Qatar Airways operates the Doha-Malé corridor about three times daily on Boeing 777s. Flight time is around 4 hours 40 minutes. They are currently the only airline running non-stop service on this route.
Why this route works
Qatar's onward network is exceptionally deep — connecting from Europe, the US East Coast, or East Africa, you'll often find better routings via DOH than via DXB. Hamad International is also consistently among the world's best-rated transit hubs: short walks, efficient passport control, and a calmer feel than Dubai during peak hours.
What to know
Qatar's Stopover programme lets confirmed ticket holders book a Doha hotel night for transits of 12 hours or more. Standard 4-star packages start around USD 14 per person per night; 5-star and beach-access tiers go up from there, and breakfast is included. It's not free, but it is the cheapest way to add a Doha night to a long-haul.