Hamad International Airport (DOH) has demonstrated exceptional growth in the first half of 2024, witnessing a significant increase of 25% in passenger traffic. This surge underscores the airport’s robust position as a leading global aviation hub.

Hamad International Airport Sees 25% Passenger Surge in First Half of 2024, Welcoming 25.9 Million Travelers.

Hamad International Airport welcomed 25.9 million passengers in the first half of 2024, marking a 25% increase compared to the first half of 2023. This includes a notable 22.1% rise in point-to-point passengers, those flying directly into and out of Doha, reflecting the airport’s growing network of airline partners and Qatar’s flourishing tourism sector.

New Airlines, Increased Aircraft Movements, and Cargo Expansion

In 2024, Hamad International Airport expanded its network by welcoming new airline partners, including Japan Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, China Southern Airlines, and Akasa Air. This is in addition to the arrivals of Iberia, Xiamen Airlines, and Vistara in late 2023. This expansion has significantly boosted tourism, fostered trade relationships, and strengthened business ties between Qatar and the global community. Additionally, the airport experienced a 12% growth in cargo operations compared to the same period last year.

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Robust Global Traffic Growth

The demand for travel to and from the Middle East saw a remarkable 45.3% growth, driven by the recovery of airline operations between GCC countries, particularly the UAE, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Traffic to and from Europe grew by 32.8%, supported by the launch of new destinations and increased capacity to existing destinations by Qatar Airways, as well as the commencement of services by Spain’s Iberia in late 2023.

The Asia-Pacific region also experienced considerable growth, with a 20.9% increase, bolstered by the addition of four new airlines from the region, including Chinese carrier Xiamen Airlines, which began operations in late 2023. Qatar Airways further expanded its capacity in key Asian markets such as Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, while also introducing new routes to Cambodia, Central Asia, and other Asian cities.

Top Destinations

London emerged as the top destination, with Qatar Airways serving both London Heathrow Airport and London Gatwick Airport. Other popular destinations included Bangkok, Thailand, Dubai, UAE, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Poised for a Strong Finish

Hamad International Airport (DOH) projects further increases in passenger traffic in the second half of 2024. Having reached the 50 million passenger per annum mark earlier this year, HIA forecasts it will surpass this milestone by year-end, further solidifying its status as a premier global aviation hub.

With continued growth and expansion, Hamad International Airport is poised to lead the way in global connectivity, offering unparalleled travel experiences and fostering stronger global ties.