In this specific case it seems to me that OP could have just called BAEC during transit, assuming that QR could have opened up some last minute extra award availability (which happens very often for this shuttle flights)?


And as a data point: IME Al Safwa lounge attendants are just that, attendants/hosts but nothing more, unlike in other lounges (AA for instance). They don't have any power or capability towards ticketing issues, neither do they show any interest to help pax with these issues. I was just told to go the transfer desk on several occasions, they don't even provide any kind of help. Very strange approach towards F pax.