Flying economy class from Dublin to Thailand via Doha with Qatar Airways can be a surprisingly comfortable and even enjoyable long-haul experience. Though economy isn’t the height of luxury, Qatar offers a level of service, food, and comfort that punches well above what many would expect on a budget-friendly fare.
Service Onboard
From the moment you board in Dublin, the cabin crew impress with their professionalism and warmth. Their attentiveness doesn’t waver through both legs — from Dublin to Doha, then Doha to Thailand — and they regularly check in to top up drinks, distribute snacks, or help with entertainment. Many travellers note that even in economy, the crew seem genuinely caring, treating passengers with the same model of hospitality Qatar is known for.
Qatar’s in-flight entertainment system (“Oryx One”) is excellent: each seat typically has its own screen offering a large library of movies, TV shows, music, and more. The aircraft used on these long-haul flights, like the Boeing 777 or the A350, also help: you benefit from good cabin design, decent leg-room, and mood lighting — especially on the Dreamliner — which helps reduce fatigue. Passengers are also given small amenity kits (eye-mask, socks, toothbrush) on overnight flights, and blankets and pillows make resting easier.
Food and Drink
One of the strongest points of flying with Qatar in economy is the food. On a long journey like Dublin → Doha → Thailand, you’ll typically get two full meals plus snacks in between. The “Quisine” programme, as some reviewers call it, means that the food is more thoughtfully prepared than standard airline grub — you might get choices such as a curry, pasta, or a chicken and rice dish. Meals are presented neatly, often with stainless-steel cutlery, a side salad or bread roll, and a dessert.
Drinks are also generous: not only soft drinks, juices, tea and coffee, but also complimentary alcoholic beverages such as wine, beer, and basic spirits. Throughout the flight, crew will make rounds with water and other drinks, and on ultra-long sectors you might even be offered extra snacks such as sandwiches or ice cream. Some reports mention personal bottled water (rather than communal jugs), which makes refilling easier.
For special dietary needs, Qatar allows pre-ordering of special meals (vegetarian, gluten-free, religious meals, etc.) — you need to request these in advance, but there are many options.
Comfort
Even in economy, comfort is taken seriously. Seats on long-haul Qatar aircraft typically have a pitch around 31–33 inches, depending on the plane model. The seat width is comparable to other long-haul airlines. Although economy seats are not flat, having a good pillow, a blanket, and restful mood lighting makes it much easier to sleep or relax on both legs of the trip.
Thanks to the cabin design — especially on aircraft like the Dreamliner — noise is reduced, and cabin pressure is regulated to make for a more comfortable ride, which helps minimise travel fatigue. The regular service from the crew, frequent drink rounds, and snack offerings also help keep passengers refreshed and more comfortable throughout.
Overall Impression
Flying economy with Qatar Airways from Dublin to Thailand via Doha offers a well-rounded experience. While you won’t get the luxuries of business class, you will benefit from high-quality service, very decent meals, and a good amount of comfort for such a long journey. For many, it represents excellent value: economy pricing, but with touches that make the flight feel more premium than many competing airlines.
If you’re looking for a long-haul flight that’s affordable but still comfortable for the long haul, Qatar’s economy class is a strong contender.
