PHOTO: © SARIM TOQEER | DREAMSTIME
Doha’s Hamad International Airport offers an extensive mix of shopping, dining and relaxation options for arriving and departing travelers. As passenger expectations and travel technology evolve, the airport continues to upgrade its services and facilities to deliver a seamless journey.
Recently, HIA announced a next-generation WiFi rollout powered by Cisco technologies to improve connectivity across the campus. The upgraded network delivers high-speed internet from curbside to aircraft, with design work focused on the terminal zones where passengers spend most of their time—boarding gates, retail precincts and food courts. This stronger, more reliable connection helps passengers stay in touch with family, friends and colleagues and supports business needs while on the move.
The enhanced wireless infrastructure also creates operational benefits for the airport. With improved coverage and analytics, HIA can gain clearer insights into passenger flows and behavior, enabling better crowd management, smoother operations and a more comfortable experience for travelers.
In November 2022, Hamad International unveiled a major expansion project aimed at enriching the passenger experience and positioning the airport as a destination in its own right. The expansion enhances wayfinding and connectivity between different areas, encouraging travelers to explore dining options, art installations and luxury retail. A new Transfer Hall C in Concourse C will significantly reduce transfer times and streamline security and processing, contributing to a more efficient and stress-free travel experience.
Complementing the terminal improvements, HIA added a second on-site hotel, the Oryx Garden Hotel, located in the North Plaza. This 100-room property emphasizes sustainability and offers elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites with a range of bed configurations to suit solo travelers, families and business guests.
Passengers also benefit from expanded lounge options, including Al Mourjan Business Lounge – The Garden, the Gold and Platinum Lounge, the Oryx Lounge and the Al Maha Lounge – North. These spaces provide calm, comfortable areas to relax, work or dine before departure.
At the heart of the terminal expansion sits the ORCHARD, a light-filled indoor tropical garden designed for relaxation and visual respite. The garden features a central water element and a curated selection of flora—more than 300 trees and around 25,000 plants sourced from sustainable forests—creating a tranquil environment where travelers can unwind during their journey.