Tuesday, 12 August 2025
Qatar Airways

Behind the Glamour: The Strict Standards of Qatar Airways Cabin Crew

Elegance Under Pressure: The Demands and Rewards of Flying for Qatar Airways
Published: Sunday, April 27, 2025
Behind the Glamour: The Strict Standards of Qatar Airways Cabin Crew
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Qatar Airways is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading luxury airlines, known not only for its exceptional service and modern fleet but also for the exceptionally high standards it demands from its cabin crew. Behind the airline’s polished image lies a comprehensive set of strict rules and regulations that govern every aspect of cabin crew members’ professional appearance, behavior, and lifestyle.

These rigorous policies, some of the most stringent in the aviation industry, are designed to maintain the airline’s prestigious reputation and ensure a consistently flawless experience for passengers around the globe.

Strict Grooming and Appearance Guidelines

Qatar Airways enforces highly detailed grooming standards to uphold its reputation as a premium airline. Female cabin crew are required to wear full-coverage foundation and concealer, matte blush without shimmer, and lipstick or nail polish in specific shades such as deep pink, red, or burgundy to align with the company’s brand image.

Skincare is emphasized, with crew trained to use long-lasting, durable makeup products to maintain a flawless look during long-haul flights. Male crew members must be clean-shaven, with neatly trimmed mustaches above the lip line; beards and visible gray hair are prohibited, and bald spots must be concealed.

Hair Styling Requirements

Female crew members must style their hair in low buns secured with hairnets and scrunchies, and only natural hair colors are permitted. Male crew are expected to maintain a neat hairstyle using grooming products like wax or clay, avoiding any greasy or overly styled looks.

Uniform Regulations

The airline maintains strict uniform policies:

  • Crew must carry spare uniforms on every flight to address any unexpected incidents.

  • Jewelry is limited to simple stud earrings and wedding rings with embedded stones for safety reasons; men are generally limited to wearing watches.

  • Female crew must wear matte, skin-tone-matched stockings.

  • Only mild fragrances are allowed to prevent discomfort to passengers.

Lifestyle and Conduct Rules

  • Crew members live in company-provided accommodation monitored by electronic keycards and subject to unannounced checks.
  • The pre-flight curfew has recently been shortened from 12 to 9 hours, with a 90-minute allowance for leaving the accommodation during this time.

  • Sharing photos in uniform or depicting alcohol or cigarettes on social media is strictly forbidden.

  • Visitors of the opposite sex were traditionally restricted to visiting hours between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., with mandatory registration.

  • Alcohol, tobacco, and pork products are banned in crew living quarters.

Recent Policy Adjustments

Qatar Airways has relaxed certain rules in recent times:

  • Overnight curfews on days off have been lifted, allowing greater personal freedom.

  • Pregnant cabin crew can now transition to ground-based roles instead of being forced to resign.

  • The requirement to obtain CEO approval for marriage after five years of service has been simplified.

Recruitment and Benefits

The airline is highly selective, accepting only about 6–8% of applicants. Candidates must meet physical requirements such as a minimum arm reach of 212 cm, be fluent in English, and relocate to Doha. Benefits include company-provided housing, international medical insurance, and discounted travel opportunities worldwide.

Operational Procedures

During flights, crew adjust their uniforms according to service phases: wearing blazers during boarding and switching to blue “dining jackets” during meal service. Female crew carry secure handbags containing makeup kits and manuals, all protected by passcodes.

Cultural Distinctions

Unlike many Western airlines that have relaxed uniform and grooming policies, Qatar Airways maintains traditional, highly polished standards to reinforce its five-star luxury image. Every detail, from nail polish color to sock styles, is carefully regulated to ensure a consistent and upscale passenger experience.

Compensation and Discipline

Starting salaries for new cabin crew are approximately QR 3,300 (around $900), rising to QR 3,750 after six months, with additional hourly allowances for flight time. The airline enforces strict discipline: arriving even five minutes late to accommodation curfews can lead to warnings, and repeated infractions may result in termination.

Training and Compliance Checks

New recruits receive intensive training led by grooming officers, covering makeup application, hairstyling, and uniform standards. Pre-flight inspections ensure all crew meet the airline’s exacting appearance and conduct requirements.

By balancing these rigorous standards with recent reforms, Qatar Airways continues to ensure its cabin crew embody the elegance, professionalism, and precision that define its global reputation as a leader in luxury air travel.

Sydney Airport Enhances Pre-Flight Experience with New Dining Options

Published: Monday, August 04, 2025
Sydney Airport Enhances Pre-Flight Experience with New Dining Options
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Sydney Airport’s Terminal 3 is undergoing a transformation set to redefine the domestic travel dining experience, with a slate of acclaimed Sydney eateries opening their first airport outposts from late 2025.

Following the popular debut of Luke’s Bistro & Bar by chef Luke Mangan in 2023, the Qantas and QantasLink home terminal is poised to become a culinary destination in its own right, welcoming Maggio’s, Loulou, and Slim’s Quality Burgers as headline arrivals in its food and retail upgrade.

This is all part of a large-scale redevelopment aiming to turn T3 into a vibrant, modern hub “that better reflects the tastes of today’s travellers,” according to Mark Zaouk, Group Executive Commercial at Sydney Airport. “T3 Domestic is not just a terminal,” Zaouk explains, “It’s a gateway for millions of passengers to Australia’s vibrant domestic travel market, and we’re transforming the dining and specialty retail areas by securing iconic brands that reflect the premium offering T3 is known for”.

Among the eagerly anticipated arrivals is Maggio’s, a storied Italian pasticceria and café that’s been a staple of Sydney’s lower north shore since 1998. The Maggio brothers’ Cammeray flagship regularly sees queues for their signature poached eggs in fresh tomato and basil sauce, chilli scrambled eggs with grilled broccolini and feta, rustic pizzas, homemade lasagna and panini, and an indulgent range of Italian pastries such as cannoli and ricotta cheesecake. For the first time, these crowd-pleasing favorites will be available to travelers within an airport setting.

Joining the lineup is Loulou, another lower north shore darling known for French-inspired fare, from buttery croissants to baguette sandwiches, pâtés, and gourmet retail treats. After expanding beyond its roots at Milson’s Point, Loulou will bring its bistro and boulangerie flair to the T3 concourse, offering travelers a new taste of elevated French cuisine on the move.

Rounding out this first trio is Slim’s Quality Burgers, beloved for its nostalgic blend of American-style beef and chicken burgers, loaded bacon fries, crispy chicken tenders, and decadent thick shakes and sundaes. Slim’s “fast casual” concept is designed for hungry travelers seeking a satisfying yet speedy meal before their flight.

These three openings are only the start. The first phase will see up to 14 new food and beverage venues spanning casual eateries, standout bistros, grab-and-go outlets, and more open progressively from late 2025, all timed to align with the peak summer travel period. The terminal’s overhaul extends beyond cuisine, with a fresh modern look, enhanced wayfinding to ease passenger movement, and the introduction of environmentally friendly furniture and more greenery to foster a relaxing preflight environment.

flynas Introduces Dedicated Airport Check-in Counter for Families and Children

Published: Monday, August 04, 2025
flynas Introduces Dedicated Airport Check-in Counter for Families and Children
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flynas, the world’s leading low-cost airline and the top low-cost carrier in the Middle East, has taken a pioneering step in family-friendly travel by launching a dedicated check-in counter exclusively for children and their families. This initiative, the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia, is aimed at creating a fun, stress-free, and engaging travel experience for young passengers alongside their loved ones, reaffirming flynas’s commitment to inclusivity across all traveler segments.

Unveiled under the slogan “Make Them the Stars of the Journey,” the initial phase of this special check-in facility is now open at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh’s domestic terminal. The area is thoughtfully designed with children in mind, featuring a custom-built, child-height counter adorned with colorful branding and visuals of flynas’s playful Fernas mascot.

The space includes branded barriers with lively illustrations and welcoming signage crafted to attract and delight children. flynas staff stationed here are specially trained to offer warm, playful interactions and personalized services tailored to family needs. Adding to the excitement, children receive uniquely designed boarding passes that reflect their special treatment.

This family-centric service launch is part of flynas’s broader growth and inclusivity agenda, aligned with Saudi Arabia’s National Civil Aviation Strategy and Vision 2030. It supports the Kingdom’s ambitious goals of connecting to 250 international destinations, accommodating 330 million passengers, and attracting 150 million tourists annually by 2030. The initiative also complements the Pilgrims Experience Program (PEP), facilitating easier access to the Two Holy Mosques for pilgrims.

Currently, flynas operates 139 routes to more than 70 domestic and international destinations across 30 countries, with over 2,000 weekly flights. Since its inception in 2007, the airline has transported over 80 million passengers and aims to expand to 165 destinations as part of its ongoing growth plan. Travelers can book flights via the flynas website, mobile app, call center, or travel agencies.

By creating this dedicated, child-friendly check-in experience, flynas not only sets a new standard for low-cost airlines in family travel service but also enhances the comfort and joy of flying for its youngest customers and their families.

Emirates Unveils ‘Emirates First’: A Luxurious Gateway for First Class at DXB

Published: Friday, July 25, 2025
Emirates Unveils ‘Emirates First’: A Luxurious Gateway for First Class at DXB
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Emirates has officially launched ‘Emirates First’ at Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport (DXB), providing an elevated and exclusive airport experience designed specifically for its First Class passengers and Skywards Platinum members. This new facility represents a significant upgrade to the check-in experience, where privacy, comfort, and personalized service are paramount.

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed through a grand golden entrance that distinguishes the private Emirates First area. A dedicated Emirates host verifies eligibility and offers a warm welcome, signaling the start of a journey defined by refined hospitality. The design concept for Emirates First thoughtfully incorporates a neutral palette with warm earth tones, balanced by Emirates' signature bronze and gold accents, creating a harmonious and calming environment. Visitors experience a blend of grand architectural elements such as stately columns, alongside sophisticated flooring that transitions from rich wood to elegant marble with plush carpeting in the seating areas.

 Seating options include luxurious leather armchairs and fabric sofas designed for relaxation. The space features iconic Rolex clocks showing time in major international cities, an extravagant fresh flower display, and a backlit Ghaf Tree installation a tribute to the UAE’s national tree linking the modern facility to local culture and heritage.

In an effort to minimize distractions and enhance the peacefulness of the environment, all digital screens and advertising have been removed. Soft, integrated lighting and natural greenery help create an atmosphere of tranquility that sets this lounge apart from typical airport spaces.

Recognizing the value of time for premium travelers, Emirates First integrates technology with personalized service. Guests can complete their check-in using iPads directly from comfortable seating areas, allowing families or groups to remain together while one member manages formalities. Alternatively, dedicated marble and brass check-in counters are available for those who prefer face-to-face service.

Baggage for Emirates First passengers is handled with particular care, being placed on dedicated First Class baggage belts to ensure swift and secure handling. After check-in, guests benefit from expedited access through specialized Security and Immigration lanes, making the transition seamless and stress-free.

Following the check-in experience, passengers can access any of the three exclusive Emirates First Class Lounges within Terminal 3, which offer a suite of premium services including chef-curated à la carte dining, fine selection of wines, spirits, and Champagne, spa treatments, business centers, children’s play areas, and concierge-operated duty-free shopping assistance.

Emirates also offers a comprehensive end-to-end luxury travel service. Its renowned Chauffeur Drive service provides private transfers to and from the airport, enhancing convenience and comfort beyond the terminal. Globally, Emirates First Class customers enjoy privileged access to 43 dedicated Emirates Lounges, complementing a seamless travel experience with chauffeured door-to-door transfers available at most destinations.

This latest upgrade builds upon Emirates’ continued investments in First Class service enhancements that were introduced earlier this year. These enhancements include a creatively designed keepsake menu that narrates the airline’s curated wine selection and culinary inspirations, Emirates-branded Robert Welch bowls specifically crafted for unlimited caviar service, and distinctive rustic cheeseboard slates designed to elevate the onboard dining experience.

Additionally, Emirates First Class cabin crew now deliver a white-glove service, bringing an unmatched level of attention and sophistication directly to passengers onboard.

With an industry-leading weekly availability of 26,800 international First Class seats, Emirates firmly holds its position as the largest global operator in this premium category. The airline remains committed to continuous innovation and investment in both ground and inflight products, ensuring that every aspect of the customer journey epitomizes excellence.

Adel al Redha, Deputy President & Chief Operating Officer of Emirates, emphasizes the airline’s dedication to this vision by stating, “We invest heavily in upgrading our ground products, and Emirates First is one of the areas that will offer a unique and private environment to our First Class customers and Skywards Platinum members.

We know our customers value privacy and convenience, and this will provide another level of hospitality to the check-in experience, as part of our efforts to continuously uplift the overall travel journey. Now, our customers can enjoy a sleek transfer with our Chauffeur Drive Service, a swift check-in at the exclusive Emirates First, explore a world-class lounge before boarding, and relax into a multi award-winning inflight experience with Emirates.”

Through the reimagined Emirates First experience, the airline not only enhances its signature luxury hospitality but also reaffirms its position as a global leader in premium travel, committed to delivering an unsurpassed and holistic ‘Fly Better’ journey from doorstep to destination.

Qatar Airways launches Privilege Club Pro for faster rewards

Published: Tuesday, July 15, 2025
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Qatar Airways has introduced Privilege Club Pro, a new subscription service within its loyalty programme that enables members to earn additional Avios and Qpoints each month. This marks the first time a loyalty programme using Avios has launched a subscription model allowing members to collect status points, setting a new standard for boosting rewards and advancing tier status.

Developed in partnership with Points, a Plusgrade company specializing in ancillary revenue solutions, Privilege Club Pro allows members to accelerate their Avios balances. Subscribers can enjoy a range of rewards, such as bidding on exclusive experiences through Privilege Club Collection, booking award seat flights, shopping at Qatar Duty Free, and accessing hundreds of partners worldwide.

Christophe Guittard, Senior Vice President Business-to-Consumer at Qatar Airways, commented, “As a lifestyle loyalty programme, Privilege Club continues to expand the way members engage with their everyday transactions by ensuring steady, predictable progress toward meaningful rewards. Our latest addition, Privilege Club Pro, is a flexible subscription offering that brings members closer to their goals.

 By boosting their monthly Avios and Qpoints balance, members can now plan ahead for their dream trip or elevate their journey with upgrades and exclusive moments at Qatar Duty Free home to one of the most expansive collections of luxury brands in any airport, alongside curated boutiques and world-class dining options. It reflects our continued commitment to rewarding loyalty in more personal, relevant, and exciting ways, and we look forward to welcoming members to this new chapter.”

Members can subscribe to Privilege Club Pro via qatarairways.com or the Qatar Airways app, choosing from monthly or yearly plans across four tiers:

  • Access: 2,500 Avios per month; USD 50/month or USD 500/year
  • Select: 7,500 Avios per month; USD 130/month or USD 1,300/year
  • Exclusive: 15,000 Avios per month; USD 240/month or USD 2,400/year
  • Ultimate: 20,000 Avios and five Qpoints per month; USD 350/month or USD 3,500/year

The Ultimate tier includes Qpoints, which help members maintain or upgrade their loyalty status. The required Qpoints for tier upgrades are as follows: Burgundy to Silver – 150 Qpoints, Silver to Gold – 300 Qpoints, and Gold to Platinum – 600 Qpoints.

Privilege Club members can spend Avios on curated sports, entertainment, lifestyle, and culture packages through Privilege Club Collection, including access to global events like the FIFA World Cup 2026, Formula 1, and UEFA Champions League. Travelers passing through Hamad International Airport recently named the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ by Skytrax in 2025 can also redeem Avios at Qatar Duty Free, which features over 200 outlets offering luxury shopping, unique dining, and convenient express shops.

ge Club Pro offers members a flexible and rewarding way to accelerate their travel benefits, providing more opportunities to enjoy exclusive experiences and elevate their loyalty status.

Dubai: Emirates flights and Duty Free shopping to accept cryptocurrency soon

Published: Wednesday, July 09, 2025
Dubai: Emirates flights and Duty Free shopping to accept cryptocurrency soon
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Dubai’s Emirates Airline and Dubai Duty Free have taken a major step toward embracing digital currencies by signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Crypto.com to enable cryptocurrency payments for flight bookings and retail purchases. The agreements, signed on July 8, 2025, at Emirates Group Headquarters in Dubai, mark a pioneering move to integrate Crypto.com Pay into their payment ecosystems, with implementation expected to begin next year.

Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, highlighted that the partnership reflects the airline’s commitment to adapting to evolving customer preferences and attracting younger, tech-savvy travelers who favor digital currencies. He noted that this initiative aligns with Dubai’s vision to lead in financial innovation while providing customers with greater flexibility and choice in how they transact with Emirates.

Dubai Duty Free, which posted a turnover of AED 4.118 billion in the first half of 2025, will enable crypto payments both in-store and online, enhancing the retail experience for millions of international travelers passing through Dubai International Airport. Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi described the move as a forward-looking step that adds significant value to their diverse customer base and supports sustained growth.

The MoUs also include plans for strategic collaborations such as joint marketing campaigns and customer engagement programs to promote awareness and adoption of cryptocurrency payments. Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com, emphasized that partnering with Emirates and Dubai Duty Free will accelerate mainstream adoption of digital assets and bring real momentum to the crypto industry in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

This initiative is part of Dubai’s broader strategy to become a global hub for crypto and digital finance innovation. The emirate has already established regulatory frameworks like the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) and hosts over 650 crypto companies in free zones such as DMCC. Other sectors, including real estate and petroleum retail, are also integrating cryptocurrencies, as seen in partnerships like Crypto.com’s recent collaboration with Emirates Petroleum Company (Emarat) to enable crypto payments at service stations.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline & Group, and other senior executives from Emirates and Crypto.com were present at the signing ceremony, underscoring the strategic importance of these partnerships in transforming travel and commerce through advanced digital payment solutions.

By enabling cryptocurrency payments, Emirates and Dubai Duty Free are positioning themselves at the forefront of the digital economy, offering travelers innovative, secure, and convenient payment options that reflect the future of global commerce.