Doha, Qatar: Hamad International Airport (HIA) is celebrating its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of connecting passengers to new experiences through Doha.
Since its inception, HIA has garnered numerous accolades, including being named the ‘World’s Best Airport’ three times by the SKYTRAX World Airport Awards and ranking as the second-best airport for air connectivity in the Middle East according to the Airport Council International’s 2023 Air Connectivity Ranking.
These achievements highlight the airport’s dedication to innovation, continuous improvement, and a customer-centric approach, ensuring a reliable and seamless travel experience for all passengers.
From May 2014 to May 2024, HIA welcomed 325.1 million passengers, facilitated 2.1 million aircraft movements, handled 20.5 million tonnes of cargo, and processed 258 million bags. Qatar Airways’ hub at HIA now serves over 45 airline partners, including 14 legacy airlines, and offers flights to over 200 destinations.
The airport’s capacity increased to 58 million passengers per year following Phase A of its expansion in 2022. HIA is also home to over 40 permanent art displays and boasts more than 200 retail and dining outlets, many of which are world-firsts.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, who has been with HIA since its opening, stated: “The growth and global position of Hamad International Airport since the start of its operations is a prime example of how investing in our people and facilities, adopting innovative solutions, and fostering industry collaboration, leads to excellence. We have overcome multiple challenges and set industry standards that have helped us earn the title of the World’s Best Airport. As the industry evolves, so will our operations and retail and hospitality experiences. We will continue to empower our people and nurture our relationships with our partners for the next 10 years, and beyond.”
To celebrate its 10th anniversary, HIA hosted a series of events, including cultural performances and live music sessions, engaging both its team and passengers.
HIA’s success is attributed to its skilled workforce, prioritizing training and development, and maintaining high standards of service and safety. This commitment has earned the airport the ISO 45001 Occupational Health & Safety Management System Certificate from BSI.
The airport, representing over 70 nationalities, continuously introduces new initiatives to enhance operations, customer experience, and create a positive working environment, in line with its core value ‘One Team’.
HIA underwent significant infrastructure expansion in November 2022, adding 125,000m² to its terminal. Projects included an indoor tropical garden, ORCHARD, a new transfer hall, a Remote Transfer Baggage Facility (RTBF), and new lounges, including the Al Mourjan Garden Lounge, home to the only Louis Vuitton Lounge at an airport.
HIA offers equitable services for travelers with reduced mobility and special needs, providing shuttle services, a sensory room, Muzn Lounge, and a refurbished Animal Relief Area.
The airport has implemented multiple wayfinding solutions, including over 65 QR codes and 40 digital devices, to help passengers navigate with ease.
HIA offers a seamless travel experience with amenities like the Oryx Airport Hotel, featuring a modern gym, a 25-metre swimming pool, spa services, a golf simulator, and a squash court. The airport has 19 lounges and numerous retail and dining options, including industry firsts like the Dior Spa, Thom Browne store, Oreo café, and Harrods Tea Room.
Committed to environmental sustainability, HIA has implemented initiatives to minimize its ecological footprint, such as enhanced waste management, wastewater treatment, and energy-saving measures. These efforts have earned the airport ACI ACA Level-3 Airport Carbon Accreditation and ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems accreditation.
As HIA continues to grow and innovate, it remains committed to enhancing the travel experience while maintaining the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and sustainability. With Phase B of its expansion underway, the airport is set to introduce new attractions and further establish itself as a premier destination in Qatar, offering unique and exceptional experiences to travelers.
