Duty Free Tip

lena
By lena

Bought two bottles of spirits in Doha Duty free recently, had to change at Amsterdam on way to UK, when going through passport control in Amsterdam, I was stopped and asked if my duty free was sealed, I replied yes. The guy then opened my hand luggage, and immediately confiscated my two bottles! When I asked why, he said that each bottle must be individually sealed in a bag by cashier in duty dree shop in Doha. I was shocked, and needless to say very annoyed, nowhere is there a notice stating this fact, and the person who served me actually asked to see both boarding cards, one to Amsterdam and one to London, then said ok, no problem.

So be warned, make sure your bottles are indivually sealed by cashier. I presume this rule applies to any EU airport you stop at. The Senior Stewardess spoke to me on the flight, and commented it often happens, I replied then why does your airline not inform passengers in your onboard literature, at least. The ground staff were very offhanded and not helpful at all.

They did not smash the bottles! so someone enjoyed a tipple at my expense.

lena

By lima foxtrot• 18 May 2007 00:30
Rating: 5/5
lima foxtrot

items from a non european airport if you have to transfer at a European airport.

In your case it is not possible to buy tax free at Doha airport. Wish I had know this before, then I would have paid that bit more to travel direct. Never mind.

[img_assist|nid=14395|title=Smile, life is too short!!!!!!!!!!!!!!|desc=|link=none|align=center|width=180|height=97]

By magic79• 16 May 2007 22:35
Rating: 5/5
magic79

Amsterdam is well known of doing this in Europe... the same happened to my friend flying from Russia to UK... (and he had just 1 bottle...)I don't think any extra packing would help, they will find another stupid reason if they wish... better to forget buying anything unless you travel by direct flight...

By e46M3• 16 May 2007 21:59
Rating: 4/5
e46M3

Lena, email Qatar Duty Free with an official complaint and ask for compensation.

[email protected]

By novita77• 16 May 2007 21:57
Rating: 3/5
novita77

we were in Heathrow airport ... arrived in terminal 3 ... there is announcement that now passenger allow to buy the duty free and take it into the plane. Bought a perfume ... And then our Qatar Airways flight delayed ... 1 hrs 2 hrs 3 hrs ... and 7 hrs. And they decided to cancel the flight completely.

have to stay in airport hotel for the night ... the next day we go through security check again (this time we scheduled with british airways to doha via bahrain) ... and being told can't take the perfume into the plane :-( @#$#$$&%*&(*&)(*_)(+_

Log in or register to post comments

More from Qatar Living

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Let's dive into the best beaches in Qatar, where you can have a blast with water activities, sports and all around fun times.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

This guide brings you the top apps that will simplify the use of government services in Qatar.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

this guide presents the top must-have Qatar-based apps to help you navigate, dine, explore, access government services, and more in the country.
Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Qatar's winter months are brimming with unmissable experiences, from the AFC Asian Cup 2023 to the World Aquatics Championships Doha 2024 and a variety of outdoor adventures and cultural delights.
7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

Stuck with a week-long holiday and bored kids? We've got a one week activity plan for fun, learning, and lasting memories.
Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a sweet escape into the world of budget-friendly Mango Sticky Rice that's sure to satisfy both your cravings and your budget!
Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in  high-end elegance

Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in high-end elegance

Delve into a world of culinary luxury as we explore the upmarket hotels and fine dining restaurants serving exquisite Mango Sticky Rice.
Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Celebrate World Vegan Day with our list of vegan food outlets offering an array of delectable options, spanning from colorful salads to savory shawarma and indulgent desserts.