Time Magazine lists HIA as one of 11 airports in the world for having layovers

The Hamad International Airport (HIA) has attracted rave reviews ever since it formally opened years ago.

It has consistently been ranked as one of the world’s best-connected airports as well as the region’s most iconic. And now, USA’s Time Magazine has rated it as one of the world’s 11 best airports for having a layover, according to Qatar Tribune. 

The Time Magazine report speaks about the world’s best airports where one can spend quality time during transit.

The Time Magazine report says transit passengers at the HIA can see stunning architecture and international artworks, most notably the 23ft bronze teddy bear that sits inside a lamp. 

Stepping inside HIA, passengers can experience luxury and space, sophistication and elegance. High ceilings and expansive concourses give a sense of grandeur, while designer touches and beautiful art installations create an environment far beyond convention, says the report.

“I don’t find myself there often, but I like connecting in Doha,” the magazine quoted Zach Honig, editor-at-large for The Points Guy, as saying.

Honig says that the layover at the HIA is ideal for travellers who have time —and money — to spare. If you fly Qatar Airways business class, you’ll get access to the Al Mourjan Business Lounge in the airport, which includes posh showers, nap pods, a large dining room and a high-end bar.

If one is flying first class, they can go to the Al Safwa First Lounge, where you’ll find private bedrooms, à-la-carte dining and cool architecture, he says.

And if you have a little more time on your hands, consider staying at the four-star Oryx Airport Hotel located inside the airport.

“Guests have access to a full-size pool and a sizeable fitness centre with a variety of equipment — it even includes a couple of squash courts,” Honig says.

Doha’s airport also has a variety of duty-free shops and perhaps the funkiest airport art in the world, according to Honig. 

There are also prayer rooms, a nursery, baths and shower rooms with free facilities. Travellers in the lounge enjoy a range of services and benefits including on-demand dining, a business centre, luxury spa and family space.