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Hamad International Airport

About the Airport

Hamad International Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Hamad International Airport is not merely the air gateway to Qatar, but a true oasis of high technology and comfort in the middle of the desert. Opened in 2014, it quickly earned a reputation as one of the best and most luxurious airports in the world. Hamad is built on land partially reclaimed from the Arabian Gulf and is designed so that its architecture resembles waves. This ultra-modern hub is famous not only for its capacity but also for its unique atmosphere, where art and nature blend harmoniously with advanced technology.

IATA Code DOH
ICAO Code OTHH
City Doha
Distance to centre approx. 13-15 km
Status International
Passengers per year over 45.9 million (2023)
Popular Airlines Qatar Airways, IndiGo, British Airways
Schedule Online Board "Hamad International Airport"

Hamad Airport offers travellers an exceptional level of comfort and many unique opportunities. One of its main attractions is the indoor tropical garden The Orchard, where over 300 trees and 25,000 plants from around the world are planted under a huge glass dome. Additionally, the airport serves as a genuine gallery of contemporary art with world-class installations, including the famous giant yellow bear, "Lamp Bear". For transit passengers, every condition is met: from the quiet Oryx Airport Hotel to a wellness centre with a 25-metre swimming pool, spa, and gym. Despite the terminal's immense size, navigation is very convenient thanks to a free internal train that quickly transports passengers between different zones.

Contact Information

Below you will find contact information for Hamad International Airport (DOH), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential issues.

  • Official Airport Website: The most complete and up-to-date information can be found on the official website: dohahamadairport.com.
  • Information Desk Phone: For consultations and assistance, you can call the 24-hour number: +974 4010 6666.
  • Airport Address: Hamad International Airport, Doha, Qatar.
  • Email: For official inquiries and requests, it is recommended to use the contact form available on the airport website in the "Contact Us" section.
  • Social Media: The airport actively maintains pages on social networks such as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram, where news, flight status updates, and useful information for passengers are published.
  • Lost Property Information: If you have lost personal items within the terminal, please contact the Lost Property Office. For issues related to lost or damaged checked baggage, you must contact your airline directly.
  • Passenger Support Service: For all questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the main information desk phone number, where you will be directed to the appropriate department.

How to Get to the Airport

Getting to Hamad International Airport from anywhere in Doha is easy thanks to the excellently developed transport system of the capital of Qatar. Travellers have access to several convenient and fast methods, varying in cost and comfort level. The trip from the city centre to the airport usually takes from 20 to 40 minutes depending on the chosen transport and traffic conditions.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The modern and clean Doha Metro is arguably the most convenient method. The Red Line directly connects the city centre with the "Hamad Intl Airport T1" station, located right at the passenger terminal. Trains run every few minutes, and the cost of the trip is just a few riyals. Buses from the state company Mowasalat (Karwa) also circulate around the city. Several routes go to the airport, but to pay for the fare, you will need to purchase a rechargeable Karwa Smartcard.

Taxis and Transfers offer more comfort and operate 24/7. Official turquoise Karwa taxis are easy to find throughout the city and operate by meter. A trip from the centre will cost approximately 40-60 Qatari Riyals (QAR). International ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are also popular and often offer competitive prices. For maximum convenience, you can pre-book a private transfer that will meet you at your hotel and deliver you directly to the terminal entrance.

For those who prefer independence, car rental is available. World-renowned rental companies operate in Doha, and you can easily drive to the airport in a rental car via modern roads with clear signage. The airport provides both short-term and long-term parking. Short-term parking is located closer to the terminals and is ideal for drop-offs, while long-term parking offers better rates for those leaving their car for several days.

Terminals and Map

Hamad International Airport in Doha, known for its futuristic design and high level of service, is designed for maximum passenger convenience. Despite its gigantic size, navigation is intuitive thanks to a well-thought-out structure.

In fact, the airport operates one large passenger terminal, which is divided into several concourses (gate areas): A, B, C, D, and E. Concourses C, D, and E are the main ones, while A and B serve a portion of flights and are located closer to the main hall. All zones are interconnected, and you can walk from one to another by following the signs.

The heart of the terminal is the central atrium, where the check-in counters (Departures Hall) and passport control are located. After passing through security, passengers enter a spacious transit zone. Here sits the famous giant yellow Lamp Bear—a popular meeting and photo spot. Paths to the concourses diverge from here. For quick movement between the central part (Concourse C) and the more distant gates in Concourses D and E, a free automated Passenger Train operates. The ride takes just a couple of minutes and significantly saves time.

The Arrivals Hall is located on the lower level. Here you will find baggage reclaim belts, customs control, and exits to the city, where you can find taxis, car rental counters, and bus stops. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated, eliminating confusion.

Processing times at Hamad Airport are usually short thanks to the high efficiency of the staff and modern technology. Check-in and baggage drop usually take 20-40 minutes, and passing through passport control and security screening takes another 15-30 minutes. However, during peak hours or before flights on wide-body aircraft, waiting times may increase. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before an international flight.

Navigation Tips:

  • Keep a close eye on the numerous electronic boards and signs—they are everywhere and very informative.
  • If your boarding gate is in Concourses D or E, feel free to use the internal train to save energy and time.
  • Study the airport map in advance on the official website or via the HIA Qatar mobile app to orient yourself before arrival.

Airport History

Hamad International Airport is one of the most modern and technologically advanced aviation hubs in the world, with a history that began quite recently. It was built to replace the old Doha International Airport, which could no longer cope with the growing passenger traffic and the ambitions of the national carrier, Qatar Airways. The official opening of Hamad took place on April 30, 2014, although some airlines began operating flights slightly earlier.

The design and construction of the new airport became one of the most massive infrastructure projects in the history of Qatar. Notably, more than 60% of the territory on which it is located is reclaimed land, taken from the Arabian Gulf. From the very beginning, the airport was designed with a huge reserve of capacity and with an eye towards future expansion.

A key stage in the airport's history was the preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2022. As part of a massive expansion project, a new part of the terminal was built featuring the impressive indoor tropical garden "The Orchard", which became a landmark in itself. This allowed the airport to successfully handle the colossal influx of fans from all over the world, demonstrating the highest level of service and efficiency.

Over its short history, Hamad Airport has set numerous records and won prestigious awards. It has repeatedly been recognised as the "World's Best Airport" by the Skytrax World Airport Awards, surpassing giants like Singapore's Changi and Tokyo's Haneda. One of its symbols has become the giant 23-foot sculpture "Lamp Bear" by Swiss artist Urs Fischer, greeting passengers in the main departure hall and becoming a popular spot for photos.

Services and Amenities

Hamad International Airport (DOH) offers passengers the highest level of comfort and a wide range of services to make waiting for a flight as pleasant and productive as possible. For gourmets and shopping enthusiasts, this is a true paradise: from luxurious boutiques of world brands in Qatar Duty Free to shops with local souvenirs and electronics. The choice of dining establishments is equally impressive—at your service are dozens of restaurants, cafes, and eateries offering dishes for every taste, from quick snacks to exquisite dinners.

For rest and work, all conditions have been created in the airport. Passengers can enjoy access to premium lounges, such as the Al Mourjan Business Lounge or Oryx Lounge, where food, drinks, showers, and quiet zones are offered. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations and tables with sockets allow you to always stay connected. If you need peace, you can rest in special Quiet Rooms equipped with comfortable recliners.

Financial matters can be resolved at bank branches, currency exchange points, and numerous ATMs located throughout the terminal. In case of necessity, passengers can seek medical assistance—two medical centres operate around the clock at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

Hamad Airport is perfectly equipped for travellers with children. For young passengers, play areas are provided, and for parents with infants, there are special mother and child rooms with changing tables. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on full support: special toilets, elevators, ramps, and staff assistance are available for comfortable movement around the terminal.

If you have a long layover, you can stay at the Oryx Airport Hotel, which is located right in the transit zone. Guests of the hotel have access to comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a spa centre, and a fitness gym. For business travellers, business centres and conference rooms are available where meetings can be held or work can be done in a quiet environment.

Where to Eat

Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha offers passengers a vast selection of dining establishments capable of satisfying any taste and budget. Regardless of whether you are looking for a quick snack before departure or want to enjoy a full dinner, you will find a suitable option here.

Most restaurants and cafes are located in the transit zone (airside), that is, after passing passport control and security screening. Their main concentration is in the central hall near the famous giant bear, as well as along Concourses A, B, C, D, and E. In the public zone (landside), before control, the choice is more limited but includes several cafes for those meeting and seeing off passengers.

Options for a quick snack: For those with little time, numerous coffee shops such as Starbucks and Costa Coffee, as well as food courts with famous international fast-food chains, are perfect. Here you can grab sandwiches, pastries, salads, and drinks. Such points are located throughout the terminal, so you will easily find them near your boarding gate.

Full lunch and dinner: If time permits, you can visit one of the numerous full-service restaurants. Cuisines from all over the world are represented here: from Italian pasta and pizza to exquisite Asian dishes and American steaks. For example, you can drop by places like Jones the Grocer for fresh Australian-style dishes or Le Grand Comptoir for the atmosphere of a French brasserie.

Local cuisine and signature dishes: To experience Middle Eastern hospitality, be sure to try traditional Arabic coffee (Gahwa) with sweet dates at Qataf Cafe. Also, in many establishments, you can find regional cuisine dishes such as hummus, mutabal, shawarma, and various types of grills. This is a great opportunity to feel the flavour of Qatar without leaving the airport.

Special dietary requirements and opening hours: Almost all establishments at Hamad Airport offer Halal dishes. Options for vegetarians, vegans, and those adhering to a gluten-free diet are also widely available and usually marked on the menu. It is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff. Most restaurants and cafes in the transit zone operate 24/7, which is especially convenient for passengers on night and early morning flights.

The price range varies from budget food courts to premium restaurants, allowing every traveller to find an option within their means. Overall, Hamad Airport is rightfully considered one of the best in the world for the quality and variety of its gastronomic offerings.

Traveller Tips

Hamad International Airport in Doha is one of the most modern and comfortable aviation hubs in the world. To ensure your journey through the gates of Qatar goes smoothly, use these tips.

Arrival time and check-in. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. Hamad is a large and busy airport, so extra time will allow you to go through all formalities without rushing. To save time, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. The airport also has many self-service kiosks for check-in and baggage drop.

Security control and hand luggage. Security services work efficiently, but be ready to present your boarding pass and passport. Electronics larger than a smartphone (laptops, tablets) must be removed from your bag. Remember the standard rules for carrying liquids: no more than 100 ml in one container, and all containers must be packed in a transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. Qatar has strict rules, so refrain from carrying alcohol and pork products even in hand luggage.

Tips for transit passengers. Hamad Airport is ideal for transit passengers. Navigation here is intuitive, with signs in English and Arabic everywhere. If you have a long layover, you can rest in special Quiet Rooms, use the spa centre, or explore the numerous shops and restaurants. Don't miss the famous giant sculpture of the bear with a lamp (Lamp Bear) in the centre of the main hall—it is an excellent landmark and photo spot.

Customs control and saving money. Upon arrival in Doha, if you have nothing to declare, go confidently through the "Green Channel". Remember the strict restrictions on importing certain medications (a prescription is required), alcohol, and printed materials. To save money, use the free Wi-Fi throughout the airport and drink water from drinking fountains by filling your bottle after passing security. You can get to or from the city on the modern and inexpensive metro—the Red Line connects the airport with the centre of Doha.

Seat selection and flight delays. When choosing a seat on the plane for long-haul flights from Doha, consider that an aisle seat will give more freedom of movement, while a window seat offers the chance to rest against the wall and enjoy views during takeoff and landing. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and possible options (meals, accommodation). Hamad Airport offers so much entertainment that even a long wait can become part of an exciting journey.

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