Maybe that bought them existing distribution deals worth that much (or more)? Can't think of another reason.
Airlines have done it with routes and gate access in the past, so that does make sense.
... like paying scalper's price for a ticket onto the Titanic after it's already hit the iceberg. ;)
For influence? If you can't outright bribe a politician, you pay well over asking for his company (or house, or anything else). And then you hope he lends you a willing ear when you need a favor.
Good point, but I wonder how much influence Al really has anymore? What would Qatar want from him, anyway?