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Hamad Airport DOH Airport Traveler Guide

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DOH Airport Insights & Guide

Key DOH Airport Topics:

Getting to Know DOH Airport

Welcome to your comprehensive online guide for Hamad Airport . Situated in Qatar, DOH is a world-class airport known for its modern architecture and state-of-the-art facilities. With three terminals and a host of amenities, the airport offers a seamless travel experience for all its passengers. One of the unique features of DOH is its distinctive public mosque located within the airport premises. As you plan your journey, our essential guide to airports can provide useful information about other airports you may be traveling to or from.

WATCH VIDEO: Experience the arrivals at Hamad International Airport in Doha and explore the state-of-the-art metro train into the city:

Airport News

Hamad Airport has been recognized as the world's best airport at the 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards. This prestigious accolade highlights Hamad Airport's commitment to excellence in passenger experience, operational efficiency, and innovation. The award reflects the airport's successful expansion projects, including the introduction of new passenger terminals and the implementation of advanced technology under its "Smart Airport" initiative. These developments have also included the launch of new direct flights to several global destinations, enhancing travel options for passengers. The airport's continuous improvements and strategic initiatives are designed to meet rising demand and maintain its status as a premier global hub (sources: Gulf Times, The Peninsula Qatar, Doha News, PR Newswire).

Hamad International Airport, located in Qatar, has a total of three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 is the largest terminal with 41 gates, while Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 have 10 and 33 gates respectively.

Major airlines such as Qatar Airways, British Airways, and Emirates operate from Terminal 1, while Terminal 2 is mainly used by low-cost airlines such as Flydubai and Air Arabia. Terminal 3 is used by Qatar Airways for their flights to and from the United States, Canada, and select destinations in Europe.

When navigating the airport terminals, it is important to keep in mind the location of your airline's departure gate. The airport provides clear signage throughout the terminals to help passengers find their way. Additionally, there are information desks located in each terminal where you can ask for assistance.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

The airport in Qatar has a well-designed terminal system that allows for easy navigation between terminals. The airport has one main terminal, Terminal 1, which is divided into five concourses: A, B, C, D, and E. The concourses are connected by a central building and passengers can easily walk between them. The walking time between concourses is approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on the distance.

In addition to walking, Hamad Airport provides a free shuttle bus service that runs between the concourses. The shuttle bus operates 24/7 and is a convenient option for passengers who have limited mobility or who are carrying heavy luggage. The shuttle bus can be found outside the arrival area of each concourse and runs every 10-15 minutes.

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Hamad International Airport (HIA) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from HIA-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"HIA has a single, large terminal divided into five concourses (A-E). If you're flying Qatar Airways, you'll likely be in Concourse B or C. Keep an eye on the signs, and use the airport's shuttle services if you need to move between concourses quickly." — Ahmed K., Doha, Qatar, August 2023

"The terminal layout is quite intuitive, but if you get lost, the information desks are very helpful. They are located throughout the terminal and can provide directions and assistance." — Fatima R., Al Wakrah, Qatar, July 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The Doha Metro is a convenient and affordable way to get to and from the airport. The Red Line connects HIA to the city center in about 20 minutes. It's a great alternative to taxis, especially during peak hours." — Khalid S., Al Rayyan, Qatar, September 2023

"If you prefer a taxi, make sure to use the official airport taxis. They are reliable and metered, so you won’t have to worry about being overcharged." — Layla M., Lusail, Qatar, October 2023

Parking

"HIA offers both short-term and long-term parking options. If you're picking someone up, use the short-term parking, which is conveniently located near the arrivals area." — Omar H., Umm Salal, Qatar, November 2023

"For long-term parking, consider booking your spot online in advance. It can save you time and ensure you get a spot during busy travel periods." — Yasmin A., Al Khor, Qatar, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"The airport has a wide range of dining options, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants. If you have a long layover, check out the food court in Concourse C for a variety of international cuisines." — Hassan J., Doha, Qatar, January 2024

"Don't miss the shopping opportunities at HIA. The duty-free shops offer a great selection of luxury goods, and you can often find exclusive items that aren't available elsewhere." — Aisha B., Al Wakrah, Qatar, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Check the airport's real-time wait times for security and immigration on their website before you leave for the airport. It can help you plan your arrival time more accurately." — Mohammed L., Al Rayyan, Qatar, March 2024

"If you're traveling during peak hours, consider using the airport's premium services like the Al Maha Meet and Assist. It can expedite your journey through security and immigration, reducing stress significantly." — Noor F., Lusail, Qatar, April 2024

iFly Tip: Explore a wide array of air travel topics on our all-in-one reference guide.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At DOH Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated curbside areas outside of the terminals. However, there are strict parking restrictions in place, and vehicles cannot be left unattended at any time. It is recommended that drivers use the cell-phone waiting areas instead of parking in the curbside areas.

Cell-phone waiting areas are located near the terminals and provide a convenient place for drivers to wait for arriving passengers. Drivers can wait in their vehicles for up to one hour, free of charge. Once the passenger has arrived and collected their luggage, they can call the driver to let them know they are ready to be picked up. The driver can then proceed to the curbside area to pick up the passenger.

Parking Facilities & Options

The airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. There are several parking garages and lots located within walking distance of the terminals. The Short-Term Parking Garage is located directly across from the terminals and is ideal for those who need to park for a few hours or less. The Long-Term Parking Lot is located a short walk from the terminals and is perfect for those who need to park for an extended period of time.

If you are waiting to pick up a passenger, there are cell phone waiting areas available. These areas are located near the terminals and allow you to wait for your passenger without having to pay for parking.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots and garages. These spaces are located near the entrances and exits for easy access.

If you are looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport and can be a great way to save money on parking fees.

Get details about DOH parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Hamad Airport, located in Qatar, offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers. One of the most popular options is car rental. There are several major car rental providers located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, and Hertz. These providers offer a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets.

Taxi services are also available at Doha Airport. Taxis can be found at designated taxi stands located outside the arrivals area. Fare information is available at the taxi stand, and fares are calculated based on distance traveled.

For those looking for a more affordable option, shared ride services are available at the airport. These services allow travelers to share a ride with others who are going in the same direction. Pickup areas for shared ride services are located outside the arrivals area.

Airport shuttles are another option for travelers. These shuttles provide transportation to and from the airport and are a convenient option for those who do not want to rent a car or take a taxi. Pickup areas for airport shuttles are located outside the arrivals area, and fares vary depending on the shuttle provider.

Finally, public transportation options are available at DOH. The Doha Metro provides a fast and efficient way to travel to and from the airport. The metro station is located at the airport and provides easy access to other parts of the city. Fare information is available at the station.

iFly Tip: Get advice on using seatbelt extenders and more at our overweight passenger guide.

Airport Hotels

Looking for a comfortable and convenient stay near the airport? We've got you covered. From the convenience of the Oryx Airport Hotel situated just within the airport, to the luxury of the Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara, and the all-inclusive Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha, we have a range of options to suit every traveler's needs. There are also budget-friendly options like the Premier Inn Doha Airport and the Al Liwan Suites for those conscious about costs. And for those who prefer to stay close to the airport, the sleep 'n fly Sleep Lounges provide an ideal solution. Each hotel on our list offers unique features and amenities to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. From lap pools and fitness centers to complimentary WiFi and on-site dining options, these hotels offer a range of options to suit every traveler's needs. Ready to book now? View all Doha Airport Hotels including rates, on a map.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Doha Airport offers a wide range of dining and shopping options for travelers. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, there's something for everyone.

For a taste of local cuisine, head to Soprafino, located in the main terminal. This restaurant serves traditional Qatari dishes, such as machboos and thareed, as well as international favorites. Another great option is Le Grand Comptoir, which offers a selection of French-inspired dishes and a variety of wines.

If you're in the mood for some shopping, be sure to check out the duty-free stores in the departures area. You'll find everything from luxury fashion brands to local souvenirs. For a unique shopping experience, visit the Souq Waqif Boutique, which features traditional Qatari handicrafts and souvenirs.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at DOH can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, plan your visit using this guide.

Passenger Services

DOH Airport in Qatar offers a range of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable as possible.

For those needing to stay connected, free wifi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services can be found in the Arrivals area, where you can report any lost items or inquire about lost baggage.

Traveling with children? the airport has designated play areas for kids to burn off some energy before their flight. Additionally, special-needs services are available for those requiring assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and special seating arrangements.

Need to take care of some banking? There are several ATMs and currency exchange services located throughout the airport. And in case of any medical emergencies, there are medical facilities and trained staff available to provide assistance.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is important to stay informed about the status of your flight departure. At Hamad Airport in Qatar, there are several ways to check your flight status. One of the most convenient ways is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

In addition to the FIDS, passengers can also be alerted about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own mobile apps that allow passengers to receive push notifications, text messages, or emails about any changes to their flight status. It is important to download the app for your specific airline before traveling to ensure you receive the most up-to-date information.

Another way to stay informed about your flight status is to sign up for alerts through your airline's website. This will allow you to receive notifications via email or text message about any changes to your flight status. It is important to note that some airlines may charge a fee for this service, so be sure to check before signing up.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Doha Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

iFly Tip: Get through security faster with our expert tips in the TSA PreCheck Guide.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Hamad International Airport (DOH) is located in Doha, Qatar.
  • Terminals: The airport has one main terminal building, divided into five concourses.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines include Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Etihad Airways. For a list of all airlines, check out the DOH Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Hamad International Airport handles approximately 60,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees over 600 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from DOH are Dubai, London, Mumbai, Bangkok, and Colombo.
  • Hub Status: Hamad International Airport is a hub for Qatar Airways, Qatar Executive, and Qatar Airways Cargo.

Airport History

Doha Airport, located in the capital city of Doha, Qatar, has a rich history dating back to the 1940s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1949 - The first airport in Doha, known as Al Bidda Airport, was established on the same site as DOH.
  • 1971 - Qatar gained independence from the United Kingdom and the airport was renamed Doha International Airport.
  • 1998 - A new terminal building was constructed to accommodate the growing number of passengers.
  • 2004 - The airport underwent a major expansion project, including the construction of a new runway and a second terminal building.
  • 2014 - The new Hamad International Airport officially opened, replacing Doha International Airport as Qatar's primary airport.
  • 2015 - DOH Airport was named the Best Airport in the Middle East at the Skytrax World Airport Awards.
  • 2018 - The airport announced plans for further expansion, including the construction of a third terminal building and a new runway.

Today, the airport is one of the busiest airports in the Middle East, serving millions of passengers each year with state-of-the-art facilities and world-class service.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Hamad International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Hamad Airport Q&A

The airport has three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3.
Qatar Airways primarily operates from Terminal 1, but also uses Terminal 3 for flights to and from the United States, Canada, and select European destinations.
You can use the Doha Metro, which is quick and efficient, or taxis from the official taxi stands.
There are short-term and long-term parking options available. Short-term parking is located directly across from the terminals, while long-term parking is a short walk away.
Yes, the airport offers a variety of dining options, including Soprafino for traditional Qatari dishes and Le Grand Comptoir for French-inspired cuisine.
Options include car rentals, taxis, shared ride services, airport shuttles, and public transportation via the Doha Metro.
You can check your flight status using the in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, or by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com.
Clear signage is available throughout the terminals, and information desks are located in each terminal for assistance.
Yes, options range from the Oryx Airport Hotel within the airport to luxury and budget-friendly hotels nearby.
Designated curbside areas are available for pick-ups and drop-offs, but vehicles cannot be left unattended. Cell-phone waiting areas are also available for drivers to wait for arriving passengers.

Find more help here for your journey through the airport