HAVE you ever thought of a manic, bustling airport terminal as a relaxing place? Well, a visit to Qatar Airways' new Premium Terminal in Doha, Qatar, will set you straight.

From the moment passengers step into this terminal, they are ensured of a hassle-free and memorable experience. For starters, passengers need not worry about lugging their bags around the terminal while they look for their check-in counters as a special concierge service will take care of that for them.

The Premium Terminal is the only stand-alone terminal in the world that caters to the first and business-class passengers. It was opened before the start of the 15th Asian Games in Doha in 2006.

Passengers at the Premium Terminal can de-stress in this jacuzzi before boarding their flight.

Built in just nine months at a cost of US$90mil (RM288mil), the 10,000sq m building features facilities such as an exclusive check-in area, duty-free shopping, conference rooms, nursery and play area, spa treatment rooms, sauna, jacuzzi and fine dining restaurants.

The terminal is designed to create an inviting ambience - one that allows passengers to relax, unwind and enjoy the excellent facilities. Water features - from a fountain to water curtains - are evident throughout the Premium Terminal, offering tranquil and serene surroundings.

Also available are free Internet access stations, arcade game machines and PlayStation games, prayer rooms for both sexes, a 24-hour medical centre and five boarding gates. Newspapers from around the world are available.

The Premium Terminal - open 24 hours a day, seven days a week - is being seen as a benchmark in the region and, indeed, the rest of the world. Qatar Airways passengers can be sure they begin their international journeys in style.