FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

The Future of Hamad International Airport

by KatieS

Aug 11, 2021

© Hamad International Airport

Sponsored

Without a doubt, the pandemic changed the role of airports in the travel industry. Hamad International Airport’s role evolved in many ways since the pandemic hit. Now, more than ever, airports are responsible for creating a secure passenger experience. As the gateway to Qatar and the world, the safety and wellbeing of staff and passengers has always been at the core of Hamad International Airport’s strategy.

In response to the pandemic, HIA redefined its airport experience, introduced new protocols designed to ensure a smooth passenger journey and adopted the latest safety measures in accordance with global standards.

Among the changes, HIA invested in Smart Screening Helmets, wearable intelligent helmets that are portable, safe and effective. They enable contactless temperature measurement using advanced technologies. The airline’s disinfectant robots, fully autonomous mobile devices, eliminate the majority of infectious microorganisms by emitting concentrated UV light. HIA installed UVC Disinfection Tunnels in its terminal to decontaminate inbound luggage from arriving passengers; and C2 technology, the latest security screening system that allows transferring passengers to move through security checkpoints without having to take out any electronic devices from their bags.

Hamad International Airport

© Hamad International Airport

Using computer vision and artificial intelligence, HIA’s internal teams developed an automated facial detection system to ensure the wearing of masks, and Hamad was the first airport to trial an innovative prototype of cabin baggage x-ray screening with UV-C disinfectant lights retrofitted into the scanners’ trail return systems. Self-service kiosk screens were transformed to contactless screens with the help of infrared technology, and the airport’s elevator controls are now also contactless.

HIA’s expansion project will be integrated with the existing terminal, allowing passengers to seamlessly transfer from one area to the other, enabling the airport to continue to operate with a single expansive terminal. Divided into two phases, Phase A is set to increase HIA’s capacity to 58 million passengers annually by 2022 and Phase B, which will commence post-2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar, will increase capacity to more than 60 million passengers per year.

The expansion will integrate a world-class art collection with a refreshing environment of lush greenery and contemporary retail and dining concepts among other leisure attractions. A 10,000-square-meter indoor tropical garden and water feature will be introduced to inspire a positive travel experience and alleviate stress. The Tropical Garden will provide passengers an educational experience that showcases the importance of environmental conservation.

Hamad International Airport

© Hamad International Airport

Hamad International Airport’s duty free recently launched ‘Viale di Lusso’, a new premium fashion avenue at the terminal, housing the first airport boutique in the Middle East for the renowned fashion designer Valentino, as well as prestigious designer labels such as Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Jimmy Choo and Pucci, elevating Qatar Duty Free’s existing impressive collection of brands.

Additionally, since 2014, the airport has been committed to environmental sustainability with its pledge to improve carbon efficiency per passenger by 30 percent by 2030. The airport subsequently witnessed a steady reduction in overall CO2 emissions and received Level 3 certification by Airport Council International’s Airport Carbon Accreditation program. HIA amplifies natural daylight through its design and architecture. In addition to an automated lighting control system, the terminal roof incorporates glass, decreasing the need for artificial lights during daytime. The terminal building utilizes a solar shade system and LED lights wherever possible to raise energy efficiency. And, in line with its future goals, the airport expansion also aims to make Hamad International Airport the first airport in the MENA region to achieve a 4-star Global Sustainability Assessment System rating and a LEED Silver certified building.

Learn more about Hamad International Airport’s bright future.

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Jan 13, 2025

Hamad International Airport Sees Record-Breaking Year in 2024

Last year proved big for Doha, Qatar’s, Hamad International Airport, which served 52.7 million passengers at a 15 percent increase compared to the previous year.

A Word with Nat Pieper, oneworld CEO

Name: Nat Pieper Title: CEO at oneworld City: Dallas, Texas First job: Stadium vendor

Slideshow
Jan 13, 2025

6 Reasons to Put Warsaw, Poland, on Your Travel List

It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Warsaw, Poland, with us.

Daily
Jan 13, 2025

First Borderless European Capital of Culture in 2025 Revealed

Although borders once divided them, Nova Gorica, the youngest city in Slovenia, and neighboring Gorizia, Italy, come together to co-host the first-ever cross-border European Capital of Culture. With the slogan Go! Borderless, this celebration breaks boundaries with a vibrant celebration of art, culture and heritage.

Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet

Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.

Daily
Jan 10, 2025

7 Reasons to Ski in Slovenia

For most ski enthusiasts, the European country of Slovenia is not the first destination they think about when planning a winter ski holiday. But here are seven reasons that just might make a few ski enthusiasts think twice before going to Vermont, Colorado or California.

Daily
Jan 8, 2025

Tofino Beach Lodge to Open on Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Tofino Beach Lodge starts construction early this year on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. The lodge will be within UNESCO Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve and on the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation.

Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands

Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.

eFlyer Reviews
Jan 8, 2025

Restaurant Christophe Hay Review

Chef Christophe Hay had already achieved an enviable culinary reputation before he transformed the former 17th-century riverfront hospice in Blois to an extraordinary first-floor namesake restaurant; it’s the centerpiece around which he built Fleur de Loire, his 44-room, 12-suite Relais & Châteaux affiliate.