Long flights can be exhausting, can’t they? Especially when you need to make long-distance connections, how you spend your transit time becomes an important consideration. Did you know that Qatar Airways offers a free hotel service called “Complimentary Transit Service” that you can use during connections? By using this service, you can comfortably spend your long layover in Doha at a luxury hotel. In this article, I’ll explain in detail how to use this service, the application procedure, and important points to note.
What is the Complimentary Transit Service?
Qatar Airways’ Complimentary Transit Service allows passengers who meet certain conditions to stay at a hotel for free during their connection in Doha. It’s sometimes also called STPC (Stopover for the Purpose of Connections). By using this service, you can spend your long connection time comfortably and refresh yourself for your next flight.
Service Conditions
To use this service, you need to meet the following conditions:
Connection time of 8 hours or more: The service is available if your connection time in Doha is 8 hours or more.
Specific fare classes: Some discounted fare classes may not be eligible. You can check the details on Qatar Airways’ official website.
Advance reservation: This service requires advance reservation. Be careful as you cannot apply on the day of travel.
For more details about the service content and user experiences, please read my previous article where I reported on it in detail.
For the Complimentary Transit Service, you won’t be provided with a hotel without prior application. Follow these steps to apply well before your departure:
Next, enter your booking reference and last name to display your flight details.
3. Select the Relevant Flight
From the displayed flights, select the relevant one (outbound, return, or both).
4. Enter Personal Information
Next, enter your personal information such as nationality and passport number.
By the way, it seems that the “Select Nationality” dropdown sometimes has an error, but refreshing the page will resolve it.
5. Select Room Type
Choose your preferred room type from Single, Double, or Shared Room. Note that regardless of your selection, if you’re traveling alone, a Single room will be assigned.
6. Enter Contact Information
Follow the screen prompts to enter your contact information.
7. Agree to the Privacy Policy and Submit
Finally, agree to the privacy policy and click the Submit button.
8. Transition to Completion Screen
When your application is complete, you’ll be taken to a completion screen.
9. A Few Days Later, Receive STPC Confirmation Receipt
A few days later, if your free transit service is confirmed, you’ll receive an STPC confirmation receipt. Once you receive this receipt, your hotel reservation is confirmed.
Paid Service May Be Proposed
In some cases, you may not be offered the free service but instead receive a proposal for a paid transit accommodation. In that case, you can use a hotel by paying an additional fee.
Sometimes you may receive a paid STPC proposal instead of the free service. At $125 per night and up, that’s a fairly good price.
Procedure After Arriving in Doha
Now, let’s look at the flow of using the service on the day you arrive in Doha.
1. Immigration
After arriving in Doha, pass through immigration. To use the hotel service, you need to enter Doha once.
2. Go to the Complimentary Transit Service Counter
After immigration, head to the Qatar Airways counter in the airport. Present your reservation confirmation and passport here to receive your hotel voucher.
You’ll be issued a voucher at the counter
3. Transfer to the Hotel
After receiving your voucher, transportation from the airport to the hotel will be provided. Usually, a dedicated shuttle bus operates, allowing you to smoothly transfer to the hotel.
4. Stay at the Hotel
Upon arriving at the hotel, check in at the front desk and be guided to your room. Take a rest and prepare for your next flight. Depending on the hotel, you may also be able to use services such as meals and spa, so make use of them to refresh yourself.
Crown Plaza is one example of a hotel you can use with STPC
5. Prepare for Your Next Flight
As the time for your next flight approaches, return to the airport by shuttle bus again. Pass through immigration and board your next flight.
Important Points to Note
Importance of advance reservation: This service requires advance reservation. It’s recommended to complete the procedure at the same time as your flight booking.
Check eligibility conditions: Check in advance the conditions such as connection time and fare class.
Prepare your passport and reservation confirmation: Have the necessary documents ready so that the procedure at the airport goes smoothly.
Summary
Qatar Airways’ Complimentary Transit Service is a wonderful service that allows you to spend your long connection comfortably. By making a reservation in advance and meeting the eligibility conditions, please make use of this service that lets you stay at a hotel for free. Refresh yourself properly for your next flight and make your journey more comfortable.
