Hamad International Airport Unveils State-of-the-Art Concourses D and E, Elevating the Travel Experience to New Heights ahead of the Busy Period
Hamad International Airport Unveils State-of-the-Art Concourses D and E, Elevating the Travel Experience to New Heights ahead of the Busy Period
Hamad International Airport (DOH), ranked as the World's Best Airport and Airport Shopping by Skytrax 2024, has officially unveiled its highly anticipated Concourses D and E, marking a major milestone in its expansion and increasing its capacity to over 65 million passengers annually.
This development elevates traveller comfort and further establishes Doha as a key global aviation hub. The expansion project, which began in 2018, has now been completed with the opening of Concourse D and E, marking 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-square-meter indoor tropical garden.
The new concourses integrate seamlessly into the existing terminal, introducing cutting-edge technology and enhanced facilities to meet growing passenger demand. The terminal now spans 845,000 square meters—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, Engr. 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 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.
Elevating the Passenger Journey
The expansion prioritizes 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 ergonomically designed seating. With the D&E Expansion, Qatar Duty Free is unveiling over 9 new retail outlets food and beverage venues, enhancing the airport's retail space by 2,700 square meters. 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.
A Landmark Expansion Beyond Concourses D and E
The opening of Concourses D and E marks the final phase of Hamad International Airport's broader expansion, which has introduced several landmark enhancements. At the heart of this transformation is the ORCHARD, a lush indoor tropical garden that redefines the passenger experience with its serene ambiance and natural beauty. The Central Concourse has been expanded to improve passenger flow and operational efficiency, while an enhanced retail and dining portfolio now features an array of global luxury brands and diverse food and beverage offerings.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
04-06-2025
- Zawya
Msheireb Properties and Qatar Investment Authority announce strategic partnership
Doha, Qatar: Msheireb Properties, Qatar's leading sustainable real estate developer, has signed a strategic partnership with Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), the sovereign wealth fund of the State of Qatar. This partnership aims to accelerate the expansion of smart, sustainable urban projects within Qatar. Under the agreement, QIA has acquired a 49% stake in Msheireb Properties, underlining its confidence in Msheireb Properties' pioneering approach and integrated model for developing sustainable and human-centric smart cities. Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development retains its majority share of 51%. The partnership aims to fast-track innovative, human-centric real estate initiatives aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the country's drive for economic diversification and environmental sustainability. It also aligns with QIA's mandate to support the development of a competitive Qatari economy and support the advancement of Qatar's Third National Development Strategy (NDS3). The collaboration opens new avenues for Msheireb Properties to expand its award-winning model, following the success of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the first fully redeveloped and sustainable city district in the world. The partnership reinforces Qatar's ambition to lead as a global hub for sustainable development, especially in light of international efforts to reduce emissions and achieve carbon neutrality. Msheireb Downtown Doha has received global recognition for its integration of smart technologies, resilient infrastructure, and Qatari-inspired architecture. As cities worldwide race to reduce emissions, this Qatari-backed partnership signals a bold move to lead the booming smart cities sector, with sustainability at its core. About Msheireb Properties Msheireb Properties, backed by Qatar Foundation and Qatar Investment Authority, is Qatar's leading sustainable real estate developer. The company has pioneered sustainable urban development in Qatar, supporting the goals of Qatar's 2030 Vision. Its mission is to change how people think about urban living and improve their overall quality of life through innovations that encourage social interaction, respect for culture, and greater care for the environment. The signature Msheireb Downtown Doha development, is one of the smartest, most sustainable city districts globally. It employs a new approach to urban planning by combining traditional methods and modern technology to preserve Qatar's environment and cultural identity. All buildings are either Gold or Platinum LEED-certified. Msheireb Downtown Doha is an integrated city that embraces modern, fully furnished residential units, a range of mixed-use and commercial buildings that offer a wide array of retail and business services, and cultural facilities. It is also the home to Msheireb Museums, Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Al Wadi Hotel Doha - MGallery Collection, Park Hyatt Hotel, Msheireb Galleria, and Barahat Msheireb - the biggest open-air covered pedestrian square in the region. The company also developed Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som, the Middle East's first and largest wellness destination. Located in northern Qatar, the resort offers two distinct experiences: Zulal Serenity, a wellness haven for individuals and couples, and Zulal Discovery, a world-first wellness offering for families. The resort is pioneering in its integration of Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM) with contemporary wellness practices. About QIA Qatar Investment Authority ('QIA') is the sovereign wealth fund of the State of Qatar. QIA was founded in 2005 to invest and manage the state reserve funds. QIA is among the largest and most active sovereign wealth funds globally. QIA invests across a wide range of asset classes and regions as well as in partnership with leading institutions around the world to build a global and diversified investment portfolio with a long-term perspective that can deliver sustainable returns and contribute to the prosperity of the State of Qatar. Media Contact: media@
Zawya
02-06-2025
- Zawya
QDB and GORD have officially launched ESG Guidance Manual for SMEs in Qatar
DOHA, Qatar – Qatar Development Bank (QDB) and the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development (GORD) have officially launched the ESG Guidance Manual for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Qatar during a high-level event titled 'ESG for Qatar's Business Leaders' held at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, Doha. Organized by GORD in collaboration with QDB, the event convened senior executives, sustainability experts, and policymakers to explore the strategic importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) integration and to unveil QDB's newly developed manual. The event also welcomed senior representatives from Qatar's leading financial institutions, including the Qatar Central Bank (QCB) and the Qatar Stock Exchange (QSE). Jointly developed by QDB and GORD, the ESG Guidance Manual offers a practical and scalable roadmap tailored to help SMEs embed ESG principles into their core business operations. The manual aims to align SMEs with the Qatar National Vision 2030, enhance their sustainability performance, and help them navigate evolving global regulatory requirements. Drawing on GORD's technical expertise and leadership in sustainability, the manual serves as both a strategic enabler and a compliance toolkit, equipping businesses to transition toward a low-carbon, resilient economy. During the launch, Dr. Yousef Alhorr, Founding Chairman of GORD, stated, 'The ESG Guidance Manual reflects Qatar's proactive commitment to empowering its SME sector to adapt to the evolving global ESG landscape. This initiative not only enhances the global competitiveness of Qatari SMEs in carbon-conscious markets but also reinforces their contribution to the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 and broader international climate objectives.' Dr. Hamad Salem Mejegheer, Executive Director of SME Development of QDB, added, 'At Qatar Development Bank, we remain committed to strengthening the SME ecosystem, recognizing its vital role as a driver of economic growth and diversification. In today's interconnected global economy, ESG principles are no longer optional — they are fundamental to building resilience and unlocking new opportunities. Through this manual, developed in collaboration with GORD, we are equipping our SMEs with the tools to adapt, grow, and shape a sustainable future for Qatar.' Following the official launch, the event featured a series of technical sessions that offered participants in-depth insights into ESG fundamentals and regulatory developments. Discussions covered upcoming QCB guidelines, the implications of QSE's adoption of the IFRS S1/S2 standards, and how ESG ratings influence investment and financing decisions. Experts also addressed the role of digital solutions in streamlining ESG reporting and management. The sessions further explored strategies for embedding ESG into corporate decision-making and managing associated risks. The day concluded with a high-level panel discussion featuring leading experts and business leaders, emphasizing ESG as a strategic imperative and showcasing real-world examples of ESG-led business transformation and long-term value creation. About GORD The Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD) is an RDI entity recognized among leading organizations in the global sustainability milieu. Headquartered in Qatar Science and Technology Park, GORD drives the transformation of societies, industries, and the built environment by influencing corporate ethos, fostering innovation, and developing capacity to enable low-carbon sustainable growth for present and future generations. The organization's key operations include R&D, standards setting, green buildings certification, accreditation services, voluntary carbon markets, performance testing, knowledge dissemination, 3D prototyping and advisory services on sustainability and climate change for governments, non-government, public and private sector organizations in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). ABOUT QDB: Qatar Development Bank (QDB) – established in 1997 as the Qatar Industrial Development Bank – is a 100% government-owned developmental organization. Its primary aim is to develop investments within local industries, thereby accelerating growth and economic diversification in Qatar through support for the private sector. QDB aims to promote entrepreneurship spirit within the private sector in Qatar through providing the necessary services that shall ease the growth, development, and diversification of this sector. In doing so, QDB offers access to information, incubation, and capabilities to SMEs, in addition to access to capital through direct and indirect financial services, investment and access to local markets, and access to international markets for Qatari exporters through export insurance and funding services.
Zawya
02-06-2025
- Zawya
Qatar ports see 16% surge in container throughput in May
Doha, Qatar: Hamad, Ruwais and Doha ports witnessed a significant growth in May 2025 after registering surge in handling higher container volumes, building materials, livestock and vessels compared to same period in previous year. The ports saw a 16 percent year-on-year increase in container throughput in May this year. Building materials, livestock, and vessel arrivals rose by 106 percent, 38 percent, and 21 percent respectively compared to May 2024, Mwani Qatar stated in a post on its X platform, yesterday. The ports received 294 vessels in May 2025. The container handling through the three ports stood at 142,843 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units). The general and bulk cargo, RORO, livestock, and building materials during the same period accounted for 174,398 tonnes, 6,783 units, 80,396 heads, and 82,745 tonnes respectively in May this year. Meanwhile in April this year, the ports handled 235 vessels marking a 22 percent rise compared to the same period last year. Container throughput surged by approximately 50 percent, while volumes of livestock and building materials grew by 30 percent and 141 percent respectively. Hamad Port keeps moving forward firmly towards more powerful position as one of the key ports in the Middle East and the region. It targets achieving a more efficient logistics services industry in Qatar and the transformation into a leading global trade hub, thus enhancing its economic diversification plans in step with the Qatar National Vision 2030. The state-of-the-art infrastructure and advanced technologies at Hamad Port boosts the efficiency of Qatar's maritime facilities and contributes to achieving the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. It serves as a cornerstone in strengthening Qatar's role as a vital regional logistics hub, with the capacity to handle the world's largest commercial vessels and deliver integrated maritime services that meet the highest global standards. The maritime transport sector works to build bridges of cooperation with various bodies concerned with maritime transport specialisations and involve them in international meetings and workshops. Positioned strategically and supported by a rapidly expanding shipping network, Hamad Port, Qatar's main gateway to world trade enables seamless and secure cargo flow and transshipment operations. This boosts customer experience, unlocks greater growth potential, and strengthens the country's role as a key commercial and logistics hub in the region. The 2024/2025 cruise season witnessed the arrival of 87 cruise ships, marking a 19 percent increase compared to the previous season. This included five additional ships making their first calls to Doha Port and 13 turnaround operations. The number of cruise visitors during this season exceeded 360,000. Transfer passengers — those beginning or ending their journey in Qatar — accounted for more than 10 percent of total visitors, underscoring the country's status as a key hub for cruise tourism in the region. © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
