business Lounge at Hamid International Airport in Doha. The nicest airport lounge I have ever seen. Due to a short layover, I only had limited time here. Could spend all day in this lounge.

In-Flight Comfort and Service

I had access to a private Qsuite by the window, with my own bed, table, large screen, complimentary food and drinks and first-class world service. The menu was filled with traditional Arabic bread, a breakfast omelette option and a US Thanksgiving turkey and mashed potatoes special since I was flying to Miami on US Thanksgiving. I was offered a complimentary glass of champagne before taking off for the 16 hour journey.

Qatar Airways QSuite in business class. The dimly lit ambience made for some soothing vibes. Definitely a treat to be able to fly 16 hours in luxury style.

The cabin was dimly lit with burgundy and dark purple vibes, with the staff walking down the aisle tending to the business class clients. It was calming and orderly when taking my seat in the Qsuite and getting comfortable.

Enjoying a US Thanksgiving turkey special in QSuite of Qatar Airways. Definitely the featured option on this flight along with world class cuisines.

I spent some time using the free wifi and doing some work before changing into my new onesie pyjamas provided by Qatar Airways featuring the F1 logo. This was fitting for me and suited me since I happen to be a huge Formula 1 fan.

I’ll admit that I was lucky to fly with Qatar Airways business class since I took advantage of a promotional deal for $2400 USD on the flight from Tbilisi to Miami (via Doha). Most fares for business class with Qatar Airways range between $5000-$7500 USD, so this was the opportunity to take advantage of this amazing deal.

Qatar Airways screen in QSuite. From flight map mode to some of the newest hit movies, there is plenty to keep you entertained for a long-haul flight.

Do I Recommend Business Class Flights For Autistic Travellers:

Absolutely yes! Especially if you are flying overseas or on long-flights in general. While I understand it’s more expensive, the benefits provided such as noise cancelling headphones, a comfortable spacious seat that can be converted into a bed to sleep and good food options makes the experience much easier for autistic travellers.

Sitting in the QSuite with my business class ticket on Qatar Airways from Doha to Miami.

Conclusion:

After never flying business class, I had the opportunity to experience it twice this year. It is a no-brainer that Qatar Airways business class was the better of the two and overall, the best airline experience I have had travelling. For those wanting to travel to Doha or to a final destination with a stopover in Doha, you won’t be disappointed choosing Qatar Airlines and recommend their first-class service.

Note: While booking business class is recommended for long trips, I can make a suggestion that it is better to fly business class when a trip reaches it’s conclusion. Why? You will probably be exhausted and a long-trip home can be tedious and more comfort is necessary. Especially if you are a traveller on the autism spectrum. Plus, if you book a premium economy ticket with Qatar Airways (or other airlines), chances are you could be offered an upgrade to business class for a good deal, which is something to be mindful about and take advantage of.

I am excited to experience Qatar Airways again in the foreseeable future and will consider flying business class again if my budget permits and good deals become available. You can do the same. Hence, I will reveal helpful tips for autistic travellers on how to fly comfortably on airplanes in a future post.

"This wasn't just another flight for me—it was a milestone in my journey as an autistic traveler, proving that long-haul flights can be more than just a means to an end; they can be a luxurious and memorable adventure."