Hamad International Airport Unveils State-of-the-Art Concourses D and E, Elevating the Travel Experience

Hamad International Airport (DOH), consistently ranked as the World’s Best Airport by Skytrax, has reached a significant milestone with the official unveiling of Concourses D and E. This expansion increases the airport’s annual passenger capacity to over 65 million, further cementing Doha’s position as a key global aviation hub. Completed ahead of schedule, this latest development enhances connectivity, elevates passenger comfort, and strengthens Qatar’s role in international air travel.

A Major Step in Airport Expansion

The unveiling of Concourses D and E marks the final phase of Hamad International Airport’s ambitious expansion, which began in 2018. This follows the 2022 introduction of the ORCHARD, a stunning 6,000-square-meter indoor tropical garden designed to redefine the airport experience. With this expansion, the terminal now covers 845,000 square meters—a 14% increase—offering greater capacity and operational efficiency.

The addition of 17 new aircraft contact gates brings the total to 62, nearly 40% more than before. This significant upgrade ensures smoother flight operations, minimises bus transfers, and enhances airline connectivity for seamless global travel.

Qatar Airways Group CEO on the Expansion

Speaking on this milestone, Qatar Airways Group CEO, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, emphasised the strategic importance of this development:

“Hamad International Airport is more than a gateway; it is a vital pillar of Qatar’s growth and global connectivity. While many global airport expansions have faced delays, we are proud to have delivered this major development ahead of schedule. 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.”

Key Enhancements at Concourses D & E

The new concourses are equipped with advanced self-boarding systems, allowing for faster and more efficient passenger processing. These systems ensure swift document verification and reduced wait times, streamlining the boarding experience from terminal to aircraft.

Enhanced Global Connectivity

The expansion significantly enhances international connectivity, accommodating more airlines and offering new direct routes to key destinations worldwide. With increased gate capacity and optimised flight operations, Hamad International Airport is poised to become an even more influential global aviation hub.

A Premium Passenger Experience

The new concourses introduce upgraded facilities to enhance passenger comfort:

• Expanded retail and dining options – With 9 new retail outlets and food and beverage venues, the airport’s shopping and dining scene is now 2,700 square meters larger.
• World-class leisure amenities – Ergonomically designed seating and premium lounges create a more comfortable and enjoyable transit experience.
• Enhanced accessibility – Features like barrier-free pathways, hearing loops, and dedicated assistance services ensure an inclusive experience for all travelers.

Commitment to Sustainability

As a leader in sustainable aviation, Hamad International Airport designed Concourses D and E to meet GSAS 4-Star Design & Build Certification and is aiming for LEED Gold Certification.

The expansion includes:

• Energy-efficient systems
• Innovative water management solutions
• Optimised thermal comfort strategies This reinforces the airport’s commitment to global sustainability initiatives while delivering a world-class passenger experience.

Beyond Concourses D & E: A Landmark Expansion

This unveiling marks the final step in Hamad International Airport’s broader transformation. In addition to the ORCHARD indoor tropical garden, other major enhancements include:

• An expanded Central Concourse to improve passenger flow.
• A diverse range of global luxury brands and dining options, making the airport a destination in itself.

With its latest expansion completed, Hamad International Airport continues to redefine global travel, offering unparalleled efficiency, connectivity, and luxury. As it welcomes millions of passengers in the years ahead, Doha’s aviation hub stands ready to meet the future of air travel with excellence.