Your Ultimate UK Guide to Qatar TotalEnergies Open Travel Packages (2026)
As the first WTA 1000 event of the season, the Qatar TotalEnergies Open in Doha is where the world’s elite players set the tone for the year. But for UK fans, planning a trip to witness it live can seem complex. As a senior sports travel editor who has planned multiple trips for UK clients to this very event, I’ve learned that official Qatar TotalEnergies Women’s Open travel packages are about more than just convenience—they are about seamless access to a world-class luxury sports holiday.
This guide is your single source of truth. We will break down what’s really included in the 2026 packages, analyze their value, and provide an insider’s checklist for travelling from the UK to Doha.
What is the Qatar TotalEnergies Open?
A Jewel of the WTA 1000 Tour
This is not just another tournament. The WTA (Women’s Tennis Association officially designates this as a ‘WTA 1000’ event, placing it just one level below the four Grand Slams.
This status guarantees a star-studded lineup. You are not just hoping to see the top players; you are virtually guaranteed to. The event, scheduled for February 8-14, 2026, is a mandatory stop for the world’s elite, all vying for a major title and a significant share of the prize money.
The Venue: Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex
The Qatar Tennis Federation (QTF) hosts the tournament at the magnificent Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex. It’s a state-of-the-art facility, but what truly sets it apart is the atmosphere.
The Khalifa Complex is far more intimate than a Grand Slam venue. Even upper-tier seats feel close to the action, offering fantastic value. The Centre Court is an incredible place to watch tennis, especially during the evening sessions under the lights.
What’s Included in Official Qatar Totalenergies Women’s Open Travel Packages?
This is the most common question I get from UK clients. While package specifics can vary, the official offerings are designed to be an all-in-one, hassle-free solution.
The Core Components: Flights, Hotels, and Tickets
The official packages, provided by Qatar Airways Holidays, are the most reliable and direct way to book your trip. They are designed to be an all-in-one solution.
Your package will almost always include:
- Return Flights: Direct flights on the 5-star Qatar Airways from major UK hubs (like London Heathrow, Manchester, or Edinburgh).
- Accommodation: A set number of nights at your choice of a 4-star or 5-star partner hotel.
- Daily Breakfast: Included with your hotel stay.
- Centre Court Tickets: Guaranteed match tickets for your selected days.
- Venue Access: Entry to the Public Village and fanzone, which has excellent food stalls and sponsor activities.
Your Accommodation: 4-Star vs. 5-Star Hotel Tiers
The packages cater directly to an affluent audience, with hotel options ranging from excellent 4-star properties to world-renowned 5-star luxury.
Many of the partner hotels (like the Marriott Marquis or the InterContinental) are in the West Bay area. This is an ideal location, as it’s only a 10-15 minute drive to the Khalifa Complex and close to Doha’s other main attractions. You can also opt for ultra-luxury beach resorts, like The St. Regis or The Ritz-Carlton, which are slightly further out but offer a complete resort experience.
Your Seats: Understanding Centre Court Seating
Your package will let you choose your preferred seating tier. The options are typically:
- Lower Tier: The premium seats, closest to the court, where you can hear the players and see the spin on the ball.
- Middle Tier: An elevated view, perfect for appreciating the strategy and construction of the points.
- Upper Tier: The most affordable option, which, as I mentioned, still offers a surprisingly good view due to the stadium’s intimate design.
Pro-Tip: For the best value, I recommend the ‘Middle’ tier seats. You get a fantastic elevated view of the entire court, perfect for appreciating the strategy, without the premium price of the front rows. The ‘Upper’ tier is also excellent and never feels too far away.
Is a Qatar Tennis Package Worth It vs. Booking Separately?
This is where my experience as a travel planner comes in. For a discerning UK traveller, the answer is almost always yes, the package is worth it. Here’s a clear analysis.
The Value Analysis: Cost vs. Convenience
With a package, you get bundled savings. The airline, hotel, and QTF have pre-arranged the inventory. It’s one transaction, and all logistics are handled. You are paying for a seamless experience.
Booking separately might save you a small amount… if you are willing to spend hours hunting for flight deals, researching hotels, and, most importantly, navigating the public ticket sale.
However, you face a major risk: securing good tickets. Tickets for the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final can sell out quickly.
The “Hidden” Value: Guaranteed Access & Peace of Mind
The true value of the Qatar Totalenergies Women’s Open travel packages is the guaranteed, non-scalped tournament ticket.
When you book a package, your seat is confirmed. You don’t have to worry about ticket lotteries, online queues at 3 AM, or the risk of secondary market scams. For a UK traveller investing in a luxury sports holiday, this peace of mind is the real luxury. You are buying a complete, stress-free trip.
A Complete UK Traveller’s Checklist for Doha
You’ve decided to book. As your expert guide, here is the essential checklist I provide to all my UK-based clients heading to Doha.
1. Flights: The Best Routes from the UK
Your package will be on Qatar Airways, which is a huge perk. The service is exceptional.
My advice: Opt for the overnight flight from Heathrow (LHR) or Manchester (MAN). You’ll depart the UK late in the evening and land at Hamad International Airport (HIA) early the next morning. You’ll arrive refreshed, and this schedule gives you a full day to check into your hotel and settle in before the evening’s play.
2. Entry Requirements: Visa Rules for UK Citizens
This is a crucial, non-negotiable step. According to the GOV.UK Foreign Travel Advice for Qatar, British citizens can currently get a visa-on-arrival, which is valid for 30 days.
However, Qatar has implemented an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. You must now pre-register for this ETA online via the ‘Hayya’ platform before you fly. This is a simple process, but it is mandatory. Do not leave it until the last minute.
3. Money, Connectivity & Getting Around
- Money: Credit and debit cards are accepted in all hotels, restaurants, and at the venue. I recommend having some Qatari Riyals (QAR) in cash for smaller purchases or for browsing the Souq Waqif.
- Apps: Download the ‘Karwa’ app (the official taxi service) or use Uber. Both are reliable and affordable for getting between your hotel and the tennis complex.
- Connectivity: The easiest option is to buy a tourist SIM card from Ooredoo or Vodafone at the airport. They have kiosks right in the arrivals hall.
4. Local Customs & What to Pack
Doha is a modern, international city, but it’s important to be respectful of the local culture.
Common Pitfall: Don’t just pack tennis shorts. While the venue is casual, Doha’s 5-star hotels and restaurants often have a ‘smart casual’ dress code (no shorts or flip-flops in the evening). Also, pack a light jacket or shawl. The evening sessions on Centre Court can get surprisingly cool and breezy in February.
Beyond the Backhand: What to Do in Doha Between Matches
Your trip shouldn’t just be about the tennis. Doha is a world-class destination. The official Visit Qatar tourism board highlights several key attractions, which are perfect for filling your time before the evening matches.
Must-See Culture: Museum of Islamic Art & National Museum
Even if you are not a “museum person,” these are must-sees. The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) is an architectural masterpiece on the Corniche. The National Museum of Qatar, designed to look like a desert rose, tells the country’s story in a stunningly immersive way.
Authentic Doha: Exploring Souq Waqif
This is the historic, beating heart of the city. In the evening, it comes alive. It’s the perfect place to shop for spices, textiles, and perfume, or to have an authentic, delicious, and affordable dinner.
Modern Luxury: The Pearl-Qatar and Lusail Marina
To see modern Doha, visit The Pearl-Qatar. This man-made island features luxury boutiques, cafes, and beautiful marinas. It’s an ideal spot for a high-end dinner or a waterfront walk, appealing directly to the luxury traveller.
A Qatar TotalEnergies Open travel package is more than just a bundle of bookings; it’s an all-in-one pass to a seamless luxury sports experience. It combines world-class tennis with 5-star hospitality, with all the logistics handled for you.
The real luxury of the package is the simplicity. It’s that feeling of stepping off your flight from the UK knowing every detail is sorted—from your hotel transfer to your Centre Court seat. Your only job is to enjoy the tennis.
FAQs
When is the Qatar TotalEnergies Open 2026?
The tournament is scheduled for February 8 – 14, 2026.
Where is the Qatar TotalEnergies Open played?
It is played at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in Doha, Qatar.
What is included in the Qatar tennis travel packages?
Official packages typically include return flights (usually with Qatar Airways), accommodation at a 4-star or 5-star hotel, daily breakfast, and guaranteed Centre Court match tickets for the selected days.
Is the Qatar TotalEnergies Open a big tournament?
Yes, it is one of the nine elite “WTA 1000” events on the women’s professional tour, attracting all of the world’s top-ranked players.
Can UK citizens travel to Qatar visa-free?
UK citizens can get a visa-on-arrival, valid for 30 days. However, you must now pre-register for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online before you fly. Always check the latest GOV.UK travel advice before your trip.
What is the best hotel to stay at for the Qatar TotalEnergies Open?
The official packages offer a range of 5-star partner hotels. Hotels in the West Bay area are popular as they are only a short drive from the Khalifa Tennis Complex and close to other city attractions.
How do I get tickets for the Qatar TotalEnergies Open?
You can buy tickets directly from the Qatar Tennis Federation (QTF) website, but they can sell out. The most reliable way to secure tickets, especially for later rounds, is by booking an official travel package.
What is the dress code for the tennis in Doha?
At the tennis complex, casual wear (like shorts and t-shirts) is perfectly acceptable. However, for 5-star hotels and restaurants, a ‘smart casual’ dress code is recommended. It’s also wise to bring a light jacket for cool evening matches.
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