Michael Buble
Michael Buble

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65M pax: Doha Airport’s expansion is complete - so what’s new for travellers?

Hamad International Airport (DOH) has officially unveiled Concourses D and E, marking the completion of Doha Airport's ambitious expansion and boosting annual capacity to over 65 million passengers.

Hamad International Airport (DOH) has officially unveiled Concourses D and E, marking the completion of Doha Airport’s ambitious expansion and boosting annual capacity to over 65 million passengers.

The newly opened concourses integrate with the existing DOH terminal, expanding the airport’s footprint by 14% to 842,000 square metres. 

With 17 additional aircraft gates, the total now stands at 62, improving operational efficiency and reducing reliance on bus transfers.

The passenger experience has also been elevated, with enhanced lounges, luxury retail and an expanded food and beverage selection. 

In addition, Qatar Duty-Free has introduced 10 new retail and dining outlets, adding 2,700 square metres of premium shopping and culinary options.

This expansion follows the 2022 launch of the ORCHARD, a 6,000-square-metre tropical garden designed to enhance the Doha airport experience.

According to the hub, sustainability was a key focus of the project, with GSAS 4-Star and LEED Gold certification initiatives in place, including energy-efficient technology and water conservation systems. 

The airport says the latest development solidifies Doha’s status as a major global aviation hub, offering greater connectivity and world-class amenities for international travellers.

Qatar Airways Group CEO Mohammed Al-Meer.
Qatar Airways Group CEO Mohammed Al-Meer at the Doha Airport announcement.

“Hamad International Airport is more than a gateway; it is a vital pillar of Qatar’s growth and global connectivity,” Qatar Airways Group CEO Mohammed Al-Meer remarked. 

“I am pleased to see this expansion project, with conclusion of both concourses going live, which I have personally been involved with since 2018. 

“While many global airport expansions have faced delays, we are proud to have delivered this major development ahead of schedule.” 

United front

Al-Meer also pointed to the project’s greater overall significance to the country and its national airline.

“This is not just about increasing capacity – it is about strengthening the entire Qatar Airways network, enhancing operational resilience, and supporting Qatar’s economic growth in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030,” he added. 

“This development allows us to meet the evolving demands of global travel while reinforcing Qatar’s position as a leading aviation hub.”

Hamad International Airport Chief Operating Officer, Hamad Ali Al Khater
Doha Airport COO Hamad Ali Al Khater.

Hamad International Airport Chief Operating Officer, Hamad Ali Al Khater, said the hub’s primary focus is to support “current demands and future growth”.

“The opening of Concourses D and E marks a significant milestone in expanding our capacity and enhancing operational efficiency,” he stated. 

“This combined development streamlines passenger flow, optimises resource management and strengthens airline connectivity, ensuring smoother and more efficient passenger services.”

Hamad International Airport picked up the awards for World’s Best Airport and Best Airport Shopping by Skytrax in 2024.

As Qatar Airways gears up to launch its new partnership with Virgin Australia, Karryon tested the airline’s award-winning Qsuite product and service from Brisbane.