In 2020 during the pandemic Qatar Airways established its dedicated Mariner Lounge at Hamad International Airport for seafarers and offshore workers in transit on their flights.
With business and leisure travel having now returned to normal there was concern in the industry that the lounge for seafarers was a “gimmick” that would now be converted for use by high paying business passengers.
Nataraj Iyer, VP Business Travel for Qatar Airways, told Seatrade Maritime Crew Connect Global 2023 in Manila that the lounge is “here to stay”.
The lounge is strictly for use by seafarers and offshore workers with the documentation to show their profession and cannot be used by other Qatar Airways passengers or card holders. Facilities include unlimited high-speed wi-fi, showers, and a rest area.
There is no time limit for seafarers using the lounge even giving a place to rest and connect with family of loved ones for those on lengthy layovers between flights.
