DOHA: Hamad International Airport (DOH) stands at the pinnacle of success, capping off 2023 with outstanding accomplishments and new milestones. Throughout the year 2023, the award-winning airport has surpassed all expectations by serving an unprecedented 45,916,104 passengers, reflecting a remarkable 31 percent increase compared to 2022. Passenger volumes continued to climb in 2023, surpassing 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 proudly tallying a cumulative passenger count of close to 303 million and demonstrating a 63 percent 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 percent increase compared to the previous year. Hamad International Airport also witnessed growth in cargo operations amounting to a total of 2,340,711 tonnes of cargo. The airport has served a total of 52 airlines in 2023.
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. We spearhead the industry, as we consistently elevate 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.”
“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 added.
Global partnerships
Hamad International Airport’s national carrier, 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.
In the realm of partnerships, 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.
Awards and accolades
The facility's commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed, earning recognition as the second most connected airport in the Middle East, according to the Airports Council International (ACI) Index. Beyond this accolade, the dedication to providing a seamless travel experience has been acknowledged through various awards, accolades and BSI certifications.
Hamad International Airport proudly boasts a rich history of recognition for its commitment to excellence. In 2023 alone, the airport secured prestigious titles, including being named the World's Second-Best Airport, World's Best Airport 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.
Additionally, Hamad International Airport received the Best Airport in the Middle East for the seventh consecutive year from the 20th Annual Global Traveler Tested Reader Survey Awards, the Most Innovative Airport Initiative award by the Future Travel Experience Innovate Awards and the Best Airport Award at the 32nd Annual TTG Travel Awards 2023.
Innovative technologies and elevated passenger experiences
Embracing innovation and cutting-edge technology, Hamad International Airport has introduced advancements in passenger services that redefine the travel experience.
The implementation of QR codes has 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, assists in navigation and helps 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. Various retail options are continuously added to the over 180 retail and F&B offerings, such as the exclusive TimeVallée’s first boutique in the Middle East and the world’s first-ever Louis Vuitton lounge.
A memorable year… and promising future
Currently advancing into phase B of its expansion plans, the airport is poised to reintroduce travel on an even grander scale. Hamad International Airport's ambitious expansion, poised to welcome over 70 million travelers annually, embodies a multi-faceted strategy for exceptional passenger experience, supporting Qatar Airways' growth trajectory, and delivering towards the Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy 2030.
As the curtains gracefully closed on the exceptional year of 2023, Hamad International Airport looks ahead to a future marked by sustained growth and innovation. DOH expects to have a busy 2024, welcoming new airline partners, increasing its connectivity and supporting the state of Qatar to deliver on hosting various world-class events. Additionally, 2024 will be a milestone year as Hamad International Airport celebrates its 10th year of operations.
Hamad International Airport, the gateway to Qatar and the world
Designed to meet and exceed the expectations of global travellers, Hamad International Airport is a diverse lifestyle destination of its own. Housed in one expansive terminal, the airport integrates contemporary shopping and dining options, entertainment and relaxation facilities, and a world-class art collection from internationally acclaimed artists.
Hamad International Airport has transformed the airport experience to ensure operational excellence while prioritizing passenger and staff health, well-being, and security. Underpinned by advanced airport systems, Hamad International Airport continues to optimize airport operations by introducing safety measures fueled by smart solutions, strengthening passenger trust and confidence.
Hamad International Airport’s excellence and commitment to passenger service led to the airport receiving the titles of” World’s Best Airport” for 2021 and 2022, “World’s Second-Best Airport” for 2023, “Best Airport 15 to 20 Million Passengers”, “World’s Best Airport for Shopping” 2023, “Cleanest Airport in the Middle East” 2023 and “Best Airport in the Middle East” for the 9th consecutive year at the SKYTRAX World Airport Awards 2023.
Hamad International Airport has successfully completed the first phase of its airport expansion project, which has significantly increased capacity and enhanced its multi-dimensional offering. Delivering on its promise to be the ‘airport-of-the-future’, Hamad International Airport’s expansion features a refreshing environment of lush greenery, as well as contemporary retail and dining concepts among other leisure attractions and facilities.
The airport’s commercial and operation functions are managed by MATAR, the Qatar Company for Airports Management and Operation, and a corporate subsidiary of Qatar Airways Group.
Hamad International Airport is a candidate for World’s Best Airport at the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2024. Passengers who have experienced Hamad International Airport ’s award-winning services and facilities can visit Skytrax’s World Airport Survey website and vote for the airport. WORLD’S BEST AIRPORT: https://www.worldairportsurvey.com/Surveys/Airport/best_airport.html
