In a new achievement that reflects Qatar’s leadership in the field of air transport and logistics services, Hamad International Airport announced its official candidacy for the Best Airport in the World Award for 2026, awarded by Skytrax, a British organization specializing in evaluating the performance of global airports.
This nomination comes as a continuation of a success story filled with first places that the airport has achieved since its opening, continuing to consolidate its position as one of the most prominent and most advanced airports in the world.
In this context, Al-Arab conducted a field tour inside Hamad International Airport to learn about the latest facilities and services that were recently added within the development and expansion plan. The tour included the new lounges in Concourses D and E, which represent a qualitative shift in the passengers’ experience in terms of capacity, comfort and quality of services.
During its tour, the newspaper observed the diversity of options available to travelers, from luxury hotel waiting lounges to commercial and entertainment areas designed according to the highest international standards, all the way to international stores, in addition to entertainment areas and a variety of cafés and restaurants that cater to all different tastes and cultures.
Hamad International Airport maintains its distinction in the global aviation sector thanks to the exceptional travel experience it provides to passengers, providing travel options to more than 197 destinations around the world, giving them modern options for hospitality and a group of the best entertainment and relaxation facilities, which include “Orchard”, an indoor tropical garden, in addition to a collection of world-class works of art created by a group of the most prominent artists in the region and the world.
The airport also continues to redefine the concept of shopping while traveling, by strengthening its cooperation with Qatar Duty Free, offering its customers exclusive experiences and stores inspired by the spirit of national heritage and meeting the aspirations of all travelers.
International agreements that enhance air connectivity
Hamad International Airport signed a joint memorandum of understanding with Beijing Daxing International Airport, with the aim of strengthening cooperation relations between Qatar and China and expanding the scope of global air connectivity routes through Doha.
The memorandum of understanding outlines the features of the next phase of air travel, complementing the partnership launched by Qatar Airways with China Southern Airlines, and the memorandum of understanding also signed between the General Authority of Civil Aviation in Qatar and the Civil Aviation Administration of China. Together, these steps highlight the airport’s pivotal role in supporting economic growth, enhancing cultural exchange, and increasing travel demand.
The airport also signed an agreement of understanding with Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, which would contribute to strengthening cooperation relations between Qatar and China and support air connectivity routes between the Middle East region and the Republic of China with regard to both passenger and air cargo movement.
Both Doha and Shenzhen are distinguished as cities that pursue a development strategy based on supporting innovation and have pioneering systems in the fields of business and technology. This fruitful partnership emerges from a common vision that seeks to enhance the role of the aviation sector in supporting the process of economic growth, technological cooperation and cultural exchange.
Qatari identity is at the heart of the design
Hamad International Airport is characterized by an urban identity that reflects the modern spirit of Qatar, as it combines modern engineering lines with touches inspired by local heritage. The airport also hosts one of the richest collections of public art in the world, in cooperation with the Qatar Museum, where the spaces have been transformed into an open art gallery that presents a sophisticated cultural image of the country to millions of travelers annually. As part of its firm commitment to providing a unique travel experience to its passengers, Hamad International Airport displays more than 40 works of art, which together represent the permanent and distinguished artistic collection of paintings and sculptures created by a group of the most famous artists from Qatar, the region and the world.
The airport souk blends traditional Qatari heritage with authentic Arab hospitality
The Airport Market offers a unique retail and restaurant experience. It is a traditional Qatari market that was established in the northern part of the main building of Hamad International Airport, and includes seven stores and two restaurants. The project was developed in collaboration with award-winning architect Ibrahim Mohammed Al Jaidah, who is known for delivering world-class architectural projects in Qatar such as Al Thumama Stadium.
The Airport Souq offers a “sense of place” experience, highlighting the energy and aesthetics of Qatar’s famous traditional souks. The market’s palm-leaf woven roofs, arched doorways, wooden-framed windows and many other decorative details provide a complete heritage experience. There is also a sailboat in the middle of the market, in celebration of Qatari heritage and the maritime trade that flourished in the country and had a strong connection to the markets.
Passengers traveling through Hamad International Airport can explore a unique array of wonderful cultural experiences represented by the display of traditional crafts, including a live demonstration of basket weaving and Sadu weaving – a traditional practice that combines geometric patterns and vibrant colors bearing cultural motifs. In addition, a group of hospitality personnel in traditional Qatari dress are present to welcome travelers and offer them Arabic coffee and dates, which symbolize hospitality and generosity in authentic Qatari culture. Visitors can also see a group of artisans weaving the bisht – the traditional garment for men – and henna artists decorating women’s hands with stunning designs.