Marriott Bonvoy has expanded its loyalty program offerings with a new conversion partnership with Qatar Airways, allowing members to convert Avios into Marriott Bonvoy Points.
Key Details
- Conversion ratio: 2 Avios = 1 Marriott Bonvoy point
- Daily conversion limit: 500,000 Avios
- Minimum transfer: 1,000 Avios
- Required: One-time account linking with matching information (Indirectly) this now includes British Airways…
One of the appealing aspects of the partnership is its flexibility within the wider Avios ecosystem. Members can freely move Avios between British Airways, Qatar Airways, Iberia, and Finnair programs, then convert these to Marriott Bonvoy points through Qatar Airways. This creates a unified network of transfer possibilities.
Important Account Rules
Once accounts are linked, all future conversions must use the same Marriott Bonvoy account. Should you need to change this arrangement, Qatar Airways allows members to unlink accounts up to twice per year through their customer service department.
Good deal?
Absolutely not!
If you value Avios at about 1.1 cents each, there are very few scenarios where it would make sense to trade two of them for a Marriott Point you can frequently purchase for just about 0.85 cents.
If you needed a small top-up for a high-value redemption like a fifth-night-free award stay (and you happen to be Avios rich/cash poor), you might consider it. But generally, you would be better off just buying the required Marriott Points, even at full price of about 1.25 cents each.
Bottom Line
While the conversion rate does not currently offer great value, it does provide additional flexibility for Avios collectors who do not wish to redeem their points for flights. Perhaps we will see a transfer bonus in the future to make this a bit more compelling…
Would you be tempted by the new transfer option?
Photo credits: Marriott Bonvoy