Sunday, 14 September 2025

Experience Ultimate Luxury: Qatar’s Top 10 Pools and Lounges to Visit in 2025

Published: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Experience Ultimate Luxury: Qatar’s Top 10 Pools and Lounges to Visit in 2025

Qatar has firmly established itself as a destination of unmatched luxury and sophistication, and its pool scene reflects that perfectly. Whether nestled in iconic hotels, high above the city skyline, or tucked away in lush resorts with private beaches, Qatar’s pools offer a sublime blend of relaxation, elegance, and exceptional service.

Below is a detailed feature on the top 10 best pools in Qatar for 2025, curated from leading luxury travel and hospitality sources, to guide those seeking the ultimate aquatic escape.

1. Waldorf Astoria Doha West Bay

Located in West Bay, the Waldorf Astoria’s pool experience is nothing short of exquisite. Featuring a 26-meter mixed indoor pool, it caters to leisurely swims with soothing spa amenities including Moroccan and Turkish Hammams, couple suites with Jacuzzis, and hydrotherapy pools. Exclusive private pools for men and women offer serene privacy, making this a top wellness destination within the city.

  • Location: West Bay, Doha

  • Opening Hours: Pools open 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

  • Day Pass Price: Approx. QR 100 (including pool & beach access; ladies get 20% discount on Praia restaurant)

  • Features: Private men’s and women’s pools, luxury spa facilities including Moroccan and Turkish hammams, Jacuzzis, hydrotherapy pools, daily ladies’ pool days on Wednesdays.

  • Contact: +974 4030 7200

2. Four Seasons Hotel Doha

Set against the Corniche waterfront, the Four Seasons boasts five outdoor pools and direct private beach access. Guests can enjoy the Makani Beach Club serving South Mediterranean cuisine, while basking in the sun on luxurious loungers by tranquil blue waters. Day passes range from QR 295 to QR 395, ensuring a premium pool day experience with stunning sea views.

  • Location: The Corniche, West Bay

  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – Sunset

  • Day Pass Price: QR 295 (weekdays), QR 395 (weekends), includes QR 150-175 F&B credit

  • Features: Five outdoor pools, private beach access, Makani Beach Club with Mediterranean cuisine, luxurious poolside lounges.

  • Contact: +974 4494 8888

3. Raffles Doha (Aqua Pool)

Situated in the Lusail Marina District in the iconic Katara Towers, Raffles Doha’s adults-only infinity pool offers panoramic ocean views and a sophisticated ambiance. With options for VIP cabanas and couple packages up to QR 3,000, it represents exclusivity in Doha’s high-end pool scene. The pool bar and submerged cabanas create a unique, chic atmosphere.

  • Location: Lusail Marina District

  • Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM

  • Day Pass Price: QR 250 (weekdays), QR 300 (weekends)

  • VIP Packages: Couple packages QR 800-1,000, VIP cabanas QR 2,500-3,000

  • Features: Adults-only infinity pool with panoramic ocean views, submerged cabanas, sophisticated lounge atmosphere.

  • Contact: +974 4030 7100

4. The Chedi Katara Hotel & Resort

Located in Katara Cultural Village, The Chedi Katara presents a breathtaking 60m by 12m infinity pool overlooking the Arabian Sea and private beach. Surrounded by elegant cabanas and luxurious architecture, this pool is reserved for hotel guests and embodies serene Arabian Gulf luxury with included F&B credit and special Qatar Airways staff discounts.

  • Location: Katara Cultural Village

  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Day Pass Price: QR 395 (men), QR 295 (women) weekdays, includes QR 175 F&B credit

  • Special: Qatar Airways staff discount available (QR 150)

  • Features: Large infinity pool overlooking the Arabian Sea, private beach, luxurious cabanas.

  • Contact: +974 4144 7777

5. Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel

A haven of luxury in Central Doha, Sharq Village & Spa offers multiple stunning pools including an adults-only infinity pool with a waterfall and whirlpool. The resort features a swim-up bar and a Ritz-Kids program, making it ideal for families and adults alike. Day passes vary, accommodating different guest preferences.

  • Location: Central Doha (10 min from airport)

  • Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

  • Day Pass Price: QR 150-500 (varies by package)

  • Features: Three pools including adults-only infinity pool with waterfall, whirlpool, swim-up bar, family-friendly Ritz-Kids program.

  • Contact: +974 4484 8173

6. Banyan Tree Doha

This resort on Al Khaleej Street offers both indoor and outdoor pools along with a jacuzzi and sauna. Its “Be Healthy” package pairing pool access with relaxation treatments like massages make it a balanced wellness retreat. Day passes are reasonably priced, attracting both locals and visitors looking for mid-range luxury.

  • Location: Al Khaleej Street, Mushaireb

  • Opening Hours: Outdoor pool 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Indoor pool 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM

  • Day Pass Price: QR 100 (weekdays), QR 150 (weekends)

  • Special: “Be Healthy” package including massage and wellness treatments for QR 590

  • Features: Indoor and outdoor pools, jacuzzi, sauna, holistic wellness offerings.

  • Contact: +974 4437 4222

7. Mandarin Oriental Doha

Situated in Msheireb Downtown, the Mandarin Oriental impresses with a 25-meter rooftop pool complemented by a leisure plunge pool. The poolside cabanas provide stunning views of Doha’s modern downtown, making it perfect for sunset swims and stylish socializing. Access to the fitness center and spa amenities complements the pool experience.

  • Location: Msheireb Downtown Doha

  • Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

  • Day Pass Price: Contact for pricing

  • Features: 25-meter rooftop outdoor pool, leisure plunge pool, poolside cabanas, fitness center, steam and sauna.

  • Contact: +974 4008 8711

8. City Centre Rotana Doha

Offering a budget-friendly option on the 7th floor with outdoor pool views of West Bay, this hotel serves guests looking for elegant yet affordable pool access. Hours extend from early morning to evening, and it’s ideal for both adults and kids, providing a family-friendly environment in the heart of the city.

  • Location: West Bay, connected to City Center Mall

  • Opening Hours: Adults 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Kids 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

  • Day Pass Price: QR 85 (weekdays), QR 100 (weekends)

  • Features: Outdoor pool with views of West Bay, family-friendly atmosphere.

  • Contact: +974 4445 8686

9. Crowne Plaza Doha

On Airport Road, Crowne Plaza features an outdoor pool with access to a poolside restaurant. Its day pass price of QR 75 makes it an attractive choice for local residents and travelers seeking value without compromising amenities and comfort.

  • Location: Airport Road, Najma

  • Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM

  • Day Pass Price: QR 75

  • Features: Outdoor pool with poolside restaurant access for dining and refreshments.

  • Contact: +974 4414 4444

10. The Ned Doha

Located in a repurposed Ministry of Interior building on the Doha Corniche, The Ned offers a stylish 30-meter outdoor pool with retro ‘70s vibes and a social atmosphere. This pool is for hotel guests and members only, making it a trendy and exclusive spot combining heritage charm with modern luxury.

  • Location: Doha Corniche (former Ministry of Interior building)

  • Opening Hours: Typically 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (varies, guests only)

  • Day Pass Price: Pool access exclusive to guests/members

  • Features: Stylish 30-meter outdoor pool, retro ambiance with '70s vibes, exclusive social atmosphere, poolside cocktails.

  • Contact: +974 4455 5555

These pools offer more than just a place to swim—they are destinations in their own right, with world-class facilities, culinary delights, and spectacular views. Whether seeking family fun, romantic retreats, or wellness sanctuaries, Qatar’s pools rank among the finest in the Arabian Gulf and the world.

Pool Tips for Visitors in Qatar

1. Timing Your Visit

  • Visit pools early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak hours and the hottest sun exposure, especially during summer months when temperatures soar above 40°C.
  • Many pools are less crowded on weekdays, making it ideal for a quieter, more exclusive experience.

2. Book in Advance

  • Popular pools like Raffles Doha and The Chedi Katara require advance booking, especially for VIP cabanas or couple packages, which sell out quickly on weekends and holidays.

3. Check Dress Codes and Etiquette

  • Modest swimwear is the norm; most venues request swimwear that covers shoulders and knees upon entry and in common hotel areas.
  • Always wear cover-ups or kaftans when walking through public spaces within the hotels.
  • Avoid loud music and large groups to maintain the relaxing atmosphere promoted by these luxury pools.

4. Leverage Day Pass Packages

  • Many pools offer day passes that include food and beverage credits – these packages offer great value and an opportunity to try signature poolside cocktails and gourmet dishes.

5. Family vs. Adult-Only Pools

  • Some pools are adults-only (e.g., Raffles Aqial Pool, Waldorf Astoria’s private pools), while others welcome families with kids (e.g., Sharq Village & Spa). Choose your destination accordingly to match your mood.

6. Hydration and Sun Protection

  • Even if pool areas are shaded, the Qatari sun can be intense. Use high-SPF sunscreen and stay hydrated with plenty of water and refreshing poolside beverages.

7. Respect Pool Rules

  • Follow all hotel and pool-specific rules, such as no glassware outside designated areas, no diving in shallow ends, and no smoking near the pool.

8. Transportation & Parking

  • Most luxury hotels provide ample parking and valet service. Check your hotel’s location and plan transport ahead, especially if near busy areas like West Bay or Katara.

Following these tips while enjoying Qatar’s top pools will ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable luxury experience.

Etihad Airways Releases August 2025 Passenger and Traffic Statistics

Published: Saturday, September 13, 2025
Etihad Airways Releases August 2025 Passenger and Traffic Statistics

Etihad Airways has achieved a historic milestone in August 2025 by carrying more than 2 million passengers in a single month for the first time ever, marking a 22% year-on-year increase compared to August 2024. The airline reported a passenger load factor of 91%, up from 89% last year, underscoring strong demand and efficient use of capacity.

Etihad’s operating fleet expanded to 112 aircraft, serving 81 passenger destinations, with the introduction of the new Airbus A321LR that brings First Class suites and lie-flat Business seats to narrow-body medium-haul routes for the first time in the region. Year-to-date, the airline has carried 14.2 million passengers, an 18% rise from the same period in 2024, maintaining an 88% average load factor.

On the financial front, Etihad reported its strongest-ever half-year performance for the first six months of 2025. Profit after tax surged by 32% to AED 1.1 billion (USD 306 million) compared to the previous year, driven by robust demand, operational productivity, and improved yields in both passenger and cargo sectors.

Total revenue climbed 16% year-on-year, with passenger and cargo revenues growing 16% and 9%, respectively. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) rose 24% to AED 2.7 billion (USD 739 million), with the EBITDA margin improving to 20%, up one percentage point from 2024.

Etihad carried 10.2 million passengers in the first half of 2025, a 17% increase year-on-year, supported by a 14% rise in available seat kilometres (ASK) and an improved average load factor of 87%. In July, the airline surpassed the milestone of 20 million passengers over the previous 12 months, doubling its 2022 total and confirming its status as the fastest-growing airline in the region.

Fleet expansion continues with the delivery of its sixth Airbus A350, the return of a seventh A380, and a landmark order for 28 wide-body Boeing aircraft, reflecting strong long-term growth ambitions. July saw Etihad add five new jets including its first A321LR, marking the highest number of aircraft deliveries ever received in one month.

As of mid-2025, Etihad serves nearly 90 destinations worldwide, with 27 new routes launched or announced this year alone. This growth enhances Abu Dhabi’s position as a major global hub, increasing connectivity and attracting millions of visitors. Customer satisfaction also improved across airport services, onboard experience, and digital platforms, with the airline’s First Class Net Promoter Score consistently high at 80—among the best in the industry—while maintaining stable unit costs despite service upgrades.

CEO Antonoaldo Neves highlighted that this record-breaking month and half-year reflect the trust travelers place in Etihad’s people and their commitment to delivering extraordinary service. The airline's strategy focuses on sustainable expansion, investing in premium experiences, and connecting more travelers through Abu Dhabi, positioning the emirate as a vibrant destination for global visitors.

Additionally, Etihad hired over 1,700 new employees in the first half of 2025, including more than 100 pilots and 1,000 cabin crew, supporting its rapid growth and operational excellence.

These results mark a new era of growth, investment, and service leadership for Etihad Airways as it continues to set new standards in aviation, fueled by strategic fleet expansion, network growth, and a superb customer experience.

Emirates Wins Two Global Honors at 2026 APEX Awards

Published: Saturday, September 13, 2025
Emirates Wins Two Global Honors at 2026 APEX Awards

Emirates has once again strengthened its status as a global aviation leader after winning two prestigious accolades at the 2026 Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) Global Passenger Choice Awards. The Dubai-based carrier was honored with the titles of  World Class Airline 2026 and Best Global Entertainment, reflecting its continuous efforts to deliver exceptional customer service, cutting-edge products, and innovative passenger experiences across its network.

The results were announced during the APEX/IFSA Global EXPO held in Long Beach, California, one of the airline industry’s most anticipated annual gatherings.

The World Class Airline recognition is considered one of the highest distinctions in commercial aviation, reserved for airlines that excel in areas such as passenger safety, sustainability, health and well-being measures, service consistency, and global operations. The award is based on a comprehensive evaluation conducted by industry experts in collaboration with Yates and Partners, as well as verified passenger feedback collected through professional auditing of traveler reviews. This recognition places Emirates among the top global carriers that set benchmarks for excellence in airline standards.

In addition, Emirates’ victory in the category of Best Global Entertainment further underscores its long dominance in inflight entertainment. The airline’s award-winning ice system, regarded as one of the most advanced in the world, offers more than 6,500 channels of movies, TV shows, documentaries, music, podcasts, games, and even live sports broadcasts.

Available in multiple languages and updated regularly, the entertainment system has become a defining feature of the Emirates travel experience and a major differentiator for the brand. Passengers also benefit from high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity onboard, allowing them to stay connected throughout their journey, a feature increasingly demanded by today’s travelers.

The APEX Global Passenger Choice Awards are especially noteworthy in the aviation industry as they are based on real passenger experiences and independently audited evaluations rather than solely subjective jury decisions. Millions of travelers worldwide share ratings on nearly 600 airlines each year through TripIt®, feeding into the data that determines winners.

This combination of passenger feedback and independent verification ensures that the accolades reflect genuinely outstanding performance and consistency in airline operations.

For Emirates, these awards come at a time when the airline is actively expanding and modernizing its fleet while also upgrading its services in line with evolving customer expectations. Over the past year, Emirates has introduced retrofitted aircraft with refreshed cabins, including its latest Premium Economy class, offering a new level of comfort.

The airline has also expanded its culinary offerings, elevated beverage services across cabins, redesigned lounges, and strengthened its renowned multicultural crew training programs to deliver more personalized care on board.

Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, welcomed the honors, describing them as a testament to the carrier’s unwavering focus on delivering an unmatched customer journey from ground to sky. He highlighted the airline’s commitment not only to luxury and service innovation but also to sustainable aviation, noting Emirates’ steps toward investing in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, testing alternative fuels, and integrating environmentally conscious features in its products and ground operations.

The recognition also positions Emirates strongly against its global competitors, such as Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific, all of which are known for high service standards and premium offerings. By maintaining excellence in both overall travel experience and in-flight entertainment, Emirates consolidates its place as a benchmark airline for premium international travelers seeking comfort, reliability, and consistency.

Looking ahead, Emirates will continue to enhance its global connectivity as it expands into new destinations throughout 2026, with routes planned in markets across Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The airline is also preparing to welcome next-generation aircraft such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 777-9, both of which will introduce new levels of efficiency and customer experience to its long-haul journeys. These developments are expected to further strengthen Emirates’ position as a leader in passenger satisfaction and an airline that continuously invests in the future of travel.

Turkish Airlines Carries 60.7 Million Passengers in Jan–Aug 2025 with 82.7% Load Factor

Published: Thursday, September 11, 2025
Turkish Airlines Carries 60.7 Million Passengers in Jan–Aug 2025 with 82.7% Load Factor

Turkish Airlines (THY) reported carrying 60.7 million passengers during the first eight months of 2025, achieving an overall load factor of 82.7%, reflecting steady growth and strong demand. Passenger numbers increased by 5.8% year-over-year, driven in part by a 10.3% rise in international-to-international transfer passengers, which reached 23.1 million.

The airline’s load factor improved by 0.6 percentage points compared to the same period in 2024, with international flights operating at an 82.3% load factor and domestic flights at 86.7%. Turkish Airlines’ available seat kilometers (ASK) also grew by 6.4%, climbing to 179.2 billion from 168.5 billion in the previous year. Additionally, cargo and mail volumes increased by 5.4% to 1.4 million tons, highlighting growth in its freight operations. The carrier’s fleet expanded to 501 aircraft by the end of August.

In August 2025 alone, Turkish Airlines carried 9.4 million passengers, an 11.9% year-over-year jump. International transfer passengers surged by 17.3% to 3.49 million, with the passenger load factor rising 0.9 percentage points to 86.7%. That month, international flights achieved an 86% load factor, while domestic flights reached 92.6%. Available seat kilometers rose 8.2% to 25.3 billion, and cargo and mail volumes increased by 10.5% to over 191,100 tons.

These figures illustrate Turkish Airlines’ ongoing expansion and operational efficiency, underlining its status as a leading global carrier connecting numerous international and domestic destinations with a growing fleet and robust passenger and cargo demand.

Emirates to Deploy A350 with Premium Economy on Dubai–Hangzhou Route from October 26

Published: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Emirates to Deploy A350 with Premium Economy on Dubai–Hangzhou Route from October 26

Emirates, the world's largest international airline, will deploy its Airbus A350 aircraft on the daily Dubai-Hangzhou route starting October 26, 2025. This deployment comes just three months after Emirates inaugurated the Hangzhou service, reflecting the airline’s commitment to offering an elevated travel experience on its newest mainland China destination.

Flight EK310 departs Dubai International Airport at 04:15 local time and arrives in Hangzhou at 16:00. The return flight EK311 leaves Hangzhou at 00:10 and lands in Dubai at 06:10. The A350 represents the first new aircraft model to join the Emirates fleet since 2008, adding to the existing fleet of Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s serving China.

The Emirates A350 features the airline’s latest signature interiors, with spacious cabins boasting high ceilings and wider aisles. The aircraft is designed to enhance passenger comfort with seamless technology touchpoints and state-of-the-art inflight entertainment.

Importantly, the A350 introduction to Hangzhou also brings Emirates’ Premium Economy cabin to this route, expanding premium travel options. Premium Economy provides a Business Class-like experience with spacious leather reclining seats fitted with full leg and footrests, adjustable headrests, in-seat charging, side cocktail tables, 13.3-inch screens, complimentary pillows and blankets, amenity kits on select flights, and exclusive sparkling wine (Chandon Vintage Brut 2017).

The aircraft configuration includes 312 seats across three classes: 32 next-generation Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 layout, 21 Premium Economy seats in a 2-3-2 layout, and 259 Economy Class seats arranged 3-3-3.

Passengers can book tickets via emirates.com, the Emirates App, contact centres, travel agents, and Emirates retail stores. Chinese customers can also use WeChat Pay on emirates.com.

Turkish Airlines Resumes Direct Flights to Misrata After 10-Year Suspension

Published: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Turkish Airlines Resumes Direct Flights to Misrata After 10-Year Suspension

 Turkish Airlines has officially resumed direct flights to Misrata, Libya’s third-largest city, following a suspension of more than 10 years. This return complements the airline’s existing Libyan services to Tripoli and Benghazi, expanding its growing footprint across the African continent.

The route, suspended in January 2015 due to regional instability, now operates three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays using Boeing 737-78D aircraft. Flight TK1145 departs Istanbul at 11:30 a.m., arriving in Misrata at 2:25 p.m. local time, while the return flight TK1146 leaves Misrata at 4:25 p.m., arriving in Istanbul at 7:15 p.m.

Mahmut Yayla, Senior Vice President of Sales for Region II at Turkish Airlines, expressed enthusiasm about reconnecting with Misrata, a city sharing deep historical ties with Türkiye. He noted the airline’s commitment to meeting increasing travel demand driven by Africa’s economic growth and highlighted ongoing efforts to diversify gateways on the continent.

To mark the route’s reopening, Turkish Airlines offers promotional fares for tickets purchased by September 9, 2025, with prices starting at $349 one-way from Istanbul to Misrata and $249 for the return trip. These fares apply to travel until November 30, 2025, and may vary based on the point of purchase.

This reopening aligns with Turkish Airlines’ strategy to reinforce Istanbul’s role as a global aviation hub connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa, while strengthening its presence in emerging markets in Africa.