Hamad International Airport has officially launched its airport expansion project, which will improve passenger experience and transform HIA into an extraordinary destination where every journey is worth it.

Akbar Al Baker, Chief Executive of Qatar Airways Group, said: “We are very excited to launch the expansion of Hamad International Airport, an airport that has truly become the ultimate example of a successful, sustainable global facility. HIA continues to impress with innovative planning, execution and investments, strengthening its position as the hub of choice for international travelers and strengthening HIA's position among the industry's top leaders. The opening of our recently expanded terminal connects the growing number of travelers to all corners of the world, enriches people's experiences and proudly represents the state of Qatar's rich culture and prestige.”

Engr Badr Mohammed Al Meer, Chief Operating Officer at HIA, commented on the expansion and said: “We are extremely proud to officially launch our airport expansion. Our growth plan will see us welcome more than 58 million passengers annually, enabling us to provide travelers worldwide with the best services the industry has to offer. With the expansion, we have upgraded our facilities and offerings, creating the ultimate destination for passengers.”

The newly announced ORCHARD - a tropical garden at the heart of the terminal expansion - exemplifies HIA's ambitious and futuristic vision. The BOOMGAARD ​​is a tropical courtyard garden with a beautiful water feature that will serve as the centerpiece for HIA visitors. The ORCHARD has a wide variety of flora, including more than 300 trees and 25,000 plants sourced from sustainable forests around the world.

The two-time best airport in the world, made up of one main terminal, welcomes passengers with facilities and services tailored to all ages. The expansion now allows visitors to move from one area to another while discovering the wonders HIA has to offer with its infused warmth and hospitality.

The extensive retail offering also includes an unparalleled selection of luxury boutiques, such as the first Dior Boutique at HIA, the only FIFA store in the world, the only Thom Brown store in an airport, the largest Ray Ban store in an airport and a line- up from prestigious brands such as the flagship Louis Vuitton Boutique, Gucci, Burberry, Tiffany and Co Bvlgari, and many more world class brands.

As part of the overall expansion, HIA has opened the Oryx Garden Hotel, the second airport hotel within the transfer area. Located on the North Square, the 100-room hotel focuses on sustainability, with rooms ranging from king to twin, as well as suites strategically located steps from the boarding gates.

Four brand new lounges where passengers can relax and unwind are part of the expansion project.

With sustainability at the forefront of HIA's plans, four of the airport's expansion projects have received a four-star rating from the Gulf Organization for Research and Development under the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS). With Phase A of HIA's expansion plans completed, Phase B of the expansion, which is expected to begin in early 2023, will increase capacity to over 70 million passengers.

As the award-winning airport continues to transform the industry with innovative experiences and breathtaking features, it looks forward to a bright, sustainable future with limitless possibilities.