Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Qatar has launched the first phase of its expansion project, which increases its annual passenger handling capacity to 58 million.

This comes days ahead of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, which is scheduled to take place from 20 November to 18 December 2022.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

This project includes an indoor tropical garden called Orchard, which is located at the centre of the terminal expansion.

It includes more than 300 trees and over 25,000 plants that have been sourced from sustainable forests around the world.

HIA’s new terminal features a wide variety of food, beverage and retail outlets.

As part of the overall airport expansion, HIA also launched the second airport hotel, called Oryx Garden Hotel, within its transfer area.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

In addition, the project will see the creation of four new lounges for passengers.

HIA chief operating officer Badr Mohammed Al Meer said: “We are immensely proud to officially launch our airport expansion. Our growth plan will see us welcome over 58 million passengers annually, offering global travellers the best services the industry has to offer.

“Through the expansion, we have upgraded our facilities and offerings, creating the ultimate destination for passengers.”

The project is being executed in two phases, with the Phase A plan now ready and Phase B of the expansion slated to begin in early 2023.

Upon completion, the expansion will increase the airport’s capacity to more than 70 million passengers annually.

Qatar Airways Group CEO Akbar Al Baker said: “We are very pleased to be launching the expansion of Hamad International Airport, an airport that has truly grown to become the ultimate example of a successful, sustainable global facility.

“The opening of our newly expanded terminal further connects the growing number of travellers to all corners of the world, enriching people’s experiences and proudly representing the State of Qatar’s rich culture and prestige.”

Airport Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Airport Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
OPS1 by TADERA has won the 2025 Product Launch Award in the Safety and Efficiency category for transforming how airports manage operations and safety. Learn how this integrated, GIS driven platform simplifies inspections, maintenance, and SMS compliance while turning operational data into real time, actionable intelligence.

Discover the Impact