Thanks for your reply and for sharing your experience - honestly it’s very strange and more so.. disappointing.
The issue for me is that I live in Dubai so will normally always have a short time to transfer in Doha before my next flight, plus you can’t upgrade with miles in Dubai.. so may likely be facing this every time. I just don’t see any mention of an increase in points anywhere on their website which is frustrating.
i also don’t like the fact that you can’t submit a request for an upgrade using Avois (this is something that most other airlines offer)
i have written to the privilege club already so will
let you know their official reply.
I’ll be returning from Geneva in a couple of weeks so will update you how many points they require there (for interest!)
all the best!