Hamad International Airport (IATA: DOH – ICAO: OTHH) is the leading international gateway to Qatar and one of the most advanced airports in the Middle East. Located just 15 kilometres from the capital city, Doha, the airport is a key hub for Qatar Airways. It is recognised for its cutting-edge architecture, luxury services, and high-capacity operations.
The airport handles over 40 million passengers annually and is designed for efficient and seamless travel. Its expansive terminals, world-class lounges, and art-filled passenger experience consistently rank Hamad International Airport among the best airports globally for service, comfort, and design.
The airport offers various facilities, including comfortable lounges, shopping, and dining options that meet the needs of different travellers. It has won multiple awards for its quality and customer service, making it one of the top airports globally.
As one of the busiest transit points in the Middle East, Hamad International Airport plays a key role in international travel. It prepares carefully for peak seasons like Eid Al-Fitr to ensure that traffic flows smoothly and passengers face minimal delays. For more details on its features and services, see Hamad International Airport.
Contents
- 1 General Information
- 2 Airport Details
- 3 Flight Operations
- 4 Contact Information
- 5 Passenger Information
- 6 Local Attractions
- 7 Passenger Experience
- 8 Airlines and Destinations
- 9 Sustainability and Future Growth
- 10 Frequently Asked Questions
- 10.1 Which terminal will my flight arrive at or depart from at Hamad International Airport?
- 10.2 How do I check the current flight status for arrivals and departures at Hamad International Airport?
- 10.3 Are any specific items prohibited from being brought into Qatar through Hamad International Airport?
- 10.4 What are the current employment opportunities available at Hamad International Airport?
- 10.5 Do passengers transiting through Hamad International Airport require a visa?
- 10.6 Where can I find a map of Hamad International Airport to navigate the terminals?
- 10.7 Related
General Information
Location: Doha, Qatar
Country: Qatar
Airport Type: Public, International
IATA Code: DOH
ICAO Code: OTHH
Elevation: 13 feet (4 metres)
Coordinates: 25°15′48″N 51°36′49″E
Timezone: UTC+3
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 15 km (9 miles) southeast of central Doha
Website: www.dohahamadairport.com
Operator: MATAR (Qatar Company for Airports Operation and Management)
Services: Scheduled international flights, cargo, executive aviation, and transit services
Airport Details
Runways: 2
Runway Designations and Lengths:
16L/34R: 4,850 m (15,912 ft) – Asphalt
16R/34L: 4,250 m (13,944 ft) – Asphalt
Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
Runway Strength: Supports all aircraft, including Code F (A380)
Fire Services: ARFF Category 10
Tower Frequency: Available
Ground Frequency: Available
Navigation Aids: ILS CAT III, VOR/DME, RNAV, GNSS
Customs and Immigration: 24/7 operations for all international flights
Aircraft Types: Regional, long-haul, ultra-long-haul, and business jets
Terminals: Single expansive terminal with Concourse A–E and world-class lounges
Cargo Facilities: Advanced cargo terminal with perishables, express, and animal handling
Fuel: JET A-1
FBOs: Qatar Executive and Gulf Helicopters VIP terminal
Equipment: GPU, potable water, de-icing (if needed), lavatory services
Ground Services: Comprehensive handling for passengers, cargo, and private aviation
Flight Operations
Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international GA
Permission Required: Yes, for chartered and non-scheduled flights
Slots: Required for all flights
Aircraft Types: All aircraft, including Code F
Alternate Airports:
DIA: Doha International Airport (for special operations)
BAH: Bahrain International Airport
DXB: Dubai International Airport
Contact Information
Enquiries: +974 4010 6666
Email: info@hamadairport.com.qa
FBO Coordination: Qatar Executive – qefbo@qatarexec.com.qa
Passenger Information
Immigration Requirements: Passport with visa or visa-free entry for eligible nationalities; e-visa available
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/license, General Declaration, visa if required
Transport Options: Taxis, Karwa public buses, Doha Metro (Red Line), car rentals
Nearby Accommodation:
Near Airport: Oryx Airport Hotel (inside terminal), Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha
In City: The Ritz-Carlton Doha, Mandarin Oriental Doha, Mondrian Doha
Currency: Qatari Riyal (QAR); all major cards accepted
Local Attractions
Museum of Islamic Art
An iconic waterfront museum with a striking architectural design, located on Doha Corniche, houses Islamic art from three continents.
Souq Waqif
A vibrant traditional market selling spices, textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Popular for its restaurants and cultural shows.
The Pearl-Qatar
A luxurious man-made island featuring upscale shops, dining, marinas, and residential towers. Known for Mediterranean-style architecture.
Katara Cultural Village
An open-air venue for concerts, galleries, and cultural events with restaurants and beachfront access.
National Museum of Qatar
A modern architectural marvel inspired by desert rose crystals, showcasing the country’s heritage and future aspirations.
Aspire Park and Villaggio Mall
Lush public park next to a themed luxury shopping mall with gondola rides, cinemas, and indoor theme parks.
History and Development
Hamad International Airport opened in 2014 to replace the older Doha International Airport. The development aimed to support rapid growth in passenger numbers and cargo demand in Qatar and the region. Construction began in 2006, involving global engineering firms and architects.
The airport was designed to handle more than 30 million passengers annually, with room to expand. From the start, it introduced state-of-the-art technology and security features. Since opening, it has undergone expansion phases to maintain its capacity and standards.
Location and Accessibility
The airport is located approximately 5 kilometres east of central Doha. This close distance to the city makes it convenient for travellers and business passengers. It is near the Arabian Gulf, which provides proper access for cargo shipping routes.
Transportation links include a well-connected road network, taxis, and shuttle services. Plans for a metro connection, improving public transit access, are also in place. The airport’s location supports efficient passenger and freight movement in the Gulf region.
Terminal Design and Architecture
Hamad International Airport has one large, spacious terminal that offers easy movement. Its modern architecture is focused on natural light, open spaces, and clear signage. Passenger facilities include lounges, shops, and dining options to serve many travellers.
The design incorporates advanced safety and environmental standards. Features like long walkways and moving sidewalks aid passenger flow. Large windows provide views of the airfield and the Arabian Gulf. The terminal environment balances comfort with efficiency for smooth operations.
For more details, see Hamad International Airport’s official site.
Passenger Experience
Hamad International Airport offers an efficient and comfortable journey for all travellers. Services, eateries, shops, and exclusive lounges contribute to a smooth travel experience. The airport’s design and amenities emphasize ease, rest, and convenience.
Facilities and Amenities
The airport provides modern facilities such as spacious check-in desks, automated bag drops, and fast security lanes to reduce waiting times. Clear signage guides passengers throughout, making navigation simple even for first-time visitors.
There are dedicated areas for families, including play zones for children. Free Wi-Fi is available across the terminal, enabling passengers to stay connected. Charging points are spread throughout seating areas to keep devices powered.
Medical services and prayer rooms are also accessible near the terminals. Clean and well-maintained restrooms throughout the airport enhance passenger comfort.
Dining and Retail Options
Passengers can choose from various dining venues featuring international and local cuisine. Options include cafés, fast food, and fine dining, catering to different tastes and budgets.
Shopping includes duty-free stores with luxury brands, electronics, perfumes, and souvenirs. Convenience stores provide snacks and travel essentials. Many outlets remain open late to accommodate night flights.
The duty-free area often features promotions and offers, making it popular with passengers looking for gifts or travel supplies. Quality and variety are key priorities.
Lounges and VIP Services
The airport offers multiple lounges for those seeking privacy or extra comfort. These provide quiet spaces, comfortable seating, refreshments, and business facilities like meeting rooms and Wi-Fi.
Al Maha Services offers personalised meet and greet options. Passengers can enjoy fast-track immigration, private transfers, and dedicated assistance for arrivals, departures, or transfers to save time and reduce stress.
VIP suites include shower facilities and gourmet dining, designed to enhance the experience for travellers willing to pay for premium services. These lounges also cater to families, with special zones for children.
For more about these offerings, visit Hamad International Airport’s Meet & Greet Services.
Airlines and Destinations
Hamad International Airport is a key hub connecting passengers to many global destinations. It hosts various airlines and offers direct flights to cities across multiple continents.
Major Airlines
Qatar Airways is the largest airline operating from Hamad International Airport. It offers numerous daily flights and has a vast network reaching over 90 countries worldwide. Other significant carriers include Air India, IndiGo Airlines, Gulf Air, and Air India Express. These airlines provide strong regional and international connectivity.
Some of the notable airlines operating at the airport are:
- Qatar Airways
- Air India Express
- Gulf Air
- IndiGo Airlines
Each airline caters to different passenger needs, from budget to premium travel options.
International Routes
The airport provides direct flights to major cities in Asia, Europe, Africa, and Australia. Qatar Airways operates routes to Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney in Australia, often in partnership with Virgin Australia. There are also frequent flights to Middle Eastern hubs like Bahrain and destinations in India, such as Mumbai and Mangalore.
Key international routes from Hamad International Airport include:
| Destination City | Airline(s) | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | IndiGo Airlines, Qatar Airways | Asia |
| Mangalore | Air India Express | Asia |
| Bahrain | Gulf Air, Qatar Airways | Middle East |
| Brisbane | Qatar Airways, Virgin Australia | Australia |
These routes make the airport a vital gateway for travellers moving between continents.
For more detailed flight information, visit the Flights Information | Hamad International Airport.
Sustainability and Future Growth
Hamad International Airport is focused on reducing its environmental impact and expanding its facilities to meet future demand. It works to improve energy use, waste management, and passenger comfort while responsibly growing its infrastructure.
Environmental Initiatives
Based on 2015 levels, the airport aims to cut carbon emissions per passenger by 30% by 2030. It employs waste reduction strategies to lower its environmental footprint and promotes water conservation.
It also encourages businesses on-site to reduce plastic use and move towards a circular economy. The airport’s environmental management system meets the ISO 14001 standard, showing a formal commitment to sustainability.
Green spaces with exotic plants are part of its design to improve air quality and passenger experience. These actions support its goal to become a leader in environmental efficiency among airports in the MENA region.
Expansion Plans
Hamad International Airport is undergoing a significant growth plan to handle more passengers and cargo. The development includes new terminals and enhanced facilities to improve traveller comfort and streamline operations.
It will be the first airport in the region to reach a 4-star sustainability rating, highlighting its balance of expansion and eco-friendly practices. The expansion also focuses on integrating more efficient technologies and green landscaping.
The airport invests in infrastructure that supports long-term capacity increases without compromising its environmental goals or service quality. This ensures it remains a key aviation hub in the future.
More about the airport’s environmental goals can be found at Hamad International Airport’s ecological awareness page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hamad International Airport has clear procedures for flight arrivals and departures. It also provides guidance on items allowed into Qatar, visa requirements for transit passengers, and how to find airport maps. Job openings are regularly updated for those interested in employment at the airport.
Which terminal will my flight arrive at or depart from at Hamad International Airport?
Hamad International Airport operates a single terminal for all flights. Passengers should check their flight details with their airline to determine the precise gate or boarding area. The terminal has multiple contact gates and remote stands.
How do I check the current flight status for arrivals and departures at Hamad International Airport?
Flight status information is available on the official Hamad International Airport website and through airline apps. It shows real-time updates for arrivals and departures to keep passengers informed.
Are any specific items prohibited from being brought into Qatar through Hamad International Airport?
Certain items are restricted or prohibited for safety and legal reasons. These include firearms, explosives, drugs, and other controlled substances. Passengers should review customs regulations before travelling.
What are the current employment opportunities available at Hamad International Airport?
Employment opportunities vary and include operations, customer service, and security roles. Interested individuals can find the latest job listings on the official airport website or through affiliated recruitment platforms.
Do passengers transiting through Hamad International Airport require a visa?
Most transit passengers do not require a visa to stay within the airport’s transit area. Those leaving the airport or beyond certain limits should check Qatar’s visa policies in advance.
The airport’s official website provides maps of Hamad International Airport. These maps include detailed layouts of gates, lounges, shops, and services to help passengers find their way. Transfer desks are also available on-site for assistance.
