Qatar’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha achieved record numbers in 2023, but it is not resting on its laurels. Instead, its pursuit of excellence will continue this year.
Closing out 2023 with outstanding accomplishments and new milestones, the award-winning airport surpassed all expectations by serving 45.9 million passengers, a remarkable 31 percent increase compared to 2022. The airport serves as the base for the national carrier, Qatar Airways, and is operated by Qatar Airways Group.
Reflecting on the numbers, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Eng Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “At Qatar Airways Group, records aren’t just numbers; they drive us to excel beyond expectations. Hamad International Airport’s achievements are a reflection of our unwavering commitment to service excellence.
There is no finish line in the pursuit of offering exceptional travel experience. It is our goal to continuously refine journeys in 2024, with seamless connections, innovative services, and facilities that constantly evolve to match the ever-growing expectations of our discerning passengers
– Eng Badr Mohammed Al-Meer
“We spearhead the industry, consistently elevating the travel experience to new heights. We’re not simply moving people; we’re shaping the future of travel. The airport’s record-breaking year is a testament to the aviation industry’s unmatched agility and unwavering spirit.”
With the airport’s expansion plan moving into phase B, it is poised to take the travel experience to an even grander scale. The ambitious expansion, set to welcome over 70 million travelers annually, embodies a multi-faceted strategy for an exceptional passenger experience, supporting Qatar Airways’ growth trajectory, and contributing to the Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy 2030.
DOH expects a busy 2024, welcoming new airline partners, increasing its connectivity, and supporting the State of Qatar in hosting various world-class events. Additionally, 2024 will be a milestone year as Hamad International Airport celebrates its 10th year of operations.
Speaking on plans for 2024, Engineer Al-Meer said: “There is no finish line in the pursuit of offering an exceptional travel experience. It is our goal to continuously refine journeys in 2024, with seamless connections, innovative services, and facilities that constantly evolve to match the ever-growing expectations of our discerning passengers.”
CUMULATIVE COUNT TOPS 303M
Passenger volumes at the airport in 2023 surpassed even the momentum established during the historic FIFA World Cup.
Since its inception in 2014, the airport which is the “Beating Heart of Qatar”, has consistently demonstrated robust growth, now tallying a cumulative passenger count of close to 303 million and demonstrating a 63 per cent increase in annual passenger volume since the commencement of its operations in 2014.
Hamad International Airport has been ranked among the World’s Busiest Airports of 2023 by OAG’s Global Airline Schedules Data.
The airport reported 252,059 aircraft movements over the past year, which is a 22 per cent increase compared to the previous year.
Hamad International Airport also witnessed growth in cargo operations amounting to a total of 2,340,711 tons of cargo. The airport served a total of 52 airlines in 2023.
GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS
Qatar Airways has revealed its 2024 network expansion, featuring an exciting summer schedule aimed at enhancing passenger connectivity to Europe’s cities. The award-winning airline has expanded to Hamburg and has returned to Venice, further broadening its global network for travellers.
Hamad International Airport has strengthened its global network by welcoming esteemed airlines such as Vistara, Air Iberia, Xiamen and others in 2023. These collaborations contribute to the rich tapestry of destinations available to passengers, marking another chapter in the facility’s journey as a global aviation leader. Having served 255 destinations in 2023, including passenger, cargo, and chartered flight destinations – Hamad International Airport continues to expand its reach and enhance connectivity on a global scale.
ELEVATED PASSENGER EXPERIENCES
Embracing innovation and cutting-edge technology, Hamad International Airport has in recent years introduced advancements in passenger services that redefine the travel experience.
The implementation of QR codes have provided an easy-to-use wayfinding solution through different digital touchpoints conveniently located across the airport’s expansive terminal. Additionally, the integration of over 40 user-friendly passenger digital assistance kiosks provides easy access to information, assist in navigation and help passengers through live video calls to customer service agents. Furthermore, Hamad International Airport has achieved ACI’s accessibility accreditation, underscoring the commitment to inclusivity and ensuring a smooth travel experience for all.
With continued investment in technological advancements and its renowned features such as the Orchard, one of the most famous indoor tropical gardens globally, Hamad International Airport remains dedicated to providing travellers with an extraordinary destination that goes beyond the conventional airport experience.
The latest addition at Hamad International Airport is ‘Souq Al Matar’, a traditional Qatari Souq located in the North Plaza of the airport. It is a bustling traditional Qatari market that brings the vibrant spirit of Doha right into the airport, offering a taste of local culture and warm hospitality to its transfer and departing passengers.
AWARDS AND ACCOLADES
The airport’s commitment to excellence has earned it the recognition as the second most connected airport in the Middle East, according to the Airports Council International (ACI) Index.
Hamad International Airport also boasts a rich history of recognition for its commitment to excellence. In 2023, the airport was named the World’s Second-Best Airport, World’s Best Airport for Shopping, Best Airport in the Middle East for the ninth consecutive year and the Cleanest Airport in the Middle East by the Skytrax World Airport Awards.
