The Hamad International Airport (DOH), ranked as the world’s best airport by Skytrax last year, has invested heavily to solidify its status as a global travel destination. Since its opening in 2014, HIA has become known not just for its world-class amenities but also for its ambitious expansion plans. The airport’s striking design, which features a mix of lush greenery and luxury retail, has drawn travelers from around the world. To accommodate the growing demand for air travel in the region, the airport has undergone significant expansion.

The most recent of these ambitious plans is the unveiling of Concourses D and E, which complete the expansion project that began in 2018 and mark the final phase of the airport’s development plan.

Concourse E opened in February 2025, while D opens to the public on March 20, 2025. Courtesy: Hamad International Airport

“I am pleased to see this expansion project, with the conclusion of both concourses going live, which I have personally been involved with since 2018. 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,” Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Group Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways said.

A NEW CHAPTER IN HIA’S EXPANSION STORY

Unlike the typical airport terminal, Hamad International Airport offers an escape from the ordinary. Travelers can explore the Orchard, a 10,000-square-meter tropical garden, or wander through Souk Al Matar, a traditional Qatari marketplace. The airport also features 40 different art pieces, including the iconic Lamp Bear by Swiss artist Urs Fischer, one of the most photographed artworks in the world, offering travelers a distinctive cultural experience. 

Featuring more than 300 trees and over 25,000 plants and shrubs, the Orchard, an indoor tropical garden spreads over a 10,000-square-meters. Courtesy: Hamad International Airport

“From the moment its doors opened in 2017, Hamad International Airport became more than just an airport; it became a bridge that connects people, cultures, and opportunities. Today, we know HIA is more than an airport; it’s a destination in its own right,” said Hamad Ali Al Khater, Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport.

HIA also boasts a selection of shopping outlets and food and beverage venues, creating a premium experience for passengers.

“More than a decade ago, Qatar had a vision not simply to build an airport but to create a world-class airport, a symbol of innovation,” Al Khater added.

When HIA first opened, it served about 27 million passengers, a number that doubled to 54 million in 2024. “As we look forward to expanding to the future, particularly with the developments at Concourses D and E, these two concourses pave the way to move toward 65 million passengers,” Al Khater added.

NOW FEATURING AT CONCOURSES D & E

It’s not just about increasing foot traffic. “Our expansion is not just about increasing capacity; it’s about enhancing the passenger experience,” Al Khater says.

The new concourses feature state-of-the-art self-boarding systems, streamlining the process for a faster, more efficient journey, they also feature seating for introverts. Autonomous vehicles will also be deployed in the new concourses, while smart technology will facilitate swift document verification, minimize wait times, and ensure smooth transitions from terminal to aircraft.

Concourses D and E expand HIA’s footprint by 105,000 square meters. Concourse D introduces nine open contact gates, six eMars, two Code D gates, and one Code E gate, designed to accommodate various aircraft types. Concourse E introduces eight contact gates, four Code eMars, and four Code E gates. The closed gate configuration in Concourse E provides maximum operational flexibility, incorporating secondary screening for required destinations.

Courtesy: Hamad International Airport

“The expansion of Hamad International Airport with Concourses D and E significantly strengthens connectivity for both passengers and airlines. With increased gate capacity and optimized flight operations, the airport can accommodate a greater number of international carriers and offer more direct routes to key global destinations,” says Peter Daley, Senior Project Director at Hamad International Airport.

The new concourses feature state-of-the-art self-boarding systems, streamlining the process for a faster, more efficient journey. Autonomous vehicles will also be deployed in the new concourses, while smart technology will facilitate swift document verification, minimize wait times, and ensure smooth transitions from terminal to aircraft.

While the opening of Concourses D and E marks the final phase of the airport’s broader expansion, it is not the end. “The airport is always looking to innovate. There are future plans to expand, and there is still room for growth,” Daley said.