Doha, March 20 (QNA) - Hamad International Airport has officially launched the Concourses D and E areas, increasing its capacity to over 65 million passengers annually.

The terminal now spans 845,000 square meters, a 14 percent increase. Meanwhile, the addition of 17 new aircraft contact gates increases the total to 62, nearly a 40 percent increase, which ensures greater connectivity, streamlined operations, and significantly reducing bus transfers.

This milestone represents the final phase of a transformational journey initiated in 2022 with the unveiling of the ORCHARD, a 6,000-square-meter indoor tropical garden.

In exclusive statement to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said that the latest expansion was launched in 2022, increasing the airport's capacity to 53 million passengers at the time. This expansion has been utilized at 100 percent capacity, with the number of passengers traveling through the airport increasing from 37 million to 53 million in 2024. The current expansion project began in early 2023 to accommodate the growing number of passengers, increasing Hamad International Airport's capacity today to 65 million passengers.

The new expansion has added a diverse range of international shopping and dining outlets, while seats have been redesigned to provide passenger comfort and convenience. Qatar Duty Free is unveiling over 10 new retail outlets food and beverage venues, enhancing the airport's retail space by 2,700 square meters.

Through the new spaces at Hamad International Airport, we support young Qataris who own shops and cafes in Doha by giving them the opportunity to showcase their products and ideas and introduce them to the world in Hamad International Airport, which will benefit them just like those who preceded them in opening brands at the airport in recent years, Al-Meer said.

"Hamad International Airport is more than a gateway; it is a vital pillar of Qatar’s growth and global connectivity", Al-Meer said in a statement, adding that he is pleased to see this expansion project with conclusion of both concourses going live, as he has personally been involved with it since 2018.

He pointed out that the expansion process was completed ahead of schedule, saying in this regard: "This achievement reflects our commitment to operational excellence and strategic planning. This is not just about increasing capacity it is about strengthening the entire Qatar Airways network, enhancing operational resilience, and supporting Qatar’s economic growth in line with Qatar National Vision 2030".

"This development allows us to meet the evolving demands of global travel while reinforcing Qatar's position as a leading aviation hub", Al-Meer added.

For his part, Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport, Hamad Ali Al Khater, said: "Our focus is to deliver operational excellence that supports both current demands and future growth. The opening of Concourses D and E marks a significant milestone in expanding our capacity and enhancing operational efficiency. This combined development streamlines passenger flow, optimizes resource management, and strengthens airline connectivity, ensuring smoother and more efficient passenger services".

The new concourses feature cutting-edge self-boarding systems, streamlining the boarding process for a faster, more efficient journey. Smart technology enables swift document verification, reduces wait times, and ensures smooth transitions from terminal to aircraft.

Concourses D and E designed to meet GSAS 4-Star Design & Build Certification and aiming for LEED Gold Certification. The new areas incorporates energy-efficient systems, innovative water management solutions, and optimized thermal comfort strategies, reinforcing the airport’s alignment with global sustainability objectives. (QNA)