Satyendra Pathak
Doha
Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani inaugurated the newly-expanded terminal and facilities of Hamad International Airport (HIA) on Thursday.
The new expansion, which will increase HIA’s annual passenger capacity from the current 40 million to 58 million, will help the airport cater to the influx of FIFA World Cup 2022 visitors to Qatar.
The PM toured the new passenger terminal and was briefed on their capacities in terms of receiving incoming and departing passengers, as well as the modern system used as part of the expansion.
The PM was also briefed about the various facilities, equipment and related development in all operational processesin order to receive travellers, guests, and fans coming for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
The PM was accompanied by Minister of Transport HE Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti and a number of senior officials.
Consisting of one expansive terminal, the expansion will enable travellers to seamlessly transfer from one area to another, exploring the wonders that HIA has to offer with its infused warmth and hospitality.
The airport’s expanded operations will greatly reduce waiting time. The level of security, customer service, and efficiency will allow passengers to smoothly arrive and depart the award-winning airport.
The magnificent expansion also features more than 90 brands in one vast shopping area, a world-class art collection, a refreshing environment with lush greenery, and a 10,000sqm indoor tropical garden called The Orchard with a 268-sqm water feature – designed to be a focal point for all travellers.
Speaking on the occasion, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker said, "We are very pleased to be launching the expansion of Hamad International Airport, an airport that has truly grown to become the ultimate example of a successful, sustainable global facility. HIA continues to impress with its innovative planning, execution, and investment enhancing its position as the preferred hub for global travellers. The opening of our newly expanded terminal further connects the growing number of travelers to all corners of the world.”
Commenting on the expansion, HIA Chief Operating Officer Engr Badr Mohammed Al Meer said, "We are immensely proud to officially launch our airport expansion. Our growth plan will see us welcome over 58 million passengers annually. Through the expansion, we have upgraded our facilities and offerings, creating the ultimate destination for passengers. From world-class services to endless F&B and retail offerings, the expansion further strengthens our ambition as we look towards maintaining our status as the best airport in the world.”