QATAR. Hamad International Airport has officially opened Concourses D and E, marking the completion of an ambitious terminal expansion programme that began in 2018. The latest projects are designed to boost the airport’s annual capacity to over 65 million passengers a year.
The terminal expansion programme took firm shape in 2022 with the launch of The Orchard, a 6,000sq m indoor tropical garden surrounded by a high-class retail and dining environment.
The new concourses feature an additional 17 aircraft contact gates, bringing the total to 62, and expand the terminal by +14% to 845,000sq m.
As reported, the airport initially opened Concourse E in February, designed to prioritise boarding efficiency and reduce reliance on remote gates and buses while incorporating accessibility and sustainability-focused design.
Concourse E features eight new contact gates (a +20% addition) that enable faster boarding and improved operational efficiency.
The expansion incorporates modern technology and enhanced facilities to elevate passenger experience and streamline operations.
The extra gates are expected to minimise bus transfers and improve connectivity, strengthening Doha’s position as a leading aviation hub.
Concourses D and E offer:
Enhanced shopping and dining experiences: The expansion focuses on comfort and convenience, offering a wider range of premium retail and dining options, as well as seating and upgraded facilities.
Qatar Duty Free’s addition of over nine outlets increases retail space by 2,700sq m, reinforcing Hamad International Airport’s status as a key destination for shopping and dining.
Advanced self-boarding technology: The updated self-boarding systems simplify the boarding process, delivering a faster and more efficient travel experience. Smart technology enables quick document verification, reduces wait times and ensures smooth transitions from terminal to aircraft.
Expanded connectivity: Expanded gate capacity and optimised flight operations allow the airport to support more international carriers and increase direct access to key global destinations.
Sustainable infrastructure: Designed to meet GSAS 4-Star Design & Build Certification and targeting LEED Gold Certification, the expansion integrates energy-efficient technologies, advanced water management and thermal comfort strategies. These initiatives reflect Hamad International Airport’s commitment to sustainability.
The new facilities are designed with a strong focus on accessibility, inclusivity and passenger comfort, incorporating universal design principles such as hearing loops, barrier-free pathways, spacious seating and dedicated assistance services.
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 International Airport Chief Operating Officer Hamad Ali Al Khater added, “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, optimises resource management and strengthens airline connectivity, ensuring smoother and more efficient passenger services.” ✈
AIRPORT WONDERS OF THE WORLD
As a taste of things to come for visitors to the newly launched concourses, take a look at Airport Wonders of the World, a three-part film series launched last year with the first tri-partite edition dedicated to Hamad International Airport and Qatar Duty Free.
