- Introduction: Around The World With Dad
- Review: Etihad First Class Boeing 787 (IAD-AUH)
- Review: Etihad First Class Lounge Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH)
- Review: Qatar Airways Boeing 737 MAX First Class (AUH-DOH)
- Review: Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha, Qatar
- Review: Katara Hills Doha, A Hilton LXR Property
- Review: St. Regis Doha Marsa Arabia Island, Qatar
- Review: Qatar Airways Al Safwa First Lounge Doha Airport (DOH)
- Review: Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Garden Business Lounge Doha Airport (DOH)
- Review: Qatar Airways Platinum & Gold Lounge North Doha Airport (DOH)
- Review: Qatar Airways Platinum & Gold Lounge South Doha Airport (DOH)
- Review: Qatar Airways First Class Airbus A380 (DOH-PER)
- Review: Ritz-Carlton Perth, Australia
- Review: Virgin Australia Lounge Perth Airport (PER)
- Review: Virgin Australia Business Class Boeing 737 (PER-SYD)
- Review: Holiday Inn Express Sydney Airport (SYD)
- Review: Qantas First Lounge Sydney Airport (SYD)
- Review: Qantas First Class Airbus A380 (SYD-LAX)
To continue my around the world adventure with dad, we flew Qatar Airways’ Boeing 737 MAX first class from Abu Dhabi to Doha. I was excited about this flight for a couple of reasons.
First of all, the flight was operated by Qatar Airways’ brand new Boeing 737 MAX. In order to increase capacity ASAP, Qatar Airways recently picked up some Boeing 737 MAX 8s that were intended for Russia’s S7 Airlines, but which the airline is no longer able to take delivery of. So I was looking forward to seeing what kind of a product this plane offered.
Second of all, Qatar Airways has the best short haul premium product in the world. Period. The level of service the airline provides on a 200-mile, 40-minute flight, will make it very hard to ever fly on a US airline again.
Let’s get into the review…
In this post:
How I booked our Qatar Airways first class tickets
I booked our first class tickets from Washington to Doha via Abu Dhabi using American AAdvantage miles. Specifically, I booked the following for 115,000 American AAdvantage miles plus $18.55 in taxes and fees per person, which is a fantastic value:
5/18 EY130 Washington to Abu Dhabi departing 9:15PM arriving 6:15PM (+1 day)
5/20 QR1055 Abu Dhabi to Doha departing 1:50AM arriving 1:55AM
Qatar Airways 737 MAX first class cabin & seats
Our flight from Abu Dhabi to Doha was departing from gate 11, with boarding scheduled for 1:05AM, 45 minutes before departure. Sure enough, that’s exactly when boarding started, with first class being invited to board first.
When boarding the flight, I was well aware that the interiors were intended for Russia’s S7 Airlines, with the only real Qatar Airways element being the burgundy headrest covers.
Qatar Airways’ Boeing 737 MAXs feature eight first class seats (they’re either marketed as first or business class, depending on the route), spread across two rows in a 2-2 configuration.
Legroom is quite good in these seats, comparable to what you’d find in domestic first class within the United States.
While there wasn’t a legrest, the seats did feature little footrests that could be lowered from the seat in front. I don’t understand why we don’t have these on US airlines, as they seem like an easy and cheap investment.
The seats featured armrests that could be raised, to expose a storage pocket, as well as the charging ports. The seats had both USB and AC power outlets.
Tray tables extended from the far armrests, and could be folded over in half.
When folded over in half, the tray tables had an additional personal device holder that could be raised, so you have somewhere easy to place an iPad, cell phone, etc.
Then there was a center armrest, where you could easily place a drink during the flight.
The above seats should look very familiar, as they’re the same kinds of seats you’ll find on many airlines, ranging from American Airlines to Bamboo Airways.
The cabin otherwise had the standard Boeing 737 MAX interiors, including reading lights and individual air nozzles at each seat.
Overhead bins were also quite large.
Since I was the first to board, I also quickly glanced back into the economy cabin, which looked pretty standard for a 737 MAX.
Look, these aren’t the most exciting aircraft interiors on earth, and that’s because Qatar Airways had nothing to do with the design of the cabin, and the priority was getting the planes into service as quickly as possible. These aircraft primarily fly ultra short flights, so I think these are perfectly nice interiors for such routes.
Just keep in mind that Qatar Airways flies Airbus A350s and Boeing 777s featuring Qsuites on many flights of a similar lengths, so there are some more exciting products on these kinds of routes.
Qatar Airways first class amenities
Waiting at each seat upon boarding was a proper pillow and blanket, the same you’d find in the carrier’s long haul business and first class. It’s not often you get this kind of bedding on a flight so short!
Moments after settling in, the cabin manager and the first class flight attendant came by our seats to introduce themselves, and offer us pre-departure drinks. I asked for both champagne and the lemon-mint juice, and was also offered my choice of a warm or cold towel.
Seriously, how nice of a pre-departure drink service is this?!
Moments later, menus were distributed for the flight.
Then closer to departure, Arabic coffee and dates were served.
Qatar Airways 737 MAX first class entertainment
Qatar Airways’ Boeing 737 MAXs don’t feature Wi-Fi or personal televisions. While those are things I usually value, on a 40-minute flight I can’t say that I care all that much. However, the crew still passed out entertainment tablets and headphones during boarding.
The tablet had a good selection of movies and TV shows, so you should have no issues staying entertained for all 40 minutes of the journey. 😉
Qatar Airways 737 MAX departure from Abu Dhabi
Boarding was efficient, as the flight wasn’t very full — I’d say economy was maybe half full, while we were the only passengers in first class. Throughout boarding I enjoyed listening to the boarding music, which is my favorite played by any airline.
By 1:30AM, 20 minutes ahead of scheduled departure, the main cabin door closed. At this point the captain added his welcome aboard, informing us of our flight time of 40 minutes, and our cruising altitude of 18,000 feet.
After that, the crew performed a manual safety demonstration. Then we began our pushback at 1:40AM. We had quite a long taxi to the runway, though the pilots taxied with purpose, and we were cleared for takeoff by 1:55AM.
Qatar Airways first class snack service
The seatbelt sign was turned off less than five minutes after takeoff, at which point the crew sprung into action, starting with closing the curtains between cabins.
At that point the snack service began. You can find the menu and drink list below.
The snack was served around 10 minutes after takeoff. I chose the vegetarian option, which included a mac and cheese arancini with tomato relish, a Mediterranean vegetable puff pie, and a praline chocolate teardrop. I had a glass of still water and a sauvignon blanc to drink.
Honestly, how cute is this snack service? Not bad for a 40-minute flight in the middle of the night, eh?
Usually there would be a full selection of espresso-based drinks available as well, but unfortunately the 737 MAX doesn’t have an espresso machine (at least not yet). So I instead had a drip coffee, and was offered some cookies to go along with it.
Qatar Airways 737 MAX first class lavatory
Before landing, I checked out the lavatory at the front of the cabin, which was spotless. Unfortunately this was the standard 737 MAX lavatory nowadays, which is incredibly tight. Not only is there a very limited amount of space, but the sink is tiny, and it’s almost impossible to wash your hands without water splashing.
I appreciated the Diptyque toiletries, which sure are premium (and smell good!).
Qatar Airways 737 MAX arrival in Doha
Just 25 minutes after takeoff, the seatbelt sign was turned on in preparation for landing. We had a smooth approach, and touched down in Doha at 1:35AM (there’s a one hour time difference between Abu Dhabi and Doha, so we landed 20 minutes “before” taking off). From there we had a five minute gate to our arrival stand, where we parked next to a Boeing 777.
The ground crew was having issues pulling the stairs up to the aircraft, presumably because the 737 MAX is still a new plane for the airline. So it took about 10 minutes to deplane. The crew must have apologized to us five times during this delay, and even asked if they could offer us some beverages while we waited.
While people usually dread remote stands, I sure don’t mind them on these kinds of flights. Qatar Airways has a separate first class bus, which we had all to ourselves. This dropped us off right at the central immigration and transit checkpoint.
Qatar Airways then has a dedicated arrivals area for premium passengers, with expedited immigration, as well as plenty of seating, drinks, and snacks.
We were through in no time, and got in an Uber to the Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha, where we’d be spending the night.
Bottom line
Qatar Airways’ short haul first class product is simply spectacular. The soft product is in a league of its own, and it’s such a treat to get this kind of service on a 40-minute flight.
I was also happy to fly Qatar Airways’ new Boeing 737 MAX. This is the least exciting plane in Qatar Airways’ fleet, given the lack of seatback entertainment, Wi-Fi, and the general cabin layout. Still, for a 40-minute flight, this is a fantastic experience.
What do you make of Qatar Airways’ Boeing 737 MAX first class?
It is a short flight. Does what you get really value the difference in price...Agree most people getting it are connecting.
Looks great - interesting that the “bus” was truly a great way to do the typical Qatar disembarkation at Doha - the “steps and bus” - 5 star airline - not quite yet !!!
Wow. Just wow.
I need to remind myself you guys always call Business Class as “first class”.
Regional business class on QR is marketed and sold as First Class.
Qatar Airways is a fantastic airline but unfortunately it is let down by the standard of the Eastern European stewardesses who appear to be trying to flirt with all males and females and mothers with children are ignored . My daughter traveled with her two year old in first class from Bahrain, and then business class to Boston. The crew were particularly unhelpful, especially disembarking from Baréin to Doha, where she was not assisted with...
Qatar Airways is a fantastic airline but unfortunately it is let down by the standard of the Eastern European stewardesses who appear to be trying to flirt with all males and females and mothers with children are ignored . My daughter traveled with her two year old in first class from Bahrain, and then business class to Boston. The crew were particularly unhelpful, especially disembarking from Baréin to Doha, where she was not assisted with her child, hand luggage, and push chair to go down the steps as no finger was available. Another first class passenger assisted her as a crew just stood on watched. So Qatar airways upgrade the standard of your stuff to fit with the beautiful standard of your aircraft.
A flight from AUH to DOH, at one in the morning, sounds like a flight Bart Simpson flying. On the serious side I don’t like the judgment of a flight crew that turns the seatbelt sign off five minutes after takeoff.
“Sounds like a flight Bart Simpson should be flying”.
The biggest issue I have is the "bait and switch" you get with the "first class" regional product. All other airlines in the region sell this as business. QR only sell this as first for a markup in price. I've been there done it before on points.
It is in no way first class. It is a domestic/regional product that cannot be held to a first class standard.
America might be different but this is the rest of the world. It's business class.
90% of the passengers are just getting this as part of a longer connecting flight and the price difference is nonexistent. And even if there was one, it could well be worth it as the 40 minute flight being 1st Class gets you into the first-class lounge in Doha.
Sad to see the impossibly small lavatory that economy passengers have had to tolerate has now migrated to first/business class on this 737 Max. Qatar and Boeing should be ashamed of themselves.
Pretty sure the photo with the caption "Qatar Airways Boeing 737 MAX after arriving in Doha" shows a 777 and not a 737 MAX.
Big Max!
I actually detest those first class seats, which are increasingly popular.
Based on the photos, it's the same seat that AA has installed on its 737 fleet. [To their credit, AA, however, retroactively removed the stupid console that extends down to the floor, blocking reasonable underseat storage for the aisle passenger (since the underseat storage is divided unequally on a 737)]. I find that the seats are too close to the ground compared to...
I actually detest those first class seats, which are increasingly popular.
Based on the photos, it's the same seat that AA has installed on its 737 fleet. [To their credit, AA, however, retroactively removed the stupid console that extends down to the floor, blocking reasonable underseat storage for the aisle passenger (since the underseat storage is divided unequally on a 737)]. I find that the seats are too close to the ground compared to other recliners; I've heard taller passengers complain about this. The power outlet placement is also difficult, requiring some contortion when seated to actually plug in your device; seats (like on UA, AS, etc.) where the outlets are in the console between seats are much better.
Additionally, I'm finding, at least on AA, that the tray tables are becoming quickly worn and are leaning 10-15 degrees. That could be AA maintenance, but it wasn't an issue with their older first class recliners.
I know, very specific complaints, but I'm confused why this particular seat has become some popular with airlines given its limitations compared to alternatives.
I hear the drive is kinda nice...
So did you actually finish the THREE predeparture beverages that you ordered? I'm always curious when I see people order multiple drinks in such a short period.
I flew from DOH to Jeddah in first class - short haul flight, but no alcohol was served because we were flying to Saudi Arabia - which I didn’t mind.
It’s amazing to see how they take care of the passengers and have the same attention to details while flying long distance. The food was great, the flight, and experience were terrific! I love those luxury buses carrying us from tarmac Mac to airport....
I flew from DOH to Jeddah in first class - short haul flight, but no alcohol was served because we were flying to Saudi Arabia - which I didn’t mind.
It’s amazing to see how they take care of the passengers and have the same attention to details while flying long distance. The food was great, the flight, and experience were terrific! I love those luxury buses carrying us from tarmac Mac to airport.
Also, we get to use the first class Al Safwa first class lounge in Doha. How about that!
A couple months ago this site rated Alaska's First Class 4.5 stars. Does ANYONE thinks that AS and QR FC are comparable products or at the same level? The AS FC rating was a blow to the credibility of this site.
@ Regis -- The ratings are intended to reflect the regions they're in. Qatar Airways and Alaska Airlines compete on exactly zero routes. The good rating of Alaska was intended to reflect that it's an above average domestic US first class product, with much better legroom than you'll find on American, and service that's generally friendlier.
That's like saying that if I review Spirit Airlines Big Front Seat and Singapore Airlines Suites, then Spirit should...
@ Regis -- The ratings are intended to reflect the regions they're in. Qatar Airways and Alaska Airlines compete on exactly zero routes. The good rating of Alaska was intended to reflect that it's an above average domestic US first class product, with much better legroom than you'll find on American, and service that's generally friendlier.
That's like saying that if I review Spirit Airlines Big Front Seat and Singapore Airlines Suites, then Spirit should get one star, because there's no free Dom Perignon or caviar.
The first class seats just happen to have burgundy leather. I think that Qatar installed its own first class seats. As for the max, the airline gets to choose the restroom size, don’t they?
@ Ck -- I believe S7 Airlines also had burgundy seats in business class (coincidentally), so I don't think Qatar Airways installed those. Yes, airlines can choose lavatories (as S7 Airlines did in this case), and almost all airlines have gone with these tight new lavs on the 737 MAX.
Thanks a lot for this, definitely worth the price I guess (especially when you compare what you get in Europe and often in US when flying domestically in premium). Qatar is wonderful, also in Tourist Class. Wonder whether in Eco they had full bar service.
"I asked for both champagne and the lemon-mint towel"
Eh, personally as far as PDBs go, the mixed berry towels are much tastier.
@ Julia -- Hah, fixed, thanks!
Appart from the bling bling and the opportunity to show off on instagram, I don't see why someone would pay a premium to get from A to B on a short haul flight??
I am very happy with my frequent Spirit Airlines flights as they get the job done with no frills without charging a leg.
Good day
@ DCS;
You should read Ben's reply on the first post.
Why are you here then?
Awesome review!
That looks like karak chai, not Arab coffee by the way.
@ Bob jones -- I know it almost looks like karak chai, but it definitely wasn't.
That's the coffee they serve in the Arabian Gulf countries. The coffee in the Arab Levant countries is Turkish coffee, so some people assume that's what all Arabs drink.
No it isn't. Turkish Coffee and Arabic Coffee are different. They also have variants between the gulf countries with different base flavours.
More like chai, definitely doesn't look like kadak chai.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arabic_coffee#Arabian_Peninsula
that Karak Chai - cardamon option looks delicious- this level of service is amazing;
On the 2 hour 20 minutes from San Francisco, USA, to Vancouver, Canada, UNITED only serves drinks and lighr snacks - no menu etc
Seems pointless to waste money on a "first class" ticket that just gets you a little extra leg room and allows you to feel slightly more exclusive than the plebs in the back.
@ Gary -- Most people on these short haul flights are connecting to long haul destinations. As you can see, my ticket was booked as part of a larger itinerary, so it's not like I was even paying extra for first class on this short segment.
As I understood it, you weren't even paying extra for the segment itself.