Both the Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Lounge and the United Polaris Lounge offer premium experiences with high-quality amenities and services. The Al Mourjan Lounge stands out with its 24-hour operation, expansive space, dedicated children's areas, and the option to purchase access. The United Polaris Lounge excels with its spa-like shower facilities and generally fast Wi-Fi. The choice depends on individual priorities: Al Mourjan for broader access and family-friendly amenities, and Polaris for a more exclusive and relaxing pre-flight experience.
| Attribute | Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Lounge | United Polaris Lounge |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access eligibility | Available to Qatar Airways and Oneworld First and Business Class customers. Not available to passengers who have upgraded from Economy to Business Class or those on Business Class Lite fares. Oneworld elite status holders and Qatar elite status holders do not have access and are invited to the Platinum/Gold Lounge instead. Access can be purchased, with prices varying (approximately $90-$100 USD or QAR 450). | United Polaris business class passengers on long-haul international flights, Long-haul first class passengers on a Star Alliance airline, Long-haul business class passengers on a Star Alliance airline. Access is granted with a same-day boarding pass for arriving or departing flights within 24 hours. Access is available during departure, connections, and upon arrival if flying United Polaris. Star Alliance partner passengers only have access at the departure airport. Strict access policies; no access via lounge membership programs, credit cards, or elite status alone. |
| Guest privileges | First Class passengers can bring one guest. | Eligible first-class travelers on a Star Alliance member airline can bring one adult/child as a guest. Star Alliance business class passengers cannot bring guests. |
| Food and beverage options | Offers both buffet and "": la carte dining. Breakfast is served from 5:00 AM to 10:30 AM, and lunch/dinner from 11:00 AM to 4:00 AM. A la carte menus include options like beef steak, Bahraini chicken dish (Machboos), seafood, pasta, and vegetarian choices. Buffet options include stir-fried noodles, chicken, beef strips, salads, pastries, and more. There are multiple dining areas, including a Global Deli and a main restaurant. Food quality is generally considered excellent. Alcoholic beverages are available, including champagne, wine, and cocktails. | Menu variety: Both buffet and restaurant options are available. The restaurant has a rotating menu with a la carte dining. The buffet offers hot and cold items, salads, fruits, pastries, and desserts. Quality: A la carte dining is considered a highlight, with restaurant-quality food. Some reviews mention the buffet food quality can vary, with some items being fresher than others. Alcoholic beverages: Full-service bar with cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits. |
| Seating comfort and availability | The lounge is massive (over 100,000 square feet in the original Al Mourjan, and 7,390 sqm in the Garden lounge) with a wide variety of seating options. Seating includes armchairs, couches, private nooks, and workstations. Even during busy times, it's usually possible to find a comfortable seat. | Variety of seating options, including individual pods, lounge chairs, sofas, and dining tables. Some locations can get crowded, especially before European departures in the evening. |
| Shower facilities | Shower suites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Generally well-maintained. Diptyque amenities are provided. Some showers have toilets inside, while others do not. | Availability: Shower suites are available. Cleanliness: Generally clean and well-maintained. Amenities: Amenities include towels, slippers, and Therabody or Sunday Riley toiletries. Amenities upon request may include: a shaving kit, hairdryer, toothbrush, comb, and other items. |
| Sleeping areas or quiet rooms | The Al Mourjan Garden Lounge has 24 quiet rooms with recliners, available for up to six hours. The original Al Mourjan has quiet areas with sleeping pods. Rooms include a writing desk, wardrobe, and mini-fridge. | Quiet rooms with daybeds are available. These are not fully private bedrooms. Amenities like United Polaris eyemasks, earplugs, and water are often provided. |
| Business facilities | Strong Wi-Fi connection throughout the lounge. Printing is available. Free conference rooms are available. There's a comprehensive business center with workstations and computers. | Wi-Fi: Generally fast and reliable. Some older reviews mention occasional slow speeds. Printing: Available. Meeting rooms: Some lounges offer private phone booth/office suites. |
| Spa services | Both Al Mourjan lounges offer spa services. The Al Mourjan Garden Lounge has the Qspa and Dior Spa. Treatments are paid, with prices on the higher side (e.g., a 60-minute treatment at Qspa costs around 200 SGD). | Spa-like shower facilities with Therabody products. |
| Children's play area | Both lounges have kids' zones. The original Al Mourjan has a children's play area and game room. The Al Mourjan Garden has a family and game room. | Seemingly more adult-focused, with no specific children's play area. |
| Overall ambiance and noise level | The original Al Mourjan has a striking design with high ceilings and Arabian-inspired decor. The Al Mourjan Garden has a garden theme, with natural light and views of the Orchard. Noise levels can vary; the original Al Mourjan can get noisy, while the Garden lounge aims for a more serene atmosphere. | Stylish and well-designed with a focus on comfort. Noise levels can vary; some areas are quieter than others, like "the studio" in SFO. |
| Cleanliness and maintenance | Generally clean and well-maintained. Restrooms are spotless and modern. | Generally well-maintained. Restrooms are individual rooms and are usually kept in good condition. |
| Operating hours and accessibility | Both Al Mourjan lounges are open 24 hours daily. The original Al Mourjan is located in the A & B gates area. The Al Mourjan Garden is in the new north terminal expansion, near the C, D, and E gates. | Hours vary by location, typically from morning to late evening (e.g., 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.). Located in international terminals, often near security checkpoints. |
| Price | Approximately $90-$100 USD or QAR 450 (access purchase) | Not available |