Hamad International Airport Unveils Concourses D and E, Elevating the Travel Experience to New Heights Ahead of the Busy Period

Hamad Airport Unveils Luxury Concourses D/E

Hamad International Airport (DOH) has officially introduced its Concourses D and E, representing a significant milestone in its expansion and increasing its capacity to over 65 million passengers each year.

This development enhances traveler comfort and solidifies Doha's position as a key global aviation hub. The expansion project, which began in 2018, has now been completed with the opening of Concourses D and E. This milestone marks the final phase of the airport's development plan. It follows the unveiling of the ORCHARD in 2022, a 6,000-square-meter indoor tropical garden, which initiated this transformational journey.

The new concourses seamlessly integrate with the existing terminal, incorporating advanced technology and improved facilities to accommodate the increasing passenger demand. The terminal now covers 842,000 square meters, representing a 14% increase. With the addition of 17 new aircraft contact gates, the total number of gates has risen to 62, which is nearly 40% more than before. This enhancement ensures better connectivity, streamlined operations, and a significant reduction in the need for 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 International Airport Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Hamad Ali Al Khater, 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, optimises 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 optimised 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 prioritises 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 10 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 optimised 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.