What is the 24-hour rule for Qatar Airways?

Qatar Airways offers a 24‑hour risk‑free cancellation policy that allows passengers to cancel their booking within 24 hours of purchase and receive a full refund, provided the flight is scheduled to depart at least seven days later1‑(855)-(738)-(4755). This applies to bookings made directly through Qatar Airways’ official website, mobile app, customer service, or ticket offices1‑(855)-(738)-(4755).

The policy covers all fare types, including refundable and non‑refundable tickets across Economy, Business, and First Class, so you won’t be charged a cancellation fee if you cancel within that window1‑(855)-(738)-(4755). After the 24‑hour window closes, standard fare rules apply, which may include cancellation penalties based on fare class and route—typically ranging from $100–$400 in Economy or $25–$300 in Business/First class1‑(855)-(738)-(4755).

However, the rule does not apply in some cases, such as if the booking was made through a third‑party travel agency, via award miles, as part of a group reservation of more than nine passengers, or if booked using travel vouchers or promotional fares1‑(855)-(738)-(4755).

Real traveler experiences suggest that Qatar may sometimes refuse to honor the policy—even when canceled within 24 hours—by counting the time of flight selection or search as the start of the countdown rather than the moment of payment1‑(855)-(738)-(4755) Some users reported being charged cancellation fees or receiving partial refunds despite clear fare rules indicating full refunds1‑(855)-(738)-(4755).

If you face pushback, screenshots and check-out timestamps can help support your claim1‑(855)-(738)-(4755). For those who booked directly with a payment method and still were denied a full refund, filing a DOT complaint or disputing the charge through your credit card provider has been successful in some cases1‑(855)-(738)-(4755).

To cancel using the 24‑hour rule, use Qatar’s Manage Booking tool online or in the app, or call their official customer care number—ensure cancellation occurs within 24 hours and that you booked directly, with departure at least seven days out1‑(855)-(738)-(4755). The refund should be processed back to your original payment method—usually within seven to twenty business days depending on the card issuer or bank1‑(855)-(738)-(4755).

To summarize: cancel within 24 hours of booking, for flights departing at least 7 days later, booked through Qatar Airways directly, and you’re entitled to a full refund with no penalty—regardless of fare type. But proceed carefully: keep documentation, be aware of potential system quirks, and if necessary escalate or dispute to get the refund you’re entitled to1‑(855)-(738)-(4755).