With the seemingly bottomless pit of cash at their disposal, Arab Gulf nations like the U.A.E. or Qatar have undertaken some massive architectural projects that have really put the tiny, otherwise unremarkable countries on the world map. The latest is Qatar’s amazing Hamad International Airport, already regarded as the most luxurious facility of its kind in the world.
More than just an airport, Hamad International looks and feels like that part of town where the rich and famous head to for shopping, eating, or accommodation. Travelers can wait for their flight while shopping in any of the Armani, Burberry, Chanel, Hermes, Bulgari, Tiffany & Co boutiques, or even have a quick coffee from one of the gold-plated coffee kiosks. For those who need somewhere to stay for longer time periods there is premium accommodation available, which includes a number of rooms and suites and even an opulent 1,400 Presidential Suite – all of which can be booked for as little as three hours.
Another great place to spend time is the 30,000 square-foot, multi-level Al Mourjan Business Class Lounge, which boasts shower rooms, quiet rooms with beds, meeting rooms, two restaurants, and a game room. Finally, hungry travelers have more than 30 fine restaurants to choose from, the most remarkable among them being Le Grand Comptoir wine and food bar.
And if all of this wasn’t enough, the terminal is adorned with beautiful works of art, like the large-scale murals by Qatari artist Faraj Duham, the desrt horse sculpture by Ali Hassan, or the Lamp Bear by Swiss artist Urs Fischer.
