Hamad International Airport sets record with more than 45 million passengers in 2023
Qatar Airways aircraft at DOH
Hamad International Airport (DOH) has released its year-end numbers, indicating a record-breaking 45,916,104 passengers travelled through the airport in 2023, a 31 percent increase from 2022.
The airport has demonstrated consistent growth since its inception in 2014, with a cumulative passenger count of close to 303 million to date. This indicates a 63 percent increase in annual passenger volume since the beginning of operations nearly a decade ago. Hamad International Airport has been ranked among the World's Busiest Airports of 2023 by OAG's Global Airline Schedules Data.
The airport reported 252,059 aircraft movements over the past year, which is a 22 percent increase from the same period the previous year. DOH has served 52 airlines in 2023.
“At Qatar Airways Group, records aren't just numbers, they drive us to excel beyond expectations,” said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer. “Hamad International Airport's achievements are a reflection of our unwavering commitment to service excellence. We spearhead the industry, as we consistently elevate the travel experience to new heights. We're not simply moving people, we're shaping the future of travel. The airport's record-breaking year is a testament to the aviation industry’s unmatched agility and unwavering spirit.”
“There is no finish line in the pursuit of offering exceptional travel experience. It is our goal to continuously refine journeys in 2024, with seamless connections, innovative services, and facilities that constantly evolve to match the ever-growing expectations of our discerning passengers," Engr. Badr also said.
Global partnerships for DOH
Hamad International Airport has expanded its global network by welcoming airlines like Vistara, Air Iberia, Xiamen and more in 2023. These collaborations allow DOH to offer a wider variety of route options to passengers. The airport served 255 destinations in 2023, including passenger, cargo, and chartered flight destinations.
Awards and accolades of note
The airport’s commitment to excellence has earned it recognition as the second most connected airport in the Middle East, according to the Airports Council International (ACI) Index.
In 2023 alone, the airport was also named the World's Second-Best Airport, World's Best Airport Shopping, Best Airport in the Middle East for the ninth consecutive year and the Cleanest Airport in the Middle East by the Skytrax World Airport Awards.
Additionally, DOH received these titles in the past year:
- Best Airport in the Middle East for the seventh consecutive year from the 20th Annual Global Traveler Tested Reader Survey Awards
- Most Innovative Airport Initiative award by the Future Travel Experience Innovate Awards
- Best Airport Award at the 32nd Annual TTG Travel Awards 2023
Innovation in tech and enhancing the passenger experience
Embracing innovation and the latest technologies, Hamad International Airport introduced several advancements in passenger services this past year to elevate the passenger experience.
The airport implemented QR codes to provide a user-friendly wayfinding solution through various digital touchpoints across the airport’s expansive terminal. The integration of more than 40 user-friendly Passenger Digital Assistance kiosks also provides easy access to information, navigation assistance and customer service help.
Hamad International Airport has also achieved ACI's accessibility accreditation, prioritizing inclusivity and a smooth travel experience for all passengers. Airport features, like the ORCHARD, further contribute to the passenger experience at this hub.
‘Souq Al Matar’, a traditional Qatari Souq located in the North Plaza of the airport, is one of the latest additions to DOH. The traditional Qatari market brings the spirit of Doha into the airport, offering a look at local culture while passengers are within the terminal. The market features more than 180 retail and F&B offerings, including the exclusive TimeVallée’s first boutique in the Middle East and the world’s first Louis Vuitton lounge.
Looking to the future
After a successful year, Hamad International Airport is concluding its look back and taking a step forward with future plans for the facility. The airport is in phase B of its expansion plans, which positions it to welcome more than 70 million travellers annually. The airport’s growth supports the passenger experience along with Qatar Airways’ growth trajectory and the Qatar Natinaol Tourism Sector Strategy 2030.
DOH anticipates a busy 2024 with new airline partners, increases in connectivity and supporting the state of Qatar in hosting global events. Incidentally, 2024 also marks the airport’s 10th year of operations.
