About Hamad International Airport
Opened in 2014, Hamad International Airport in Doha has earned itself something of a reputation as the most luxurious airport in the world. What makes it so classy? For starters, it’s a silent airport, which means that beyond Islamic calls to prayer, there is no audio. No abrupt flight announcements, nothing. It also has a stunning 25-metre pool which overlooks the main departures hall, and anyone travelling through the airport can pay to swim there. Hamad International Airport is an architecture-appreciator’s delight, with vaulted ceilings that ripple like waves, a control tower shaped like a crescent (best viewed at night) and a mosque designed to resemble a drop of water, in tribute to its coastal location. The airport also has two parallel runways which are among the longest in the world, designed to cater to next-generation aircraft including the Airbus A380. And all this is in addition to the impressive displays of modern art and the ultra-luxurious lounges.
What facilities are at Hamad International Airport in Doha?
Doha’s international airport offers a high standard of service, with everything from unlimited, complimentary Wi-Fi to 23 parent’s rooms and five ‘activity nodes’ inside the passenger terminal, designed to keep young travellers entertained while parents can relax in comfort.
Check-in
At Hamad International Airport, Doha, check-in usually opens three hours prior to your flight’s departure, and will close 60 minutes before your plane takes off. Depending on your airline and ticket, there are different ways to reach the check-in area. Note that if you’re flying with an airline that is part of the oneworld alliance such as Qantas, Cathay Pacific or Qatar Airways, you’re eligible for privileged check-in services.
Baggage
At Hamad International Airport, baggage trolleys are provided free of charge and porters are available to help you with your luggage, for a fixed fee. If you have oversized baggage to check in, make your way to the last counters of check-in Rows 3 and 8.
As with all airports, baggage guidelines are provided by the airlines, so to confirm the weight, size and number of bags you’re able to take with you on your flight, you’ll need to consult your airline directly.
Is there a currency exchange?
You’ll have no trouble changing money at Hamad International Airport in Doha if you need to. There are four foreign exchange kiosks located across the passenger terminal – two in departures and two in arrivals. Another easy option is to order and pick up any foreign currency before you leave home, at Travel Money Oz.
Transport and terminal transfers
What’s the best way to get to and from Hamad International Airport?
Taxi: An easy way to travel to and from Hamad International Airport is via ‘Karwa’ taxi – Qatar’s official taxi service. Upon arrival, make your way to the Taxi Pavilion located to the left end of the Arrivals hall. Then just follow the ‘Taxi’ sign at the Arrivals Hall or use the airport map to find your way.
Important to note: taxis only accept cash payments in the local currency so make sure you are carrying enough Qatari Riyals to pay for your trip. All taxis are metered and the minimum flagfall at the airport starts at 25 QAR (7 USD) and 1.20 QAR per kilometre between 5am and 9pm, and 1.80 QAR per km between 9pm and 5am.
Limousine: When in Qatar… if you want to arrive at your hotel in style, like countless locals, book yourself a limousine transfer. The official limousine operator is Mowasalat Limousine, which you can book in advance or from the Mowasalat Limousine kiosk located in the Arrivals Hall. As with taxis, you can pay the driver in cash with Qatari Riyals at the end of the journey.
Buses: Doha’s state-owned bus service is operated by Mowasalat, and the network of buses connects Hamad International Airport to various destinations across the city. You can only pay for your bus fare with a Karwa Smartcard, which you can purchase from the ticket vending machine located on the ground floor of Arrivals near the bus pavilion. Note that the machine only accepts cash in Qatari Riyal notes.
Car rental: You can rent a car at Hamad International Airport as long as you have an international driver’s licence and a credit card with 3 month’s validity. All the usual car rental companies are at the airport, as well as several operators offering high-end luxury cars.
If you’d like to hire a car at the airport, speak to your Flight Centre Travel Expert to find out how to get the best deal on a rental car before you arrive in Doha.
Parking: If, for some reason, you have a car to park at Hamad International Airport, you can do it on a budget or in style. You’ll find short-term parking, long-term parking and premium parking options, as well as a valet service.
How do I transfer between terminals?
Hamad International Airport is what’s called an ‘integrated facility’, which means passengers are able to arrive, transfer and depart from within the same terminal.
