Qatar Airways Unaccompanied Minors Policy – Full Guide 2025
Flying solo? Here’s everything you need to know about Qatar Airways Unaccompanied Minors Policy in 2025. A complete guide for parents and guardians.

As international travel becomes more accessible for young flyers, parents and guardians are increasingly interested in safe, reliable airline services for children traveling alone. Qatar Airways Unaccompanied Minors Policy is one of the most comprehensive in the aviation industry, offering personalized care from departure to arrival. Whether your child is flying for school, to visit family, or for an exchange program, this guide explains the full 2025 policy, eligibility, booking steps, and alternatives like the Emirates Unaccompanied Minor Policy.
This post is designed to help parents, guardians, and travel planners understand all key aspects of Qatar Airways' child travel services and how it compares with competitors like Emirates. Let’s explore every detail you need to confidently book your child’s solo journey.
What Is Qatar Airways Unaccompanied Minors Policy?
Qatar Airways defines unaccompanied minors (UMs) as children between 5 and 15 years of age traveling without a parent or legal guardian. The airline provides a structured program to ensure the child is supervised and comfortable throughout the flight.
Age Guidelines for Unaccompanied Travel
Age Group | Policy |
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0–4 years | Not permitted to travel alone. Must be accompanied by a guardian aged 16+ |
5–11 years | Must travel under Unaccompanied Minor service |
12–15 years | Optional use of Unaccompanied Minor service (on request) |
16+ | Can travel alone without special service |
Key Features of the Qatar Airways UM Service
Parents can expect a high level of care when they choose the Qatar Airways Unaccompanied Minors Policy:
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Dedicated ground staff to assist during check-in and boarding
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Priority boarding and seat allocation
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In-flight support by trained cabin crew
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Transit assistance (if applicable)
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Assistance at destination until handed over to authorized guardian
Booking the Unaccompanied Minor Service
Booking a flight for an unaccompanied minor with Qatar Airways requires advance planning. Here's how:
Step-by-Step Booking Process
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Call Qatar Airways Customer Service or visit a ticketing office
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Provide the child’s full travel details
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Submit required documents (ID, contact info of guardians)
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Complete the Unaccompanied Minor Handling Advice Form
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Pay applicable service fees (depending on route)
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Receive confirmation and instructions before travel
Documents Needed
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Child’s valid passport and visa (if applicable)
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A signed consent form from a parent/guardian
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Contact details of the adult dropping off and picking up the child
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Completed UM Handling Form (provided by the airline)
Qatar Airways UM Service Fees
Fees for the Unaccompanied Minor service may vary depending on the destination, class of travel, and whether it’s a direct or connecting flight. As of 2025, the estimated service fee is between $50 to $150 USD per sector.
Drop-Off & Pick-Up Guidelines
To ensure smooth travel:
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Arrive at the airport 2–3 hours early
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The accompanying adult must stay until the flight has departed
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The designated pick-up adult must carry ID and arrive early at the arrival airport
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Qatar Airways staff will only release the child to the authorized guardian
Comparing With Emirates Unaccompanied Minor Policy
For families comparing airlines, here’s how Qatar Airways’ policy compares with Emirates’ child travel services.
Emirates Unaccompanied Minor Policy – Highlights
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Children aged 5 to 11 must use the Emirates UM service
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The service is optional for ages 12 to 15
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Emirates provides UM lounges at Dubai International Airport
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Similar documents and procedures required
Emirates Child Travel Policy: Additional Notes
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Emirates allows children aged 16+ to travel solo without any special service
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Emirates charges a service fee of approximately $50–$100 per sector
Emirates Minor Policy vs. Qatar Airways
Feature | Qatar Airways | Emirates |
---|---|---|
Mandatory UM Age | 5–11 years | 5–11 years |
Optional Service Age | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
Airport Lounges for UMs | Limited | Available (Dubai) |
Service Fee Range | $50–$150 | $50–$100 |
Transit Support | Yes | Yes |
Tips for Parents Booking Child Travel
Whether you choose Qatar Airways or Emirates, here are some essential tips for unaccompanied child travel:
Travel Preparation Checklist
Talk to your child about the journey
Label your child’s luggage clearly
Pack snacks, toys, and entertainment
Provide a written copy of important contacts
Confirm all documents a few days before departure
What to Pack for Your Child
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Passport & boarding pass
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UM Handling Form
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Health-related documents (if applicable)
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Emergency contact card
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Favorite comfort items (book, toy, blanket)
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
1. Who needs to use Qatar Airways’ Unaccompanied Minor Service?
Kids aged 5 to 11 must use it, while ages 12 to 15 can choose to. Under 5? Sorry, no solo flights allowed!
2. How do I book a flight for my child traveling alone on Qatar Airways?
You’ll need to call Qatar Airways or visit their ticket office — online booking won’t cut it for unaccompanied minors!
3. What paperwork do I need for my child’s solo trip?
Think passport, visa, a signed consent form, and Qatar Airways’ special Unaccompanied Minor form — all must be ready before takeoff.
4. Is there an extra fee for the unaccompanied minor service?
Yes, expect to pay between $50 and $150 depending on your flight route and class.
5. Will my child get help during layovers?
Absolutely! Qatar Airways staff escort and supervise minors during connecting flights to keep them safe and stress-free.
Safe Skies for Young Flyers
Traveling alone as a minor can be an empowering experience for children and a stress-free one for parents—if you choose the right airline. Qatar Airways Unaccompanied Minors Policy in 2025 reflects the airline’s commitment to safety, comfort, and global standards. With structured assistance and dedicated support, your child is in trusted hands from departure to destination.
If you're still considering other airlines, the Qatar Airways baggage policy is a strong alternative worth comparing, especially for those flying through Dubai.
Ready to book your child’s next solo flight?
Reach out to Qatar Airways or consult your travel agent today to reserve a seat and ensure a secure journey.
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