Satyendra Pathak
Doha
The final phase of Hamad International Airport (HIA) expansion will start early next year and will further increase the annual capacity of the airport to up to 75 million passengers, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker said on Thursday.
Addressing media on the occasion of unveiling the first phase of the HIA expansion project to the world, Baker said, “With Phase A of HIA’s expansion plans now up and ready in time for the much-anticipated FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Phase B of the expansion is set to commence in January next year that will see the construction of two new concourses within the existing terminal.”
The two new concourses will connect to 24 more aero bridges, he said.
Commenting on the first phase of expansion, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive 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. HIA continues to impress with its innovative planning, execution, and investment – enhancing its position as the preferred hub for global travelers and reinforcing HIA’s position among the top airports. The opening of our newly expanded terminal further connects the growing number of travelers to all corners of the world, enriching people’s experiences and proudly representing Qatar’s rich culture and prestige.”
HIA Chief Operating Officer Engr. 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 travelers the best services the industry has to offer. Through the expansion, we have upgraded our facilities and offerings – creating the ultimate destination for passengers. From world-class services to endless F&B and retail offerings, the expansion further strengthens our ambition as we look towards maintaining our status as the best airport in the world.”
The magnificent expansion features more than 90 brands in one vast shopping area, a world-class art collection, a refreshing environment with lush greenery, and a 10,000sq m indoor tropical garden called The Orchard with a 268-sqm water feature – designed to be a focal point for all travellers.
The unique design of the area allows trees and plants to adapt easily to internal conditions and grow throughout the life of the airport. The Orchard benefits from copious natural light, an approach designed to create a calming ambiance and promote a sense of well-being.
The Orchard’s extensive flora includes over 300 trees and more than 25,000 plants and shrubs sourced from sustainable forests around the world, including Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore. The commercial offer boasts 65 stores and 35 food & beverage outlets, with some operations featuring world-first mixesof both.
As part of the expansion, HIA has launched the second airport hotel within its transfer area, the Oryx Garden Hotel.
Located in the North Plaza, the 100-room hotel focuses on sustainability, with rooms ranging from king to twin, as well as suites strategically located moments away from the boarding gates.
The HIA expansion also sees four brand new lounges for passengers to relax and unwind, namely ‘Al Mourjan Business Lounge- The Garden’, ‘Al Mourjan Business Lounge- North’, ‘Platinum and Gold lounge- North’ and ‘Silver Lounge – North’.
Consisting of one expansive terminal, the two-time world’s best airport will welcome passengers with facilities and services curated for all ages. The expansion now enables travelers to seamlessly transfer from one area to another, exploring the wonders that HIA has to offer with its infused warmth and hospitality. From discovering new flavors with exquisite fine dining to exploring the depths of the art collections and luxurious shops – the airport continues to actively enrich travelers’ experiences with tranquility and profound culture.
The airport’s expanded operations will greatly reduce waiting time, thanks to the new transfer hall on concourse C (Transfer Hall C) – the level of security, customer service, and efficiency will allow passengers to smoothly arrive and depart the award-winning airport.
Qatar Duty Free unveils a brand new, unparalleled luxury offer at HIA’s expansion with world-class retail and F&B options with more than 65 retail and dining outlets spread across its three levels. F&B options at the HIA expansion include over 20 cafes and restaurants offering delicious local and global cuisines for an ultimate dining experience.
The retail and F&B offer at the expansion features many world firsts and exclusives, including a Fendi Boutique with the first Fendi Cafe in an airport, and the first Ralph’s Coffee Shop in an airport. The North node also houses the world’s first Oreo Café in an airport.
The enhanced retail offer also includes an unrivaled selection of luxury boutiques, including the first Dior Boutique at HIA, the only FIFA shop in the world, Thom Brown only store in an airport, the largest Ray Ban store in an airport, and a lineup of prestigious brands such as flagship Louis Vuitton Boutique, Gucci, Burberry, Tiffany, and Co. Bvlgari, and many more world-class brands.
Passengers traveling through HIA will be able to explore hundreds of curated experiences all under one roof, surrounded by a true architectural and tropical masterpiece.
