Since its inaugural flight in 1992, Qatar Airways has soared beyond conventional travel expectations, consistently redefining the essence of flying with unparalleled excellence. Every journey with Qatar Airways is a testament to its commitment to luxury, comfort, and impeccable service, making it a preferred choice among discerning travellers worldwide.
As a frequent flyer myself, my experiences aboard Qatar Airways have consistently exceeded expectations. Each flight is an opportunity to bask in the meticulous attention to detail—from gourmet meals inspired by global cuisines to the plush comfort of its seating and the latest in entertainment options.
For the Somali diaspora, Qatar Airways serves as more than just an airline. It represents a pioneering spirit and a bridge that spans vast distances, bringing you closer to your heritage and loved ones and inviting the global community to explore Somalia’s renewed prospects.
Table of Contents
Brief history about Qatar
Qatar, a small yet wealthy nation on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, is known for its vast reserves of oil and natural gas. The capital, Doha, symbolises modernity with its futuristic skyscrapers and rich cultural heritage, as seen in landmarks like the Islamic Art Museum and Souq Waqif.
Internationally, Qatar gained prominence by successfully hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, showcasing its advanced infrastructure and readiness for global events. As a key player in regional and global diplomacy, Qatar actively participates in international forums, balancing traditional Gulf customs with a progressive vision for the future.
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Background: The genesis of Qatar Airways
Before the advent of Qatar Airways, Gulf Air had been the predominant airline, serving as the regional carrier for the quad-nation alliance of Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. As the 1990s approached, however, each of these nations embraced growing ambitions to enhance their own economic landscapes and cultural outreach, fostering a need for a more tailored and autonomous aviation service.
Currently, Gulf Air is the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain based at Manama Airport.
Qatar Airways (QR) was established on 22 November, 1993, commencing operations on January 20, 1994. This strategic initiative by the Qatari government was rooted in a vision to create a national carrier that would not only facilitate economic diversification but also forge robust global connections from Qatar to the world and vice versa.
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https://www.qatarairways.com/en-au/homepage.html
Reasons for creating a new national carrier in Qatar
The creation of Qatar Airways was not merely about enhancing air travel capabilities; it was a forward-looking decision anticipating the burgeoning need for greater global connectivity in response to globalisation and the expanding dynamics of international trade and tourism.
Qatar Airways was envisioned as a cornerstone of taking advantages of Qatar`s location situated at the crossroads of East and West, enabling the country not only to attract international business and tourism, but also to project its cultural heritage and innovative spirit across the globe. By leveraging this unique position, they aimed to transform into central hubs of international air travel, thereby catalysing their integration into the global economy.
Early years and rapid expansion
Qatar Airways started with a modest fleet that included two Airbus A310s, which operated routes to Bangkok, Cairo, Khartoum, Kuwait, London, Manila, Muscat, Tokyo, Madras, Karachi, Dhahran, and Abu Dhabi.
Under the visionary leadership of Akbar Al Baker, who became the CEO in 1997 until 2023, Qatar Airways embarked on a rapid expansion plan. The early strategy focused on expanding the network, modernizing the fleet, and significantly enhancing service quality. This period saw Qatar Airways initiating flights to destinations in Europe, the Far East, Africa, and eventually North America and South America, propelling it from a regional carrier to a global airline.
Fleet expansion and modernisation
Over the years, Qatar Airways has pursued an aggressive fleet expansion strategy to support its growing network of destinations. The airline’s fleet comprises a mix of state-of-the-art, wide-body and narrow-body aircraft from Airbus and Boeing, which ensures optimal flexibility and efficiency in its operations.
Currently, the fleet of Qatar airways is 253 aircraft consist of wide body and narrow body, from both Airbus and Boeing.
Strategic hub at Hamad International Airport
A cornerstone of Qatar Airways’ operational excellence is its strategic hub at Hamad International Airport, which began its operations in 2014. Designed with a capacity to accommodate up to 50 million passengers annually. Hamad International Airport is not just an airport; it’s an architectural marvel and a beacon of global connectivity. The airport’s state-of-the-art facilities, its user-friendly navigation, efficient security processes and its reputation make it the best airport in the world in 2024 by Skytrax.
Business model and strategy of Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways operates under a dynamic and strategic business model, which is deeply integrated into Qatar’s overarching goal to establish itself as a global leader in aviation.
This model is not solely focused on connecting an extensive network of international destinations but also encompasses a broader mandate to serve as an ambassador of Qatari culture and hospitality.
Through this dual approach, Qatar Airways aims to provide unparalleled service that transcends the standard airline offering, positioning itself as a premium brand in the competitive landscape of international air travel.
Aligning with Qatar’s National Vision
Qatar Airways’ business strategy is aligned with the Qatar National Vision 2030, which emphasizes sustainable growth, economic diversification, and enhanced international cooperation. The airline supports these goals by contributing significantly to the economic vitality of the country, driving tourism, and acting as a key employer in the region.
Furthermore, Qatar Airways’ expansion efforts include increasing connectivity to underserved markets, thereby opening new channels for trade and cultural exchange, which directly contribute to the economic and social objectives of Qatar.
Qatar Airways’ privilege club
Qatar Airways’ commitment to rewarding its customers is exemplified through its sophisticated loyalty program, the privilege club. This program is designed to provide tangible benefits to frequent flyers, fostering a sense of loyalty and enhancing the overall travel experience with Qatar Airways. The privilege club is more than just a frequent flyer program; it’s a comprehensive platform that offers its members exclusive perks and privileges that increase in value as travellers ascend through its tier system; Burgundy as the entry level, Silver, Gold and Platinum at the top tier.
Earning and redeeming Qmiles
Qmiles are the currency of the privilege club and can be earned not only on flights with Qatar Airways but also with its extensive network of airline partners. Redeeming Qmiles offers exciting possibilities, from booking free flights and upgrades to securing hotel stays and hiring cars.
The flexibility of Qmiles usage is a key feature of the Privilege Club, allowing members to tailor rewards to their personal and family needs. Additionally, Qmiles can be spent on shopping at Qatar Duty-Free locations and other retail partners, providing a wide array of options for members to enjoy the fruits of their loyalty.
Aircraft orders and future Plans
Qatar Airways’ strategy includes significant investments in new aircraft to ensure it can meet future demand and replace older models with more efficient and environmentally friendly options. The airline has placed substantial orders with both Boeing and Airbus to secure next-generation aircraft that align with its expansion and sustainability goals.
Currently, the airline is in the process of ordering 150 wide body aircraft from both Airbus and Boeing. These orders not only bolster the airline’s operational capabilities but also reflect its long-term vision to enhance global connectivity and passenger satisfaction.
Dispute with Airbus and resolution
The relationship between Qatar Airways and its aircraft suppliers has not always been smooth. A notable instance was the recent dispute with Airbus over alleged fuselage surface degradation on the A350 aircraft. This issue brought to light concerns regarding the longevity and safety of the aircraft, leading to a temporary halt in deliveries.
However, after intense negotiations and thorough inspections, the issue was amicably resolved. The resolution allowed Qatar Airways to proceed with its order of 50 Airbus A321neo aircraft and reinstated its order for 23 A350s.
This resolution reflects the airline’s strategic approach to balancing its relationships with major aircraft manufacturers, ensuring it remains well-positioned to adapt to the evolving demands of international air travel.
Expanded connectivity: Qatar Airways in Somalia
On 12 September 2019, Qatar Airways launched its first flight to Mogadishu, Somalia, offering an invaluable link for the Somali diaspora and other travellers. This service is particularly significant for the Somali community abroad, providing a high-quality option for those returning to their homeland. Qatar Airways began its service to Mogadishu, the vibrant capital of Somalia, enhancing connectivity and travel options for the region.
Flight Frequency
Qatar Airways operates 3 flights per week (Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday) to Mogadishu from its hub at Hamad international airport through Djibouti. This routing offers convenience and flexibility for passengers traveling from various global locations.
Doha (DOH) to Mogadishu (MGQ) via Djibouti (JIB) QR1459 departs: 03:40 arrives 12:00
Mogadishu (MGQ) to Doha (DOH) via Djibouti (JIB) QR1460 departs: 13:30 arrives 22:10
Ticket fare
The average return ticket from London to Mogadishu with Qatar Airways can vary significantly depending on the time of year, booking window, and other factors. Generally, prices may be higher compared to other carriers, but Qatar Airways’ fares reflect the premium service and exceptional five-star experience that it offers.
A typical fare for London – Mogadishu – London ticket in June can range from approximately $1100 to $1300 USD for an economy class seat, with variations for business class and seasonal fluctuations.
Fare Vs. services
The service on Qatar Airways is renowned for its excellence, something I have personally experienced during my travels with them. The airline provides a five-star flight experience, characterised by superior comfort, outstanding customer service, and a range of premium amenities. This level of service makes Qatar Airways a preferred choice despite the potentially higher cost, especially for those who value comfort and reliability in their travel arrangements.
Conclusion
Qatar Airways’ influence extends significantly into the lives of the Somali diaspora. By introducing regular flights to Mogadishu, Qatar Airways has opened up a vital conduit linking Somalia with the rest of the world. This service is particularly crucial for the Somali diaspora, enabling easier, more comfortable, and reliable travel for those returning to visit family, explore business opportunities, or reconnect with their cultural roots.
For many in the Somali diaspora, Qatar Airways has become the preferred choice for travel to Mogadishu. This preference stems not only from the airline’s reputation for luxury and safety but also from its direct flights that significantly reduce travel time and hassle.
The connectivity offered by Qatar Airways enhances personal and economic ties between Somalia and the global community, making it an invaluable asset for transnational Somali families and entrepreneurs.
As Qatar Airways continues to ascend in the international aviation arena, its role in enhancing the lives of the Somali diaspora remains a shining example of its broader vision. Each flight to Mogadishu is more than a route on a map; it is a lifeline, enhancing understanding and appreciation across diverse cultures and regions. With every journey, Qatar Airways reiterates its commitment not only to connecting places but also to connecting people, stories, and cultures.
Whether you’re planning a long-awaited trip back to Mogadishu or exploring new horizons, Qatar Airways offers a gateway to the world. Its extensive network spans from North America to Europe, Australia, the Middle East, and beyond, ensuring that no matter where you start your journey, you can count on Qatar Airways to bring you home to Somalia with comfort and style.
