Review: Qatar Airways Qsuites Business Class Airbus A350 (MIA-DOH)

For the first flight of my two-part birthday trip to the Golden Triangle, I flew Qatar Airways’ Airbus A350-1000 Qsuites business class on the 13hr40min flight from Miami (MIA) to Doha (DOH).

I know what you’re probably thinking — “wow, a Qsuites review, how original, no travel blogger has done that before!” 😉 While that’s totally fair, it has been seven years since I last reviewed this product, so I figure it’s time for a fresh look, especially with the things that have changed over time.

Even though Qatar Airways’ current generation Qsuites business class was introduced nearly nine years ago, it still sets the standard in business class. There’s just not another airline that nails both hard and soft product as consistently as Qatar Airways, from the flexibility of the seats, to the service, to the food and drinks, to the entertainment, to the free Starlink Wi-Fi. It’s simply stellar across the board.

How I booked my Qatar Airways business class ticket

I booked the entire outbound portion of my journey as one ticket. Specifically, I redeemed 95,000 Qatar Airways Avios and paid $298.10 in taxes & fees to book the following in Qsuites business class:

4/14 QR778 Miami to Doha departing 7:40PM arriving 4:50PM (+1 day)
4/16 QR836 Doha to Bangkok departing 3:30AM arriving 2:15PM

I even acquired those points with a transfer bonus, so suffice it to say that I got an incredible deal on this redemption.

Qatar Airways business class lounge & boarding

In Miami, Qatar Airways sends its passengers to the British Airways Lounge, at least as a standard. In line with oneworld lounge access rules, you can also access the American Flagship Lounge, though the British Airways facility is definitely better than the American one.

My Qatar Airways flight was departing from gate E23, with boarding initially scheduled for 7:10PM, 30 minutes before departure. However, there was a bit of delay with boarding due to cabin preparations, so it only actually ended up starting at 7:45PM, five minutes after the scheduled departure time, with business class passengers being invited to board first.

At that point I headed down the jet bridge, and boarded through the second door, which was the only one being used.

Qatar Airways A350 Qsuites business class cabin & seats

The standard Qatar Airways Airbus A350-1000s feature 46 Qsuites business class seats, spread across two cabins. Qsuites is the name of Qatar Airways’ custom business class hard product, which was developed in partnership with Collins Aerospace. Seats are in a 1-2-1 configuration, and are staggered, and also alternate between being forward and rear facing.

On this plane, the forward cabin has 38 seats spread across 10 rows, while the rear cabin has eight seats spread across two rows.

While I was seated in the rear cabin, I first quickly took a glance into the forward cabin, which is where most passengers sit. I really love the open feel of the A350-1000 Qsuites cabin, given the lack of overhead bins in the center. I know that limits carry-on space, but I find it to be a fair tradeoff in terms of passenger experience.

However, I opted to sit in the rear business class cabin, which has just two rows of seats. This is generally my preferred place to sit on this aircraft, especially with the great wing and engine views. The icing on the cake was that I was the only passenger in the rear business class cabin on this flight — talk about a private jet feel!

Now let’s talk about the Qsuites business class seats in a bit more detail. One of the things I love about Qsuites is how it’s a phenomenal product whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or even as a group, as there’s not a more flexible product, in that regard. There are essentially four different kinds of seats in this configuration.

In the center section, every other row has two seats that are rear facing and very close to one another (these are seats E & F). If you’re traveling alone, there’s a partition between seats that gives you a lot of privacy. However, the seats are best if you’re traveling with someone, as you can literally be right next to them. These are often referred to as “honeymoon seats,” and they can even turn into a (sort of) double bed.

In every other center row you’ll find two seats that are forward facing and are further away from one another, and closer to the aisles (these are seats D & G). These would generally be my less preferred seats in business class, since you don’t have so much distance from the aisle, and also can’t look out the window.

One unique feature of Qsuites is that if you’re a group of four traveling together, you can potentially create a “quad,” whereby parts of the partitions can be lowered. So I’d ideally only choose these seats if traveling as a group of four, and not if traveling as a couple.

Most travelers will prefer to sit in one of the window seats, and there you have two different options. In every other row you’ll find window seats that are forward facing and closer to the aisle, while being further away from the windows (these are seats B & J). These would also be my less preferred of the window seats, since I generally prefer to sit closer to the fuselage and windows rather than closer to the aisle.

In every other row you’ll find window seats that are rear facing and closer to the windows, while being further away from the aisle (these are seats A & K). These are my favorite seats on the plane, since they offer the most distance to the aisle.

I assigned myself seat 11A, the rear facing window seat in the rear mini cabin (it’s in the first row of the mini cabin, since the last row of the mini cabin faces forward). This is my favorite seat on the plane, especially given the amazing view of the wing and engine (which you’ll see below).

The Qatar Airways Qsuites product is essentially a customized staggered seat with a door, so let’s take a look at some of the individual features. The seat has a console to the side of the seat, where you can place things during the flight.

Underneath that, you’ll find even more storage, along with the seat controls, the entertainment controller, and the charging ports. The Qsuites business class seat has AC power plus USB-A outlets — there’s no USB-C or wireless charging, which is one of the few areas where you realize this isn’t a cutting edge product in terms of technology (given its age at this point).

Opposite the console and next to the seat you’ll find what almost looks like an ottoman that you can sit on. When you open that up, you’ll find quite a bit of enclosed storage space, which is useful to have, given that all too many business class seats nowadays have almost no storage.

Then the tray table can fold out from underneath the entertainment screen. When stored, it’s folded over in half. Then when you pull it out and flip it over, you’ll find the full sized tray, which can easily be moved around a bit. Qatar Airways also has to be commended for how sturdy these tray tables are, as they’re solid as a rock. All too many tray tables nowadays are rather flimsy.

Underneath the tray you’ll find the footwell, which is quite a good size, in terms of depth, height, and width.

The Qsuites business class product has a privacy door that can manually be slid open or closed while inflight. As you’d expect, the door is latched shut for taxi, takeoff, and landing.

Lastly, there’s what’s perhaps one of the most underrated aspects of Qsuites, especially compared to other airlines — Qatar Airways actually has individual air nozzles on its A350-1000s, which helps with avoiding feeling too warm while inflight. I think all too often we don’t place enough value on this as an amenity.

Anyway, while it’s perhaps no longer cutting edge when it comes to technology, you just can’t beat the overall quality of the Qsuites product in terms of comfort, privacy, and customizability, depending on the type of trip you’re taking.

Qatar Airways A350 Qsuites business class entertainment & Wi-Fi

Qatar Airways Qsuites business class boasts 21.5″ high definition entertainment monitors at every seat. Qatar Airways has its Oryx One entertainment system, offering an absolutely massive library of movies, TV shows, music, games, and more. It’s simply an endless selection, among the biggest you’ll find out there. The only thing to keep in mind is that there’s quite a bit of censoring, as is common on Gulf carriers.

Of course my favorite part of this is the map feature, along with the tail camera, which I’ll be covering in more detail as the review goes on.

My flight also had Starlink Wi-Fi, which was both fast and free, as this is now available on all Qatar Airways A350s. There wasn’t even any log-in required — you just had to connect to the network, and could then immediately start using the internet.

This was my first long haul flight with Starlink, and I found it to be a complete game changer. Speeds were every bit as good as at home, so I was able to stay productive without any sort of a lag. It can’t be overstated what a game changer this is for productivity onboard flights, and I think this will soon become the standard that passengers expect.

I’d say as it currently stands, Qatar Airways’ A350s offer the world’s best and most consistent entertainment, between the seat back options plus the Starlink Wi-Fi.

One thing worth mentioning is that Qatar Airways does allow voice and video calls via Starlink, which is sure to be controversial. Of course everyone wants to be able to use these services, but doesn’t want others to be able to. It worked out for me on this flight, given that I was the only person in the rear business class cabin. 😉

Qatar Airways business class amenities

Qatar Airways Qsuites business class offers an endless number of amenities. Waiting at each seat upon boarding were two pillows plus a very plush blanket. This is only part of the bedding that’s offered onboard, and ultimately I find it to be excellent across the board. Also keep in mind that you’re allowed to take the smaller white pillow with you off the plane.

Also waiting in the storage area were a pair of headphones. These are ultimately decent quality but nothing special, at least compared to the rest of the experience. Unfortunately there’s no bluetooth audio, so you do need to use these for the entertainment system.

Shortly after boarding, the flight attendant taking care of me came by to introduce herself, along with the cabin manager. I was presented with the menu and drink list for the flight, and was also offered a pre-departure drink of choice.

I opted for a glass of champagne, which was accompanied by a packaged refreshing towel from Diptyque. Currently Qatar Airways’ brut option is Champagne Alfred Gratien. While not necessarily a big name, I found it to be quite good.

I was also presented with a rectangular Diptyque amenity kit, which included lotion, lip balm, fragrance, and a spray, along with socks and eyeshades.

I was also given Formula 1 branded pajamas, along with slippers. I thought the pajamas were super cool-looking, though they were a little on the scratchy side (not bad, but just not the most comfortable pajamas I’ve had).

All-in-all, it’s hard to argue with the impressive selection of amenities offered! There’s not another airline that offers pajamas in business class more consistently than Qatar Airways does, for example.

Qatar Airways A350 departure from Miami

As I sat at my seat, I of course enjoyed listening to Qatar Airways’ boarding music, my favorite of any airline.

Boarding was very efficient, and took all of 15 minutes. I’d say the plane was only around half full, with business class being closer to one-third full.

At around 8PM the captain made his welcome aboard announcement — he was from Serbia, the other captain was from South Africa, and the two first officers were from South Africa and Romania, with the cabin manager being from India. The captain informing us of our flight time of 13hr45min, and said it would take a little longer for cargo to be loaded, at which point we’d be underway.

At that point, the Kevin Hart safety video was screened, which I can’t say is among my favorites, but it’s also not terrible.

We ended up pushing back at 8:20PM… talk about a nice view to have from a rear facing seat! At 8:25PM we started our taxi out to runway 9.

Unfortunately at this point the sun quickly began to set, so I mostly focused on the tail camera.

It took us around 15 minutes before we got takeoff clearance, but by 8:40PM we were rocketing down the runway. We had a long takeoff roll and gradual climb out.

Despite a smooth climb, the seatbelt sign still ended up staying on for close to an hour after takeoff, which seemed unusually long.

Qatar Airways business class dinner service

Qatar Airways business class offers a dine on demand concept, so the idea is that there’s an all-day dining menu, a light meal menu, and a breakfast menu. Given the timing of this flight, it’s standard to have dinner after takeoff, and then breakfast either upon waking up or before landing, with a light meal possibly thrown in as well.

You can find the full Qatar Airways business class menu and drink list below.

The crew had already taken my meal order on the ground, and I made the decision to have dinner after takeoff. After takeoff, service began at record speed. I had first ordered a glass of champagne, which was delivered just 20 minutes after takeoff. I was offered the choice of warm mixed nuts, chips, or both, and I opted for both.

Around 30 minutes after takeoff, my table was set for the meal. You’ve gotta love the tablecloth, the faux candle, the breadbasket, the champagne flute, and the glassware, as it all makes for a restaurant-style experience. I was offered an amuse bouche, which consisted of a seared scallop with orange gel.

For the appetizer, I opted for the typical Arabic mezze with pita bread, which included lentil feta salad, rekak labneh, and avocado muhammara. This really hit the spot, and I appreciate that Qatar Airways mixes up the types of dishes it includes in its mezze.

For the main course, I selected the grilled cajun marinated prawns with horseradish potato mousseline and wok-fried Asian vegetables. This dish was very good, and in particular, plating was similar to what you’d expect in a restaurant.

Then for dessert, I chose the banana split sundae with vanilla ice cream, toasted almonds, hot chocolate sauce, and maraschino cherries. This was sinfully delicious, as you’d expect.

I finished off the meal with some chamomile tea, served with chocolate biscuits (which I saved for later).

All-in-all, it was an excellent meal. There was nothing about the food quality that was particularly remarkable (Miami isn’t a route that gets caviar, and also, catering out of Doha is typically better than out of outstations). But seriously, for airline catering, this is all very good.

Qatar Airways A350 Qsuites business class lavatories

Qatar Airways Qsuites business class on the Airbus A350-1000 has three lavatories — there are two located at the very front of the cabin (on each side in front of row one), and then one located in the center galley (on the left side, in front of row 11).

All three lavatories are roughly the same size, with the forward two lavatories each having a window as well.

Regarding the lavatory at the center galley, that one was located right in front of my seat. I should mention that noise or smells from the lavatory weren’t an issue, thanks to the separation, plus the thick curtain. However, if you wanted to be further from the lavatory, you could just sit in row 11 on the opposite side (though then you always have to pass through the galley to use the center lavatory).

Qatar Airways crews deserve absolutely massive credit for the lengths they go to keep lavatories clean. There’s just something so nice about entering a lavatory toward the end of a long flight and not finding it in a state of complete horror.

Qatar Airways crews don’t just do a slightly good job tidying the cabin, but they literally will constantly fold toilet paper into little triangles, put new seat covers on the lavatory, etc.

Qatar Airways lavatories also have Diptyque products, which sure has a premium feel. And then there’s also a drawer with dental kits, since those aren’t otherwise in the amenity kit.

Qatar Airways A350 Qsuites business class bed

Qatar Airways Qsuites business class comes with turndown service, so the crew is happy to prepare your bed for you, given that there’s a mattress pad, your pillows are placed in a pillowcase, etc.

Since the entire rear cabin was empty, I asked the crew if they could prepare me the double bed in the center section immediately across from me, which they were happy to do. I had actually never before slept in the Qsuites double bed, so I was grateful for that opportunity.

I must say, it was all much more comfortable than I expected. Sleeping alone, I loved the width this offered, especially as a side sleeper. Meanwhile if sleeping next to someone, I’d also find it to be quite comfortable. The spaces really are connected, aside from each seat still having a separate footwell, with a barrier between them.

I thought the only downside was that in the center section there are no individual air nozzles, so it’s a little harder to regulate temperature.

I fell asleep with 11hr30min hours remaining to Doha, and woke up with around 4hr30min remaining to Doha. I’m typically a horrible airplane sleeper, so by my standards, that was excellent. I don’t want to say I got great sleep, necessarily, but it was way better than usual.

At this point it was also bright outside, so I had a look out the window, and at the tail camera.

Qatar Airways business class snack & breakfast service

Upon waking up, I decided to order a cappuccino and a bowl of fresh berries with rosemary syrup from the light meal menu. I even got a tablecloth for this service, which was a nice surprise!

I then spent a couple of hours working uninterrupted, thanks to Starlink. Before I knew it, we were starting our journey across the Arabian Peninsula, and had under 2hr30m remaining to Doha.

As a reminder, you can find the Qatar Airways business class breakfast menu below.

To kick off the meal, I ordered an iced cappuccino — what a treat that Qatar Airways has such great coffee drinks.

I then ordered a fruit plate, along with greek yogurt with pineapple compote and toasted nut granola. This came with a bread basket (which had a pastry, croissant, and muffin), plus butter and a choice of jam.

For the main course, I ordered the acai breakfast smoothie bowl with oat milk, with pistachios and fresh berries. I’m always happy when airlines serve creative breakfast dishes, as that’s all too rare, so kudos to Qatar Airways for that.

At the conclusion of the meal, I was offered a warm towel, plus a mint (I’m not sure if that was a hint or not). 😉

Qatar Airways business class service

Qatar Airways crews consistently provide great service. I find they’re among the hardest working in the sky in business class, given just how intricate the carrier’s service is, compared to what you’ll find on most airlines. So in my experience Qatar Airways crews really hustle, but perhaps aren’t as personable or chatty as on other airlines (given how busy they are).

The crew on this flight was excellent — they were friendly, attentive, and always answered call buttons within seconds. Qatar Airways has a very diverse crew base, though interestingly, I believe four of the five flight attendants in business class on this sector were from India (often you’ll find five crew from five different countries).

Qatar Airways A350 arrival in Doha

Given conflicts in recent times, you of course can’t help but be a bit attentive and interested as you approach Doha, and look at the map.

At around 4:50PM Doha time, the captain was on the PA to announce that we’d be descending soon, and the seatbelt sign was turned on right away, a bit earlier than usual. Minutes later we started descending, and the crew prepared the cabin for landing.

We then began a really steep descent around 5:05PM. The sun was setting as we approached Doha, and it was a beautiful evening.

At 5:20PM we had a smooth touchdown on runway 34L — you’ve gotta love being able to watch the tail camera during landing!

From there, we had a very long taxi to our arrival gate. At the time I was flying, Qatar Airways seemed to have all flights arriving at and departing from one main area of the terminal. We pulled into our gate at 5:35PM, 45 minutes behind schedule.

I then spent the evening and early morning at the airport, prior to my Qatar Airways Boeing 777-300ER Qsuites business class flight to Bangkok (BKK).

Bottom line

Qatar Airways Qsuites business class on the A350 continues to set the standard in business class, even nearly nine years after the product was introduced. Qatar Airways knows how to do business class better than any other airline.

The hard product continues to be excellent, in terms of privacy, design, and also the ability to customize your experience based on the type of traveler you are (single, couple, family, etc.). Then there’s endless entertainment and Starlink Wi-Fi, the latter of which is a game changer on long haul flights.

And the rest of the soft product is exceptional as well, from the pajamas and Diptyque amenity kits, to the dine on demand concept, to the friendly crews. Then there are the things I value that I think we too often don’t factor into our assessment of airline products, like individual air nozzles and spotlessly clean lavatories, which make such a difference on long haul flights.

There’s really not another airline that’s in Qatar Airways’ league when it comes to offering such a well-rounded experience.

If you’ve flown Qatar Airways Qsuites, what was your experience like?