Hamad International Airport opens state-of-the-art new concourses

Hamad International Airport (DOH), ranked as the World’s Best Airport and Airport Shopping by Skytrax 2024, has officially unveiled its Concourses D and E, marking a major milestone in its expansion and increasing its capacity to over 65 million passengers annually. 

 

Completed ahead of schedule, this development elevates traveller comfort and further establishes Doha as a key global aviation hub, DOH said.

 

The expansion project, which began in 2018, marks the culmination of the airport's ambitious development plan. This milestone represents the final phase of a transformational journey initiated in 2022 with the unveiling of the Orchard, a 6,000-sq-m indoor tropical garden.

 

The new concourses integrate into the existing terminal, introducing cutting-edge technology and enhanced facilities to meet growing passenger demand. The terminal now spans 845,000 sq m -- a 14% increase – while the addition of 17 new aircraft contact gates increases the total to 62, nearly 40% more than before, ensuring greater connectivity, streamlined operations, and significantly reducing bus transfers. 

 

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Eng Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said: “Hamad International Airport is more than a gateway; it is a vital pillar of Qatar’s growth and global connectivity. 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. This achievement reflects our commitment to operational excellence and strategic planning. 

 

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

 

Hamad Ali Al Khater, Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport, said: “Our focus is to deliver operational excellence that supports both current demands and future growth. The opening of Concourses D and E marks a significant milestone in expanding our capacity and enhancing operational efficiency. This combined development streamlines passenger flow, optimizes resource management, and strengthens airline connectivity, ensuring smoother and more efficient passenger services.” 

 

The newly inaugurated Concourses D and E feature the following enhancements: 

• Seamless boarding through smart technology: The new concourses feature cutting-edge self-boarding systems, streamlining the boarding process for a faster, more efficient journey. Smart technology enables swift document verification, reduces wait times, and ensures smooth transitions from terminal to aircraft. 

• Enhanced connectivity and global reach: The expansion significantly strengthens connectivity for both passengers and airlines. With increased gate capacity and optimised flight operations, the airport can accommodate a greater number of international carriers and offer more direct routes to key global destinations. 

• Elevating the Passenger Journey: The expansion prioritises passenger comfort and convenience, offering upgraded facilities to cater to diverse traveller needs. A wider selection of premium retail outlets and global dining brands enhances the leisure experience, while also providing ergonomically designed seating. With the D&E Expansion, Qatar Duty Free is unveiling nine new retail outlets food and beverage venues, enhancing the airport's retail space by 2,700 sq m. This initiative further cements Hamad International Airport’s standing as a beacon of innovation, a world-class destination for shopping, dining, and unforgettable experiences.

• A commitment to sustainability: Hamad International Airport remains a leader in sustainable aviation, with Concourses D and E designed to meet GSAS 4-Star Design & Build Certification and aiming for LEED Gold Certification. The development incorporates energy-efficient systems, innovative water management solutions, and optimized thermal comfort strategies, reinforcing the airport’s alignment with global sustainability objectives. 

 

Accessibility is a core focus, with universal design principles ensuring a seamless experience for all travellers. Features such as hearing loops, barrier-free pathways, spacious seating areas, and dedicated assistance services underscore the airport’s commitment to creating a traveller-centric environment, it said. – TradeArabia News Service